Musical Background

Rich Shepherd has more than 40 years of playing experience, taking him all over the United States and abroad. Rich set out as a drummer, receiving education in several styles before embarking on a pro career. Fascinated with the inner workings of the rhythm section, Rich explored guitar and bass along the way.

While his drumming career came to a close in the late '90s his interest in stringed instruments and songwriting unfurled.  Rich enjoys, studies and teaches just about every style of music for guitar, bass and ukulele. Drawing from the wisdom of his mentors and decades of practical experience, Rich has become a valued mentor in his own right. He has been guiding aspiring musicians since 1989.

Instructional Method

Rich imparts fundamentals, theory and advanced concepts using examples from popular music and its roots. Students work with melody (intervals, scales, modal strategies), harmony (chord voicings, triad theory, orchestration) and the intricacies of rhythm, learning music from the inside out. Each student may receive a primer in sight reading and is exposed to improvisation theory.  

Most importantly, students learn how to practice wisely, finding a balanced path toward achievement of musical goals. It's natural for musicians of all levels to reach frustration when facing new challenges or plateaus. Always encouraging, Rich provides strategies for embracing obstacles, reducing tension and working efficiently in a fun and gratifying way.

Accomplishments 

Though music has taken Rich from the smallest coffee houses to performing and recording on a national level, his greatest sense of accomplishment comes from witnessing joy experienced as students meet their milestones. 

Folks have emerged from Rich's tutelage to play reggae festivals, punk shows, interpret session charts and emote the blues.  Some have gleaned universal values from deep musical exploration, edging forward to become college graduates, authors, CEOs, mothers and fathers.