Kristen Waligora

lessons

 

My Approach


First, I Listen.

I’ll start with a friendly chat to learn more about you, your experience, and interests. Once I understand your unique needs, I'll create tailored lesson plans based on your specific goals and interests.


Learn from a University-trained Instructor.

  • Learn from an experienced, University-trained instructor with a patient and effective teaching style. I hold a Bachelor of Music degree from Portland State University and studied at the University of Texas at Austin.

  • Each student will benefit from having a tailored lesson plan based on your specific goals and interests.

  • Learn proper guitar technique, how to read music, knowledge of the fingerboard, music theory, and music ranging from Bach to Eric Clapton.

  • Just beginning? Learn how to play the guitar correctly the first time. Classical technique gives you a solid foundation for all styles of music.

  • Intermediate to advanced? Learn the music you've always wanted to play and dip into advanced techniques.

  • Professional? Do you want to reach a broader audience for your music? Want to create and sell merchandise and CDs and/or tour? I've been featured twice in Classical Guitar Magazine for my solo and duo albums, as well as BBC Radio, and NPR's Classical Guitar Alive.


Lastly, we build.

Together, we build upon the foundation of a solid technique and a cohesive approach to studying all aspects of music that sets you on a path of fun and learning for life.


I’d love to hear from you!

In Person and Online Lessons are $65 per hour.
2 Lessons a month = $130
3 Lessons a month = $195
4 Lessons a month = $260


Kristen is a wonderful player and marvellous teacher. I’ve had lessons for the past six months and it’s been a pleasure. I asked to learn a range of music—classical, blues, Latin, finger picking—and she brings fun music from many genres and her demonstrations are inspiring! I’m an adult beginner and she lets me move at my own pace and always enjoy what I’m doing. I can imagine she would be great will all ages.
— Janet B. - Google Review
Kristen became my instructor as I was preparing for a Master Class on Performance Anxiety. In preparing for the Master Class, Kristen guided me through the process of choosing pieces that suited my strengths. She helped me to deconstruct my bad habits and taught me new practice techniques that gave me the confidence to reach beyond where I was previously comfortable. I treasure the time spent with Kristen and highly recommend her as an instructor for beginning to advance students of classical guitar.
— Christine O. - Google Review
 

Guitar Studio

I’m currently in the process of building a dedicated music and art studio to teach in. It’s under construction and will be open by April!

Windows going in.

The center support beam being raised for the vaulted ceiling.

Studio wall frames going up.

The beginning of the studio floor going in!

2023 KW Studio Policies 

Lesson Fees and Payment

  • Lessons are $65 an hour

  • Private lesson fees are due monthly at your first lesson of the month by either cash or check.

  • A late fee of $20 will be applied if payment is not ready at the first lesson of each month.

  • If payment is not received at the beginning of the second lesson of the month, no lessons will be taught until payment is made in full plus the late fee. Your lesson time will not be kept open.

Cancellation Policy

  • 24-hour notification is required for all missed lessons. If you fail to give notification of absence, you will still be charged for the lesson.

  • One rescheduled lesson is allowed per month for weekly students.

  • One rescheduled lesson is allowed every two months for bi-monthly students.

  • In the event of an emergency (if you wake up sick or need to check out) notify me as soon as possible. We may be able to do the lesson via Zoom.

  • If notification is given, I will attempt to make up the lesson. If I am unable to make up the lesson, I will issue a credit to your account.

  • If the teacher must cancel the lesson, you will not be charged.

Required Materials

  • All students should have an instrument that is in good working order, a footstool, metronome (an app is okay), and assigned lesson materials.

  • Left hand nails should be clipped and kept short for comfort and proper placement on the fingerboard.

  • Beginning students should expect to spend around $25 for Solo Guitar Playing I by Frederick M. Noad.

  • A music stand is highly recommended!

Inclement Weather Policy

  • In the event of inclement weather, lessons will be conducted via Zoom or rescheduled if possible.

 
 

Looking for a guitar teacher near me? Use the map above to find my studio for in-person guitar lessons in Portland, Oregon.