Teacher and Guitarist Opens Musical Arts Learning Center in Benicia

Benicia, CA (PRWeb) January 16, 2007 -- Guitarist and long time teacher, J. Shelby, recently opened a musical arts learning center in downtown Benicia. The Benicia resident said "It has been my dream for many years to have a facility dedicated to musical arts and my dream has finally come true!"

851 Music Studio provides private and group instruction for electric and acoustic guitar, bass, piano and voice. Lessons emphasize the fundamentals of music, and general musicianship with an eye towards creativity and improvisation. The teaching staff includes J. Shelby, Rhonda Lucile Hicks and guest teachers.

Rhonda Lucile Hicks, who teaches piano, says she was thrilled to join 851 Music Studio saying "The opportunity to teach in a studio devoted exclusively to music was something I just couldn't pass up. I've been teaching piano in my home and I welcomed the opportunity to be in a place where I can work with other teachers and my students can play with other music students. I imagine my piano students accompanying violin and voice students and playing jazz in one the new student bands!"

One of Shelby's favorite teaching avenues is to start student bands. "I find ensemble playing really brings together all the elements we introduce in private lessons," he said. Currently there are three student bands developing. One of the groups is a Beatles tribute band called Pepperland.

According to Mr. Shelby, students enjoy playing music ranging from 50's and 60's Rock 'n' Roll to today's popular music. Student bands reflect the interests of the students which include blues, jazz, country, funk, soul, R&B, folk, hard rock and other styles of American Pop music.

A favorite night at 851 Music Studio is every second Tuesday where Shelby hosts a guided acoustic jam with the help of old time music and dance contra caller, musician and composer, Erik Hoffman. Students bring their guitars, fiddles, mandolins and voices.

The studio provides private and group instruction, student band development, computer learning, recording, play nights, workshops, field trips and student performances. Beginning through advanced students are welcome and anyone interested is invited to call Shelby at the music studio.

###