Appleton Guitar
Zakk A.
Acoustic & Electric Guitar
Not currently accepting new students
I have been teaching electric and acoustic guitar since I was 13 years old to students of all ages and skill levels. I have the ability to teach any style of guitar, but my strongest areas are rock, blues, jazz, classical, and folk guitar.
My journey with the guitar began at the age of 7, and it has become my lifelong passion. Even now, as a professional guitarist, singer, and songwriter, I continue to take lessons because I believe that even teachers need to keep learning to grow as musicians.
You may have seen me perform with my award-winning band, Bad Habitz, or at one of my solo acoustic shows. I have had the privilege to play with national acts such as Sebastian Bach, Tom Kieffer, Vince Neal, Blue Oyster Cult, Lita Ford, Quiet Riot, Slaughter, Great White, Jackyl, Kip Winger, and Mike Tramp.
In my teaching philosophy, I believe in a theory-based approach to studying guitar, emphasizing proper technique and choosing songs that align with the musical interests of my students. I utilize method books to provide a structured learning experience, supplemented with weekly assignments to help my students achieve both short-term and long-term goals. Moreover, I place a strong emphasis on improvisation, songwriting, and most importantly, having fun!
Mike I.
Acoustic Guitar, Electric Guitar, Bass Guitar, Piano, Banjo, Mandolin, & Ukulele
Music Theory, Songwriting, & Improvisation
Offering In-Person Instruction
Hey! I’m Mike Iverson, a teacher at Heid Music’s Appleton location. I’ve been teaching music for 25 years, aiming to maintain a studio based on respect, positivity, and the joy of playing - not expectation or stress. I try my best to keep the mood calm and casual, always attempting to create a safe place for my students to be themselves, which I feel to be important because learning music requires lots of mistakes along the path to confidence.
Over the years, I’ve studied music at UW Green Bay and UW Oshkosh, learned multiple ways of teaching, and picked up how to recognize and adjust for different styles of learning. I’ve also learned to play and improvise in many different genres, my personal favorites being early rock, folk, and old-school country/bluegrass, but I also love teaching just about anything in the rock, country, pop, and jazz genres. I tailor each lesson to where the student is, where they want to be, and how they can be having fun, all the while teaching practical music theory using the songs they want to play.
I’ve had students win awards for their playing and get accepted into music programs throughout the country, but I never try to put expectations on my students. I’m just as happy teaching adults who only want to play around a campfire and kids who are still wondering if this might be their thing, as I am teaching people with more specific goals for themselves. All skill and motivation levels are accepted and encouraged in my studio! My only requirements are that the student wants to be here and that everyone stays kind.
Dylan M.
Acoustic & Electric Guitar
Offering In-Person Instruction
Hey there, I'm Dylan, a singer/guitarist from Central Wisconsin. I've been on a musical journey since a young age, picking up the guitar at 10 and discovering my singing voice at 15. Growing up, I was exposed to a diverse range of music genres, from Rock and Blues to Country and beyond.
Over the years, I've been part of some well-known variety bands in the state, such as Boomboxx, Road Trip, and a 3-piece group called Amy Jo & The DownGlow. On top of that, I've had the privilege to sit in with other fantastic bands like Boogie & The Yoyoz, Spicy Tie Band, and Vic Ferrari.
Currently, I'm still actively performing with Road Trip and Amy Jo & The DownGlow. Music isn't just a hobby or a part-time gig for me; it's my calling, my passion, and the very essence of my life.
I take my music seriously, and I'm eager to share my love for a wide variety of genres with you. Whether it's strumming heartfelt ballads or rocking out to high-energy tunes, I'm here to spread the joy and magic of music. So let's embark on this musical adventure together, and let the melodies take us to incredible places!
David S.
Acoustic & Electric Guitar
Offering In-Person Instruction
I'm David, and my musical journey began at a very early age when my father taught me to play the guitar. By the time I was 12, I was already performing at church and school events, feeling the thrill of sharing my music with others. When I hit 17, I took things to the next level and founded the band Leviathan, taking our sounds on tour across Northern Michigan and the neighboring towns of Michigan and Wisconsin.
Along the way, my passion for music led me to write and record three CDs. In those albums, I played all the instruments and poured my heart into the vocals. I even had the opportunity to compose a jingle for Starbucks, Lake Geneva, which gave me the chance to perform my original music live.
Since 2003, I've been sharing my expertise through teaching, and I welcome students of all ages to join me on their musical journey. Over the years, I've developed teaching methods that have proven to greatly accelerate the learning process. My focus is on playing by ear and nurturing the art of songwriting.
So, if you're ready to dive into the world of music with me, let's get started! Whether you're a beginner or looking to take your skills to new heights, I'm here to guide you, inspire you, and help you discover the magic of playing and creating music.
Debbie W.
Wernick Method Group Class, Guitar & Ukulele (Adult Students Only)
Not currently accepting new students
I started my musical journey in grade school, playing the baritone ukulele. I honed my skills through group and individual lessons, and along the way, I also taught myself to play the guitar. Over the years, I've mastered both guitar and ukulele, including the baritone version. In additiona to the Wernick group method, I also teach beginning guitar and ukulele students.
In the Fox Valley, you might have caught me performing in a duo with the talented Cory Arndt at various charity and special events. I'm also proud to be a Wernick method instructor in bluegrass, although my musical tastes span across multiple genres.
When it comes to teaching, I emphasize chord structure, rhythmic skills, and ear training. These elements are vital to becoming a well-rounded musician. In my classes and lessons, I also highlight the numerous benefits of playing with others and the essential skills required for collaborative music-making.
Above all, my teaching philosophy centers around having fun and nurturing your love for the instrument. So, if you're ready to embark on a musical adventure filled with joy and creativity, I'm here to guide you every step of the way!
