About Tom Gates

Tom Gates

Music Teacher, Master

Location: Gilbert, AZ

Speaks: English

Instructs: Guitar, Ukulele

Education: B.A. Guitar Performance University of Miami, Coral Gables, Florida

Performance Experience: I have performed throughout the U.S. with rock, jazz, and worldbeat bands and as a soloist for more than 30 years. As a founding member of Arizona favorite Walt Richardson and The Morningstar Band, performing since 1985 throughout Arizona and at the at the world famous Telluride Jazz Festival in Telluride, Co. As a roster artist with the Arizona Commission on the Arts, I have given music education workshops and performances at schools, community centers and concert halls throughout the state.

Teaching Experience: I began teaching while still in music school and have continued to this day. I have worked with students of all ages and abilities, from beginners as young as five, to seasoned pros looking to polish their skills. I teach both private and group in-person lessons and online video lessons.

Teaching Philosophy: Nothing is difficult – Just unfamiliar. • Any musical technique or theory can be learned efficiently if reduced to fundamental principles. • Don’t practice something until you can play it right – practice until you can’t play it wrong. I custom-tailor a lesson plan based on the student’s musical goals and time available for practice. I create lessons in notation and TAB, as well as backing tracks for songs. The student has everything necessary for an immersive and engaging practice experience.

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Get to know Tom Gates

I'm Tom Gates. I’ve been a professional performer and teacher for more than 30 years. I received my B.A. degree in guitar performance from the University of Miami, where I studied jazz guitar with Pat Metheny, and classical guitar with Juan Mercadal. I perform, record, and teach in Phoenix, Arizona.

I began playing classic rock, then jazz, classical, and world music. Living in south Florida exposed me to the world of Latin jazz and the music of the Caribbean. I started playing the amazing instrument from Trinidad – the steel drum.

In my early music studies I was fortunate to have some wonderfully inspiring teachers. I carry on this spirit, and positive approach, in my own teaching.

In these challenging times, I believe that music is more important than ever in providing relief from stress and enhancing the quality of life. Let’s make more musicians!

Tom Gates teaches at:

Gilbert AZ

891 E Baseline Rd Suite 101

Gilbert, AZ 85233

(480) 898-1499

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