Testimonials
“Karl is a multi-talented musician who has instructed all four of our kids over 10+ years. He has not only provided exceptional instruction in guitar, bass, and drums, but he also helped transform our kids’ performance skills!”
-Christa T. Charlotte, NC
“Karl taught me everything I know about music all the way through middle school and high school. He was a great teacher and an amazing mentor. If it weren’t for him I wouldn’t still be pursuing music today. The most influential thing about working with Karl is that he not only taught me creative, theoretical and technical skills, but also paired me with other students that he thought would complement my style of playing. He got us gigs, and gave us the opportunity to really feel what it’s like to play music in front of people. An experience that I otherwise would have had to pursue on my own without him.” -Ricky E.
“There are really no adequate words to describe how much Karl impacted our two sons! He encouraged one reluctant musician to try new things and challenged the other eager musician to commit, practice, be creative and to lead well. Karl coupled his creativity and vast musical knowledge with a unique ability to know kids as individuals. He seamlessly adjusted to personalities, interests and skill levels all while developing musical abilities in the most fun ways. Our time with Karl was one of the greatest investments we’ve made in our kids and are some of our family's most fun memories.”
-Anne R.
“I can attest to the fact that Karl is a patient, and understanding teacher. He makes it enjoyable to learn the instrument, and have an easy going attitude that encourages the student to continue to learn. His joy of music, and mastery of so many instruments is inspiring.”
-Glenn R.
“Karl can teach anyone to play an instrument. He can bring people together to become a real band. He is so selfless, organizes gigs for his students to play in real venues spending countless hours behind the scenes. The confidence and exposure my kids got from being in Karl’s bands and instruction was priceless! Karl can teach children of all abilities! I think he is part therapist, part cheerleader, and the most patient teacher I have ever met. The best part is he can have you playing a new song after just one lesson! He was super flexible in scheduling lessons and was always helping the kids to learn valuable skills about performance, accountability, and charitable causes. He was available to help kids prepare for special events so that they would succeed, and if anything were to go wrong he was there to help us all laugh at our mistakes and move on!”
-Noelle V.
“Karl has a talent for bringing musicians together that highlights the best in each of them”
-Denise S.
"I reached out to Karl for a Christmas gift.....guitar lessons. Our son has really enjoyed learning from Karl and proclaims that he is a really cool guy and a great instructor."
-Stacey H.
“I have had the honor and privilege of performing and teaching with Karl over the past few years. He is one of the most talented musicians I have ever known or played with and his understanding of music, musicianship, and sound engineering are unparalleled. From a teaching perspective, his patience and 1:1 approach with his students is amazing. He can adjust and customize his approach as needed to whatever his student or students need, whether it’s a 1:1 teaching session or a group collective band session. Truly, he is a quiet and humble master of his field and I boldly and loudly proclaim that he is one of the best.”
-Tos R.
“When I started taking guitar lessons with Karl nine months ago, all I could play was basic chords. Now I’m playing songs and chords I never imagined I could play.
Karl really knows his stuff and can move you in the direction you want to go. He keeps the lessons fun but also packed full of helpful information.
If you’re wondering whether you should take lessons from him, you should!”
-Brenda O.
“I would recommend Karl Gunther to anyone who wants to learn music or just hone his/her music and performance skills. He has taught all of our kids how to play various instruments both individually and in a band setting. They gained confidence, made lifelong friends, and had a blast in the process."
-Chris T.
“Our experience with Karl has been awesome! In the past four years with him, he has not only taught our son music and musicality, but how to work as band with his band mates, prep for and perform at gigs, and how to improve as an artist. He provides playing/gigging opportunities for these kids they wouldn’t get otherwise. And he does all this with a crazy sense of humor! “
-Alyson K.
"We've known Karl for about 5 years since he started helping our son with drum lessons. Karl's got a way with students that is a special gift not all instructors have: he reaches kids by speaking their language and treating them with respect. His musical knowledge is immense and as a multi-instrumentalist he understands the challenges firsthand that the student may be facing. I would highly recommend Karl to students of any age that would like to gain more proficiency with their instrument. He's a great teacher, great musician, and really just a great guy all around.” -Paul S.
“I think you are a great instructor and musician.”
-Brian S.
“I’ve been casually playing guitar off and on for years. I wanted to take that next step as a guitarist, and also gain a better understanding of musical theory. I found a gold mine of knowledge in Karl. He has formal training as a musician, but one of the things I appreciate about his teaching style, is that he takes the time to get to know his students, personally. He is a great guy that makes you feel at ease when you meet with him. Lessons can be structured and methodical if you prefer, or less structured, and we have had several interesting (and helpful) discussions around musical theory. He has a way of taking information and relaying it in a way that is straightforward and easy to understand. I’m lucky to have a teacher and friend like Karl, and I’m thrilled to be one of his students!”
-Jason K.
“Our entire family has taken lessons from Karl, from the upright bass, electric bass, drums, guitar, to the banjo. He taught us classical, rock, country and whatever genre music we wanted to learn. Karl makes learning music and the instruments extremely easy and fun! He works hard to coordinate plenty of times and venues for all his students to play and perform. It’s his passion to teach everybody how to play an instrument and have fun doing it!
-Jackson Family
“Karl has an ability to engage kids through music in a way unlike anything I’ve seen. His multi-instrumental talents are just the tip of the iceberg. His gift of creating and developing top quality youth bands is second-to-none in the region. These bands not only know their instruments and their individual parts, they have incredible stage presence and clearly enjoy playing with each other. Nothing feels forced or artificial. Karl has a love of music and a heart for developing talent that comes once in a lifetime. His reputation in the music scene speaks for itself. Expect to see even more incredible talent coming up through Karl’s program in the future.”
-Case W.
“As a fellow music school owner, I’ve always admired Karl’s approach to getting students to play music together in bands. He possesses the unique ability of putting students in groups that will cause them to grow as musicians and a group. This can be evidenced by the many successful groups that have come out of his studio over the years. Karl has a lot to offer and I am always excited for any group that has the opportunity to work with him.”
-Adam W.
“Karl’s approach to teaching music is brilliantly simple…make it fun! By embracing the joy of the student and celebrating the wins…he had our daughter excited about learning more!”
-Brandon L.
“Karl has been so great with my 8 and 6 year old. He is incredibly patient with them, and they love that they can learn how to play their favorite songs - no matter silly they are. As a parent it has been really fun to not just watch them learn how to play instruments, but to get excited about the process.”
-Kate W.
“Everything you need to know or learn about the background of music and what scales is fit for you, then Karl is the best teacher for you. If you’re completely oblivious about what to know on a stringed instrument, and are confused how to synchronize things together, he has no problem telling you how to do it in the perfect form.”
-Brennyn B.
“I was a student of Karl’s for 10 years. He can teach across a multitude of genres and styles, and his ability to tailor the lesson plan to the student is unmatched. His lesson plans enabled me to carry fundamentals across multiple instruments and genres. He pushes his students to practice and be better each week, and even all these years later, I can jump back in without missing a beat thanks to the things he taught me over those 10 years.”
-Andrew H.
“My twin 14-year-old sons have been taught guitar by Karl Gunther for about three years. I can’t say enough good things about Karl. He does a wonderful job with my boys. He’s very good at the technical teaching aspect, but he also keeps it fun, which keeps them engaged and motivated. He is not only a great music teacher, but I foresee him being a lifelong friend and mentor as well. I know of several of his students who are currently in professional bands. If you are considering working with Karl to teach either yourself or your child, my advice is, “don’t think about it, just do it!”
-Andy H.
“Karl is a gem! For the past five years, he’s helped our kids to pursue their musical interests from rock to jazz to classical. He has an easy rapport with them and encourages duets and trios. His multi-instrumental knowledge motivates them to master guitar, bass, keys, cello, and viola.”
-Nicole O.
“Karl has changed the way our family communicates! My son was diagnosed on the Autism Spectrum in elementary school, and often couldn’t tolerate the level of noise in music class. He took an interest in guitar in middle school, and that is when we met Karl! The time Karl took to make a genuine connection with my son, and our family, made all of the difference in how he began to connect with his friends and siblings. Karl connected with him after his first few lessons, learned his interests, and gave him goals he was interested in working towards outside of the studio. Seeing my son find his passion and voice in music, has brought happiness into every facet of his life. Karl is absolutely the best, and has done amazing work to help my son’s inclusion in local bands. Karl’s studio is a hidden gem, where all are welcome. Thank you Karl for all you have done for our family, and all of your work and commitment to our community.”
-Elizabeth H.
“Karl is an excellent musician which in turn makes him an excellent teacher to all skill levels. He is attentive, has loads of patience, is extremely encouraging and good at building confidence in his students. The best part is that he takes talented kids, puts bands together, and creates events where they can perform on a stage to show off their talents.”
-Tracy B.
“Our son has been taking lessons from Karl for several years. He has enjoyed learning one on one with Karl, as well as being a part of a band. Once he mastered the ukulele, he moved up to the electric guitar. He has enjoyed a variety of instruments throughout the years. Karl has the incredible ability to listen to a song and immediately teach every part. This is amazing to watch during a band practice. Karl sees each student’s gifts and encourages them to step out of their comfort zone to try new things. We are so grateful for Karl.
-Darin & Johnna W.
“Karl Gunther is an amazing musician and teacher. He and his teachers provide an incredibly friendly atmosphere. Karl can adapt teaching styles and settings to advance learning, quickly. For students interested in performing with others, Karl provides unique opportunities to connect with other musicians and perform. That allows his students to put what they’ve learned into practice. Highly recommended.”
-Tim T.
“Learning guitar can be a very frustrating process, but Karl’s patience and easy going nature removes a lot of obstacles. My 12 year old son is having so much fun playing that he doesn’t even realize how much he is learning. He looks forward to each lesson and loves learning new songs.”
-Craig M.
“My son started music lessons with Karl at age 12 and continued through high school. During that time, he learned drums, piano, bass, banjo, percussion, music theory, and composition. Even when his interests changed week to week, Karl always met him where he was and helped him to progress. Karl’s knowledge of music is so broad and deep that he could help him with anything he was interested in, and grow as a musician. But maybe more importantly, Karl’s intuition about how to connect with each student, and his flexibility, kept my son motivated and excited about learning music.”
-Jody M.
“Karl does a great job teaching kids individually on a variety of musical instruments, as well as how to perform in a band. He regularly puts together performance opportunities for his students and creates a fun, inviting atmosphere for any level of musician.”
-Dave R.
“My name is Colin, and I have improved greatly during the time I have had Karl as my guitar teacher! He keeps things very fun and does an excellent job teaching you how to play your instrument of choice. During the pandemic, he has continued his lessons with his students on zoom, and helped them improve. I have grown so much while being with this amazing teacher.”
“Karl has a talent for getting kids excited about music. He finds music that entices them and teaches those song regardless of their “level”. My daughter has a love for the bass and Karl mentored and taught her all the way to college. He helped her with the Classical music on upright with the Charlotte youth symphony and rock songs on the electric for her high school musicals. He helped her join 2 bands, one of which she still plays. These kids have a connection with Karl and they learn to love playing.”
-Carissa B.
“Karl is a witty and patient teacher. He brought my 15 year old daughter from a total novice to a confident bass player in just two years. He is crazy good with kids. And we are pretty sure there is not a stringed instrument he cannot play and teach. I recommend him to all levels of musicians as an instructor and mentor.”
-Sean H.
“Karl goes beyond teaching the material, he teaches you how to learn. That skill has helped me more than anything else, and during my time with him, I advanced as a musician like crazy!”
-Gustavo L.
“Karl is an amazing musician and instructor. We tried some of the other well-known local options, but nothing was even close to the experience we had with Karl. We highly recommend him to anyone wanting to learn to play music, regardless of instrument.”
-Darrell L.
“So much about a good music experience for children is finding the right instructor. We were extremely lucky to find Karl Gunther. Our daughter went from wanting to take guitar lessons to being in several bands and now studying music in college and pursuing a career as a professional musician. It all started with Karl and his passion and talent for teaching kids. He is the best and I cannot recommend his studio enough!”
-Michelle V.
My 14 year old son loves taking lessons from Karl. He started out learning to play guitar, then switched to drums, and is now playing piano. No matter what the instrument, Karl can play it, he can teach it, and he makes it a lot of fun. JP loves that he can choose the song he works on each week and no matter what it is, Karl can teach it to him after only listening to it once. Then, they play the song together. Karl is amazing!
-Suzanne R.
“I have been a student of Karl’s for many years. He is the most talented and knowledgeable music instructor I have ever met. Any instrument or any style of music, he can make you the best!!”
-David S.
“Karl works hard to instill confidence in young people who have a desire to become musicians. The impact he has had on young area musicians can be heard locally, regionally, and nationally.”
-Scott K.
“We used the space at Studio 115 to dial in a new board and IEM’s. Karl was awesome to work with. The stage was perfect, we had plenty of space, good acoustics. Great space for full bands to practice, film videos, etc. Highly recommended !
The HC Oakes Band“
“My son had taken two years of traditional guitar lessons and was pleading to quit. Around that time, we saw Karl's bands perform at school, and my son wanted to check it out. Karl put him in a band, and he learned, not just how to play, but how to perform a song. Something clicked with my son and playing music became exciting to him again. Karl changed my son's life. That sounds cliche, but music has become a huge part of his life, and he's considering a Music major in college. He may have missed out on this huge passion had we not been introduced to Karl at that time.”
-Kristen S.
“In one word . . . FUN! Karl has this amazing ability to make learning how to play any instrument fun. Our son has worked with Karl over the past 5 years, learning to play guitar and bass. It’s one thing to teach music, but it’s something really special when you are able to make it enjoyable and help to foster a love of music with your students. His enthusiasm is contagious and even inspired me to learn to play bass guitar as an adult! Whether you’re looking for lessons for your children or yourself, you won’t be disappointed with Karl Gunther Musik.”
-Heather A.
“Karl never fails to push us. He knows talent when he’s sees it and he’s willing to work to see his protégés go far.” -Devan F.
“Karl’s set up is the best! We have learned guitar, drums and keyboard from Karl! His teaching style makes us look forward to lessons each week. There’s no on that Karl can’t teach to play!” -Jack and Jesse
“Just about any instrument, he can teach it. Works well with anybody but is especially good at connecting kids to music in a way they can understand and enjoy.”
-Dan W.
“When I was 16 Karl helped me bring my dream of performing to life. He helped put together my first band and got us some really great gigs shortly after. Karl’s dedication to helping others is undeniable. He is so patient but also driven to see people grow and fulfill their dreams in music. He helped me with my band and also worked with me one on one to learn acoustic guitar. He’s a big reason I’m living in Nashville now doing what I love. I would recommend him to absolutely anyone!“
-Brooke L.
“Karl Gunther has been the man to go to for anything and everything music related since I moved to the Charlotte area. Everything he does is top quality. He also genuinely cares about the music he teaches and gives all of his students an exceptional environment to thrive in their areas of being a musician. He will teach you more than you can imagine if you give him the chance! If you are considering Karl for anything music related, I would say GO FOR IT, YOU WON'T REGRET IT!”
-Jamie V.
“My name is Connor and I have been a student of Karl’s for over three years! I can personally say that he has been my favorite guitar teacher, and always makes my guitar practices more enjoyable. I have become a more skilled and capable guitarist since I have been Karl’s student, and feel that I have improved immensely since I have been his student. My brother and I have also started our own band, with Karl’s help and guidance. We play mini-concerts that Karl sets up for us, and makes me want to start creating my own songs.”
“You give good constructive criticism
Unique sense of humor that makes you feel like a good friend recognizes true talent when seen.”
-Elliot E.
“Karl is a very talented musician and works well with all skill levels. My kids were taught multiple instruments and performed in many types of events as both solo artists and as part of a band. These skills gave them both solo confidence and individuality as well as learning the importance of listening, timing, and working with other musicians in a group setting. I highly recommend Karl.”
-Ronda P.
“Karl taught my son drums, guitar and bass over a period of almost 10 years. The private lessons were well planned and my son learned so much. My son also participated in numerous student bands at Karl’s studio which fostered a love of music even more. I would highly recommend Karl to anyone looking to learn or further develop their musical skills!”
-Angie L.
“Our friends highly recommended Karl for music lessons and our son got to watch one time, and was invited up to the stage to try the drums. From that day, he was hooked! We are truly grateful for all of Karl’s guidance with William and each lesson is thoroughly enjoyed! Karl is phenomenal and has the magic touch with kids of all ages! Thank you for giving our son the love for music!!!”
-Nish H.
“They don’t make music instructors any better than Karl Gunther. Over seven years ago my son Aidan began taking lessons from Karl. He has given my son the gift of a lifetime. He started on guitar then moved to bass, drums, keyboards, and violin. I cannot thank Karl enough for the positive influence he has been in Aidan’s life.”
-Tom O.
“Karl is laid back but serious. He makes learning an instrument fun. He knows everything about music and all the instruments he teaches.“ -Gina J.
“Karl has the ability to play anything on multiple instruments. He is a master of music theory and can break music down so it is easy to learn and play immediately. Great Coach. Great listener and communicator. Fantastic with helping with sound and crushing the live show”
-Dan M.
“We’ve known Karl for years & he’s an amazing music teacher. My girls love him & his style of teaching music.“
-Nan S.
"Karl provided and ran the sound for a few of my band’s shows. His equipment was top notch, and his demeanor with the band getting us set up made the whole pre show process effortless.
And the sound quality was way more than we expected for a small stage at an outdoor event. Aces all the way with this guy!"
-Ade H.
“Karl is an exceptional teacher over many different instruments. My son took lessons from Karl on bass and guitar as well as mentoring the band that he was a part of. I would highly recommend Karl for any stage in their craft. Wonderful with teens and a great sense of humor."
-Keith W.
“Karl has taught me everything I love and know about music from drums to guitar to bass to playing in bands from the time I was 10 years old. He is an amazing musician himself and a very patient teacher. Anyone who’s looking to get into music or anyone that just wants to refine their skills should absolutely go to Karl. He’s an awesome teacher and a genuine person.”
-Chris L.
“Karl has been teaching my son since October 2018, originally for classical upright bass, but Karl has a talent to effortlessly switch between music styles and instruments; besides double bass, my son has spent time playing drums, electric bass, electric upright bass, keyboard and ukulele. Karl put him together with other likeminded students of his to form a tribute band for their favorite group. Even though my son is now in the Youth Orchestra of Charlotte and has the opportunity to work with members of the Charlotte Symphony on a regular basis, he still enjoys his weekly lessons with Karl, now concentrating on jazz bass. Karl has made him a better player and a better all-round musician.”
-Richard K.
“Karl started working with my son (solo as well as part of two different bands) almost two years ago - guitar, bass, and drums - and he is a very talented, experienced musician and a phenomenal instructor, coach, and mentor. Karl knows how to connect with musicians on their level to help them achieve their goals. He knows how to encourage and motivate musicians. His guidance and advice in terms of musicianship, style, genre, technique, and marketability is priceless. His studio/venue is perfect for budding and experienced musicians, giving them a practice space that simulates a live performance experience. I highly recommend Karl for all your music instruction, production, performance and studio needs!”
-Catherine H.
“Karl has guided my daughter from shy and hiding drummer—if you can imagine such a thing—to confident emerging guitarist and composer with powerful drum chops! Karl has supported her dreams while allowing her to grow at her own pace with his attentive listening and the respect he naturally has for all kids.”
-Helen P.
“Karl has a real knack for helping young musicians step outside their comfort zone to let their true talents shine. His ability to assemble youth bands, teach and rehearse in a non-traditional, fun way and then help showcase their work through local performances is really amazing. So many students develop a life-long love for music after their experience with Karl.”
-Pamela C.
“Thanks to Karl, I’ve watched my son grow into a performing musician. We first met Karl at an outdoor event where many “kid bands” were performing. The bands would play 2-3 songs in front of an audience & then another band would come up and do the same. I could see the joy in every child’s eyes as they performed and I wanted that for my son. I introduced myself to Karl, we setup a date to where my son and his friends could meet up at Karl’s studio and off we went. First off, Karl’s studio is awesome. It’s got a stage, lights, professional equipment and everything to make you feel like you’re up on stage performing like a real musician. On that first day, my son and his friends showed up and they each chose an instrument and off they went. Karl’s patience, sense of humor, and ability to teach music to all levels of students had my son and his friends playing a song by the end of that first session. They loved it. Months later I got to watch my son and his friends play their first live event all setup by Karl. Here we are over five years later and my son still goes to learn from Karl. What I’ve learned over the years is that Karl has a deep understanding of music and his ability to teach that is one of the things I value most. His incredible patience is amazing. The students can choose to learn fun songs or take a deep dive into music theory. It’s up to them. At this point, I’ve told all my friends and anyone I meet that Karl is the way to go if you have children interested in an instrument or a band. Karl also does one on one lessons and also teaches adults.”
-Peter K.
"Karl’s studio allows kids and teens and adults to explore their musical talents and learn to work with other musicians. My son had lots of classical piano training when he came to Karl’s studio and Karl taught him things he had not encountered. Karl’s music expertise is AMAZING and he is able to see the potential in someone and bring to life. My son grew so much while under Karl’s instruction. This place gives kids a space to learn, grow and own their own music style!!”
-Adriana B.
“Our daughter had a wonderful once in a lifetime experience as lead vocalist in a band, playing bass guitar, and taking song writing lessons. Karl is great with kids and inspires them to be confident and creative. I highly recommend this studio.”
-Caroline H.
“Karl gave me the opportunities for my music career I would’ve never gotten without him. Introducing me to like minded musicians, and providing an outlet for me to perform and grow, this time of my life was crucial and truly set me up to be the musician I am today.”
-Jackson M.
“a very knowledgeable and patient teacher, who clearly loves teaching and sharing music with others. His ability to introduce music to people while providing them with the opportunity and encouragement to perform in front of others, are life lessons worth learning at any age!”
-Dan H.
“I’ve known Karl for many years, one of the most proficient bassists and music instructors I have ever known!”
-Ty C.
“Great place to practice with state of the art sound equipment by a professional who knows how to make you sound the best. Conveniently located and availability that fits into your schedule.”
-Rindy
“Everytime I’ve gotten in conversation about music and kids in the area, Karl’s name has come followed by praises on his musical expertise, the way he connects to kids, and his love for what he does. After meeting him, I totally got why he was so highly spoken of.”
-Dave C.
“My son grew by leaps and bounds as a musician with you as a teacher and you helped him become fearless with learning new instruments.”
-Trisha O.
Karl connects with kids in a way I’ve never seen before-he makes them feel comfortable, but also keeps them motivated. My son has been taking guitar lessons and has learned so much-it’s incredible to listen to him play. Karl encourages students to pick out music they like which is HUGE for my son-being able to jam out to his favorite tunes. Karl does a fantastic job of putting students together based on skill set and interest to form small bands-I’ve been able to listen to small groups/bands and it is just so much fun! I will also mention that his studio is insanely amazing-it feels like your on stage in there! Can’t say enough good things-highly recommend -his teaching and his talent are just outstanding!
-Jessica M.
“Karl keeps my daughter’s piano lessons interesting. The music choices are always current and goes along with the individual style interests that she has. That helps her feel like herself and not like she’s being forced into a mold.”
-Shelley H.
Karl is a knowledgeable, exemplary musician. My bass playing wouldn’t be the same without his instruction. Great teacher.”
-Bryan G.
“Karl is a fantastic mentor and teacher. He engaged my kiddo right where he was at the time and encouraged him to understand, appreciate & love music…not just the drums, but the music that’s all around us all the time. Such a gift. Thanks, Karl!”
-Karen C.
“Karl is Funny and is very welcoming and it’s nice that he lets you pick a song that you want to learn.”
-Cooper D.
“I’ve worked with Karl a couple times throughout my life, and every time has been amazing! First, as a young kid, where he helped me and my friends put together old rock songs for a couple of shows, and the other time, a little bit older, to help me break back into my love for music. Karl always puts you first and is very patient. A great teacher and a great man!”
-Patrick L.
"We all want to be rock stars, right? Karl gives my son the instruction necessary to keep that dream alive. He moves fast and expects a lot from his students. He understands creativity and their need for flexibility. And through practice, drills, and his sense of humor, they respond accordingly with huge leaps in growth over time. In short, his method works. I couldn't think of a better teacher to take my son from drums and guitar novice into a highly functioning band member.”
-Devon W.
“I like how he lets me choose the songs I want to learn. He’s also helpful when I’m slow at learning something.”
-Lauren H.
“Our son had an awesome experience taking drum lessons with Karl…not only did he develop as a drummer, the approach that Karl takes with his students, made it a life lesson that has helped our son as he moved on to college…he continues to play music in his Church band. Thank you Karl for your dedication to all your students!”
-Dana G.
“My son has been taking guitar for over a year now. It’s been a great experience. I would highly recommend Karl if you are looking for someone to teach your child.”
-Lisa D.
“Karl Gunther Musik – A one stop shop for your musical journey.
I first met Karl when a friend of mine who took some drum lessons from him suggested we rent out his studio so we could have a place to jam. I play bass. The studio is a perfect place for a band to practice their music and routine on stage and at a reasonable rate. He has all the equipment you need and you just plug into his PA system and go. If he is not busy he will even listen in and provide you pointers. Need a professional photo of your band? No problem, he has a set up for that too.
I became impressed with Karl once I started hearing him play. He will be embarrassed to read this but I consider him to be a music prodigy. Calling him just a musician would be a disservice. I’ve heard him play several different instruments and I’m stunned he is not a session musician, but perhaps teaching is his true calling.
I became even more impressed with Karl once I started hearing his students play. The best thing about Karl’s approach, in my opinion, is that he believes the only way to get good is to get out there and play with other musicians. While this is stating the obvious, Karl makes it happen. He hosts several jam sessions at local places in the area for his students to get out there and play with other people. Don’t have anyone to play with? No problem, he’ll find you players or just pick up an instrument himself. Karl once told me he wasn’t a fan of recitals because they were too nerve wracking and formal. He prefers a loose and friendly environment where you can get up there, play in front of friends and family, make mistakes and get experience. I’ve seen with my own eyes the results he has with his students. These kids are spectacular and the ages range from under 10 to college level students. These kids all play classic rock from the 1970’s up to modern day music.
I wish I had a teacher like Karl back in high school during the late 1980’s instead of meeting him in my late 40’s after a 20+ year hiatus of playing bass. If so, I’m sure my musical journey would have been much, much different. Much like any profession, there are always experts on the subject matter, but those experts can’t always teach their wisdom to others. I finally got a personal taste of Karl’s teaching when I got a bass tryout with a band and I had to crash learn 18 of their original songs with nothing more than a CD. The way he can quickly deconstruct a song the first time he hears it and then examine and explain how the parts work and flow was an eye opener. He has a very different approach that doesn’t just follow the textbook theory and scales chart. I liken it to him teaching music philosophy, all while covering the theory you need to know. Needless to say, I got the gig. It was worth the 2 hour round trip I had to make just for 30-60 minutes of his time.
So, if you are even remotely serious about making music a part of your life, working with Karl is a no brainer. He will get to on the path and on the right track. It won’t be easy, you will have to work and work hard, but that is with anything you want in life. But, we all need the right guidance, and I highly recommend Karl.”
-Mike R.
“Karl’s studio is an awesome spot to practice and learn. Karl is reasonably priced, knowledgeable on multiple instruments, and has the experience to teach you anything you want to learn.”
-Evan G.
