Mike Strausbaugh

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Introduction

So, 'free!' teach-yourself YouTube/TikTok lessons not working? Of COURSE, they didn't work. Why? 1) You can't teach yourself anything, and 2) All it takes to be a 'guitar teacher' is an internet connection and skill with clickbait titles. Of course, I'm on social media, too. In fact, you should definitely watch some of my fun little 1-minute TikTok/Instagram Reels videos I've included in my profile. Want social proof? I've included screenshots, from Reddit, TikTok and Instagram, from people just like you. I'm a true Music Mentor/Guitar Guru. Bold claim, but here are my bullet points: - Master of Music - Classical Guitar - Master of Music - Composition - Master of Music - Jazz Studies - Metro State Denver music faculty (2019-2020) - 20+ years full-time music instruction That's cool for me, sure, but hopefully you realize that's it's also VERY cool for you as a Student. Also, you may have noticed that I have a ridiculous amount of reviews, 96% of which are 5-Star. What Thumbtack doesn't tell you is my retention rate. Many of my students have been with me 3, 4, even 6 years. These are smart, curious, and savvy people who have become invested in the process and continue to trust me to guide them. I mean, Metro State Denver trusted me to teach their undergraduate Music students, so you're in good hands! And while at Metro, I was one of the Cool Professors. Because I was cool. And fun. And relatable and passionate and real and everything that makes students trust me to teach them. So, it doesn't matter if you've never picked up a guitar, or have played for 20 years. It also doesn't matter if you want to learn 'this' style, or 'that' genre,' I can help you!

Overview

Hired 110 times

Background checked

28 years in business

Payment methods

This pro accepts payments via Apple Pay, Cash, and Venmo.

Social media

Facebook, Instagram, Twitter

Top Pro status

Top Pros are among the highest-rated, most popular professionals on Thumbtack.

2021

2018

2017

2016

Featured Projects

25 photos

Specialties

Interested musical styles

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Reviews

Customers rated this pro highly for work quality, professionalism, and responsiveness.

Excellent 4.9

96 reviews

97%

Read reviews that mention:

Chaz H.

Aug 23, 2021

Hired on Thumbtack

There a lot of little things I’ve appreciated about my lessons. Firstly, Mike is just easy to get along with and talk to. I’m a nervous person and Mike has a very informal approach to teaching. He is most concerned with you learning the material but he has always been understanding that I’m an adult and sometimes work and life obligations make it hard to study. He takes a lot of care in making sure you understand the material. No questions are stupid and he’s extremely patient. The best way I can describe taking lessons with him is like getting into a college class with the professor that everyone likes regardless of department. I think the last point that ties it all together is I think he genuinely loves music and he enjoys teaching. In my learning experience I have learned that I can take a class in something I have no personal interest and the professor can make the class a lot of fun. Conversely, I’ve taken classes I am naturally interested and hated it because the professor didn’t seem to care much about you learning the material. Mike is definitely not a burnt out school teacher smoking cigarettes and drinking black coffee during breaks. I would highly suggest mike for any adult student especially if you’re a beginner. While I have been playing for many years my musical knowledge was really weak but I feel like I’ve learned a lot after a month or so. It was really nice to find someone that wanted to teach me about music rather than how to play the guitar.

Details: 26 - 44 years old • No formal training; some self-taught experience • Yes, can read guitar tabs • Acoustic • Classical • What the teacher recommends • Jazz • Blues • Folk • Rock • Country • Yes, the student has an instrument • 60 minutes • At the pro’s location • Remotely (phone or internet)

Mike Strausbaugh's reply

Chaz, First, thanks for the glowing review of our sessions, but specifically for its candid nature. You've really touched on something huge here - does this guy love not only the subject (Music and Guitar), but specifically TEACHING it?! I'm right with ya; I love European History, but got a D because the teacher was a guy who loved European History and had no idea how to convey not only the 'information,' but the Passion required to make ANYTHING worth doing. So, yes, I DO love teaching Music, and watching people 'get it.' Thanks, man!

Guitar Lessons

Christopher O.

Aug 19, 2021

Hired on Thumbtack

My time with Mike thus far has been fun to summarize it all. I have been playing guitar for upwards of 14 years, but I was missing key things when it came to music theory in general. Mike has been a huge help in filling the gaps. He is quick to recognize your strengths and weaknesses, and gives you plenty to work with to fix those weaknesses. But as I said before, he definitely makes it fun to learn, and make you feel like you matter. Plus he has helped me with songs that I am learning, and songs that I am writing. Also I feel very confident that if I have a question throughout the week, I can count on Mike to get back to me asap.

Details: Guitar • Intermediate • 26 - 44 years old • Music subjects (notation, analysis, ear training) • 60 minutes • At the pro’s location

Mike Strausbaugh's reply

Chris, It's so satisfying to watch key pieces of the puzzle fall into place for you so quickly, and since your technique is already so good, you're moving along that much quicker!

Music Theory Lessons

Josh H.

Apr 2, 2021

Hired on Thumbtack

For those trying to get an understanding of what it is like to have Mike as your music mentor, please STOP & READ this review! My name is Josh, and I am a multi-instrumentalist. When I was looking for a guitar teacher, I really wanted someone who was going to educate me on music theory. A person who could inform me on why certain chords blend well together, how I can play with more intent over chords, and what steps to take to understand the relationship between music across not only the fretboard but all instruments. Instead of playing on "feel", I wanted the ability to feel confident in my play by understanding the relationship between notes and chords. Now that you understand a little bit of my background, I would like to express my progression and time working with Mike. First and foremost, I myself do not look at Mike as a "teacher", but in a lot of ways more of a mentor/friend. This is a guy who will match your level of passion for music and educate you on how you can progress as a guitar player. I approached Mike informing him of what I was looking for in a teacher, and Instantly became aware of how knowledgeable he is in the world of music. Mike is able to break something down that is complex for me, into a simplistic way that makes it easy to understand and apply to my personal practice. (You have to be self-disciplined if you want to make progress) I am able to check in with Mike once a week and get help on what I need in that moment of time. Once he understands what you are seeking to learn, he tailors a plan to educate you in a way that makes sense to you. All in all, when I am in a lesson with Mike I do not feel like I am in a session with a teacher, but rather with a friend that wants to see me achieve what I set out to do and assist me in any way he can. He is a very personable guy and makes you feel at ease regardless of what level of play you are starting from. At the end of the day, if you want a mentor in your life that will be able to take you through the journey of music, assist you with your personal music aspirations, and a guy who will cut the bullshit and make the music experience fun, Mike is your guy! *I would like to add, that I have progressed at my speed with Mike because I practice as much as I can outside of work, and have a strong passion for music. You will progress at the rate of effort that you are willing to put in. Regardless, Mike will put in his effort to work with you and get you to where you want to get*

Details: 18 - 25 years old • 0 - 2 yrs of formal training • Yes, can read guitar tabs • Electric • Rock • Blues • Jazz • Yes, the student has an instrument • 60 minutes • Remotely (phone or internet)

Mike Strausbaugh's reply

Josh, Wow, I'm so grateful for the kind words, my friend. I truly dig every session, and I love watching you blossom so quickly and deeply!

Guitar Lessons

Cristian P.

Jan 27, 2021

Hired on Thumbtack

If you want a teacher that is honest about what he provides during his lessons rather than a teacher who promises you a lot of things just to get you into their first lesson, then Mike is the way to go. From the first time we gained contact with each other, I knew what I was going to get into during these lessons. He does not try to sugarcoat his expectations in the class and does not shy away from any hard questions. He answers these questions with great professionalism and genuine honesty. So all in all, whatever Mike says to you, I can guarantee it to be true. No scams with him! In terms of the lessons, whether you are a beginner, intermediate, or advanced (I was intermediate), you can always take away something from the lessons not just as a guitarist, but as a growing musician. He follows your lead and teaches the lesson based on what you want from the class. Whether it be a practice structure, or just trying to learn a new song, make sure to know what you want when going in. Wish I could've continued, but it doesn't fit my budget at the mom. If you want an honest teacher and want to actually improve in your guitar skills instead of remaining stagnant, Mike is definitely the teacher that would push you!

Details: 18 - 25 years old • 0 - 2 yrs of formal training • Yes, can read guitar tabs • What the teacher recommends • Jazz • Classical • Rock • Blues • Yes, the student has an instrument • 60 minutes • My home, venue, etc. • Remotely (phone or internet)

Mike Strausbaugh's reply

Cristian, Thanks so much for a truthful and honest review! You're right; guitar isn't about 'easy,' it's about dedication, challenging yourself, and working on a craft that never stops rewarding you. Doesn't mean it's 'hard,' just that the effort pays off. I'm glad to have worked with you, and keep it up! Mike

Guitar Lessons

Will Y.

Nov 24, 2020

Hired on Thumbtack

Mike is the guy you’re looking for no matter why you’re thinking of getting guitar lessons. Whether you’re a complete beginner or more advanced, Mike can work with you on everything from technique, to theory, to reading music, to learning to play your favorite song. He understands and appreciates all kinds of music, and better still, he helps you discover and understand what YOU love in your favorite pieces. Mike’s lessons don’t feel like lessons. You just spend an hour every week talking, learning, and listening with someone who can help you advance, and who is even more excited about your progress than you are!

Details: 26 - 44 years old • No formal training; some self-taught experience • No, cannot read music • Electric • Rock • Blues • Yes, the student has an instrument • 60 minutes • Remotely (phone or internet)

Mike Strausbaugh's reply

Will, Shining praise, indeed! Truly grateful, my friend, and I love that we get to discuss and analyze Brahms!

Guitar Lessons

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Michael Strausbaugh

FAQs

What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?
My tuition works out to $100/hour, but please...don't consider these 'guitar lessons. Luke didn't 'take Jedi lessons,' he learned The Force and became a Jedi. With me, you learn Guitar and Music, and become a Musician!
What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
By definition, every first lesson is unique. Why? Because YOU, my friend, have a unique set of skills, interests, and a unique way of learning. So, like that first visit to your primary care doctor, I learn about you so I build an understanding on how to guide you.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
Master of Music - Classical Guitar, Master of Music - Composition, Master of Music - Jazz Studies, Metro State Denver faculty (2019-2020), Bachelor of Arts - Classical Guitar Live performance, from local dives to DU's Newman Center and Contemporary Art Museum St. Louis

Mike Strausbaugh

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