James S.

I have a bachelor's degree in interdisciplinary studies from Central Methodist University in Columbia, Missouri. I created short films, and wrote an in-depth capstone paper entitled “Fear in Film” exploring horror history and the ways in which culture and world events have influenced the genre. While attending college I took multiple education classes and completed a student teaching program. In college I studied screenwriting, creative writing, and film theory.

I have very strong knowledge of the foundations of guitar. I have some experience with high level play, but I know there is still plenty to learn! I have knowledge of acoustic and electric guitar.

My personal play style is on the rock side, with hard rock, grunge, punk, pop punk, and especially metal. I have a base knowledge of blues but it is not my expertise. I played in bands throughout high school and college, so I have plenty of experience playing in front of crowds.

My first job while a teenager in high school was teaching guitar to younger students in the St. Louis area. I enjoyed teaching for two years through a now-closed shop called Guitar Escape, and later transitioned to private teaching from my home. My duties included one-on-one instruction of adults and children in acoustic and electric guitar, lesson plan creation and execution, and teaching the elements of basic music theory. I have taught all ages but have more experience with teaching children. I have two years of guitar teaching and three years of working in public school classrooms as a substitute teacher and paraprofessional. I have appeared on several podcasts including multiple episodes of the “Now Screaming” horror film podcast. I also have enjoyed time streaming on Twitch, so I am comfortable expressing myself on camera and in person.