Lessons

Teacher Profile: Kimo Ball

Phone: (415) 286-1315
Email: kimorock@pacbell.net

Kimo Ball was born in Hawaii, a 4th generation islander, and was raised on Maui where his family members reside. He left his island home for college at the University of Michigan and then moved to San Francisco in 1991 with his rock band.

Classically trained on the guitar, Kimo played rock shows locally and nationally, and completed his studies obtaining a bachelor's degree in jazz studies from New College in San Francisco. While at New College he was fortunate to have the chance to study with the legendary Herbie Lewis. During this time Kimo had the good fortune to play with jazz greats Eddie Marshall, Ed Kelly, Colin Bailey, as well as Herbie Lewis.

Kimo teaches guitar and bass lessons as well as music theory at Haight Ashbury Music Center, and since joining them has taught students ranging in age from 7 years old to 70.  Several of his students have been studying with him for years and are making great progress on their instruments.  He specializes in working with beginners and teaches all styles of music.  He has also taught ukulele.

Kimo plays bass and guitar in several bands, records albums, tours nationally and internationally and performs regularly in Bay area venues.

Student testimonials:

Reed H, 12 years old
I have been taking guitar lessons with Kimo for many years and he has helped me improve my skills tremendously.  Kimo is a super nice teacher and can teach you many skills and is very knowledgeable.  He knows about a lot of different types of music and can teach you a wide range of techniques.  I enjoy taking lessons with Kimo deeply.

Christina, adult student
I have been taking Lessons with Kimo Ball for over a year now. Not only is Kimo a talented musician, he is also a natural teacher. He is very patient and encouraging, and his teaching style is very versatile in that he seems able to shift the mood of lesson very quickly depending upon what my "mood" may be when I walk in the door. Learning an instrument is not an easy undertaking, and Kimo has made it very easy for me, as well as more importantly, he has made it fun. Kimo is able to keep the focus totally on the music and the instrument, and all the fear that I feel about learning just disappears. I have enjoyed every single one of my lessons with Kimo.

Max, 11 years old
Kimo is a fantastic guitar teacher, who teaches things in a clear and concise manner.  I have been taking lessons with him for four years and I have learned more than I ever could have imagined.  He has been a great influence to my musical taste and I would strongly recommend taking lessons from him.  You will have a lot of fun.

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