Ukulele Lessons
Landon began studying ukulele shortly after moving to Hawaii in 2010. Having played guitar for 20 years already and having earned 2 master’s degrees in jazz studies and music education and having taught in the jazz studies department at Xinghai Conservatory of Music in Guangzhou, China for about 4 years, it was a natural transition. Landon teaches the guitar and ukulele classes at Kapiolani Community College and is the owner of Honolulu Music Lessons Co-op. He learned mostly by transcribing and learning the songs of the modern masters like Jake Shimabukuro, Kalei Gamiao, Ohta-San and Herb Ohta Jr among others and breaking down and analyzing the various techniques used in those songs. Landon has played the uke professionally at major venues in Honolulu and for private events and weddings over the years. Landon’s teaching philosophy revolves around teaching music as an art and in order to understand music as art, one needs a balanced approach to learning and practice that includes not just learning song after song,
but scales, modes, chord voicings, rhythm notation, tabs, arpeggios and ear training in order to develop a broader understanding of music and establish a foundation that will lead to mastery, independence and resourcefulness over time. Landon makes use of many media resources and a large digital library of sheet music and study materials in lessons and he has the ear and ability to transcribe songs that students request if suitable charts can’t be found online so that students can begin learning the songs they request immediately. A student can start lessons if they are age 6 or older and all ages beyond that and skill levels are welcome. Landon’s step-by-step method allows the student to learn without being overly pressured or challenged with material that is too difficult for them. Lesson by lesson, skill by skill and song by song, you will begin over the course of the weeks and months to see a clear path towards proficiency, mastery and most importantly enjoyment and satisfaction.
Student Reviews
Mitchell Donahou
I took lessons from Landon for about a half of a year every week. He is very knowledgeable and is well versed in his music knowledge including music theory. No matter what songs I brought to Landon he always knew how to teach me and learn the song him self in a very proficient manner.
Danielle Wilcock
My son Hunter (age 9) took lessons with Landon over the last year. During our first lesson Landon assisted us with choosing a guitar that was the right body size for Hunter. I was able to sit in on the first few lessons with them so I understood what Hunter needed to practice. Landon's directions for practicing were very clear and easy to follow. Hunter showed improvement weekly when he practiced 15 minutes per day.
Melissa Kurpinski
I have been taking weekly lesson with Landon for 15 months and I can't begin to tell you how fun, challenging and creative the lessons are. I had never picked up a bass before this and now I'm on my third bass book and creating bass lines. Dream come true.
Lavonda Nakamoto
My son has been taking guitar lessons from Landon for the past six years. My son's skills have improved and he is able to play some impressive pieces thanks to Landon. Landon is teaching him both the acoustic guitar and electric guitar. He is very patient and supportive. My son enjoys the lessons because of the supportive experience and I think Landon has helped him build a love for the guitar that will stay with him for life.
Barry Edwards
Three months in, learning what I could not teach myself, from an accomplished, patient, encouraging and gifted teacher. Really enjoying this experience!
Reese Tsubota
Mr. Landon is a great guitar teacher. I have been taking lessons from him for quite a while now and I can tell you that I have learned a ton. Unlike most teachers, who will traditonaly force music on to you, he wants you to learn what you are interested in. All in all, very good teacher with lots of musical knowledge to back it up.
Jay Koseki
One of the most qualified as well as fun and creative guitar teachers in Hawaii. He's got experience from all over the world. I've taken guitar lessons from many teachers but Landon is one of my favorites. His approach has always been creative and I've learned so much in such a short amount of time. He can teach both adults and kids and seems to be able to connect with anyone. He's always been encouraging while pushing me to do even more. After studying with Landon it opened up a whole new world for me. You need to contact this guy if you want guitar lessons and your on Oahu.
Melanie Maier
Taking as little as eight electric guitar lessons from Landon Mattox has taught me a lot. Landon is a great teacher that takes his time to teach you as much as he can at a pace that is comfortable for you. Landon also teaches fun songs to learn with and if you take the initiative to practice and learn, it will take you a long way. Also, Landon has great methods to improve your overall guitar playing experience. He makes lessons and learning the guitar very enjoyable and I would definitely recommend taking lessons from him.