If you’re thinking about using some of your time at home to learn a new skill, Kevin Taylor has something great for you. In 2019, he founded the Williamson County Guitar Society to bring a world of superlative acoustic guitar music to students and audiences in Central Texas. A world-class musician himself, Kevin has been creating guitar programs and curricula for nearly four decades, and has enriched the lives of more than 20,000 students.
This month, he is wrapping up his first online class for beginning seniors in Georgetown. “I’m still a teacher and I wanted to do something for the community,” he says. “I know many who are teaching online in order to keep working, and it occurred to me an online program would be a wonderful vehicle for older folks stuck in their homes.” Thanks to an anonymous donor, Kevin was able to provide classes, at no charge, to 17 eager students, taught by Chad Iverson and his wife, Janet Grohovac, who live in Austin and teach guitar at the college level.
Chad says his senior students have been a wonderful experience. “I am seeing everyone getting better week to week and I’m able to create the curriculum from what I see happening organically. Adult students care so much about learning and I hope to keep teaching like this into the new year.”
Feedback from students was entirely positive as well, particularly because the best teachers no longer have to be nearby. Robert Muller says, “The Internet is a great way to learn the guitar, and it’s right in your home. I appreciate the Society making this opportunity available; it’s a great way to learn.” Joyce Edge agrees, “I have a medical condition and practicing several times a day has become a great new focus.” Stef Gorel adds, “I plan to continue these lessons as long as they offer them.”
Students and teachers alike hope to impress these benefits upon additional donors, and plan to hold fundraiser concerts to help keep the program viable.
Anyone may donate to help Chad and Janet continue to add classes and
students at WilcoGuitar.org. They are a 501(c)3; your donations are tax-deductible.
The Guitar Society
The second part of the Society’s vision is growing interest, education, and enjoyment of the beauty of the guitar. “We are here for teachers, students, and aficionados,” Kevin says. “We will continue to develop concert series and education programs as there are a number of teachers who would like the opportunity to interact with people in Williamson County. We will be on mission as long as the Society exists and we have audiences.”
Kevin is looking forward to a time when audiences can gather again so he can book some of the world’s best players for house concerts and music series. “This is my professional domain and I know many national and international guitarists,” Kevin says. “I know I can get world-class artists to come and play. Several terrific artists added Georgetown to their world tours last year and, unfortunately, we had to cancel. Right now, I am still looking forward to having European virtuoso, Cristiano Porqueddu in July, who will be playing Carnegie Hall on his way to Georgetown.” Chet Atkins’ protege, John McClellan, will also be coming for a Summer concert. Once audiences feel secure and confident we can continue to bring the best talent to the area.”
Learn more, donate, and keep up with events at WilcoGuitar.org.