Sean Shea

Lessons Offered

Where are Lessons Offered

About Me

Underground River Music offers transformational music coaching that inspires personal growth.   In my forty years of teaching, in both private lessons and classroom settings, I’ve helped thousands of people of all ages and experience levels learn how to express themselves confidently in their authentic voice through individualized music lessons and small cohort classes.

I look at music essentially as a subject of the heart.

People are drawn to learning music by an irresistible pull, and what may start as a casual curiosity can grow into a lifelong passion. The mystery of the creative process is more of an art form than a science, with as many different approaches as there are personalities.

One of the greatest lessons I’ve learned over the year is the importance of putting myself in the shoes of a learner, listening and being responsive to my students’ interests, needs and strengths. I have a profound respect for each person’s individual musical tastes and styles, and I have an abiding faith in each person’s inner source of inspiration and wisdom. My main goal as a teacher is to help you tap your own creative wellspring and discover your unique talents.

Currently, I'm working on recording an album of original songs based on the poetry of Rumi, Hafiz and other mystics.

My Musical Education Background

I've had the good fortune to study intensively with Master Teachers during my time at Dartmouth College, at Wesleyan University, and through intensive private instruction with Master Teachers in India. My teacher training at Pacific Oaks College, where I received my B.A., further deepened my appreciation of cultural diversity as well as my sensitivity to different learning styles.

This experience has enriched my own compositions, as well as my ability to connect with learners from diverse cultural backgrounds, and to help guide people in developing a personal style free from artificial boundaries of genre. I never cease to be in awe of the amazing potential that each student brings to the table, and I am grateful for the chance to help people open up their musical gifts.

Genres and Subjects Taught

• Songwriting

Change the world through your songs! Make a positive impact with coaching from an expert songwriter.

If you have ever been deeply moved by a song, and want to learn how to write songs that touch people's hearts, inspire hope, or help to make the world a better place, I want to work with you.

For me, songwriting is one of the most satisfying and creative aspects of music, where all of our musical skills can come together.  Yet it can also be an area where our inner stumbling blocks can seem daunting.  This is where partnering with a seasoned songwriter can open up new possibilities, empowering you to craft beautiful songs in your own unique style.

Genres: folk, pop, rock, blues, roots, reggae, alternative, jazz, country, lyrics, arrangement, harmony, r&b

• Guitar

Learn guitar quickly with proven techniques from a guitar pro with four decades experience.

The guitar is the most popular instrument to learn, and it can be used to play practically any kind of music in any style.

You'll learn some basic exercises to develop core skills including basic to advanced chord formations, fingerpicking patterns, rhythm guitar styles, riffs and fills - gradually increasing technical challenges as your skills grow.  Soon you'll find yourself moving smoothly between chords without missing a beat, playing by ear, or writing your own songs.  And woven into the practical lessons, you'll also learn basic elements of music theory.

I'm often asked if you need to read music to learn guitar, and while it can be useful for advanced students, it is not necessary for beginners, and I don't place a lot of emphasis on it.  While my approach is grass-roots, you'll learn to "work smarter, not harder," use scientifically-based learning techniques to train your brain and build "muscle memory."

Genres: Fingerstyle, Singer-Songwriter, Rock, Pop, Gospel, R&B, World music, Folk, Country, Bluegrass, Jazz

• Singing

Find your unique voice! Sing from your heart with personalized training from a seasoned coach.

Do you want to be able to sing effortlessly and with confidence?  I've helped hundreds of people find their natural voice, and I can help you too.

The voice is our first instrument, and accordingly, our most natural one to express the creative impulses of our soul.  I’ll work closely with you, building on your experience and skills, and help you overcome the challenges that hold you back from singing with full freedom and confidence.

Above all, I'll encourage you to sing from your heart - to stay in touch with what moves you in a song, and to use the power of your voice to touch others' hearts.

Genres: Singer-Songwriter, Harmony Singing, Improvisation, Ear Training, A Capella Singing, Solfège, Singing from the Heart, Indian Classical singing, Pop, Rock, Gospel, Jazz, Bluegrass, Country, Folk, R&B, World music.

• Ukulele

Have fun learning the Ukulele with lessons from a teacher with 40 years of experience.

The ukulele is a fun instrument to play, and one of the easiest stringed instruments for beginners to learn.  Yet it offers endless possibilities for more advanced players, and it's becoming as popular on stage as it is on the back porch or a camping trip.

You'll learn some basic exercises to develop core skills including basic and alternative chord formations, fingerpicking patterns, rhythm strum styles, riffs and fills - gradually increasing technical challenges as your skills grow.  Soon you'll find yourself moving smoothly between chords without missing a beat, playing by ear, or even writing your own songs. And in case you’re wondering, you don’t need to read music to learn to play the ukulele!

While my approach is grass-roots, you'll learn to "work smarter, not harder," use scientifically-based learning techniques to train your brain and build "muscle memory."

Genres: Singer-Songwriter, Fingerstyle, Hawaiian, Reggae, Rock, Pop, Jazz, Folk, World music, Children's Music

Lesson Rates

Tuition for lessons (either online, or in person at my studio in Sutherlin, Oregon):

• 60 minutes: $67
• 45 minutes: $55
• 30 minutes: $50

Ages / Skill Levels Taught

Personalized Music Lessons for All Skill Levels

Whether you're just starting out or a seasoned musician, my teaching style is all about making sure you get the kind of learning that fits you best. With over forty years of experience teaching music to students of all ages and skill levels, I focus on your individual strengths and interests to create a personalized learning experience that's both fun and effective. By incorporating the songs you know and love, I keep you engaged and motivated to help you achieve your musical goals.

Lessons for All Ages

I've had the pleasure of working with students of all ages, from kids to seniors. I understand that everyone learns at their own pace, and that's why I take a patient and individualized approach with every student. Whether you're just starting out or you've been playing for years, I'll make sure that your lessons are tailored to your needs and interests.

For parents of younger children, I'm often asked whether their child is ready to learn guitar. The answer to this depends primarily on four factors: the child's level of motivation and determination to learn this particular instrument, their physical hand and body size and manual dexterity, their readiness to focus and practice regularly, and the parents' readiness to help them structure their practice. In most cases, I usually recommend that children under age 9 or 10 start with ukulele instead of guitar to help them have early fun experiences of satisfying success with their instrument since it is simpler and easier to physically handle.

Adaptive Music Lessons for Special Needs Students

As a music instructor with extensive experience working with special needs students, I am dedicated to providing individualized music lessons tailored to the unique needs and goals of each student. Whether it's due to a developmental impairment, traumatic injury, or other challenges, I believe that music can be a powerful tool for personal growth and expression. In my lessons, I use a variety of teaching techniques and adaptive equipment to ensure that every student has the opportunity to experience the joy of making music.

My Musical Influences

I'm grateful for my exposure to the music of different cultures from around the world, from my roots in back-porch American folk music to the sophisticated counterpoint of Baroque classical music, to the fascinating polyrhythms of traditional African drumming and the deeply moving melodies of Indian Classical music.  And my own musical style has been stroingly influenced by the masterful songwriting of the Beatles, Carole King, Joni Mitchell, Bob Dylan, James Taylor, CSNY, Simon & Garfunkle and the Grateful Dead,

Service Area

Clint M
Sutherlin, OR

Sean is an awesome voice teacher. He has been very patient and has answered all my questions. I have been taking lessons for a month and feel I am getting better at singing.

Clint M
Sutherlin, OR

Sean is an awesome voice teacher. He has been very patient and has answered all my questions. I have been taking lessons for a month and feel I am getting better at singing.