Tuition

I teach from home where I have an extensive library of source material both from books and the Internet. Each lesson I teach is unique and is catered to the student's musical taste and ability whilst also developing their technique. Some pupils are content strumming chords or learning songs by their favourite artists. Others want to have a greater knowledge of the instrument or want to learn how to use the instrument to improvise. During my time as a guitar tutor I have taught many diverse musical styles including Rock, Blues, Jazz, Funk, Classical, Folk, Metal, Bluegrass, Country and Reggae. A good guitarist is self taught but with the aid of a tutor. In my lessons, I aim to point a pupil in the right direction without altering their style of playing. In time, I hope to help the student to develop their own musical voice.

FAQs

How long before I become a good guitarist?

This depends on how much time you are willing to put in. Practice is an important part of learning any musical instrument and is essential if you are serious about playing. Some students are more natural guitarists than others but some, as with anything, will need to put in a little more work.

How much practice should I be doing?

It is better to practice for several short periods a week than to practice for one long period. This helps you to familiarise yourself with your instrument. I advise my students who are just starting to practice for 10 to 15 minutes a day and this should be increased as the student progresses. Try to do one small task very well before you move on to the next thing.

Do I have to read music?

Although I do teach music reading it is not an essential requirement to play the guitar, in fact many great guitarists past and present have limited musical knowledge. However, I do believe that understanding the rudiments of music theory can only help your development. The majority of songs that I have taught are written using guitar tablature in conjunction with the treble clef although some pupils work from chord charts and strumming patterns as well as other techniques.

Why do my fingers hurt?

Until your fingers get used to fretting the strings they will hurt a little. Eventually with practice, your fingers will harden and you will learn to press the notes with the weight of your fingers only.

Is the bass guitar easier to play than lead guitar?

Although the bass guitar usually has less strings, in many ways it is a more difficult instrument to master than lead guitar. The main roll of the bass guitar is to provide a solid musical foundation that locks together with the drums to drive the band along. A competent bassist must have a good sense of time and rhythm.