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Tips for Choosing the Right Guitar Teacher for You
Most guitar
novices will decide to take lessons, but how can you choose a good
teacher when you don't know anything about the subject? With that in
mind I put together a list of things to look for in a good guitar
teacher.
1.
Location - It is
important that your lessons take place in a location that is
convenient for you. Some teachers will make house calls, others
operate out of their home, or maybe a music store. A good teacher
will provide recording equipment, music stands, stools, etc.
2.
Technique -
It seems like many guitar teachers focus more on teaching chord
fingerings and strum patterns than the fundamentals. Don't be afraid
to ask your teacher to really break down the fret hand fingerings or
neck hand positions.
3. Styles
- If you want to learn
how to play country blues, don't be afraid to say so. Just because
you're a rank beginner doesn't mean you can't be ambitious. Let your
teacher know what you want to play so he can structure the lessons
accordingly. Conversely, if you have no idea where you want to go,
it's OK to admit it. Your teacher can help provide that direction.
It is also important to find a teacher who knows how to play your
chosen style.
4.
Practice - Talk to
your teacher about the best ways to practice.
5. Cost
- If weekly lessons are too expensive, talk to your teacher about
arranging bi-weekly or monthly lessons.
6.
Respect - Look for a
teacher that will respect your opinions. In return, give that
respect back to your teacher. If you have to cancel a lesson, make
sure you do so at the earliest time possible.
7. You're
the Boss - If you
don't like the direction things are going, speak up about it. If
your teacher is arrogant or not receptive to your ideas, or maybe if
it's just not working out, don't be afraid to switch instructors.
8. Ask
questions - Ask
questions while choosing a teacher. Ask questions during and after
the lesson. Most teachers don't mind if you email questions during
the week, but be reasonable about it. A good guitar teacher is an
invaluable guide on your road to learning and mastering the guitar.
With a good instructor and student relationship, you will learn a
lot more than you would on your own and you will learn it a lot
faster. Guaranteed!
Victor Gann |
