There are so many different types of guitar lessons available, potential students should consider several things before signing up. Each student will have different goals and should have a clear idea of these at the outset. There are also financial and time considerations, as well as options to learn various styles of playing, and genres of music.
Some students simply want to learn a few popular songs, while others prefer to learn all they can about the instrument. Most instructors start with scales and strumming exercises. Regardless of the goal, the student should express these clearly to the teacher from the start to ensure they are receiving the type of instruction they desire.
Learning anything new takes a commitment of time, attention, and energy. Beginners should have a realistic awareness of the amount of time needed to practice scales or other assignments from each lesson. As with any new skill, practice improves performance, and is necessary for success in lessons as well as performances.
Those new to the instrument might consider several sessions a week, but this can become expensive. Shop around for the best prices between local instructors or music stores. More experienced players may only need one-on-one time with a teacher once per week. Either way, it is wise to know ahead of time how much it will cost to reach your goal.
Private teachers will usually provide the most effective methods of learning. However, there are cheaper alternatives or supplements such as online videos, instruction books, and song tablature that can get a new student started down the right path. Be careful to hire a private tutor as soon as affordable though, since self-learning can often lead to bad techniques or habits.
Another important consideration is the type of guitar that is to be learned. Some instructors only teach a particular style, be it acoustic, classical, or electric. Be sure to inquire about this before scheduling. It is best to find someone who is proficient in all styles and types, but if a student is particularly interested in classical techniques for example, they may become quickly frustrated with an instructor who primarily teaches electric for heavy metal musicians.
It is a good idea to inquire about a potential teacher's tastes in music. While it is necessary to learn scales and rhythm patterns regardless of a preferred genre, all styles of music utilize notes and rhythms in very different ways. For instance, symphonic music and hard rock share many qualities in arrangement and notation, but starkly different approaches to instrumentation and interpretation. Make sure to pick an instructor who is a good match for your musical tastes.
A good, qualified instructor can be a beginning player's best asset. It takes a strong desire and a solid work ethic to learn such a skill, but the satisfaction of playing music is well worth the sacrifice. Consistent guitar lessons can be an important key to proficiency and the successful development of a lifelong musical experience.
Some students simply want to learn a few popular songs, while others prefer to learn all they can about the instrument. Most instructors start with scales and strumming exercises. Regardless of the goal, the student should express these clearly to the teacher from the start to ensure they are receiving the type of instruction they desire.
Learning anything new takes a commitment of time, attention, and energy. Beginners should have a realistic awareness of the amount of time needed to practice scales or other assignments from each lesson. As with any new skill, practice improves performance, and is necessary for success in lessons as well as performances.
Those new to the instrument might consider several sessions a week, but this can become expensive. Shop around for the best prices between local instructors or music stores. More experienced players may only need one-on-one time with a teacher once per week. Either way, it is wise to know ahead of time how much it will cost to reach your goal.
Private teachers will usually provide the most effective methods of learning. However, there are cheaper alternatives or supplements such as online videos, instruction books, and song tablature that can get a new student started down the right path. Be careful to hire a private tutor as soon as affordable though, since self-learning can often lead to bad techniques or habits.
Another important consideration is the type of guitar that is to be learned. Some instructors only teach a particular style, be it acoustic, classical, or electric. Be sure to inquire about this before scheduling. It is best to find someone who is proficient in all styles and types, but if a student is particularly interested in classical techniques for example, they may become quickly frustrated with an instructor who primarily teaches electric for heavy metal musicians.
It is a good idea to inquire about a potential teacher's tastes in music. While it is necessary to learn scales and rhythm patterns regardless of a preferred genre, all styles of music utilize notes and rhythms in very different ways. For instance, symphonic music and hard rock share many qualities in arrangement and notation, but starkly different approaches to instrumentation and interpretation. Make sure to pick an instructor who is a good match for your musical tastes.
A good, qualified instructor can be a beginning player's best asset. It takes a strong desire and a solid work ethic to learn such a skill, but the satisfaction of playing music is well worth the sacrifice. Consistent guitar lessons can be an important key to proficiency and the successful development of a lifelong musical experience.
About the Author:
Long & McQuade is one of Canada's biggest online music stores and offers a wide selection of drums, guitars, acoustic guitars and accessories.
