FAQ'S
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How old do you have to be to learn to play the guitar?
I normally like to start a pupil at around 9/10 yrs of age as it's more a case of concentration than anything else. It is possible to start younger but we would need to see how it progresses. You're certainly never too old as it's possible to get to a good standard in just a few years, it's a case of practice makes perfect so you reap what you sow. If you have the urge to learn, you will progress.
6. Do I need to learn to read music?
No, that isn't necessary if you don’t want as chords are represented by names such as E, F#m, D7, C9, Amb5 so you will need to learn the chord shapes that correspond to these names. Notes played on individual strings and frets are represented by a system called 'Tab' (tablature) which can be instantly recognised without any prior knowledge of musical theory or manuscript reading.
9. Do you teach in groups?
Yes I do as I charge cheaper rates for this way of teaching and it's also a great way for siblings to learn together or for parents to learn alongside their children; three would be the limit as I teach from home.
2. What type and size guitar does my child need to learn?
Nylon strung acoustic guitars tend to be easier to learn on than their steel strung counterparts so it's up to you. For children at around 7-9 yrs of age, then a 1/2 size guitar could be the choice and a 3/4 size for a 10-12 yr old. It does depend on the physical stature of your child as many adults play 3/4 size acoustic guitars.
3. My child wants to learn on an electric guitar, do we need to bring along an amplifier?
An amplifier is provided for teaching purposes.
4. Can I wait with my child when they are being taught?
Of course you can, it's entirely up to you! I would thoroughly recommend that you do so in the case of young children.
5. How often so I need to practice?
How good do you want to be? Just 15 mins every day will get you on your way as frequency and quality is more important than the length of practice time. Stop when either your hands or brain are tired. Developing your motor skills is key to sticking to a practice routine while you fingers get to learn their way around the fretboard.
7. Do you supply learning material?
Yes, I supply learning material which you will keep to form a portfolio of educational material. You will be expected to purchase material for Rockschool graded exams if that is the course you which to pursue.
10. Do you charge for cancelled lessons?
I try not to penalise anyone who cancels a lesson but I have fit in pupils around my diary so I need to know what I'm dealing with and preferably in advance - normally 24 hrs, otherwise I will charge half of my rate. 'I didn't have time to practice' does not constitute a good excuse as we can always cover something new!
8. Do I need to learn about musical theory?
It's up to you but musical theory is the ley to the door which opens to a shorter learning path and and an aid to stoking your own