There are many options for those who want to take guitar lessons. First consider the goal of taking instruction and the amount of time and money the student is willing to spend learning the craft. Next, the student will have to decide what type of lessons to take, as there are several methods of learning. There should also be some consideration of the style and genre of music to be learned.
Instructors tend to start most beginners with picking and strumming exercises, as well as scale practice. The student should be sure to express goals clearly to the teacher before the sessions begin. While the goal of many teachers is to teach an appreciation and proficiency for the instrument, some students may only desire to learn a few songs.
Time is big factor with learning any new instrument. The instructor will expect the student to spend a reasonable amount of time practicing assignments or working on techniques and songs from the session. Time is limited for many people, so be sure to account for this when committing to the guitar.
Some instructors may be more expensive than others. It is also possible to take instruction anywhere from one to several days a week. Consider how much money you are willing to spend before you shop for teachers. Some students may already be proficient enough to only require one session per week, while beginners may need more regular time with a teacher. Rates will also vary depending on whether or not the lessons are through a music store or a private school.
If money is an issue, there are other, though often less effective methods of learning. Instruction books are available at most music stores or online, and the internet has thousands of videos, song tabulation, and technique instruction. Beginners may have trouble knowing where to start, but these options can make for a good introduction or supplement to materials provided by a weekly tutor.
Make sure the tutor teaches the type of guitar you desire to learn. For instance, some teachers may only offer classical techniques, while some provide instruction only on acoustic or electric instruments. The best chance for success is to clarify this with the instructor ahead of time to avoid frustration. For example, beginners wanting to learn rock songs typically do not enjoy learning from someone who only teaches on acoustic.
Genre is also relevant when choosing someone to learn from. Though all music utilizes the same notes and rhythms, different genres employ radically different techniques and arrangement styles. While country and western and blues share many similarities, they require different approaches to the instrument. It doesn't hurt to inquire about a potential teacher's preferred genre to make sure they are a good fit for your goals.
An experienced instructor can make learning an new instrument a great joy and provide the student with the necessary skills to progress at a consistent pace. There is hard work involved, but with determination and a desire to develop a fulfilling skill, it can be done. Guitar lessons can be a wise first step into a lifelong musical journey.
Instructors tend to start most beginners with picking and strumming exercises, as well as scale practice. The student should be sure to express goals clearly to the teacher before the sessions begin. While the goal of many teachers is to teach an appreciation and proficiency for the instrument, some students may only desire to learn a few songs.
Time is big factor with learning any new instrument. The instructor will expect the student to spend a reasonable amount of time practicing assignments or working on techniques and songs from the session. Time is limited for many people, so be sure to account for this when committing to the guitar.
Some instructors may be more expensive than others. It is also possible to take instruction anywhere from one to several days a week. Consider how much money you are willing to spend before you shop for teachers. Some students may already be proficient enough to only require one session per week, while beginners may need more regular time with a teacher. Rates will also vary depending on whether or not the lessons are through a music store or a private school.
If money is an issue, there are other, though often less effective methods of learning. Instruction books are available at most music stores or online, and the internet has thousands of videos, song tabulation, and technique instruction. Beginners may have trouble knowing where to start, but these options can make for a good introduction or supplement to materials provided by a weekly tutor.
Make sure the tutor teaches the type of guitar you desire to learn. For instance, some teachers may only offer classical techniques, while some provide instruction only on acoustic or electric instruments. The best chance for success is to clarify this with the instructor ahead of time to avoid frustration. For example, beginners wanting to learn rock songs typically do not enjoy learning from someone who only teaches on acoustic.
Genre is also relevant when choosing someone to learn from. Though all music utilizes the same notes and rhythms, different genres employ radically different techniques and arrangement styles. While country and western and blues share many similarities, they require different approaches to the instrument. It doesn't hurt to inquire about a potential teacher's preferred genre to make sure they are a good fit for your goals.
An experienced instructor can make learning an new instrument a great joy and provide the student with the necessary skills to progress at a consistent pace. There is hard work involved, but with determination and a desire to develop a fulfilling skill, it can be done. Guitar lessons can be a wise first step into a lifelong musical journey.
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.