Thursday, 12 May 2011

What To Know Before Taking Guitar Lessons

By Adriana Noton


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.

There are typically two types of beginners, those who want to learn specific songs, and those who are more interested in becoming proficient on the instrument in general. Goals should be expressed clearly to the instructor at the outset for a successful outcome. Either way, most beginners will find the need to start with simple exercises and scale practice.

Practice is necessary to learn any new instrument. As when developing any skill, the beginner must be willing to commit the time necessary to practice things learned in the lessons, and to rehearse scales or songs. Be sure to find out how much practice time is required from the instructor before committing.

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.

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.

Learning a new instrument is both exciting and daunting work. With good direction from an experienced player, it is possible to develop a skill that will bring pleasure and satisfaction for a lifetime. Use these tips when deciding where and how to take guitar lessons, and begin a journey of musical exploration.




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