NEWSLETTER

'Do you teach the acoustic guitar?'

Yes, I teach both electric and acoustic guitar to the same level - currently, about a third of my students are primarily acoustic guitar players. However, the difference between the two is a lot less than many people imagine it to be, and, after having played for a year or two, most of my students find that they are able to quite easily transfer their skills from acoustic to electric guitar, or from electric to acoustic guitar, should they wish to do so.

'Which styles of music do you teach, and which do you not teach?'

At a beginner or intermediate level, the things you learn in guitar lessons are largely the same regardless of the style you eventually want to play. Any aspiring guitar player can gain a solid grounding in technique and music theory from taking lessons with me: however, as your playing standard becomes more advanced, the need for more specific skills, techniques and knowledge becomes an important consideration. I specialise in teaching rock based music styles - primarily rock, blues, and heavy metal - from beginner all the way to advanced level. I do not currently teach classical or jazz.

'Why do you not teach all styles?'

Although all styles of music share many of the same fundamental features and concepts, guitar teachers who claim to teach 'all styles' are probably not being completely honest with themselves or, more importantly, with you. It's an easy statement for someone to make on a website, but, being realistic, it is not actually possible for one person to learn every single style of music to an equally advanced level. As a teacher I choose to specialise in the styles of music I love and know extremely well, and in which I have many many years of playing experience.

'I'm taking music in school; can you help with that?'

Yes - I've prepared lots of students for SQA music exams before, so I'm very familiar with what's involved. As well as making sure that you ace your guitar assessment, we can get to grips with the other elements of the course that you may be having difficulty with (listening, composition etc.).

'Can I take 'grades' (graded exams) in guitar?'

Yes. We can arrange lessons to follow either of the two main exam syllabuses for contemporary guitar - Rockschool, or RGT (in partnership with the London College of Music). Both of these organisations offer exams from grades 1-8, as well as a range of post grade 8 diplomas and certificates. Both syllabuses are fully accredited and the qualifications they offer are recognised worlwide.

'What kinds of things will I learn in lessons?'

I can't answer that question fully without knowing more about you, your present situation, and your musical goals. Everyone is different and every guitar player has their own unique profile of musical tastes, ambitions, strengths and weaknesses, and aims. If you are a beginner, I will design a lesson program around your interests and the things that you want to learn to do. If you already play guitar, tell me more about where you are now, and where you hope to take your playing in the future.