FAQs
Do I need my own instrument to take lessons?
1
Yes, you will need your own instrument to start lessons. All you will need to bring to your lessons is your instrument and a folder/binder with any materials we are currently working on or have worked on in the past. You are always welcome to bring materials you found elsewhere that you want guidance on, or even some effect pedals if that is something you are familiar with.
What type/brand of instrument should I start with?
2
As far as instrument type that is up to you. Acoustic guitars and electric guitars contain the same arrangement of notes but some beginners find electric guitars somewhat easier to play since the strings tend to be a little thinner which makes them easier to push down to create notes. If you do not own an instrument, visit your local music store and try out several different styles/brands. You want an instrument that is appropriately sized to your body/hands.
What type of pick should I use?
Should I use my fingers to play
3
Most guitar students should start with a light or medium gauge pick (0.5 - 0.75mm), but finger style is also an option and no pick is required for that. Bass students should plan to play with their fingers instead of a pick, but depending on the style you want to learn a pick might be essential as well, a medium or heavy gauge pick. I usually suggest that students purchase a variety pack if they have never used a pick before, this gives you a nice selection of different gauges and possibly shapes to try out (dunlop makes some nice ones)
How often should I practice?
4
At first your should just try to pick up your instrument as often as possible and work on anything at all, just familiarizing yourself with proper posture and technique. I usually recommend that beginners try to practice 30 minutes a day 4-5 times a week. The important thing is to focus on something small in each practice session, do not try to work on many different techniques or songs in one session at first. Limit your focus to a particular skill or song and work your way up slowly.
What if I did not practice before a lesson?
5
It happens to the best of us, and don’t worry. Come to the lesson anyway and we will pick up where we left off or even review things you are struggling with. There will never be any shame for not practicing, regular life can interrupt all of our best intentions.
How should I practice effectively?
6
Having a set time/day(s) for your practice can help to make it much more regular. Just like exercise, regularity is everything to learning an instrument effectively. Spend a few minutes warming up your hands with a few exercises and then the rest of your time on one or two areas: songs, technique, reading, scales, improvisation, chord changes, rhythm workouts. Do not try to fit everything into a single practice session.
What genre is easiest to learn or best to start with?
7
Whatever type of music gets you excited is what you should focus on. You will feel much more encouraged to practice if you are working towards something you already love. Whatever music you listen to most will set you up to learn it very efficiently since it will already be in your ears.
Is it necessary to learn how to read music?
8
It is not necessary though it can be a valuable skill. Guitar and Bass can be notated in standard musical notation or in tablature (TAB). Tabs are much easier to learn to read, but you will need to learn how to read rhythm notation to make them effective. This in general is much easier to learn than standard music notation. In some cases you do not need to know either system and can learn by ear or through chord charts if youn learn the notes on your instrument.
Is learning to play an instrument easy?
9
I believe that everyone has the capability to make music, there are always going to be struggles undertaking a new task. With a positive attitude and proper guidance you will see your skills progress quickly. Every student is different and every student will progress at different rates due to many different factors.
Is my child old enough for lessons?
10
Potential students should be at least 6-7 years old to start. There is some amount of hand strength and dexterity required to learn any instrument.
What type of gear do I need for online lessons?
11
Other than your instrument you will need a desktop or laptop computer (a mobile device could work but not necessarily recommended). You will need either a built in microphone or preferably an audio interface that you can plug your instrument and a microphone into. If all of this is unfamiliar to you just reach out and I can help walk you through it.
What if I need to cancel a lesson?
12
I ask that students give me at least 24 hours notice before cancelling a lesson, otherwise it will be considered forfeit. I will always attempt to find a proper makeup time if my schedule allows.
Are you available to answer questions outside of our lesson time?
13
While I can’t promise I will be available at any time for questions I encourage students to send me messages if they are struggling with some aspect of their practice or lessons and I will do my best to respond as quickly as possible.
How can I pay for lessons?
14
I accept cash, Zelle, Apple Pay, or Venmo. I prefer students to pay for each month of lessons up front when able, but if that is not possible for you just reach out and we can figure out what works best for your budget. I do not turn students away who cannot pay for each month up front.