Teaching Methodology

We all learn in different ways and I understand that tuition is not for everybody. There are some key methodologies and principles that I hold dear.

• It doesn't matter to me how fast or slow you learn - the key thing is that you just ENJOY it!
• I don't relate to any examination syllabus but rather on solid and quickly learnt techniques that you will reuse in your life as a guitarist. I call this a "toolkit" approach - a range of delivery skills such as different ways to strum, pick etc.
• Getting you to play something recognisable as quickly as possible is a key objective. It helps you feel good about your progress and impress any interested listeners.
• From day one I will start your learning with a dual approach - to build up your chord library and to be able to pick out a tune.
• Rather than laboriously focus on a single piece of music through to perfection I will give you other pieces to work on in parallel so that your attention and enjoyment doesn't become diminished too quickly.
• I like to actively play along with students (rather than just sit and watch) and either sing the vocal lines or hum the tune for accompaniments/lead as appropriate.
• Many students struggle to play and sing at the same time. My approach ensures they focus on the guitar delivery first and my voice is the trigger to change chords at the correct time.
• My focus is primarily biased to playing with the thumb and fingers as this enables the student to play guitar to the fullest potential as opposed to the limitations of using a plectrum.