So, you’re thinking of taking up
the guitar. You know there are lessons available online and through DVD. While you certainly can take self-guided
lessons online or through books and DVDs, taking lessons from a qualified instructor offers several
benefits.
If you're just starting out, a
good instructor can guide you through the basic principles of playing guitar,
such as chord formation, techniques and instrument mechanics. He'll also be
able to correct improper hand positioning before it becomes habit.
Practice makes perfect, but
making time for practice isn't always easy. Regularly meeting with an
instructor can make you more accountable. You're less likely to not practice or
skim over the hard parts when you have to answer to an outside person.
Improvement also comes from
constantly challenging your current skills. An instructor can tailor your lessons
so that you're always advancing.
When you begin to take guitar lessons, you won't notice mistakes or tuning issues. Your instructor's trained
ear can help you key in on mistakes and become more aware of what might seem
like small differences in tone and timing.
Chances are, you picked up the
guitar to play a specific type of music. A guitar instructor can help you
discover other types of music that might complement the style you want to
learn, broadening your skills.
Playing with other people is a sure
way to improve your guitar skills. Watching people who are more advanced can
help you pick up new techniques and stay excited. A reputable instructor may be
able to introduce you to other students with compatible skill levels.
Now that you see the benefit of
having an instructor, the key is to get paired up with the right instructor for
you. Since you will be spending at least a half an hour a week with him or her,
be sure your personalities mesh. Music of the Bay has 13 qualified instructors
to choose from. Visit the website to read each teacher’s bio and get a feel for
which teacher would be best for you. Then call the shop and get yourself
started.
