No one’s going to practice the guitar for you. And there’s no magical button to press that will make you into an enchanted guitar elf with magical guitar elf skills. (Sorry, been playing too many video games). Ahem…
Learn to play your guitar by actually practicing. What a thought. Everyone else will tell you that all you have to do is this “trick” here, or just subscribe to my “I’ll Make You A Guitar Hero In 10 Minutes” blog.
Oh, Please.
That kind of advertising may have worked on our parents, but not us. We know better. Yes, Yes, we KNOW it actually takes work to get good at something. Just look at the Karate Kid. Man, did that guy have it rough for a few months. But you know what, that Crane Kick move was pretty epic, and he got the girl. How?
Practice.
Alright, so, here I am, yelling it from the rooftops, and there’s only one thing left for you to do. Stop surfing the mindless web (except of course for when you read our fabulous blog to get a kick in the, well, motivational area…) and go practice for a half an hour.
You’ll get better if you do.
Much Respect,
The Musician’s Toolbox
We just finished our end of the year recital where we had over 100 kids perform, and it got me thinking about performing music.
It is essential that if you are trying to learn an instrument, you perform. You might feel like you’re going to puke your guts out from nervousness, but performing is what ultimately builds confidence and helps you make progress. WHEN, (not if) you end up making mistakes, you learn from them and are able to improve your understanding of your instrument.
Make sure that if you are paying for music lessons you get to perform. Recitals and performances are a must, and you won’t be spending your money wisely without them.
Much Respect,
The Musician’s Toolbox
The most important advice that most parents overlook when their child is learning to play the guitar is simple: At least once a month, go sit in on your child’s lessons and become aware of what your child is learning. This will allow you to gauge your child’s continuing interest, it will keep your teacher on his/her toes and at the top of their game, and it will give you the confidence you need to make sure you’re getting your money’s worth.
Simple, but essential.
Much Respect,
The Musician’s Toolbox
Of course, adults can start an instrument at any time. The real determining factor of success is the ability and willingness to commit to practicing. Although chances for fame may be slim, students in their 60s and even 70s can start an instrument and find it an enjoyable and rewarding experience. It can be a great way to have fun and stay sharp during the golden years.
For children, starting at the right age is a key factor to the success of their lessons. The sooner the better isn’t always right for an optimal learning experience. Waiting until the child has reached the right age and size greatly improves the odds of success.
For guitar lessons we recommend waiting until 7 years of age. In some cases where the desire is great and there is proper guidance, a younger student can have success but this is rare. If the student cannot get a clear tone when they press on the string due to lack of hand strength, then the student would be advised to wait another year. Starting on piano or violin would be a better choice for such a student. Physically, these instruments are easier than the guitar. A student can learn about notes and timing on one of these easier instruments, and then when he or she is ready to switch to guitar later, he or she will have a basic musical foundation to work from.
Much Respect,
The Musician’s Toolbox
Here’s a little common sense you might want to exercise before you pay any amount for guitar lessons:
1.) Make sure that you check the references of the teacher offering the lessons. (If they don’t have any references, be cautious…)
2.) Does the teacher have a degree of some kind in music?
3.) Does the teacher have a boat-load of gigging experience?
4.) Does the teacher have a written contract that they use, so that all the expectations are laid out in writing before you agree to pay?
5.) What is the make-up policy for missed lessons?
These are just a few things to consider before you pay for guitar lessons.
Much Respect,
The Musician’s Toolbox
