General Information
Q: What services do you offer?
A: I provide personalised guitar lessons for beginners, intermediate, and advanced players. Lessons cover various styles, including acoustic, electric, classical, and more.
Q: Where are the lessons held?
A: Lessons are held in a cosy and comfortable music room at my family home in Bromley, BR2. Please note, my extremely friendly labrador, Zelda, may occasionally make an appearance!
Q: Do I need my own guitar to start lessons?
A: Yes, having your own guitar is essential for practice between lessons. I can help you choose the right guitar if you’re just getting started.
Lessons and Scheduling
Q: How long are the lessons?
A: Each lesson lasts 1 hour, though I offer 40-minute lessons for students under ten.
Q: How do I book a lesson?
A: You can book lessons via my scheduling software, which also manages appointments and payments. Many parents prefer to pay in advance for a term, but “pay-as-you-go” options are also available.
Q: Can I reschedule or cancel a lesson?
A: Yes, you can reschedule or cancel a lesson up to 24 hours in advance without any charges. Cancellations made within 24 hours of the scheduled lesson will be charged at the full rate.
Pricing and Payment
Q: How much do lessons cost?
A: £36 per hour, or £30 for 40 minutes.
Q: What payment methods do you accept?
A: I accept payments via PayPal, Apple Pay, credit/debit cards, and bank transfers.
Skill Levels and Styles
Q: I’m a complete beginner. Can you teach me?
A: Absolutely! My lessons are tailored to all skill levels, and I’ll help you start with the basics like holding the guitar, tuning, and simple chords.
Q: Can you teach specific styles, like rock or jazz?
A: I follow the syllabus of the London College of Music and am affiliated with the Registry of Guitar Tutors. While the syllabus isn’t genre-specific, it equips you with the foundational skills to explore any style you wish to play.
Q: How young is too young for my child to learn with you?
A: Children younger than seven often lack the strength and dexterity needed for guitar. Starting lessons at age seven or older ensures a more rewarding experience.
Q: How much should my child practice?
A: A few times a week, for about 15 minutes each time. Don’t worry if some weeks have less practice—enthusiasm is more important than strict routines. I ensure lessons are engaging and provide the materials and motivation to encourage development.
Q: Must I learn both electric and acoustic guitar?
A: I strongly recommend it. I want my students to be versatile and well-rounded musicians. There’s a connection between the two instruments and their associated syllabuses that becomes more powerful when they’re combined. Even if you’re obsessed with the electric guitar today, it doesn’t mean you won’t be equally enthusiastic about the acoustic in the future. While the syllabus for electric is focused on rhythm and lead playing interpretation, the acoustic syllabus is great for learning prepared pieces and accompaniment. I encourage all my students to commit to learning both.
Equipment and Resources
Q: Do I need an amplifier for electric guitar lessons?
A: I provide an amplifier for lessons, but it’s essential for practice at home. Regular practice is key to making progress!
Q: Do you provide learning materials?
A: Yes, you’ll get everything you need in your own bound book. This book grows with each lesson, so you have a personalized resource tailored to your needs and pace. I also provide backing tracks for my students to help develop their improvisation skills.
Online Lessons
Q: Do you offer online lessons?
A: I focus on the dynamic interaction of two people playing together, which is central to my teaching style. For this reason, I currently do not offer online lessons.
Progress and Goals
Q: How long will it take to learn guitar?
A: This depends on your goals and practice routine. Most beginners can play simple songs within a few weeks, while advancing to intermediate or advanced levels takes consistent practice over months or years.
Q: How do you track my progress?
A: I encourage my students to enter in-person exams through the Registry of Guitar Tutors at the London College of Music. Students who take these exams often develop a deeper connection with the instrument, gaining a thorough understanding of scales, chords, and musical structure.
If you have any other questions, feel free to contact me.