Daniel G.

I start with basics like how to properly position the guitar as well as holding the pick and positioning both hands. I also like to show them how to read chord charts and possible how to read tablature.. At the end of the lesson, I give them a brief synopsis on my method of teaching.

Learning open chords and how to locate bar chords. Also I like to go over basic timing and rhythm concepts. I like to observe their poster and how they are holding the pick. I continue to stress the importance of technic and dynamics and how these good habits are foundational to building their skills.

Learning tablature symbols and terminology and a brief layout of how I break down songs. Also, if I feel they are up to it, I like to show them some basics about tuning. Tuning is something that is augmented by modern clamp on tuners but I like them ti be able to tune by ear as well.

I like to pick a song that the student is familiar with and hopefully fond of. We dissect it by intro, chorus, verse, bridge, outro etc. and learn the parts separately before sequencing the whole piece together in it’s proper order. My 30 years of experience with this has shown me that I get best results by making the lessons fun and something they feel inspired to invest personal practice time into. My lessons from then on are a mixture of songs and learning various technics. What they learn from learning the song is as important as learning the song itself. Also, I want the song to challenge them but not overwhelm them so I look for that balance when choosing something for them to learn. Of course, I allow them input regarding the song selection as well, as long as I feel it’s appropriate for the level they are at.