When helping people to start playing the guitar my approach is very free and informal. I think it’s important for the person to not feel pressured and to enjoy learning in whatever pace feel natural.

I would simply start with basic chords and then move to chord progressions and more. My favourite way is to start with a song and try to learn it as it gives focus and a goal. This does take time and patience but for series students the time disappears as we grow towards each small step.

As the student advances and becomes more confident with chords and is able to move around the guitar I can help with potential songwriting to and give great advice. I myself am a songwriter with many years experience so this is second nature to me. I am always happy to talk and answer questions to about my experiences.

So my overall goal is to engage with and have a happy student who hopefully can learn something new with each lesson and get to the point where they are independent enough to play by themselves and create without thinking. Aside from the actual music, playing guitar is great therapy for the soul and mind and it’s very special to be able play and perform.