Beginner's Advice / FAQs

Learning a new instrument can be a daunting prospect fraught with uncertainty.  This page aims to address this area by providing answers to some of the questions most frequently asked of me:

I want to learn to play guitar or bass - do I need my own instrument?

Yes – you will want your own instrument to practice at home.  This will enable you to progress, and also enjoy playing in the comfort of your own environment.

Should I buy an instrument before contacting a teacher?

Not necessarily.  I am happy to give advice in this area in order that you buy the most suitable instrument for your needs.  Having said this, if you know what type of instrument you want, there are several shops that I can recommend where you will receive excellent advice. 

What sort of guitar should I buy?

This very much depends upon the style of music you wish to learn.  You may already know this, or you may have no idea at all – I will talk this over with you prior to you making a purchase.

How much will a guitar/bass cost?

A good modern well-made guitar suitable for learning on can be had for anywhere between £100 - £200 these days.  That is not to say that you cannot buy more cheaply (you can), but in this price range you will end up with a good instrument which is comfortable to play, which in turn will help the learning experience no end.  I will happily provide more advice here, and can guide you to the best shops.

I want to learn to play drums – do I need my own kit?

If you are a total beginner, you will not need a kit for the first month or so – a rubber “practice pad” and some sticks will get you going with sticking techniques, grip etc.  In order to practice the coordination required to play the full kit, you will ideally need your own set.  Beginner sets can be purchased, as can electronic kits (although these can be more expensive), and as with guitars, I can point you in the right direction.  Just give me a call and we can talk it all over. 

Do I need to buy a book or DVD?

There are countless books and DVD methods available.  I tend to favour three or four of these over all the others, simply through experience of what I find “works”.  Depending on your aims and requirements, it is likely that you will need to buy one of these books when you start.

I am under 10 years old – what size guitar should I get?

Guitars are available in three-quarter and even half-sizes for the younger student.  I can advise here, and point you in the direction of good shops who will provide further sound advice.

What else will I need?

You will probably want a case or soft guitar bag, a tuner, maybe a music stand, strap, and possibly a footstool, and probably some plectrums (depending upon what style you are learning), but don’t worry; these can all be bought cheaply and easily.

Where can I buy these things?

I have relationships with most of the music shops in Nottingham, and can recommend accordingly.

Am I too old or too young to start learning?

My experience is that age is not a barrier.  It could be said that you are “never too old” if you have the desire to do it.  As far as being too young, physical size plays a part, but I am happy to discuss – currently my youngest pupil is 7 years old, and he loves it!

I am left-handed – can I learn on a normal instrument?

Guitars/basses are available in left and right-handed versions, and drums can simply be set-up for left-handed players.  However, if you are a complete beginner it is sometimes good to learn on right-handed instruments, since if you have never played before it will be unfamiliar both ways round in any case.  Give me a call and we will talk further – I teach several left-handed students.

How long are the lessons?

Lessons are either half-an-hour or one hour long.  Most beginners and less-experienced students will probably have half-hour lessons – I find this duration to be the most beneficial whilst offering the best value.  More experienced players might have one-hour sessions, since often more time is helpful when exploring more complex ideas and pieces.

What form do your lessons usually take?

Lessons are relaxed and fun. Most commonly we will review the practice you have done prior to the session, working on posture and technique.  Following this we will progress to the next new subject (be it a new tune, new exercises, new chord or notes, depending on what stage you are at), making sure you understand the fresh issues and ideas.  I will then suggest what should be worked upon at home in preparation for the next lesson.

The format will vary from student to student, and we will always tailor the sessions to suit your needs, but you will always enjoy it.

How frequently will I need to have lessons?

The most common frequency is weekly half-hour lessons, although a minority of my pupils attend for one hour every fortnight.  I am flexible, so just ask me if neither of these suit you – I am sure we can sort something out.

Where are lessons held?

I teach in my fully equipped studio at my house in Mapperley.  You will need to bring your guitar/bass, and your book, but I have everything else, including drums.

What should I look for in a teacher?

It is important that the tutor holds Public Liability Insurance.  In addition, in my opinion the teacher should be CRB Police Checked.  (I can tick both these boxes).  Further to this, your tutor should be professional yet relaxed, and able to draw on their experience to tailor lessons to suit the needs of the individual student.

Do I have to take exams?

Formal examinations are a route open to students, but they are not a necessary part of learning an instrument.  It is up to you!

Will I be under pressure to achieve results?

Definitely not.  Whilst you will obviously want to improve, I appreciate that other forces in life can “get in the way” of your personal practice time.  I will never put you under pressure to progress at a certain pace.  Once again, everyone is different, and the priority is that you are happy with your development.

I am apprehensive – will I feel stupid if I cannot “do it” straight away?

In my experience, the vast majority of students are nervous when starting lessons.  This is a natural and expected reaction, and I understand what you will be feeling.  My aim is to put you at ease as from the moment you step through the door – your nerves will soon disappear, and I promise that you will certainly NOT be made to feel inadequate.