How to Know If You Have a Good Guitar Teacher

There are a lot of musicians out there but only so many of them are great guitar teachers. Whether you need guitar lessons in Philadelphia, New Orleans, or Seattle here are some things to look for in a potential instructor. Anyone can learn to play the guitar. You can either try to teach yourself, or you can find someone who can teach you how to play and read music.

Teaching Experience

If you haven’t found an instructor yet, start by searching online or get recommendations from schools or music studios, then go meet teachers and hear them play. Has your instructor gone to school to learn to play the guitar or trained extensively? Have they taught lessons before? There are great teachers and there are great guitar players. The trick is to find a person who can do both effectively. A good music teacher may also have had other music related employment.

Good Track Record of Student Achievements

Previous student achievements are a good sign you have snagged a great guitar teacher. Students may have been selected as a band member, recruited into the music industry, or even hired for professional recordings and music gigs of their own. Check to see if some past students have received music scholarships, performed live, or began their own musical career.   

Price and Value

Price is a big issue. A good instructor will offer different price plans based on group or private lessons, how many days a week, and how long each lesson is. There should be options available that fit your budget. You want a great teacher without breaking the bank. Some teachers may offer a free lesson so try it out. It’s a great way to get to know the teacher and see if you like their teaching style.

Variety of Lesson Plans

Lessons should cover every aspect of playing the guitar, from the history of guitar to reading music. It’s also helpful if all materials are provided. If you don’t own a guitar you should be able to borrow one. There should be plenty of lessons that are fun and easy to grasp too. You don’t want a strict warden for a teacher. Hopefully you can find a groovy instructor that wants you to achieve your music dreams. Good teaching methods will promote good practice sessions which lead to a greater love and appreciation of music.

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