Frequently Asked Questions
* What does "A better way to learn" mean? The guitar enjoys a renewed interest and revival. This has brought better and more available instruments and a huge selection of teaching materials including books, CDs and DVDs. However well written and directed, teaching materials are not able to see students holding instruments incorrectly. They don't prescribe or respond individually to students the way a patient practiced instructor is able to do. Most of all they can't respond to questions interactively. A private responsive teacher can avoid these problems and provide a clear concise path to playing the guitar with encouragement and positive reinforcement.
* How do private lessons work? Each student has one half-hour lesson each week at their reserved time. These are individual lessons so study material is selected to match each student's ability and interests.
* What levels of students are taught? Beginners to experienced players are welcome. Typically there will be an evaluation lesson to discuss expectations and goals before beginning study.
* When are lessons scheduled? Appointments are currently from 2 - 8:30 p.m. weekdays. Occasionally there may be special workshops or group classes.
* Is a guitar provided? Each student is expected to provide their own instrument. There are three basic types to choose from: steel-string acoustic, electric or nylon-string classic. An amplifier is provided for electric guitars during the lessons.
* What about left-handers? Left-handed beginners are encouraged to play "right-handed" guitar since it does take both hands to play.
* What other things are needed? Purchase a blank music manuscript book for notes and lessons. There are handouts that will need to go into a loose leaf notebook. Other useful items include picks, capo, electronic tuner, music stand, and metronome.
* Can lessons be recorded? Please feel free to bring a recorder (digital or otherwise) to help remember music and assignments. If you have internet access, there are help files that can be sent via email or downloaded from AmarilloGuitarLessons.com
* How long will it take to learn to play the guitar? Results vary according to several things practice, previous musical training, and natural ability. As an absolute beginner, expect to be playing songs in weeks, the basics in a few months, and after six months to have a solid understanding of the instrument.
* How much practice is required? Start out trying to practice for a half-hour each day. Serious students sometimes practice one to three hours (or more) per day. Part of what is taught in lessons is how to practice, set goals and work to achieve them.
* What happens if a lesson is missed? Make-up lessons or workshops are available in accordance with the instruction policy. If 24 hour notice is given it is possible to either schedule a make-up or prorate the next month's lesson fees. The instructor's time is being purchased so if he is there and you are not, the lesson should be paid.
* How do I sign up for lessons? There is no formal registration process or extra fees. Simply call 674-6812 to arrange the first lesson. There is voice mail, so don't hesitate to leave a message since many times it will be during someone's lesson.
* Where are you located? Amarillo Guitar Lessons is conveniently located in the Ridgecrest area, 4425 Summit Circle one block north of 45th. Please call for an appointment.
* What are lessons like? Lessons are informal - and take place in a safe comfortable home atmosphere with a convenient waiting room. Parents are welcome to sit in on lessons if desired. This allows for a focused approach to the instrument that completely absorbs the student's attention. Many times it is difficult to believe that half and hour has passed.
* What does "A better way to learn" mean? The guitar enjoys a renewed interest and revival. This has brought better and more available instruments and a huge selection of teaching materials including books, CDs and DVDs. However well written and directed, teaching materials are not able to see students holding instruments incorrectly. They don't prescribe or respond individually to students the way a patient practiced instructor is able to do. Most of all they can't respond to questions interactively. A private responsive teacher can avoid these problems and provide a clear concise path to playing the guitar with encouragement and positive reinforcement.
* How do private lessons work? Each student has one half-hour lesson each week at their reserved time. These are individual lessons so study material is selected to match each student's ability and interests.
* What levels of students are taught? Beginners to experienced players are welcome. Typically there will be an evaluation lesson to discuss expectations and goals before beginning study.
* When are lessons scheduled? Appointments are currently from 2 - 8:30 p.m. weekdays. Occasionally there may be special workshops or group classes.
* Is a guitar provided? Each student is expected to provide their own instrument. There are three basic types to choose from: steel-string acoustic, electric or nylon-string classic. An amplifier is provided for electric guitars during the lessons.
* What about left-handers? Left-handed beginners are encouraged to play "right-handed" guitar since it does take both hands to play.
* What other things are needed? Purchase a blank music manuscript book for notes and lessons. There are handouts that will need to go into a loose leaf notebook. Other useful items include picks, capo, electronic tuner, music stand, and metronome.
* Can lessons be recorded? Please feel free to bring a recorder (digital or otherwise) to help remember music and assignments. If you have internet access, there are help files that can be sent via email or downloaded from AmarilloGuitarLessons.com
* How long will it take to learn to play the guitar? Results vary according to several things practice, previous musical training, and natural ability. As an absolute beginner, expect to be playing songs in weeks, the basics in a few months, and after six months to have a solid understanding of the instrument.
* How much practice is required? Start out trying to practice for a half-hour each day. Serious students sometimes practice one to three hours (or more) per day. Part of what is taught in lessons is how to practice, set goals and work to achieve them.
* What happens if a lesson is missed? Make-up lessons or workshops are available in accordance with the instruction policy. If 24 hour notice is given it is possible to either schedule a make-up or prorate the next month's lesson fees. The instructor's time is being purchased so if he is there and you are not, the lesson should be paid.
* How do I sign up for lessons? There is no formal registration process or extra fees. Simply call 674-6812 to arrange the first lesson. There is voice mail, so don't hesitate to leave a message since many times it will be during someone's lesson.
* Where are you located? Amarillo Guitar Lessons is conveniently located in the Ridgecrest area, 4425 Summit Circle one block north of 45th. Please call for an appointment.
* What are lessons like? Lessons are informal - and take place in a safe comfortable home atmosphere with a convenient waiting room. Parents are welcome to sit in on lessons if desired. This allows for a focused approach to the instrument that completely absorbs the student's attention. Many times it is difficult to believe that half and hour has passed.