Piano Lessons in Wichita, KS

Instruments: Guitar Bass Guitar

What advice do you have about practicing effectively?
My advice to any student of guitar is to practice because any one who plays guitar or any other instrument learns - if I don't play, I don't learn. I have also learned that half an hour to 45 minute periods of time can be enough. More than that, can discourage a beginner. Also, even with my many years of experience, if I haven't played in a while, it shows. So enjoy practice, don't burn out, and don't give up!

How do I know if my child is ready to start lessons?
The way I believe any child's parents can know he/she is ready to learn an instrument or anything else is interest. If a child listens intently to music, talks about music, or even pretends to play music these are the signs that the child is ready. Some children show little interest in school work, but they easily concentrate on music. Although this can be irritating to a parent, music teaches us organization and the need to listen to the teacher to understand the subject. Also age pass 6 is a good milestone. Size does matter to be able to hold and do proper fingering on a guitar. As funny as it sounds, air guitar can lead to real guitar with the right teacher.

When will I start to see results?
Results are easy to see. Step by step learning to master the basics leads to growing accomplishments. Also, parents and family need to watch as a student takes the basics and turns them into songs. Before long, they will be creating their own music. So results are based on practice interest, and encouragement. If a student has that going for himself, results can come in the first few months. Every step is a success. Remember, they couldn't do any of this before. Their ability to play needs to be celebrated by the family so that students can be proud of their learning.

Did you have a teacher that inspired you to go into music? How did they inspire you?
Yes, I did and his name was Steve Hunter. he was a rock guitarist from my hometown of Decatur, Il. He worked at a music store in our city called Ax-In-Hand. He was the guitar instructor there. I was 10 years old and dreamed of being a big rock star. He was very understanding and patient which is what a good teacher needs to be. He left soon to become a studio musician and later played with Alice Cooper and in the recording studio with Black Sabbath. He took me through the basics of cords and reading music, but he always said to listen to music and try to recreate it. That has been my best guide since his lessons started.

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