Guy W  
Instruments: Electric Guitar, Classical Guitar, Acoustic Guitar
Styles: Classical, Jazz, Pop, Rock, Blues, Folk, R&B, Latin, Funk, Flamenco, Reggae, Latin Jazz, Samba, Bossa Nova, Soul, Punk

I began teaching guitar during my freshman year in college. Although I have a lot of experience teaching rock (including many of it's sub genres), jazz (beginning level), blues and a host of other styles, my current curriculum primarily focuses on classical and flamenco music and technique. Learning a new musical instrument can be a challenge. However, from my experience, if the learning environment is relaxed, goal-oriented and the student's curiosity is excited, then learning becomes more of a fun challenge. I think it's also important to get input from the student regarding their playing. For example, many times I feel better asking how a student feels about a piece they've been working on rather than immediately critiquing their performance of the piece.

I generally use either the Progressive Classical Guitar Method for Young Beginners, by Connie Bull or Alfred's Kid's Guitar Course, Bk. 1 for younger acoustic steel string beginners. Other methods I use include Aaron Shearer's Classic Guitar Series as well as Scott Tennant's Pumping Nylon technique book in conjunction with selected intermediate to advanced repertoire for more advanced students. I do focus on technical skills such as scales, arpeggios and various right and left hand finger exercises. Usually, once the skill has been mastered, I will show the student how it can be used in an improvisatory or practical manner. I also try to eliminate the use of excess tension and straining when learning technique as well as repertoire. For students interested in learning flamenco, I would recommend they spend a few months grasping the fundamental concepts of classical guitar technique then start with a flamenco method book. Additionally, I frequently suggest a substantial amount of listening outside the class to supplement lessons.