So, you’ve decided it’s time to get some help learning the guitar. Whether you’re just starting out or have been playing for years, this is a big decision. Unlike most people who only dream about playing guitar, you’ve taken action, which shows how serious you are. Congratulations—you’ve taken a significant step toward improving your playing.
While you can learn from these sources, they often fall short in helping you progress efficiently and effectively. Are you learning the right things at the right time? Are you on the fastest path to achieving your goals? If you’re reading this, you’ve likely realized that finding an experienced guitar teacher is the best way to learn—but not all guitar teachers are created equal.
Choosing were to get your lessons is not the same as buying a candy bar where you get the same product, whether you buy it at the grocery store or the corner gas station. When looking for a guitar teacher, know that the quality varies significantly. So how do you tell if you have found a good teacher? The following tips will help you.
Don’t Choose a Teacher Based on Location or Price Alone
While it’s tempting to choose a teacher who’s conveniently located or charges the lowest price, these factors should never be your primary considerations. In many areas, you’ll have a limited number of guitar teachers to choose from. If you’re lucky, the closest one might also be the best option—but don’t hesitate to travel a bit farther for higher-quality instruction.
As for price, remember this: inexperienced teachers often charge less because they’re still learning how to teach. While they may mean well, their lack of experience can lead to ineffective lessons. Learning in the wrong order or skipping fundamental skills can slow your progress and even create bad habits that are hard to unlearn. Paying a bit more for an experienced teacher who can help you achieve faster results is a worthwhile investment that will save you time and money in the long run.
Ask the Teacher About Their Training
Here’s a little-known fact: most guitar teachers don’t receive formal training on how to teach and train students effectively. They rely solely on their own playing experience, which doesn’t necessarily translate into effective teaching. This is true for private instructors and teachers working in music stores.
A good guitar teacher actively invests in their own development. They study effective teaching methods, attend workshops, and stay up to date with the latest techniques to help students succeed. When evaluating potential teachers, ask them about their training and what they do to continually improve as educators.
Keep in mind that being a great player or having a music degree doesn’t automatically make someone a great teacher. Teaching is a skill that requires understanding how to break down concepts, communicate effectively, and adapt to each student’s learning style. Look for a teacher who has both teaching experience and a commitment to ongoing professional development.
Choose a Teacher Who Specializes in Your Style of Music
Guitar teachers who claim to teach “all styles” are common and are usually not as effective as those who specialize. If you want to play classic rock, for example, find a teacher who loves and regularly plays that genre. They’ll have the knowledge and experience to teach you the techniques and nuances specific to that style, giving you a more authentic and enjoyable learning experience.
Specialized teachers can also help you avoid wasting time on skills that aren’t relevant to your goals. If your interests change later, you can always talk with your teacher to see if they can help you with that or recommend someone who’s better suited to your new focus.
Be Willing to Invest in Quality
If you find a well-trained teacher who specializes in your preferred style of music and happens to be conveniently located, consider yourself very lucky! But if that’s not the case, don’t hesitate to travel or pay a bit more for better instruction. A skilled teacher will help you progress faster, making the investment worthwhile.
Remember, learning guitar is a journey. The right teacher can make all the difference in helping you stay motivated, avoid frustration, and reach your goals more quickly. By choosing wisely, you’ll set yourself up for a lifetime of enjoyment and success with your guitar.
About The Author
Brian Fish is a professional guitarist who has been dedicated to helping other guitar players in Northeast Ohio pursue their musical dreams since 1994. He’s passionate about guiding others on their musical journey! He is the Guitar Playing Transformation Specialist, instructor, mentor, trainer, and coach at Guitar Lessons Geauga.
Brian has also assisted people from around the globe in developing a solid sense of timing and enhancing their creativity through the fantastic rhythm course, “Ultimate Rhythm Mastery,” available at MusicTheoryForGuitar.com.
If you live in Geauga County or Northeast Ohio, click the button below to request a no-obligation FREE trial lesson. You can see if Guitar Lessons Geauga is the best fit for you.
