| How much does it cost? The fee is $20 per 1/2 hour lesson. One lesson per week. This is what most teachers are charging in the Denver metro area. |
| Is it a classroom situation? Will there be other students? No. These are private lessons. Just you and your guitar. Parents are encouraged to attend their child's lessons. |
| Do I need to call each week to schedule a lesson? NO. During the school year, students are required to pay for each month (4 or 5 week cycle) in advance. This will reserve your time slot for the MONTH. Advance payment is standard practice in the music instruction field. It helps discourage frequent cancellations and no-shows. But even if you have to miss a lesson you will still get all the lessons you've paid for. Pay with check, cash, or credit card via PayPal secure web server. |
| What if I have to miss a lesson? Just call and let me know you can't make it. Give me as much notice as you can. At that time we can schedule a make-up lesson. It's best to take the make-up lesson as soon as possible, to make sure you stay focused and involved in practicing and learning. If you fall behind, you will need to spend even more time reviewing and re-learning material from previous lessons. See my payment and cancellation policy |
| How often should I practice? You should spend at least 30 minutes per day practicing your instrument. See my tips for practicing. |
| Is playing guitar difficult? There are many instruments (violin, wind instruments, etc.) that are much more difficult to learn than guitar. Most guitar students will be playing chords and songs very quickly. But it does take practice. |
| Do I have to learn to read music? Not if you don't want to. Many successful guitarists have never learned to read music. My younger beginning students learn basic sight reading skills. It helps them relate to melodies quicker, learn the fingerboard and it gives a clear indication of their progress as they learn new notes and songs each week. Studies show children who read music do better in school. Reading music strengthens math skills, comprehension and helps them learn to focus. Reading music involves math, science, history, art, foreign language and physical coordination. |
| What method will you use to teach me to play guitar? This depends on what you want to learn. My lessons are customized to the student's interest, skill level and goals. Most of my young beginning students use the Hal Leonard Guitar Method books to learn sight reading. But other lesson material, such as song selection, techniques, etc. is customized for each student. Guitar Method books are $5.95 Click here to read about my teaching style and methods |
| How long will it take for me to learn to play? This all depends on you. How often you practice, what your goals are, etc. The beauty of playing an instrument is that you are ALWAYS learning. The longer you've been playing, the more you'll want to learn. |
| Do you teach adults? Yes. Kids usually learn and memorize faster, but adults with their larger hands sometimes have an easier time mastering the physical aspects of playing guitar. |
| I bought a guitar instruction DVD. Do I still need lessons? YES. While it is possible to learn from DVD's, most beginners find they need personal instruction. You can't ask questions of a DVD. And DVD's can't correct any mistakes in your playing. You need a teacher for this. |
| Where are lessons taught? I teach all lessons at Feathers in the Wind gift shop. The store is located in the Saddle Rock Marketplace (near the Albertson's) UPDATE: The store has closed. I'm now teaching at home in the Tallyn's Reach area near Smoky Hill & E470. |
| I want to learn to play lead guitar so I can join a band. Will you teach me? YES. |
| My guitar needs some minor repair work. Will you do it? YES. click here for repair rates. |
| How do I sign up for lessons? Call 720-277-5336 or email : phil@nadeauguitars.com |
| I want to become a Classical or Flamenco guitarist. Will you teach me? No. These are very unique and difficult styles that take years to master. You should study these styles with an expert who specializes in them. |
| Do I need a guitar? Yes. See my tips for buying a guitar. |