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What age range do you teach ?
From the youngest to the eldest. The minute they were born both my children were taught about rhythm and the mathematic sonic structures of music. Nursery rhymes. Grandparents also love music and those that are enjoying the extension of humanities life-span are loving returning to the sonic creativity and interaction of their youth.
I'm not great with tech. What is the set-up for online lessons ?
An old computer with a web-cam & modern laptops or mobile phones allow access to audio/video interaction. Whether using software/Apps such as: Skype, WhattsApp or Microsoft Teams its relatively easy to get going. Any help required can be explained via an old fashioned phone conversation. Sonic communications far outweigh text in terms of proper understanding.
I haven't played since school but I remember some chords...
Where would we start ? The first batch of five chords spell a lovely word. C A G E D – Once you have this open chord balet and gymnastics shown to your hands limbs (ie: fingers) you’re beginnings will be a delightfully sonic delicate dance. And you’ll soon be able to play a fabulous Jimi Hendrix chord collection.
I've always wanted to learn guitar but I'd consider myself an introvert so I'm not really sure. Do you have suggestions ?
Some of the most beautiful music created on the planet was done so by introverts. Nick Drake being an interesting example. Like most things in life there are many different routes to the peak of the mountain. Having taught for over a quarter of a century it has been a delight and an honour to help musicians gain their confidence, gently make great progress and enjoy performing their music to their friends and family and loved ones. Music is medicine and often heals ones confidence.
My son has been playing for a few years and loves to sing too. He doesn't like the idea of vocal lessons but needs to train his voice. Can that be incorporated into lessons ?
Every note we can pluck on our instruments we can try and replicate with our voice. In the early days its tonal accuracy may far outweigh its octave accuracy...But it’ll still sound and feel fabulous! Many of the skills and techniques taught for guitar are massively enhanced by copying with the voice. Vocal tuition is included in the lessons as it’s a fabulous tool for acquiring and creating sonic ideas and enhancing one's musicianship a LOT when proper ear-training is done.
All lessons are recorded on MP3 to assist regular practice routine. There are many trees in the forest of learning and it makes sense to remember your route through the woods. All styles are covered and students songs of choice are deconstructed to ensure progress in theory, techniques, string muting skills and general physicalisation of the metronome. Foot tapping and head knodding enhances the ability to feel the beat and remain accurately in time.
Lessons are £40phr with Block Bookings of 10 sessions carrying a 10% discount when paid in advance.
Warm Regards and see you soon, BzB - Benjiman Zachary Bartlett
