Guitar lessons are in high demand at our Center. The instrument’s popularity cannot be denied whether you are talking about lessons for young beginners or adults. There is a familiar sentiment that guitar is easy to play and can be learned on one’s own. While there are many examples of fine musicians who are self-taught guitarists, it’s not as easy to learn to play as one might think. From developing good right hand technique, good left hand technique, or understanding the fingerboard, there is much to cover and learn to be a good player.
A guitarist’s right hand operates differently from the left hand. Guitarists must learn to develop right hand technique that is style dependent in order to develop a good sound. If you play with a pick, you need to study picking techniques to develop speed and fluidity. If you play with your fingers, you are either studying classical guitar technique or fingerstyle/bluegrass technique to learn patterns for striking the strings with different finger combinations.
When it comes to the left hand, positioning is everything. Guitarists must learn to spread and curl their fingers in order to pinch the strings against the fretboard. When pinching the strings, guitarist learn to how to not touch the adjacent strings in order to avoid muting those strings (a necessary technique for when playing chord). Scales, arpeggio patterns and finger exercise are played over and over to develop coordination, speed and strength. As one can plainly see, there is a lot to cover and this is only the tip of the iceberg!
Congratulations to Connor L.
Connor began his guitar lessons at SMMC in May 2023. At the time he started, he was only eight years old which is a perfect age to get started with guitar. Side note: check out our “Top 3 Instruments For Your Child’s First Instrument” article to learn what instruments work for young students. Connor has come a long way in his guitar playing since then as the recital video below will demonstrate. Now 2 and a half years into taking guitar lessons, Connor has come a long way in terms of his technique and overall ability.
Connor takes guitar lessons from SMMC instructor Mr. Tom F. Mr. Tom is a proficient guitarist capable of playing in a variety of musical styles. These include jazz, rock, pop and classical to name few. Mr. Tom is also a gifted composer who has worked on music published for various Netflix series in addition to writing for original works. In addition to guitar, Tom is a gifted pianist who holds a grade 8 piano certificate from ABRSM.
Of Connor, Tom writes, “Connor shows up on time every week and practices every assignment I give him with commitment and discipline. His dedication has led to significant growth in both his musicianship and technique. Recently, we’ve been using new techniques from the method book and applying them directly to the songs he personally wants to learn. Connor takes this process seriously—he listens, adapts, and integrates each concept into his playing. His improvement has been undeniable and exciting to watch. Connor’s positive attitude, reliability, and steady progress make him an absolute joy to teach”.
Wow-that is high praise from an accomplished musician and music teacher. Congratulations and well done Connor! Enjoy this performance from Connor with his teacher at our Winter Recital from January 2025.
Winter Recital Performance
Again, congratulations on earning the award Connor! We’re excited to continue to watch your growth and development as a guitarist.
Question and Answer
We asked Connor a few questions related to music and about him in general to get some insight into the award winner. Here is what Connor had to share about himself!
1. How long have you been playing your instrument and what do you like most about playing it?
“It has been two and a half years and the reason I like the guitar is you can use the notes to play any songs you like.”
2. How did you get started playing guitar and why did you decide to take lessons?
“I wanted to try something new and I liked the guitar. “
3. What do you like about how your instruments’ sound and is there anything that makes your instrument special?
“I like that when you hear someone playing guitar, it sounds really smooth and nice. My guitar is special to me because it’s MINE!”
4. If any, who are some of the artists you look up to for your instrument and why do you like them?
“I am a fan of Imagine Dragons and I have been listening to their music since I was little.”
5. What is your favorite food, movie/tv show, video game, etc.?
“My favorite food is steak, “Modern Family” is my favorite tv show, and “Party Animals” is my current favorite video game.”
6. What are your top 3 favorite things to do in your free time?
“Play video games, build model sets and watch movies with my family.”
7. What have you done this year that you consider to be the most fun you’ve had all year?
“I participated in a three day Outdoor Science Camp and it was the most fun I had this year.”
Thank you for sharing Connor! We can’t wait to hear you play music from Imagine Dragons at a future recital.
Start Your Musical Journey
If you are ready to get yourself or your child started on their musical journey, our wonderful teachers are eager to work with you. Study with degreed educators who have years of experience. Whether you are a beginner, have not played for years, or looking to make the jump to intermediate or advance level, our teachers have the tools to help you achieve your ambition! Book a trial lesson today!