My first instrument was piano. I learned from several excellent teachers. One thing they all had in common was that they taught from a structured curriculum. That is, they had a proven plan and process for teaching piano: a system which built up technique, theory, repertoire, et cetera.
I started learning guitar as a teen. I went through several not-as-impressive teachers (compared to the piano teachers). I recall being struck, even then, by the contrast between the guitar teachers and the piano teachers. The guitar teachers were simply not as organized in their instruction (and that's being kind, in a few cases). All of them were excellent guitarists, but I don't think any of them approached teaching guitar as a primary thing. It seemed like they were guitarists who "taught on the side" rather than actual teachers, if you know what I mean.
Some of that may have been luck of the draw, or the way I found the teachers (usually through guitar store connections). Also, I suspect if I had taken up classical guitar, the quality of instruction probably would've been better. Anyway, I learned from all my guitar teachers, but I'd have to say I learned in a very inefficient and haphazard manner.
In contrast, Justin's method is a planned and well-designed program for learning to play guitar. He has thought about how to teach guitar, planned it out, and developed a serious and effective program of instruction. It really is impressive, and it's absolutely amazing that he makes it available on an honor system. I don't know of any other music instruction program of this quality that is as readily available. If I were a guitar teacher, I would adopt Justin's method as my program of instruction in a heartbeat.
My suggestion is that you start studying using Justin's program. It's a great program. But don't eliminate your guitar lessons with an actual teacher. You could cut them down to once a month or so. Use your time with the instructor to show the teacher what you're working on, and to ask for help and suggestions with anything giving you trouble. In-person instruction can give you valuable feedback, even if you're mainly following Justin's program. You can also use your in-person lessons to start playing with another musician (e.g., playing chord changes together, practicing your timing/rhythm, et cetera).
Also, I suggest giving back to Justin by ordering material from him (or even just giving him a donation). Again, what Justin offers is high quality and they way he offers it is pretty much unprecedented, in my experience with music instruction. It's a cool thing.
Topic: I’m A Slow Novice 😉 (Read 2545 times)
