I have been wanting to create a way for people to experience and learn how to play beginner guitar as I did. To keep the quality high while being more readily available. Now it's here. I have created an online…
Read more
Apr 29, 2026
Apr 29, 2026
Tuning the Guitar - How I Do It
Introduction
Tuning a guitar is an essential part of playing, whether you are in a studio, rehearsing, or performing live. Over the years, through my daily routine in various settings, I have developed a method that works for me and…
Read more
Jan 15, 2020
Are you getting nowhere being self-taught?
You most probably would have had a few experiences as a self taught player. I was one once too so I know what you have been through. Unfortunately it can take a while for the realisation to take hold that…
Read more
Jan 15, 2020
Are You Getting the Best From Your Lessons?
Are you really keen on learning how to play music? Do you want to help your children learn how to play? Well you can. Everyone has the ability to learn music. It is not a natural skill. No one is…
Read more
Jan 15, 2020
Is music notation taught at the very beginning of learning or is it delayed by six months or longer?
A music student is at a distinct disadvantage if learning to read music is delayed. All music knowledge and technique comes from learning how to read music notation. It gives the student the ability to play the songs he/she would…
Read more
Oct 21, 2015
What Are My Rates?
It all depends on the level of the student and what the student needs. The requirement of a young beginner is different to a self taught person of any age. Requirements also change over time as the student progresses. The…Read more
Oct 15, 2015
Guitar Buying Guide
Here is a link which will help you decide which guitar to buy. I haven't
bought anything from them myself, but one of my students has. I saw the guitar only recently and I liked it.
https://www.artistguitars.co.nz/buying/how-to-choose-the-right-guitar-for-a-child/581
I use rockshop.co.nz … Read more
bought anything from them myself, but one of my students has. I saw the guitar only recently and I liked it.
https://www.artistguitars.co.nz/buying/how-to-choose-the-right-guitar-for-a-child/581
I use rockshop.co.nz … Read more
Dec 13, 2014
Is there a promise of playing in a band?
When students have reached a certain skill level in there reading and playing they will be invited to play together. I currently host jam sessions. This is a great option because people with similar skills and interests meet and learn… Read more
Dec 13, 2014
What kind of support will I have?
A successful music student is one who knows how to practice. It is the time between lessons which determines the level of success and pleasure the student gains from playing music. Learning how to practice is a skill in itself.… Read more
Dec 13, 2014
Are lessons taught individually or in groups?
Although groups may be a cheaper option initially and they may be available at a local school, they do not cater for individual learning needs.
It is more cost effective to have quality individual lessons. Duo sessions add a great… Read more
Dec 13, 2014
Should distance to travel be a factor when deciding on a music teacher?
No. When I started learning I travelled great distances to find a good teacher. An alternative to travelling to a lesson is having the same individual lesson using the internet. The quality of the teacher is the most important factor.… Read more
Dec 13, 2014
What are the standards of the teacher’s current music students?
I’m happy to say that my students are very well represented in many aspects of the community. From end of year school music prizes, gaining excellence in music performance, gaining recognition in local and national music competitions, to participating in… Read more
Dec 9, 2014
A letter to a parent with regards to practicing and the parents/caregiver's role.
I'd like to offer some advice which hopefully will enable your child to continue with his playing. He has done very well up to this point. He is learning a specialist skill, it is hard. Learning how to play at… Read more
Dec 9, 2014
The Make Up Lesson
I've decided to use the blog to communicate a few ideas and issues that come up from time to time.
One of those issues is the 'make up' lesson.
I cannot stress strongly enough that the 'make up' lesson replacement…Read more