So, the question is why does someone need personal guitar instruction when we have all the information online? Learning Guitar can be done in many ways:

• One on one personal instruction

• Classroom Instruction

• The internet – i.e., You Tube Videos

• Self-Study

Why is personal, one-on-one instruction the best way to learn?

• Personal attention to detail – this results in you learning more quickly and efficiently

• You can ask questions that relay to your situation and have them answered at the moment the question comes to mind

• You have a personal one on one coach that you can contact at any time to get a question answered when you are home practicing.

• The lessons are customized for your needs and interests

• When learning to play mistakes can be corrected on the spot

• No judgment – no one around to make you feel nervous or uncomfortable when learning something new

• You progress at your own comfort level and pace

What is wrong with classroom instruction? Nothing, however you should consider some of the following points:

• Multiple students are all vying for the teacher’s attention

• You may be held up in your advancement because they are not at your level

• You may feel uncomfortable if the other students are more advanced than you are. This can result in you feeling restricted and embarrassed to ask a question that would really benefit your learning

• You don’t get to advance at your own pace – you have to learn what the class is learning at the time

• You don’t necessarily get to learn what you want to learn which can result in you losing interest in the guitar al together!

How about the Internet – You Tube Videos: While the internet can answer most any question you may have, there is still NOTHING that can replace one on one instruction:

• No personal reinforcement or feedback

• It is easy to keep making the same mistakes over and over because no one is guiding you

• You can lose your motivation to progress

• There is SO much information – where do you start. Are you starting in the right place?

• Your development is hindered without personal one on one guidance

• There are some great players out their some are not so great at teaching however

Lastly, Self-Study – Because of the information age it is possible to try and teach yourself. Unfortunately, most people give up after a short period of time.  At best, you learn to play a few songs and if that is your goal – ok by me. Here are some other things to consider when trying to teach yourself guitar:

• The biggest problem is getting complacent.  You lose interest on what may have become a lifelong endeavor.

• There is no guidance from someone who has the experience

• After a while you find yourself in a “rut” playing the same old stuff

THE BOTTOM LINE:

There is NO substitute for private one on one guitar instruction from a qualified guitar teacher. If your desire is to learn and understand the guitar, then you need some kind of instruction – way more than just a video.