FREE TRIAL LESSON - CONTACT ME FOR DETAILS
FREE TRIAL LESSON - CONTACT ME FOR DETAILS

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have a question about learning to play the guitar, check out this list of things I’m often asked. If your question isn’t here, please drop me a line on the contact form below and I’ll get straight back to you. 

Will I need a guitar to get started?

Yes, you will need to have your own guitar, as you will advance much more quickly if you are able to practice between lessons. Buying your first guitar can be a little bewildering, so I have produced a ‘Getting Started’ guide – click here to read more.

Can I buy a guitar online?

Yes. And you can get cheap deals on Ebay and Amazon, but be aware that you won’t be able to check the condition and quality. Your local music shop is a better place to start as they will be able to give you good advice and let you try your instrument out to see how it feels.

How Often Should I have Lessons?

The more you play and practice, the quicker you will improve, and the more fun you will have. For beginner and intermediate level, I recommend having lessons weekly, with some regular practice in between. If you’re more advanced, and used to practicing daily or perhaps play in a band, it may be that ad-hoc lessons to tackle a particular challenge or polish your technique will suffice.

How long does it take to learn the guitar?

I’m afraid there is no answer to this! It all depends on practice, ability, age and what you want to be able to play.

Do I need to be able to tune my guitar?

No. To begin with at least, I can tune it for you at the start of each lesson. There are also mobile phone apps that make guitar tuning quick and easy.

Are there smaller guitars for children?

Yes. Your local music shop will be able to determine the appropriate size for your child.

Do I need to be able to read music?

No, it is not a necessary requirement. Many a rock/pop musician has played the guitar and written hit songs without being able to read music! An alternative called guitar tablature will need to be understood, but this is simpler.

What grade types do you offer tuition for?

Registry of Guitar Tutors –  Grades 1-8
Trinity Rock & Pop – Grades 1-8
Rockschool – Grade 1-8

Student Reviews

  • Dave is a fantastic guitar teacher! He has been teaching my children for 2 years now, and has recently started to teach me. He explains things very well and in an easy-to-understand way. Highly recommend.

    Sabina
    Hampton
  • David has been teaching my son Zac for the past 6 months. Zac really enjoys the lessons as David gets him playing along to songs he knows and makes the learning really fun. Dave is friendly and relaxed; an excellent teacher. Highly recommended!

    Alex
    Hampton
  • David has been teaching my daughters the guitar and drums for a few years. My eldest has her lesson and she, her sister on drums and David have a jam session together at the end, which they love.
    David is great with them, he is very calm, explains each new step clearly and is patient, I would highly recommend him.
    Karen
    Twickenham
  • Dave has been a fantastic music teacher for our two children (drums and guitar). He is endlessly patient, and makes the lessons fun which is so important for keeping kids engaged. By the end of the first lesson they were already playing The White Stripes! Would highly recommend. Thank you Dave!

    Martha
    Hampton Hill
  • Dave is absolutely fantastic, we couldn’t be happier having him as a music instructor (drums and guitar) for our two children. Apart from being a knowledgeable and systematic teacher, he is a great guy. His friendly, laid-back demeanour puts our children at ease and it’s always a pleasure having him in our home. We recommend him to everyone.

    Ryan
    Hampton Hill
1508 Call David to Get Started