Genre: Forum

Like the title says, I've reached the pinnacle of my technique that think I realistically can from being self taught, and I'm ready for a teacher But I don't just want any teacher. I want one that will suit me and my style. Right now I'm not interested in branching out into other styles, in terms of getting formal lessons So I'm going to call around the various shops here and start talking to the teachers. I've got a few questions in mind, but I want to make sure I'm not missing anything First of all, I'm gonna ask what styles the teacher is best at. I'm not going to tell them what I play, just what they specialize in or are really into. That way they won't just bull **** me and tell me they'll teach what I like Second of all, I'll ask about their experience. I don't really want some beginner teacher, or some kid who can wank and thinks he can teach people I'm gonna ask about their teaching styles too. I'm not getting lessons because I want to learn cool songs. I want to work on my technique, like alt picking, sweeping, left hand coordination, and just cleaning up my playing in general. I also want to learn theory, so I'd want someone versed in that. That would be where having a teacher into the same kinds of music as me would be beneficial. I think that if I was taught theory/technique by someone who can use the music I like as examples and excersises, I could stay interested better, and it would be more fun I'd inquire about price and stuff too, and whether I should bring my own amp or something(probably getting a PODxt Live so I could transport that) You guys think this is a good idea? Anything esle I should ask them about, or do I have the important stuff covered? I think having a teacher is the best way to learn theory but I think you can learn technique just a well on your own. There's so many instructionals out there for technique, I don't think anyone needs a private teacher for technique. But getting private lessons for theoy was like the best thing I ever done. I think it's a smart move finding out about the teachers styles and stuff. Yeah I'm sure I could learn technique on my own, but I think if I had someone really good at them showing me the finer points, and making sure I wasn't doing something that could slow me down or screw me up down the road would be good Yeah IMO getting a teacher is a really good idea. I just started taking lessons after a year and half of being self taught. I've learned a lot on my own but its nice to have someone to guide me and tell me things I'm doing wrong. My teacher is pretty good. He has a degree in music and he can play pretty much any style of music. Just make sure the person seems like they know what they are talking about and are not full of crap. im with you on this one... while you can teach yourself iit is nice to have someone point out some things to you and help you exell even more than usuall... you may want to look into your local community college and see if they offer any classes (it would be alot less $$$$) I think that's great man. You can learn from others a lot fast then you can by looking at a book or what not. Teacher's or friends can also show you proper tech. and tricks that can't be put down on paper as well it is a + I compared myself now to the way I was before I got a teacher and started going on MX. I used to think fastest = best, and that slow guitarists sucked. I had no idea what I was doing, and was a musical idiot. I don't think you can do everything in music on your own. Even by going on MX, people are helping you constantly. Music is beautiful thing, and becomes even better when you have a little help along the way. It really depends on the music you like. I am a grunge kinda guy, and no I have never met a teacher who likes grunge. You should also keep in mind that you should branch out alittle, because if you go to produce original music, you'll sound just like your heros, and that ripping them off. They don;t like that. As I said, I am into grunge, and I do listen to alittle Green Day and stuff. (No Emo.) Now when I produce my music I sound more "original". If you wanna be sure a teacher isn;t "bull****ting you" then look for one who works at a store, chances are the store didn't hired some old cook who can hear FYI Up here in Mass, lessons cost $17.00 for a half hour session. Most of the learning is done at home. This fare happened to be a berklee graduate. So You should get alot of "boom" for you buck :P The best you could do is find a teacher who had the same goals you had when he was learning. It'll be easier for him to understand what you need to do to become a better player. Make sure you learn the theory behind everything you play.