Q: What should I be looking for when choosing a guitar tutor?

A: The first question I'm often asked is, 'How much do you charge?' While affordability is a consideration, the quality of lessons is paramount. Inexpensive lessons of poor quality can lead to ingrained bad habits that are hard to correct later, such as improper hand position and posture, potentially causing permanent damage to tendons and ligaments, and back pain. Unfortunately, anyone can claim to be a guitar tutor, regardless of their experience. I've encountered numerous issues stemming from inadequate teaching. In such instances, 'value for money' is a misnomer. Instead, inquire about the tutor's formal qualifications but also practical playing experience. While not mandatory—since some excellent tutors predate the availability of formal exams—they do provide a measure of the teacher's understanding. If a tutor lacks qualifications, they should have extensive experience in both playing and teaching professionally. Ask about the exams they prepare students for and the results achieved. Exercise caution with tutors who only teach beginners or lower levels; without advanced skills themselves, they may not grasp the full scope of what they're teaching, potentially perpetuating poor techniques that become problematic at higher levels.

Q: How much do you charge?

A: My current basic rates are €15 for a forty five minute and €12 per thirty minute lesson. 
Lessons are usually booked one week in advance either by the lesson, or in blocks. In the event of a cancellation I offer an alternative make up lesson. If this is not possible, for either party, I ask for a 50% cancellation fee, unless  cancelled up to 5 days before the scheduled lesson.

Q: Where do you give your lessons?

A: I have a music room / office in my house set aside specifically for teaching and music recording.

Q: Do you come out to people's houses to teach?

A: Yes, I can come to mu student's house for an individual lessons however from my experience, I know that the formal setting of a properly designated work space was much more conducive to study. It is also important for me to have all of my teaching materials, resources and equipment on hand. It would also add considerably to the cost of lessons as I would have to charge for my extra travel time and expenses.

Q: What type of guitar should I buy, and how much should I spend?

A: This is a difficult question to give a straight forward answer to and you may be best e-mailing or phoning me to discuss your individual needs. As a general rule you should choose the type of guitar that is played by the guitarist whose music inspires you most. Acoustic guitars are ideal for playing on your own whilst electric guitars are more commonly associated with playing in a band .

Guitars can cost anywhere from a few pounds to over ten thousand pounds. Beginners should avoid the cheapest guitars as they can be discouraging due to difficulty in playing and poor sound quality. A budget of approximately €100 to €200 is advisable for a new, full-sized acoustic or electric guitar. Smaller, three-quarter-sized guitars for children are slightly less expensive. Electric guitar players will also need an amplifier and a guitar lead, which can cost at least €100. It's not recommended to purchase a second-hand instrument without independent, expert advice.

For more experienced players committed to playing long-term, the advice is to purchase the most expensive instrument you can afford. However, take your time, research, and play various instruments before deciding. Reputable music stores will let you try out instruments, so use this chance to test different ones thoroughly before making your choice.

Q: What age do you recommend that children should start guitar lessons?

A: I have found that around the age of eight is a good age to start as children have developed the necessary coordination and concentration. Before this age I would suggest group music making as an introduction.

Q: Am I too old to learn?

A: No, I have discovered that older individuals greatly benefit from the joys and challenges of learning to play the guitar. It can open up new social and cultural opportunities for them, and recent studies on aging have indicated significant neurological, psychological, and physical advantages to learning a musical instrument. Older learners often have a more positive learning attitude and a deeper appreciation for the subject, which reflects their extensive life experiences. In many ways, they have unique advantages over younger learners.
My oldest student was in his eighties, and from a tutor's perspective, it was an incredibly rewarding experience due to his great commitment to studying.

Q: What are the pros and cons of taking graded exams and diplomas?

​A: Students aiming to pursue music in higher education need to achieve good grades in school music subjects, encompassing both theory and performance. However, for aspiring rock, jazz, and acoustic artists, formal qualifications are less critical than talent, experience, reputation, connections, and sometimes luck, in securing opportunities.

At first glance, there seems to be little reason for amateur musicians to undertake the demanding and costly process of formal examinations.

Yet, the benefits of being assessed by a professional, impartial external examiner are significant. It offers students—and parents, where relevant—a tangible measure of progress, affirming the effectiveness of my teaching. Working towards defined goals and deadlines often accelerates learning. Moreover, exams provide essential practice in performing under pressure, which can enhance confidence when managed correctly. Successful candidates receive an internationally recognized, accredited qualification, along with a certificate for display.

Conversely, some find the syllabus too limiting or misaligned with their interests. There are those who disagree with the notion of measuring musical artistry through formal exams, or who simply wish to avoid further tests. Part of my role is to assist students in making the best choice for themselves and to offer appropriate support for any path they choose.