Guitar
Hey everyone! My name is Cyrus, and I am the guitar teacher here at Leading Tone Music Studio. If you are new here and want to learn how to play the guitar, here is what I do with my students.
Teaching Philosophy
As a teacher, I want to learn about my student’s interests, hobbies and life. I strongly believe that learning the student’s style and interests will help me excel as a teacher in creating lesson plans, drills and songs that will help make the student feel confident and have the drive to practice on their own. Lastly, I also believe that having fun makes a huge difference. If you do not have fun in class, I believe the student won’t have anything to look forward to before coming to the next class.
I believe that words are very powerful. Of course, actions are more powerful than words, but I do believe that people who are learning (at any age) like the affirmation that they are doing something right. I use many positive words of affirmation when teaching, such as: “Good job!”, “Nice!”, or “Perfect!” That small acknowledgement will help them continue on the right course. But please note, I will never say something I do not mean. So, if they do a good job, I will give them the praise they deserve. If not, I will constantly keep challenging them over and over until they are able to do it.
Goal Setting
When you decide to start learning guitar, set expectations on what you want to learn. Specifically, learning about rhythm, soloing, or both! The most effective way for me to help students reach their goal is for the student to choose their favorite song! You probably won’t know how to play that song right at the beginning, but I will teach, tailor and drill on certain skills/knowledge so we CAN reach that goal in the end.
Challenge
Talking about challenges, I really like exceeding expectations and I’d like to transfer that mentality to my students. During lessons, I might tell them to do something outside of their comfort zone. For example I could ask them to play a chord in a different way, play the song again but faster, or don’t look at your left hand when you try playing it this time, etc. This is not just a guitar lesson but a life lesson that the students can learn and apply to their day-to-day tasks.
Drills
I love seeing the progress of the students in live action. I want to teach them that anything is possible by practicing. During class, we will sometimes do some spontaneous drilling of a certain technique. In class, practice will give students the knowledge to do their drill/technique by themselves at home. I believe the fastest and most effective way in learning any instrument, is PRACTICE.
Star Chart System/Incentives
In our studio we have a rewards program that runs throughout the music year. Each student's name will be on our chart and they will gain "stars" for practicing well and having good lessons. When they gain enough stars they can redeem them for fantastic prizes. Prizes are an added way for students to be motivated and have fun in music!
