How do you run your teaching program?
Generally we give one half-hour private lesson each week at the student’s reserved time. Since we work individually, the lesson material will be selected according to the desires and abilities of each student. Lessons may take place in person or online.
When do you schedule your lessons?
We usually take appointments from 1–9 pm weekdays, all day Saturday, and Sunday afternoon. Students normally reserve a weekly lesson slot.
Do you accept all levels of students?
Yes, and all ages six to sixty and beyond. We work with absolute beginners and also give advanced instruction to professionals.
Do I need my own guitar?
Yes, and you have three basic types to choose from: (1) nylon-string classic, (2) steel-string acoustic, or (3) steel-string electric. Our studios do have amplifiers and other equipment for use during the lessons. (Note: for left-handed beginners we suggest a “right-handed” guitar since both hands are equally involved in playing the guitar.)
Do you sell guitars?
No, but we would be happy to help advise you on what to look for in choosing an instrument. You may even borrow one of our guitars during your first lesson if you are unsure of what to buy.
What else do I need?
At some point you may need to purchase a method book or sheet music, but we have prepared hundreds of free handouts to enhance your musical instruction. Other items you might find useful include guitar tuner, picks, capo, footstool, music stand, tuning fork, and metronome. There are also many useful apps to assist in your musical journey.
How long will it take to learn to play the guitar?
If you are an absolute beginner, you can expect to be playing a few songs within one month. You will know a lot of the basics within a few months, and after six months you should have a good grasp of the instrument. Many students take lessons for years to improve and study different musical styles. The results of the lessons do vary with the amount of practice, previous musical training, and natural ability.
How much should I practice?
We suggest around a half-hour each day of practice. For more serious students, one to three hours per day might be required. The great Spanish guitarist Andrés Segovia still practiced 5 hours a day until his death at age 94. The most important thing, though, is quality time – setting a goal and working to achieve it.
What happens if I am unable to attend a lesson?
We have an online make-up lesson video library, and we offer online private lessons for when a student cannot make it in person due to illness or travel.
What other benefits will my child get from taking guitar lessons?
Learning to play guitar is musical enjoyment to last a lifetime. As an investment in your child’s future, it teaches self-discipline, develops coordination, builds confidence, develops social skills, and is a creative outlet to relieve stress. Studies have shown that children who participate in musical programs are better adjusted socially and score significantly higher in academic subjects. Your encouragement and support will help motivate the child to practice and achieve mastery of the instrument.
As an adult, is it too late to learn to play the guitar?
Many of our students are adults who now have the time, means, and motivation to enjoy taking guitar lessons. Playing an instrument is a wonderful stress-reliever and creating music brings a great deal of life satisfaction. Studies indicate that embracing an instrument and feeling the vibrations actually promotes relaxation. Some adults also share the musical experience with their children or spouse, making it a family activity for all to enjoy.
Do you teach any other instruments?
In addition to guitar, we can teach any instrument with frets and strings including electric bass, mandolin, banjo, and ukulele. We also help vocalists sing with the guitar, develop songwriting skills, and we enjoy working with ensembles of various types.
Where are you located?
Brandon Guitar Studio is conveniently located in Suite E8 of the Megaron Building, 8212 Ithaca Avenue, one block west of Indiana off 82nd Street. Please use the far left (east) front door on the front of the building. The lessons take place in a pleasant, professional atmosphere. We have a comfortable lobby, three studios with observation windows, a classroom, and a conference room for workshops. Click here for a map to Brandon Guitar Studio.
How do the online lessons work?
If you prefer personal online lessons, you will meet your instructor on your choice of video platform, including FaceTime, Zoom, Skype, or Google. Teaching materials can be sent immediately as PDF’s. Video lessons are also a convenient alternative to studio lessons when meeting in person is not possible.
What is your payment policy?
Our monthly tuition fee is due in advance by the first of the month. Tuition is handled conveniently and securely by ACH bank draft or debit/credit card autopay. Our tuition rates are quite reasonable and can be obtained by contacting us.
Do you have gift certificates?
Yes, and please contact us to arrange for them by email, phone, or in person. Gift certificates are a wonderful way to share the lifetime benefits of music with family or friends!
How do I sign up for lessons?
We do not have any formal registration process, contracts, or extra fees. Just email us at bgstex@aol.com or give us a call at (806) 799-1916 to arrange your first lesson!
Still have a question for our staff?
Feel free to reach out to us below.