How I Think About Learning Guitar
Updated: Oct 13
One thing I've learnt from playing music for so long is that people are drawn to the guitar for completely different reasons. Some people want to play their favourite songs, some are obsessed with technique, and others just want to be able to write music or make something up on the spot. I think all of those are good reasons to learn.
I started guitar when I was seven and later picked up piano and singing. What kept me interested wasn't just getting better at playing scales or learning more difficult pieces. It was finding music that made me curious about what I could do next.
I'd rather start with what interests you
If you're learning guitar, I think it's important to have some say in what you're working towards. That might be your first full song, an improvisation over a blues backing track, a classical piece or an ambitious metal solo. There's a lot of useful technique and music theory behind each of those goals, but learning it tends to feel more worthwhile when you know why you're doing it.
I'm particularly interested in improvisation, songwriting and guitar technique, and I enjoy everything from classical and jazz to rock and metal. I like the idea of connecting those things rather than treating each skill as something completely separate.
A bit of structure, and room to experiment
I don't think learning music should mean choosing between having a clear plan and being creative. Sometimes you need somebody to show you how a technique works or help you break down a difficult passage. Other times it's worth putting the exercises aside and seeing what you can come up with. Both are part of becoming a musician.
Online guitar lessons
I'm working towards offering online guitar lessons through David Wyman Music. They're not open for booking just yet, but the approach I want to take is personal: finding out what you enjoy, what you're already comfortable with and where you'd like to go next. I'd much rather work with your interests than put everybody through exactly the same material.
If you're interested in hearing about lessons when they're available, you're welcome to get in touch and tell me a bit about your playing.
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