Is Learning the Guitar a Practical Skill Only?

Let’s face it. Most of my students don’t like learning the theory associated with guitar playing. They want to play tunes, learn some songs, play riffs and chords. So where does “knowledge” of music fit in and do we push it with student. Parents for the most part would like to see their children learning at least some things about music. Many of my adult students see the worth of learning more about music.

I feel there needs to be a balance between the both. Here I want to speak about the practical side of learning.

Practical learning encompasses anything that helps you master a skill or ability. It includes skills such as cooking, painting, fixing a car. Learning the guitar is a talent and can be more about recreational skills and can lead to a career.

Why Practical Learning?

If you’re more of a thinker, love reading and more academic than a do-er, it can be difficult to focus on learning practical skills. The rewards though are definitely worth it.

• Learning a skill will help you build your confidence. Learning to accomplish something tangible, will prepare you in meeting your life goals. Confidence builds as you learn more and find you can do things you didn’t think possible.
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• Developing the ability to do things and learn practical skills means you won’t find yourself helpless. Seeking assistance becomes a choice rather than a necessity.
• Find others who know how to assist you. Don’t be afraid or too proud to ask questions. That’s how we learn. No matter what you background or profession, developing abilities can help you in your work and in leisure and at home
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• Developing a talent will build relationships with other like-minded people. You will find others willing to help you and talk to you about the things you are achieving or trying to achieve.
• There is great satisfaction in being able to accomplish something. When you develop a practical skill, you can see the results right away. With guitar it will be proportionate to the amount of practice you place on learning your new skills

David Barker www.guitartime.com.au