by Glen McCarthy | Mar 24, 2014 | Classroom, Education, Gear, News, Tips + Tricks
In the last 10 years, not only has the guitar gained popularity amongst the general public who play or want to learn to play this fine stringed instrument; the guitar has experienced unprecedented growth in classroom instructional programs within America’s...
by Glen McCarthy | Mar 12, 2014 | Classroom, Education, Gear, Tips + Tricks
Q. Can you think of popular songs that showcase the aesthetic benefits of using a capo? A. It’s exciting for budding guitarists to incorporate new techniques and accessories – especially when it’s something they see their musical heroes using. One of these is the...
by Glen McCarthy | Mar 12, 2014 | Classroom, Education, Gear, Tips + Tricks
One of the most frustrating things about being a guitar educator is getting your students to practice. It might sound counterintuitive, but the biggest distraction, smartphones, might be your best friend. Check out these great apps for practicing. 1. JamStar Acousitcs...
by Glen McCarthy | Mar 3, 2014 | Classroom, Education, Gear, Tips + Tricks
Music educators and music shops have a symbiotic relationship, but what happens when music educators go online? We asked classroom guitar teachers about educator-friendly online music retailers and the same ideas (and shops) kept surfacing. First: What are you looking...
by Glen McCarthy | Mar 3, 2014 | Classroom, Education, Gear, Principles, Tips + Tricks
Hey, remember the metronome? Sure, it helps everybody learn to obey rhythm (one of the musts of playing any musical instrument – especially in an ensemble), but you’ll probably reach for an alternative that works great for guitar class: a drum machine. Not sure which...
by Glen McCarthy | Feb 16, 2014 | Classroom, Education, Gear, Principles, Tips + Tricks
I actually see two questions here: 1.) How much do student guitars cost? 2.) How much do quality student guitars cost? The answer to question #1 is: you can find a guitar for $30-50. That’s great! Here comes the BUT, or the answer to question #2: Sometimes you...
