Gorehound’s Roots Guitar Tips

How much are private lessons?- $35/hr or $120/month (weekly, 1hr) in advance.

Do I have to book a regular weekly appointment?- We  offer afternoon drop-in lessons for clients that are unable to commit to a regular weekly session. Just email on the day you’d like to take a lesson, we’ll advise you on availability. Drop-ins rates are $40 per hour, $140 for block of 4 ($20 less).

We offer private video lessons, recorded specifically for you. Rates are $20 for a 30 minute lesson or you can purchase a block of 4, for $65 ($15 less). 1/2 the price of private lessons and you never have  find parking!

Email roots.gtr@gmail.com for more info

Where are you located?- Our office is located at #35 660 Jackson ave in Strathcona.

Do you teach beginners?- Yes, we’ll get you started with good playing and practice habits.

How young can someone learn guitar?- 8 or 9, younger if they are highly motivated.

Do you teach acoustic guitar?- Yes acoustic or electric, the theory behind it is the same.

Do you charge a registration fee?- No, that’s highway robbery. I try to provide better value than the big schools and conservatory’s.

Does everyone receive the same lessons?- No, lessons are designed for the individual. Everyone learns differently and has their own goals.

Do I have to learn a bunch of boring scales and drills?- Yes you do!, but we get students playing songs right away to keep things interesting.

Do I have to learn Standard Musical Notation (treble/bass clef)?- No, we use Tablature for all our lessons. You do have to learn the names of all 12 notes; A-G#. Students wishing to play professionally  are strongly encouraged to learn standard notation.

Are materials expensive?- No all Tablature, transcriptions,  and song-sheets are included in our hourly rate.

What do I bring to a lesson?- A guitar,  and something to put tabs and notes in ( binder ). You can also use one of my Sparrow Guitars for the lesson if you’d prefer. There are Steel-String and Nylon String acoustics available  for students use also.

When are fees due? – At the end of the first session. Following months fee’s are due, at the end of your last paid session.

Do I need to have natural ability?- I think most people are capable of playing the guitar if they try. Of all the instruments, guitar is one of the easiest to learn.

I forget everything I learn immediately,  oh look a squirrel!- I demonstrate all the techniques covered during the lesson, slowly, step by step on a Digital video recorder. You always have a permanent record of everything you learn at the lesson. I don’t know why more teachers don’t record lessons, my clients say they learn much faster this way!

I’m not very confident, does that matter?- No, solving small problems and playing simple songs are great for building confidence and self esteem.

What if I miss a class, do I get a refund?- No, not unless you give at least 24hrs notice. Make sure you choose a time you can commit to.

How long should I practice for?- At least a 1/2 hour every day, preferably an hour. If your goal is to become a professional or teach, make that 3-4 hours, per day.

Do you teach any other instruments besides Guitar?- We also offer instruction on  Bass Guitar, Dobro, Banjo, Mandolin, Lap-Steel, and Ukulele.

How do I set up a 1/2 price  introductory lesson?- E-mail us at roots.gtr@gmail.com

Why should I take lessons at Gorehound Sound?

1. I’m not going to promise that you’ll be able to play like your favorite rockstar in a couple of weeks, but a consistent, concerted effort with a good teacher,  produces concrete results quickly.

2. I have been playing for over 35 years. As a student and a teacher of the Guitar, I have dedicated myself to finding the best, fastest ways to get results….the same results that you want!

3. I have spent the last 25 years playing in original bands, I currently share my time with 5 local acts. I have a certificate in Music Business Administration(management, marketing, promotion) from ICA, I’m a featured instructor at the Stringery and  endorsed by Sparrow Guitars of Canada. Gorehound’s Roots Guitar Tips is rated in the worlds top 100 Guitar sites

4. I make my living as a full-time musician and music teacher. I will give you helpful insights that an inexperienced Berkely/GIT grad and a full-time music teacher cannot offer you!

Gorehound Sound Productions 2009