What materials do I need to begin lessons?
You will need a guitar, either a 6-string steel string or nylon string model. The instrument must be playable, meaning that it can be tuned properly and will remain in tune, that the neck is straight, that the “action†(the distance between the neck and the strings) is comfortable, and that the intonation of the fretted notes is correct. I can examine your guitar to see if it’s playable and recommend any repairs that may be needed to improve the quality of its sound.
No purchase of books are required. We will be creating your own personalized music book together based on the songs you want to learn to play.
What if I don’t already have a guitar?
If you don’t have an instrument, I’d be happy to advise you on the purchase of one. This guidance is provided free of charge, and I don’t endorse any guitar manufacturers or receive compensation of any kind from them. My goal is to make sure you find a guitar that you feel comfortable with and will enjoy playing for years to come.
What ages do you teach?
Ages 9 and up.
How much does it cost for lessons?
$50 per hour.
I want to get lessons for someone as a gift. Do you have gift certificates available?
Yes, gift certificates are available for any occasion. You can purchase them by the hour (for instance, one, two or three hours of instruction). To place your order, email me at LichtermanGuitar@aol.com or call me at (917) 930-6738. I can send your gift certificate right away via email, mail or you can pick it up in person.
In what part of town are you located?
I’m at 2910 11th Avenue North in St. Petersburg, Florida. That’s right off US 19.
Can I leave my child with you while I go do other things?
I prefer that children 12 or under are accompanied by a parent or guardian during the lesson. This also gives you the opportunity to see what occurs during lessons and watch your child’s improvements for themselves. Some parents take side-by-side lessons with their children as a joint family activity, so you may consider that option, too.
Feel free to bring the student’s siblings. I have a private, comfortable waiting room adjoining the music studio with TV, books, games and complimentary snacks to enjoy while you all wait during the lesson.
How soon can I expect to see results?
Even if you’ve never played a guitar before, you’ll be able to play a simple chord progression after just one lesson. With just a couple of lessons you’ll learn enough basic chords and strums to play some of your favorite simple songs. Your early success will fuel your desire to practice harder, get better and learn more.
If you practice regularly, you’ll advance quickly. With daily practice you can play a new scale or chord progression within a few days. Each new technique builds on the ones you already know. And the more you know, the more songs you can play, which makes guitar playing more enjoyable.
How much time per day do I need to practice?
The more time you spend each day practicing, the more quickly you’ll see results. I recommend a minimum of 15 minutes per day for beginners, working up to half an hour per day, and then up to an hour per day. You might find yourself wanting to practice more than that! Practicing is fun and empowering as your abilities and confidence grow.