Acoustic guitar players typically break down into two groups: strummers and pickers. Their playing preferences are pretty self-explanatory. Strummers like big, ringy chords. They … [Read More...]
Learn to Play
Guitar Lesson: “We Will Rock You” by Queen
Few rock & roll songs are as iconic and universally known as "We Will Rock You" by Queen. Every school kid knows how to stomp-stomp-clap on the gym bleachers as the masses … [Read More...]
Considering Live Video Lessons?
The Internet has changed the way we learn. Want to build a guitar from a cigar box? No problem. Get clever with your coffee? Easy-peasy. Build an awesome LEGO car? Just listen to … [Read More...]
Introduction to Keys
Did you have a set of plastic building blocks as a kid? Every box has a picture of a super cool project on the front - maybe a house or a robot or a motorcycle. When you open the … [Read More...]
How to Read & Write Strum Notation
Playing rhythm guitar means playing a pattern of strokes known as a strum pattern. This pattern repeats itself throughout the song and often remains unchanged. However, it is not … [Read More...]
Why Bother with Barre Chords?
Its reputation precedes it. Even non-guitarists are aware of its legend. You don't want to meet it in a dark alley and you definitely do not want to get on its bad side. It will … [Read More...]
Learn to Teach
Skills, Concepts & Vocabulary
You've heard it before... the tired, old analogy of the three-legged stool. You know, the three things that MUST be equally developed or something of significance (like your … [Read More...]
10 Tips for Your First Class
This is a precursory lesson that should be consulted when launching any music class. Congratulations, instructor! You have worked hard to plan and promote a guitar class... and it … [Read More...]
Teacher, Turn Your Volume Down!
Don’t Be Intimidated by a Self-Teaching Student!
Eric shares sixty seconds of encouragement for the instructor who is intimidated by self-teaching students. "I had a student come in this week and say, Mr. Eric! I've learned … [Read More...]
How to Use a Practice Log
In sixty seconds, Eric explains how to use a practice log to motivate students to practice more frequently and effectively. "From time to time I'll have a student in lesson that … [Read More...]
3 Things for Every New Student
Getting some new students who have taken lessons with another instructor? Eric shares his strategy for preparing transition students for success. "There are three things … [Read More...]
When I was 15, two things happened to me that changed my life: I became a Christian and I got a guitar for Christmas. I began teaching guitar lessons "on the side" in 2001 and developed my skills and reputation as an instructor for the next nine years. In 2010, my wife and I opened our business, Beans & Strings, in our hometown of Moultrie, GA. From teaching in the classroom, leading a team of instructors, and my own 15+ years teaching guitar, I have developed LessonNotebook.com as a resource for those who want to learn to play guitar and those who want to teach it. Read More…