Frequently Asked Questions – Guitar Lessons Bristol
Frequently Asked Questions – Guitar Lessons Bristol
Do I need to bring my own guitar to start lessons?
Not necessarily. Mention it when we call you back and we'll check whether your tutor can bring a spare for your first lesson. Once we get to know you and your requirements, we can help you find an appropriate guitar to suit your needs.
How long are your guitar lessons?
Our lessons start at 30 minutes. If you really want to go into depth, 45 and 60 minutes are good for older children and teens. Adults may wish to push up to 60 minutes if a serious hobbyist. We don't push our customers to take time not needed and we give free advice when needed.
Is there an extra charge for mobile guitar lessons?
No, mobile lessons cost the same as lessons at a tutor's studio. However, if you live in a remote part of Bristol, we recommend asking friends and neighbours if they would also like to take music lessons to make it worth the trip for our teachers. Some of our teachers are multi-instrumentalists and can teach piano and guitar lessons, for example.
What happens in my first guitar lesson?
During your first lesson, you'll meet your teacher who will make you feel comfortable and get to know you. We'll talk about your goals and aspirations and come up with a plan to help you improve your playing. By the end of the first lesson, you'll be able to play something new!
Can my seven-year-old child take guitar lessons?
Absolutely! We believe starting children with their musical journey early in life can have long-term benefits. Our guitar teachers are experienced in teaching younger children and specialise in making lessons fun and engaging.
Should I take electric or acoustic guitar lessons?
It depends on your goals and the type of music you enjoy. If you'd like to try both types of guitar, let us know and we can arrange this for your first lesson.
What about bass guitar lessons?
Yes. Bass is taught alongside guitar. See our guitar lessons page for more, and our comparison of guitar and bass guitar if you're deciding between the two.
Which brand of guitar should I choose?
Beginner guitars are usually very affordable, and we can help you find a sensibly priced instrument. Some good beginner guitar brands we may suggest are Yamaha, Squier, Epiphone, and Tanglewood. Our Fender Stratocaster review covers the Squier range, and our guide to Bristol's music shops lists places to try one.
How do I tune my guitar?
Your teacher can tune your guitar for you each week, and you'll be able to learn to tune easily with a mobile phone app or electronic tuner once you've settled into your lessons.
What qualifications do your guitar teachers hold?
Our guitar teachers are working players with teaching experience. Many have a music degree or equivalent experience, and some hold Grade 8, the highest graded exam on their instrument. Every Tempo tutor is DBS-checked.
What kind of experience do your guitar teachers have?
Our tutors are working musicians: they play, record and write their own music as well as teach.
Can I reschedule or cancel a guitar lesson?
Yes, with at least 24 hours' notice. We value our tutors' time and we hope you will too. Be sure to tell your tutor about your holiday plans in advance.
Do you provide any resources or materials to help with practice outside of lessons?
Yes, if your lessons are bespoke this will be provided in a variety of forms depending on your need. We like to use old-fashioned books and e-documents where possible to avoid wasted paper. You may need to buy some materials if these are copyrighted, or you're taking grade exams, but we can provide samples.
How often do I need to take guitar lessons?
Most students have weekly lessons, but fortnightly, monthly and one-off lessons are welcome too. For what to do in between, see how much to practise.
Do you teach music theory in addition to guitar technique?
Yes, we love theory and you will too. When taught as part of an integrated approach, theory will set your guitar playing free! Our guide to beginner guitar techniques is a good place to start.