Teacher feature
So that guitar teachers can learn about other teachers’ experiences, each issue we focus on the work of one teacher. This issue it’s Jeff Topp from Sussex...
GT. What do you enjoy most about teaching guitar?
Jeff: I get to meet all walks of life when I'm teaching. Also, I get a lot of enjoyment seeing students achieving something rewarding.
GT. What are the downsides of the job?
Jeff: Long hours and the pressures you put on yourself to deliver the goods, but I wouldn't trade my job for anything else and feel privileged to be doing what I am.
GT. How do you balance your teaching commitments with other aspects of your life?
Jeff:Because of the nature of the job, home life seems
to take second fiddle at times but I have the great support of my family
and friends, which really helps. I also try to catch up with my mates when
I can and talk about something other than music.
GT. How would you summarise your approach to teaching guitar?
Jeff: Fun! Students will perform better in lessons if they enjoy what they are learning and have a goal to work towards. I base a lot of my teaching around building core techniques first before delving into the theory.
GT. Do you find the RGT exams useful?
Jeff: I have had quite a few students pass the RGT exams at different levels and I feel that they are a great all-round way for students to challenge every part of their guitar playing. I also like the fact that the student has to think practically to pass, as they have to be creative with the use of scales when soloing and chords when playing rhythms. These qualities would be needed if you were to be called upon to do a professional session. So they set the student up for future events as a guitarist.
GT. How do new students find out about you?
Jeff: I advertise in the Yellow Pages and yell.com which drives people directly to my own website. I get a lot of response via the RGT website and I think this gives the potential student confidence to know that the tutor is a member of the RGT organisation. I also get a lot of word-of-mouth enquiries.
GT. How do you encourage students to practise?
Jeff: I set them goals to achieve before their next lesson with me. I also hold events for my students to get up and perform and try to encourage them to take part.
GT. Do you have any tips to pass on to new guitar teachers?
Jeff: Try to make your lessons fun for your students as they will tend to progress quicker if they enjoy their lessons with you. To maintain your own interest, try to vary what you teach and plan lessons as much as you can.
GT. Do you organise any activities for your students outside of their normal lessons?
Jeff: Yes, I run a student concert every year where my pupil's, young or old, get to perform either with a band or individually. I normally run it with a charity to raise money for local causes. Last year we had almost 250 people turn up in support, which was fantastic. This certainly gives my students something to work for. I also run jam nights throughout the year at local pubs for some of my adult players. Last year I took eleven students to Memphis, USA, for a fiveday trip. We did all the sights of downtown Memphis, such as Graceland, Sun Studios and the Rock 'n' Soul Hall of Fame to name but a few. But just to soak up the atmosphere down the legendary Beale Street on a Saturday evening was enough to set the musical bloods racing. This was certainly a different take on teaching guitar, but I thought it was a great opportunity for anyone who enjoys live music. Next year I am planning a combined trip to Memphis and Nashville.
I have got an event planned for May 8 in Cooden, on the Sussex coast. I am holding an 'Evening with Bernie Marsden' (ex-Whitesnake guitarist). He will be performing solo and with a house band. He will also be conducting a question and answer session for all the students in the audience.
If any RGT members or their students are interested in attending this or the USA trip feel free to contact me through my website www.toppstrings.co.uk
