Teacher Feature
So that guitar teachers can learn about other teacher's experiences, each issue we focus on the work of one teacher. This issue it's Jim Bradford from London...
GT: When did you first start teaching guitar?
Jim: Over 20 years ago. Myold guitar teacher, Adrian Barton, was my inspiration.
GT: What do you enjoy most about teaching guitar?
Jim:The variety and the challenges that arise. I love watching my students develop as musicians.
GT: How do you balance your teaching commitments with other aspectsof your life?
Jim: I do a lot of playing and arranging and I find the mixture keeps me fresh. I approach each activity with genuine enthusiasm.
GT: Summarise your approach to teaching guitar.
Jim: I like to think I'm well prepared and methodical. I try to structuredevelopment so each topic leads into or contributes to another area.
GT: Do you find the RGT exams useful?
Jim: Absolutely! The exam helps focus the mind so the student learns that particular material very thoroughly. It helps them assess their own development and each exam helps build confidence. I believe the new acoustic exams are extremely well planned and have great scope for introducing non-classical finger-picking pieces to my students.
GT: How do new students find out about you?
Jim: Private students come mainly through personal recommendation. I used to advertise in local papers/shops and most people were decent but there were one or two strange characters!
GT: How do you encourage students to practice?
Jim: Beginners need a clear and achievable goal for each week. Using simple arrangements of songs the student knows is a great boon. I use this alongside the more 'technical' topics and I find that a spoonful of sugar really does help the medicine go down!
GT: Do you have any tips to pass on to new guitar teachers?
Jim: Be very clear in your mind what you can teach and what you want to teach. Think about lessons in advance and prepare material thoroughly. Be clear about your aims and outcomes and take time to assess your performance in the lesson. Continue to revise lesson material. Make sure you have a clear and well-equipped space to teach in. Be patient and don't try to teach beginners your latest super-cool lick. Finally, have some good one-liners at your disposal, humour really is important!
