Teacher Feature
So guitar teachers can learn about other teachers’ experiences, each issue we focus on the work of one teacher. This issue it's Phil Curzon from the Lake District…
GT: What do you enjoy most about teaching guitar?
PC: I enjoy seeing students develop along with sharing my knowledge and enthusiasm for music.
GT: What are the downsides of the job?
PC: I don't really feel as though there are any downsides, as I feel extremely fortunate to be able to make a living teaching guitar and being connected with music.
GT: How do you balance your teaching commitments with other aspects of your life?
PC: I am fortunate to have a very understanding and supportive wife and family. In regard to performance, I try to play on a regular basis in different ensembles and projects.
GT: Summarise your approach to teaching guitar.
PC: I feel it is essential to make learning an enjoyable experience for the student and therefore I have this as a primary focus in all of my teaching. I think it is important to cater to the needs of the student at their particular point of development and make sure that the fundamentals are covered well. I also like to develop a creative spark in students by introducing improvisation and showing students the connections between different styles.
GT: Do you find the RGT exams useful?
PC: The material and approach of the RGT examinations is extremely effective in facilitating students' understanding of the practical application of scales, arpeggios, chords, etc. - which prepares them for real musical situations. They are also well-planned in regard to introducing specific requirements at certain stages.
GT: How do new students find out about you?
PC: The majority of students usually contact me through personal recommendations or the RGT website.
GT: How do you encourage students to practice?
PC: I make sure that the material covered in the lessons is appropriate for the student and their intended direction and that the concepts and materials specified for practice are set out into clear and achievable targets. In addition, it is also effective to demonstrate what they can achieve with practice and also how to practice. You also need to be enthusiastic about the subject and put this across in the lesson.
GT: Do you have any tips to pass on to new guitar teachers?
PC: You need to be enthusiastic and make the experience enjoyable for the students. You also need a clear and concise approach to what you can teach and what you want to teach. I think it is important to understand that the student is the priority and make sure that the fundamentals are covered well. Preparation and evaluation are two key factors in successful teaching and therefore obtaining a professional teaching qualification, such as the new RGT Electric Guitar Teaching Diplomas or a PGCE, are excellent ways in which to refine your approach, see the craft of teaching from varied perspectives and enhance your professional development.
