Guitar - Getting the Basics Right

getting the
basics right
by James Longworth & Nick Walker
Child:
Parent:
Teacher:
“I want to be a rock star and be the next winner of the X Factor”
“I always wished that I’d learned an instrument when I was young and
never did, so I want my child to have that opportunity”
“It is very important to learn good habits from the beginning as mistakes
are very difficult to rectify later”
Learning an instrument is always a group activity even in a one-to-one situation. The group comprises
the student, parent and teacher. Each member comes to the activity with different expectations and
offerings. The success of the enterprise depends on how these are integrated and harnessed from
the outset.
Most of us would agree that getting the basics
right is crucial. But what are the basics? As
music teachers we know that establishing good
posture, technique, sound production, listening
skills and musicality are all vitally important,
but a young student’s priorities will probably
be different to say the least! However certain
we feel that our priorities are the correct ones it
is important not to neglect those of our young
charges.
Students need fun, encouragement and lots of
positive feedback. They also need to feel a sense
of ownership of the process: that they are discovering things and not simply being given them.
With the right preparation it is possible to teach skills and knowledge incorporating a wide variety
of activities (instrumental, singing, rhythmic, physical) in such a way that instills good habits at the
same time as having fun.
Parents have a unique opportunity to provide a positive and encouraging support environment at
12 Faber Music | Teach & Play
getting the
basics right relies
on repertoire that
moves the student
forward while
minimising painful
stumbling blocks

home and can help by pointing, singing and clapping and by just listening. If a parent sees a child
that is engaged and excited about learning they are more likely to get involved in the process.
Getting the basics right relies on repertoire that moves the student forward while minimising
painful stumbling blocks. It should be logical, easy to follow, offer variety of style and be enjoyable.
The Guitar Basics series does just that and readers’ reviews seem to agree with us - “my son has loved
learning the guitar and this gives short simple pieces that he can learn quickly and feel proud of”.
Establishing a nurturing teaching environment where having fun and being positive are always
to the forefront will more than likely dictate how receptive the student will be. We believe in
teaching serious basics in a way that brings a smile to children’s faces, with backing tracks, teacher
accompaniments, activities and lots of humour! Instilling good habits is very important and doesn’t
have to be painful.
James Longworth and Nick Walker are the authors of the successful Guitar Basics publications which are
now internationally used both for individual and group learning scenarios. The books are designed to
take pupils from the absolute beginner stage to the initial/preparatory grade.
James Longworth studied both jazz and classical guitar at the
NSW State Conservatorium of Music in Sydney and has since performed at London’s Festival Hall,
Ronnie Scott’s and the 606 jazz clubs. He has been teaching adults and children since the mid nineties
and holds an M.A. in Music Education from Middlesex University. James currently teaches nearly 300
children per week in both large and small groups.
Nick Walker studied Classical Guitar at Trinity College of Music, London. He has
performed in venues such as St John’s, Smith Square as well as extensively in various bands as a lead
guitarist. Nick is Head of Guitar and Popular Music for the local authority music service in Haringey,
London. He currently co-ordinates the whole-class instrumental ‘Wider Opportunities’ scheme and is
a highly respected instrumental teacher.
Faber Music | Teach & Play
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