I've lost my teacher! What now?

drpbier

My teacher's leaving the business. I've been with him for just under 2 years and in that time I've passed Grades 2-4. So I know I've improved but I still feel like a 'student' rather than feeling like a 'player'. I want to find a new teacher but I'm wondering whether I could make more progress toward playing in public with a less grade focused teaching style.
I noticed that Rob Harris (Jamiroquai guitarist and funk phenom) is doing private lessons. They're pricey, as expected, nearly triple the hourly rate I've been paying, and I'd need to strictly ration the sessions. Do you think that would be a good idea or would I be best to go with a cheaper option and more teaching time?

Winny_Pooh

At your level you'd be better off with more time IMO

Bezzer

Depends what you want to do. You’ve passed grade 4 so clearly have a good grasp on things. If you want to keep going for grades (which is no bad thing at all for technique and theory) then yes, find a teacher to take you through the grades.

if you feel ok, my technique is where I need it to be for me then maybe looking for teachers who will take you to new places mentally is a good plan. Yes these will be more expensive BUT you don’t need as many ... one lesson can give you months of things to work on.

or you could be at the stage where your technique is ok, you know what you like, and In that case a period of time without lessons following things you want to follow could be good. Sometimes teaching yourself is just as valid as pro lessons. The path may be more ragged but you may find your style in there ... and any rough edges can be cleaned when you do decide for lessons again. 

What am I saying? All paths are valid, completely. Have a think about where you are and what you’d like to achieve next ... if you do that whatever you choose will be right.

drpbier

Moved this thread as I think I posted in the wrong place...

nectar

I find that some of the value in having lessons is being accountable to somebody to keep on grinding away with the practice etc, so would say have consistent regular lessons with somebody cheaper and go to Rob with specific goals (e.g. to improve something specific) if necessary. YMMV though.

Toms_Dad

Having a teacher and doing grades has some advantages. It puts a structure on things and introduces new techniques and more difficult pieces in a measured way which should reduce frustration. Is should also allow you to see your progress which can help enormously with motivation. As I understand grades, it also teaches a wide spectrum of different techniques and styles and tries to make a rounded and versatile player. If you get to the higher grades, then branching out into the specific styles that suit you and you want to specialise in then becomes much easier because you will have tried a number of different styles and you’ll know what you like and are good at. I would suggest keeping going with the grades for now.