Frequently Asked Questions

Getting Started

I’m in my 40s/50s/60s—am I too old to learn? Absolutely not. In fact, most of my students are adults. Learning guitar at this stage of life is a fantastic way to keep the mind sharp, relieve stress, and finally do something for yourself. We focus on progress and enjoyment, not high-pressure exams.

Do I need to know how to read music? No. While I can teach it if you’re interested, we primarily use Tablature (TAB) and my custom visual aids. This allows you to start playing recognizable songs much faster than traditional sheet music methods.

I’ve never picked up a guitar. Where do I start? We start at the very beginning! In your first lesson, I’ll show you how to hold the instrument, how to use a pick, and how to play your first few notes. You don’t need any prior musical experience.

Equipment & Gear

Do I need my own guitar for the first lesson? It helps, but it’s not required. If you’re still shopping, let me know! I can bring a "loaner" guitar to our first session and help you figure out which size and style (Acoustic vs. Electric) fits your hands and your musical tastes.

My fingers are stiff/I have arthritis. Can I still play? Yes. We can adjust the "setup" of your guitar (lower strings, lighter gauges) to make it much easier to press down. I also focus on ergonomic hand positions to minimize strain and maximize comfort.

Logistics & Mobile Lessons

How do Mobile Lessons work? I bring the lesson to you! All you need is a quiet space with two chairs. I handle the travel and bring all necessary teaching materials. This is a popular option for busy professionals in the Crawfordsville area and retirees who prefer the comfort of home.

Which counties do you serve for Mobile Lessons? I currently serve Montgomery, Boone, Putnam, Fountain, and Tippecanoe counties. Travel fees are based on your distance from Crawfordsville (47933). See my pricing page for Travel Zones

What is your cancellation policy? I require 24 hours' notice for all cancellations or rescheduling. This allows me to offer the time slot to other students or adjust my travel route. Lessons cancelled with less than 24 hours' notice will be charged at the full rate unless a true emergency has taken place.

Practice & Expectations

How much do I need to practice? Consistency is better than intensity. Just 15–20 minutes a day is enough to see steady progress. I’ll provide you with clear, visual "homework" so you know exactly what to work on between our sessions.

What styles of music do you teach? I specialize in the music many of my adult students grew up with: 70s Classic Rock, 80s/90s Rock and Alt, Blues, Folk, and Country. However, the fundamentals we learn will allow you to play almost any style you enjoy.