I use a comprehensive approach for beginning students that covers fundamentals relating to all music styles - including rock, folk, pop, country or blues. Lessons are planned around the student’s musical interest, whether the focus is in one area, or a combination of styles. For students who are ready to improve and explore new possibilities, lessons are adapted to the particular goals of the student. This can include a favorite style or even help with specific songs. In addition, we can explore finger-style; improvisation; practical chord theory; music fundamentals; scales, modes and keys; and ear training.I believe in the “no pain, gradual gain” approach. The hands have a natural capacity for developing and increasing coordination, regardless of the age of the student. Each lesson begins with progressive warm-up finger exercises to gradually improve strength and stretching abilities. We live in a time period that is a guitar Renaissance. There is great music readily available to us from many sources. It helps to have a ‘music coach’ to guide the student in individual steps to bring the music into playing experience.