DISQUS

Preach on brother....

One of the things that has helped my studio, but at the same time, reflects the change in the industry from when we were teenagers is the Guitar Center phenom....

When we were teens, there were several music stores around the city and all taught guitar/bass. However, when GC came along, they ran the small shops out of business. What they don't do is teach though.

So i'm able to pick up a lot of students, but we don't have the mom & pop stores around any more.

Hey, have a good holiday (we call it vacation over here).

Are you taking a guitar with you?

Delegation is so important. It helps get more done and gives the employee a sense of ownership in the business.

I believe that when the employee has an interest in the business other than just earning a paycheck, you get new ideas, great customer service and other dividends.

Uh, ritchie valens...

Wait, wait...

Ricky Martin...

no

Hmm, I'll go with Chris, Mr. Carlos Santana

I'm Eric Clapton. (rolls eyes) Yeah, I think that survey really tries to nail it down lol...

But, we did just finish a couple of eric clapton polls on my blog, hmm.

hey, thanks for tipping your hat!

Where are you? Less than 100 miles away means you could make it to a jam session every now and then. :)

Teaching is my full time job. But, I had to make a leap from a safe 40 hour a week job to doing this.

In teaching, you do become a better player. You have to overcome your weak spots and learn how to communicate with your student.

I've come to know more about my playing, as well as becoming a better player, because of teaching.

Everyone hits a plateau in their playing. We could also call it the "rut" where they feel comfortable playing what they know, but feel they're not progressing.

I say this, find a teacher, not just any teacher, but the baddest cat in town. Someone that will make you sweat every lesson (eg. am I ready, he's going to jump my ass because I'm not swinging enough, what were all the inversions to that G#minor7b5b9 chord, etc)

This will be the kick in the rear most need to get focused again on their playing.

I've been lucky enough to see Phil perform twice, one to a "guitar player" crowd and one to a general audience.

Both shows were great, but the guitar crowd show blew me away. Loop stations in tow, Phil played some of the most intricate music I've ever seen anyone play.

Plus, he was so kind. He talked to many of us after the show about making music, his technique, his gear, etc.

For those of you that have not seen him, make it a point to do so!

You know, when I started playing, I wondered what this strange thing was, this "guitar face" that happened when I played.

Many people commented, many said "stop doing that"...

But, I stuck to my guitar face and it has served me well!

Hey Chris, thanks for the blog mention.!