BLOGS
Many of my students are in their 60s, 70s, or 80s. The main advantage younger players have is that up to around age 25, the brain retains high neuroplasticity. That means it learns and adapts more quickly to new motor and memory-based tasks. But older adults bring focus, patience, and a desire to learn for the right reasons. Guitar can also help offset the effects of arthritis, improve memory, reduce stress, and support hand coordination. No matter your age, it's still a smart and fulfilling choice.
I don't hold traditional 'recitals.' My students are adults, and most of them aren't looking for that kind of experience. That said, if you do want to perform, I offer Guitar Wars, a live, amateur competition open to all skill levels. Or, if you'd rather keep things low-key, I can introduce you to other students in your age range who are just looking for someone to jam with. No pressure either way.
I grew up playing rock, blues, country, metal, folk, and modern fingerstyle guitar. Then I went on to earn two degrees in jazz guitar and received formal training in classical guitar. I teach both pick and fingerstyle, and I understand the strengths and demands of each genre. While my Street Guitar curriculum is focused on popular music, I also teach jazz, classical, and other advanced styles upon request. Whether you're interested in indie folk, worship music, ambient textures, funk, or anything else, I'll help you get there. Metal, folk, etc. are all in the mix if that's your thing.
If you've never played before, the good news is that you have no bad habits to break. You'll be learning clean from the start. The only question is whether guitar ends up being worth your time, something only you can decide once you see how much effort it takes to play well. If you've already been playing, we skip that part. You're already a guitarist. But you've probably picked up some inefficient habits, whether from YouTube or casual lessons. I'll point them out one at a time, clearly and without pressure. You'll know what works and what doesn't, and you'll always decide what to keep or change.
Street Guitar is how I wish I had been taught when I started. It includes all the good stuff that actually applies to popular styles, without the baggage of academic methods. You learn proper left and right hand technique, accurate chord transitions, and practical theory. But here's the twist. Half the curriculum is blank. That's where you come in. You tell me what you want to play, and I pull songs and techniques that match your goals and organize them into a level-based structure. If you want to go deeper into jazz or classical guitar, I love teaching those styles too. You just have to let me know and I'll build them into your plan.
Most guitarists out in the real world use TAB. It's everywhere: websites, YouTube videos, charts, and books. I use it too because it matches the environment students actually learn in. But by itself, TAB is missing key info: which left-hand fingers to use, which right-hand fingers to pluck with, how to pick, and how to play cleanly. That's where I come in. Over time, I teach you how to read between the lines and make smart decisions based on experience and technique. If you stick with lessons, you'll learn to think critically about music, not just copy finger positions. I also teach standard notation and reading music if you request it. Learn about my student policies today!
This isn't a meet-and-greet. We already took care of that in the consultation. In your first lesson, we get straight to the point. You'll learn string names, basic chords, and the key info needed to start playing right away. I also cover correct right and left hand technique from day one. The goal is to give you a real sense of momentum, not just an introduction. Ready to book your first 30-minute guitar lesson? Contact me at Little Rock Music Academy and let’s get started.
Guitar engages multiple parts of the brain at once. You're using memory, movement, creativity, and focus together. That's one reason it's so effective for older adults looking to stay sharp. Even short practice sessions can help slow cognitive decline and improve mood. Unlike brain games, guitar ties into something personal and fun. It doesn't feel like homework. It feels like progress Interested in boosting your memory and enjoying the benefits of music? Contact me today to schedule your first lesson at Little Rock Music Academy.
Guitar isn't just for kids or teenagers. Most of my students are adults in their 30s, 40s, 50s, 60s, 70s, and even 80s. Some are picking up a guitar for the first time. Others are coming back after decades away. I've built my lessons around adult learners because they bring patience, life experience, and a deep appreciation for music. I also teach teenagers, especially those who are focused and ready to learn in a one-on-one setting. Whether you want to play your favorite songs, improvise, or challenge yourself with something new, I tailor the lessons to you. Ready to start your guitar journey? Contact me today at Little Rock Music Academy and let’s unlock the joy of music together.