There are pros and cons to both online and in-person guitar lessons. It really depends on what you’re looking for in a guitar training program and what learning style works best for you.
Guitar classes offer a number of advantages over online lessons. For one, you’re able to get immediate feedback from your instructor. This can be extremely helpful in correcting bad habits or working on complex techniques. Additionally, in-person lessons provide a more personal learning experience. You can ask your instructor questions directly, and they can better understand your playing style and abilities.
That being said, online guitar lessons are often more affordable than in-person lessons, and you can learn at your own pace. You also have a greater selection of instructors to choose from, and you can learn from the comfort of your home.
The following are nine reasons why it’s better to attend guitar classes in person:
1. You get immediate feedback from your instructor:
Feedback is important for any skill, whether cooking or playing the guitar. In an in-person class, the instructor can hear you play and give you tips on how to improve. This is difficult and often impossible to replicate online.
2. More personal learning experience:
Online recorded lessons are impersonal. The instructor can get to know you and your learning style in an in-person class and adjust the lessons accordingly. This is especially important for kids because they learn better when they feel comfortable. Private guitar lessons can help you develop a personal relationship with your guitar teacher. This can make learning more enjoyable and give you someone to look up to and learn from.
3. You can ask questions directly:
You can ask the instructor directly if you have a question about the lesson. You might have to wait for a response via email or in the comments section of an online class. And sometimes, a simple question can turn into a lengthy back-and-forth exchange, which will take a long time. The time wasted will slow down your learning process and demotivate you. Face-to-face classes can also help you troubleshoot problems you may have with your playing.
4. Your instructor can adjust to your playing style and abilities:
The instructor can only hear you play in an online class if you send in a recording. This doesn’t give them a complete picture of your abilities or playing style. Whereas, the instructor can watch you play in an in-person class and provide feedback on your technique. With private lessons, your guitar teacher can give you their undivided attention and tailor the lesson to your specific needs and goals.
5. Learning with others can be more fun:
Some people learn better in a group setting. You can feed off the energy of the other students and build a sense of camaraderie. If this is you, an in-person class might be better.
6. In-person classes often come with access to practice rooms:
If you’re taking in-person classes at a music school, you might have access to practice rooms where you can play between classes. This is a great way to get extra practice time in.
7. You can take advantage of performance opportunities:
In-person classes often have performance opportunities for students. This might be a recital at the end of the semester or an open mic night. These events can help you build confidence and hone your performance skills.
8. Meet other musicians:
In-person classes are a great way to meet other musicians. You might find people to jam with or even form a band. These connections can help further your musical career.
Taking online classes means you can stay at home all day and never have to leave the house. But getting out of the house and interacting with other people can improve your mental health. In-person classes will help you make friends and build a social life. For kids, this can also.
9. Progress at your own pace:
One of the great things about private guitar lessons is that you can progress at your own pace. Your teacher can challenge you with more difficult material if you’re a fast learner. If you need more time to master a concept, your teacher can take the time to make sure you understand it before moving on.
Can you self-teach guitar?
Yes, you can self-teach guitar. However, it takes dedication and a willingness to learn on your own. Many instructional materials are available online that can help you learn how to play guitar. You can start with our tips on making the most of your guitar lessons or the basic guitar chords. You will need to be disciplined in your practice and set aside time each day to work on your skills.
The Unmatched Value of Personalized Guidance:
In-person guitar lessons provide the unique benefit of real-time, personalized feedback. This allows for immediate correction of technical mistakes, which can prevent the formation of bad habits that are difficult to break later. Even the most sophisticated online platforms can’t mimic the nuanced observations and adjustments an experienced teacher can offer. They can identify issues not only in your playing, but also in your posture, finger positioning, or strumming technique, making corrections that can drastically improve your sound and playing efficiency.
Rich Learning Environment:
The dynamic environment of a face-to-face class setting is hard to replicate in online lessons. Interacting with your teacher and fellow students offers opportunities to learn from others, share experiences, and gain performance skills. Regular live performances and recitals provide the chance to build your confidence and receive constructive criticism, facilitating faster growth as a musician. Moreover, the teacher-student relationship that develops in a personal setting can serve as a source of motivation and inspiration to continue your learning journey.
In-Person Lessons Foster Discipline and Commitment:
With in-person lessons, the scheduled regularity helps instill discipline and commitment, crucial attributes for any budding musician. The act of routinely attending classes can establish a solid routine and a sense of accountability, making you more likely to stick with your practice and progress faster. While online lessons offer flexibility, they also require immense self-discipline and can be easy to neglect when life gets busy. In contrast, face-to-face lessons provide a structured learning path, ensuring consistent, steady progress.
It is always helpful to find a guitar teacher or lessons so that you can get feedback and have someone to help you progress.