My journey with guitar
- Halen Hubbard
- Jan 16
- 3 min read
Music has always been a significant part of my life, and my journey with the guitar has been nothing short of transformative. From the moment I played my first chord, I was captivated by the sound. Over the years, my passion for music evolved into a desire to share that love with others through teaching.

Discovering the Guitar
My first encounter with the guitar walking past a guitar shop next to my sister's dancing lessons. As a music fan at a young age, I remember always looking inside the window and seeing people play. I was entranced seeing them finger the fretboard and strum out melodies. I eventually convinced my mom to take me to lessons at that shop.
To be completely honest, it was hard at first. My teacher wasn't very personable, and I wasn't learning the songs I wanted. But I pushed through, and practiced every day. Eventually, I entered a talent show at my elementary school, and played some chords, not even a full song. It was thrilling and exhilarating. I fell in love with the feeling of performing and providing music for others.
I kept getting better and better at playing throughout the years, and in high school, I started my own garage band. We played at local parties, and I got to know the local music scene. However, even though I loved playing for others, it's not what I wanted to do the rest of my life.
The Transition to Teaching
One of my guitar teachers saw potential in me and took me under his wing. He asked if I ever thought about teaching guitar. He mentored me and taught me the best practices. I took on some of his own students and found my teaching style.
Building a Personalized Teaching Approach
One of the key aspects of my teaching philosophy is the importance of personalization. Every student is unique, with their own interests and abilities. I believe that lessons should be tailored to cater to these individual traits. This approach not only keeps students engaged but also helps them develop a genuine love for music.
Creating a Positive Learning Environment
In my teaching practice, I strive to create a positive and encouraging environment. I understand that learning an instrument can be challenging, and I aim to foster confidence and creativity in my students. Celebrating small victories are essential components of my teaching style.
Incorporating Technology and Resources
In today’s digital age, incorporating technology into guitar lessons has become increasingly important. I utilize various online resources, apps, and video tutorials to enhance the learning experience. This not only makes lessons more interactive but also helps students practice effectively outside of our sessions.
Encouraging Creativity
While mastering technique is crucial, I also emphasize the importance of creativity in music. I encourage my students to explore songwriting, improvisation, and even experimenting with different genres. This creative freedom allows them to express themselves and develop their unique musical voice.
A Rewarding Journey
Now that I have been teaching guitar for more than eight years, I can confidently say it has been one of the most fulfilling experiences of my life. Watching my students grow, overcome challenges, and discover their love for music is incredibly rewarding.
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