Why Every Genre of Music Matters: Guitar Lessons Made Better

I am always fascinated by the history of music.  When I studied music in my younger years one of the classes focused solely on music history and the musicians and bands who changed the course of music to be what we know today.

Within my student's guitar lessons we often speak about great musicians who helped shape the music industry.  From Jimi Hendrix to Prince or Michael Jackson to Beyonce there is always a conversation to be had on the pioneers within the genres of music that we have come to love.

I do remember when I studied music there was one individual on my course who was adamant that heavy metal was the ONLY good genre of music and that all other genres were terrible.  Without stating the obvious he was clearly being very narrow-minded. For those less familiar with the historic time line of music let me help.  Heavy metal came from classic rock, classic rock from blues, blues from gospel and so the list continues.  To appreciate heavy metal you must appreciate what it took for music to develop in to heavy metal.  By having an appreciation for all genres of music (that doesn't mean you have to regularly listen to or play every genre) you will become a much more rounded and competent player.  

As a guitar teacher within Aberdeen it is my job to educate students on the history of music as well as the instrument itself.  By being open minded to every style and genre you will find yourself pushing yourself further than before as a player.  By creating fusion between genres you will create a unique sound which will be even more interesting to listen to.

I encourage all of my students within their guitar lessons to listen to more out-with their comfort zone.  Reluctant at first I often receive positive feedback after they've pushed themselves to listen to more.

Take the opportunity to immerse yourself into every genre and see what happens.

Keep playing!