i took lessons for the first year and a bit i played and to be honest in the 3 years since i havent improved much beynd the stage i was at with him.
he was a very good teacher. iinto his jazz and a bit of blues. but had chops and could shred if u wanted him to. he also had a very good ear and knoledge of music theory (needed if you are into jazz). he had a very relaxed style, and basically did wat i wanted him to teach me. early on he gave me a few simple lessons. not particularly interesting songs but when u really suck theres not much that is.
after these though i would simply turn up with a song and sometimes a tab and ask me to teach me the song. he had a knack for picking out the tune by ear, although to be fair at this stage i was into quite easy modern rock stuff.
as i played more i became interested in different styles. and found he was competant at them all if not skilled. he helped me with metal country blues and a bit of jazz. he could sweep tap etc. overall a very good guitarest and instructor.
having an instructor not only helped to guide me but also was very helpful in that i felt i had to practice so as not to disapoint him the following lesson. it was not that he ever told me off or anythin for not improving enough but i felt i kinda owed it to him.
i think lessons are a very good thing to have. especiamy opinion in the early stages so u dont pick up bad habits. thats not to say good technique doesnt come self taught but often this road is longer.
as for tips for a teacher. he should be able to explain why he does any technique the way he does it. should also be able to express other opinions than his own. whouldnt just teach you from a book. should be willing for you to do what you want to do in the lessons and guide you. theres no point trying to become an excelent metal player if you cant stand the stuff, etc. maybe one day you will like it but in the mean time do what you will be motivsted to practice.
anyway thats all i can think of. oh ps your first lesson may be more of a lets see wat you know and wat you want to learn. this is normal your instructors just tryin to gauge your interests comitment and starting level.
hope this helps
