I started two years and a half ago with JG. Yes I also learned the a major chord as taught by JG and it does make doing the A D E progressions easier. I have been with GT for just over a year ago and I must say that I have vastly improved since then. I have also learned alternate fingers for chords including the A, F, e minor and G chords from GT and realize their various applications. Same as when to use barre chords and open chords and how to make chord changes between them. It did/does require continued practicing chord changes exercises with each alternative fingering but its coming along.. I enjoy my journey .. oh and by the way I just turned 65.. so you can make an old dog do new tricks...;)