I remember when I was a little guy how excited I got waiting for Christmas morning and all the goodies it brought. There were toys and books and even clothes (boo). But also, as far back as I can remember, there were always gifts to do with making music. I got a drum, a tambourine, music stand, reeds (clarinet), reed holder, new case, more drums, guitar strap, picks, strings, music books, record player, tape recorder and on and on. This was one of the ways that, over the years, my parents encouraged me in my musical pursuits. Fifty or so years later I still use some of those things.

In January I always ask my students if they received any musical gifts. Mostly they say "no". I am amazed. This time around I’d like to hear more "yes" answers. The possibilities are endless and this is a real chance to support your child’s musical adventure. There is a list of gift ideas on this website: www.GuitarSlinger.com/accessories.shtml. This year give the gift of music.

Happy holidays,

Over a year ago I made some suggestions of rock movies that your student (and you) might want to rent. At the time I promised an upgrade and have finally gotten around to it. It’s on this website under Teacher>Newsletter>One Topic>resources.

Most of these titles are available at the GuitarSlinger eStore.

Some of the additions include:

• Concerts:
  • Pink Floyd—The Dark Side of the Moon
  • The Clash—The Essential Clash
  • Bob Dylan—Don’t Look Back
• Instructional:
  • B.B. King—Blues Master
  • Michael Angelo—Speed Kills
• Theatrical:
  • The Beatles—A Hard Days Night
  • Various—Oh Brother, Where Art Thou?

So get thee to the video store, pop some corn and move over on the sofa.

Classical guitarist John Williams, known for his outstanding technique, was taught by his father and not allowed to practice unsupervised for years. I’m not suggesting such a strict approach but you should regularly monitor your child’s practice. You don’t need to be a trained musician to follow what’s going on.

Your child has a list of what to practice. Are they playing everything on the list everyday? They should be. Sometimes they don’t quite understand what to do. If you can’t help them, give me a call and we’ll straighten it out.

Do you hear many repetitions of the same thing? You should. Without repetition there is no progress. Three repetitions each session is a bare minimum to creep forward. Ten to twenty is better.

Does their guitar sound out of tune? They should use their tuner every day. That’s how we learn what an in tune guitar sounds like.

So open your ears. Listening in could make a big difference in your child’s progress.