To be honest, I did not start playing the guitar with classical guitar in mind. I begged for a guitar to satisfy the early 70’s folk rocker inside. My first guitar was a Christmas gift from my grandparents when I was about 12 or 13. I started teaching myself chords, spending lots of time just getting progressions sounding right.
Once I had 2 or 3 chords, I started writing my own songs. Good thing for me my family was patient with my request of, “Will you listen to my new song?”.
Soon enough I was accompanying the girls high school choir at my Church whenever it was appropriate. God bless Virginia Russell, music director for St. Stephens Methodist Church, she inspired and encouraged me. That same Church was the first to let me sing one of my songs for them.
But what of classical guitar? It was clear that I had an interest that needed improving. The most referred guitar teachers in my town were a couple who happened to teach only classical guitar. I started lessons and soon was in love with the classical sound.
Generally, my students use Aaron Shearer’s Classical Guitar Method. We supplement with other materials, as needed. All students are encouraged to perform in our recitals. Once again, I encourage guitar students to share their gift and ability with the Church. It has been a particular blessing to me to have the Duke girls perform for Christmas and Easter services at St. Mark’s. They have also provided music for weddings and other Church services.
