Why Having a Teacher is More Beneficial than Self-Study

Having a role model sets an example and inspires the student to set goals. We insist that even advanced learners seek a mentor to guide them on their journey in music. The right teacher nurtures a student’s passion for the instrument as musicianship further develops. Talent and skill are not enough. It is always best to have experience and wisdom on your side.

Animaguitara is for learners across the spectrum– the novice, music aficionados, enthusiasts, serious hobbyists, and aspiring performing artists. We believe that a mentor should be someone who inspires the student to dream. We recommend that teachers are carefully selected, because this determines how the student’s potential will be nurtured. Choose an educator who can equip the learner to become a more sensitive listener and  have a more refined taste through applied theory, technique, creativity, and musicality in the chosen instrument.

With a teacher, one’s development on the instrument is exponentially faster than self-study. It is important to us that bad habits (and yes, injuries too) are avoided at the onset — because these will be difficult to unlearn. Start your unique Animaguitara experience by sending Teacher Jonathan a message at +63-9175543288. Call 02-75869594 to  arrange a schedule and find out why Animaguitara makes learning an instrument special, and why our teaching philosophy have stood the test of time.

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Time-tested Foundations, Dynamic Pedagogy

Teacher Jonathan believes that music is like a language– it can can be taught and learned. You don’t have to be a born genius because no one is. With the quality music education and enrichment programs offered by Animaguitara, learning music is no longer a next-to-impossible task. However, we insist that it is important for the student to select a teacher who possesses certain qualities. The teacher must read music, display solid grounding on music theory, and exhibit proficiency on the instrument. A solid foundation on instrument performance and music education will equip and inspire the student to breathe life into the music and play with a soul.

The teacher must be able to execute fine techniques on the instrument and have a firm grasp of their applications. The teacher must possess extensive knowledge on various music styles and genres. More importantly, the teacher must be able to help the student discern subtleties, transmit actual performance concepts, and impart a genuine appreciation for music.

A good teacher must recognize that tone and musicality are very important but one should never lose the groove to find a note. Remember– it is not only about speed but having a good tone. It is not only about memorizing (or imitating) licks, but having the creativity to make your own licks. It is not only about playing fast but knowing how to play fast correctly, have the endurance, and still be able to make the instrument sing. It is not only about having the technique to do solos but most importantly, knowing when to let them fly.On top of these, a music educator must genuinely enjoy being around the people they mentor. Animaguitara offers the complete package, with an openness to keep on improving through the years to come and in continuous pursuit of excellence.

* Photography by Kat Espiritu and Dyosa Antonio

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  1. All rights reserved 2003 – 2014. All write-ups and photographs in this site are the intellectual property of Animaguitara and our allied artists who have been supporting us since 2003. Feel free to share but please do not copy any of the contents for use in music/art studios and other commercial purposes of a similar nature without our permission. If you wish to write about what we do, kindly let us know through 1animaguitara@gmail.com and we will be glad to help you. Thank you and enjoy browsing. Cheers to eleven years of quality music enrichment in Metro Manila, Philippines!

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