Start with a question.
Find your next step.
Practical advice for learning guitar, bass, drums and ukulele, from Six String Studio in Stockton-on-Tees. Explore starting lessons, choosing equipment and finding an approach that suits you or your child.
Starting guitar as an adult
You can start guitar as an adult without previous experience, and you do not need to take exams. At Six String Studio in Stockton-on-Tees, lessons begin with your starting point and the music you want to play.
Read the guideCan children start music lessons at four or five?
Children can start lessons at Six String Studio from around four to five years old. The right starting point depends on the child and instrument, so discuss their age and interests with Dave before booking. Parents are welcome to sit in lessons.
Read the guideDo you need your own instrument to start lessons?
You do not need your own instrument to start studio lessons at Six String Studio. Dave can advise before you buy, and loan guitars and ukuleles may be available by arrangement. Online lessons need an agreed instrument and setup at your end.
Read the guideShould you choose a 20, 30 or 60-minute lesson?
Studio lessons at Six String Studio cost £20 for 30 minutes or £40 for 60 minutes. A £15, 20-minute option is available for primary-school pupils under ten only. Ask Dave which length suits your starting point and goals.
Read the guideCan you learn bass without learning guitar first?
Yes. You can start directly on bass guitar without learning guitar first. Bass has its own musical role, and lessons can build the foundations on the instrument you actually want to play.
Read the guideCan you start drum lessons without a drum kit?
You do not need to own a drum kit to start studio lessons at Six String Studio in Stockton-on-Tees. The studio has an electronic kit. Before buying equipment, discuss what you want to learn and how practice at home could work.
Read the guideAdvice grounded in teaching.
These guides are written by Dave Rutherford, a working musician with over 23 years of teaching experience in Teesside schools and privately. They explain the practical questions to discuss before starting, rather than expecting you to know your level or buy equipment first.
Guitar · Bass · Drums · Ukulele
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