My philosophy

I've been playing guitar for over 50 years, all genres, but most of all I've spent a lot of time just noodling with my eyes closed (that's playing whatever comes into my head at the time!).

This has shown me what sounds nice and what doesn't - using all the senses of touch, hearing and sight to capture the mood.

You want the pieces you play to reflect your emotions. Sad songs that are haunting or poignant, gentle melodies that are soothing, upbeat tunes that lift the spirit and make you want to dance or tap your feet.

This applies no matter what level you play at. It's not all about speed or technical brilliance. It's about the music - whether it's a humble exercise or a full length sonata - it should sound pleasing.

Of course you need to be able to play the notes in the first place but lessons combine technique with an appreciation of the musicality of a piece. A guitarist who plays a simple tune with expression will always sound nicer than one who plays a complex piece without emotion.

And if your music conveys passion then you are more likely to enjoy playing, practise more and develop your technique.