As a passionate guitar teacher with over 11 years of full time teaching experience, Sanel centers his teaching philosophy around fostering a love for music and empowering students to achieve their fullest potential. Sanel believes that every student should have the opportunity to learn guitar with a comprehensive foundation, moving beyond just chords to embrace a well-rounded musical education.

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In his guitar teaching Sanel recognizes two primary types of guitar students: those who are drawn to the guitar for its sound and tactile connection, and those who want to learn songs.

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The first group consists of students who are fascinated by the instrument itself. They appreciate the rich tones, the feel of the strings under their fingers, and the expressive possibilities of the guitar. These students are often more inclined to explore the technical and musical aspects and intricacies of playing, finding joy in learning the instrument and understanding its nuances and expression.

 

The second group includes students who are motivated by the desire to play specific songs they love. Often inspired by their favorite musicians and wanting to replicate the music they admire. This enthusiasm is a powerful motivator, and it can drive rapid initial progress as these students are eager to play recognizable tunes.

Both motivations are legitimate and valuable. Sanel respects and nurtures the unique goals of each student. However, he observes that students who focus solely on learning songs without building a proper foundation often encounter significant challenges. These students may quickly learn to strum a few chords but tend to struggle with more advanced techniques, chord shapes, and smooth transitions. This is because they lack the necessary groundwork in finger positioning, and finger independence for both the left and right hands that a more comprehensive approach provides. 

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Sanel addresses these challenges by ensuring that even song-focused students receive a well-rounded education. He incorporates foundational skills and gradual progression into their lessons, blending their desire to learn songs with essential technical training. By doing so, he helps these students develop the flexibility and proficiency needed to tackle more complex music in the future.

Sanel's teaching methods are rooted in this holistic approach. He prioritizes a balance between theory and practice, incorporating a variety of techniques to keep lessons engaging and relevant. Students start with fundamental skills and gradually move towards more challenging pieces, allowing them to build confidence and proficiency at a comfortable pace. This method not only prevents bad habits but also cultivates a deep understanding of music. As students’ left-hand muscle memory becomes more stable and fluid, Sanel introduces chords incrementally, ensuring they integrate smoothly into their playing without causing stiffness or limiting their progress.

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Continuous improvement is an important part in Sanel's teaching philosophy. He regularly reflects on his teaching practices and seeks feedback from his students to enhance their learning experience. He is committed to ongoing professional development, staying updated with the latest teaching methodologies.