Music Lessons FAQ with Ted
Mental Benefits of Music Lessons
Taking guitar, piano, or songwriting lessons offers numerous cognitive benefits and requires developing a growth mindset. Here's how music training enhances your mental capabilities:
Focus and Listening Skills
Music training strengthens your ability to distinguish specific tones from simultaneous sounds. This skill helps you:
Play in time and stay in tune
Produce the right tone for each song
Harmonize with other musicians without overpowering them
Cognitive Development
Short-term memory improvement through learning and writing songs
Enhanced mathematical thinking through working with scales, rhythms, and musical intervals
Improved spatial-temporal reasoning, especially when composing music
Accelerated language learning abilities, as music notation is itself a language that requires rapid translation
Getting Started
Age and Learning
It's never too late to start learning an instrument. While teenagers may absorb information quickly, adult learners often show more focus and dedication. Experience shows that a determined senior student frequently outperforms a talented but inconsistent younger student.
Choosing Your First Instrument
Guitar Recommendations
Price range: $200-$500 for beginners
Recommended brands: Yamaha and Fender
Start with acoustic guitar to build finger strength and proper fundamentals
Keyboard Recommendations
Two main options:
MIDI Controller ($100 range)
Good for Mac users
Works with GarageBand
Standalone Keyboard ($300-$500 range)
Recommended brand: Yamaha
Must have: Normal-sized keys
Minimum 61 keys for full arrangements
Learning Guitar Chords
Follow this progressive learning approach:
Start with three-note chords using only 2nd, 3rd, and 4th strings:
First learn: C, F, G, and G7
Then learn: Dm, Em, and Am
Master these chords in the key of C major
Practice the same 3-note chords in different positions
Finally, combine into full 6-note versions
Lesson Structure
Getting Started
Initial consultation via email or phone to:
Discuss student goals
Assess current skill level
Set lesson schedule
Connect via Zoom
Purchase lessons at least 72 hours before first appointment
Lesson Format
For Instrument Lessons (Guitar/Keyboard/Bass)
Student provides 5 songs they want to learn
Instructor creates custom arrangements matching skill level
Weekly progression includes:
Demonstration of arrangements
Fundamental music exercises
Progress assessment
Video tutorials for additional practice when needed
For Songwriting Lessons
Flexible approach based on student needs
Can focus on specific elements (melody, chord progression, etc.)
Typical song completion takes minimum two weeks
Open to relevant musical discussions that may enhance learning
Songwriting Tips
Getting Started
Study songs you admire:
Learn to play them well
Analyze their structure
Understand their musical elements
Development Process
Start with a strong organizing principle (title or premise)
Expect initial attempts to sound derivative
Focus on finding your unique:
Vocal range
Musical elements
Expression style
Balance serious dedication with enjoyment
Draw inspiration from multiple sources
Develop your personal style over time
Remember that growth takes time, and it's normal for early songs to sound like imitations. With practice, you'll develop your unique voice and style.
About Ted
Born 1976 in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin
Moved to Las Vegas in 1991
Education:
Dual Bachelor's in Anthropology and Asian Studies (UNLV)
Master's in Accounting (UNLV)
Musical career includes playing with the Killers and solo career with opening spots for The Wallflowers and Chris Isaak
Influenced by artists including: The Beatles, Rolling Stones, U2, The Smiths, Oasis, Tom Petty, and many others
Have a question for Ted or an inquiry for music lessons? Please email them to info@tedsablay.com.