Erin Armstrong is a seasoned performer who has played numerous gigs in and around Denver and the surrounding areas. She was the main songwriter, lead vocalist, and guitarist for the band, “Thanks To Philo”, and released a full length CD in 2013 called “The Genius of Green Street”.
When Erin started lessons at Littleton Guitar School, she was looking to improve her understanding of the instrument, build her confidence as an soloist, and become a stronger songwriter. Here is an interview with Erin and her feelings about her learning experience.
LGS: Why did you start taking guitar lessons and why did you choose Ken K (Littleton Guitar School) as your teacher?
EA: I started taking lessons to expand on what I already knew about the guitar. I was ready to challenge myself and get to a point where i felt comfortable accompanying my singing with more advanced guitar skills. I chose Ken because his website looked professional, the testimonials seemed to have positive comments from everyday people from all age groups with my same goals and once I met him I had the immediate feeling like I had known him for a long time. He knows how to challenge you and push you to that next level, but he’s also fun and makes you feel comfortable at your own pace.
LGS: Name 3 things you understand or can do now, that you didn’t understand or couldn’t do before you began lessons with Ken:
EA: Three things… let’s see.
- I’ve learned where all the notes are located on the guitar, which has helped me to apply the little music theory I know.
- I understand the pentatonic and major scale, the patterns and where the notes are on the neck.
- I can play many different voicings of chords on different parts of the neck.
- I have worked on slides, bends, hammers and other embellishments.
- I finally feel comfortable improvising and soloing with other musicians.
- I’ve learned new ways to use a capo when playing with other musicians.
- I’m currently learning picking patterns and getting comfortable with “feeling” where the strings are.
LGS: What is your favorite thing about the lessons?
EA: My favorite part about lessons with Ken is that he’s not one of those teachers who will just ask what song you want to learn and then show you note for note without teaching you what you are actually playing. He makes sure that you understand the theory behind it and shows you how to apply those same concepts to something else. I’m always excited for my lesson each week, because it’s never the same old thing. Each time he has something new to bring to the table, but he understands that everyone needs to go at their own pace, so he knows when to slow it down if you’re feeling overwhelmed.
LGS: If you were to recommend Ken K / Littleton Guitar School to a friend who wanted to learn to play the guitar, what would you tell them?
EA: I would definitely recommend Ken to friends of mine looking to take lessons. He’s personable, knows his stuff, and really does have a passion for what he teaches.