"The impediment to action advances action. What stands in the way becomes the way." — Marcus Aurelius When my students first encounter the challenges of alternate picking, many feel overwhelmed by the seeming impossibility of coordinating their picking hand with speed and precision. Yet, as the Stoic philosopher Marcus Aurelius reminds us, obstacles aren't barriers to progress—they are the very path to mastery itself. Every moment of frustration with alternate picking is an o

The Impediment to Action Advances Action. What Stands in the Way Becomes the Way." This Stoic principle from Marcus Aurelius perfectly captures the essence of Mastodon's "Teardrinker"—a song about confronting pain, regret, and the difficult choices that shape us. The title itself evokes the Stoic practice of acknowledging suffering whilst finding strength through adversity. Just as the Stoics taught that obstacles reveal our character and provide opportunities for growth, "Te

A Stoic Principle for Musical Mastery The ancient Stoic philosopher Epictetus taught us that happiness comes not from having what we...

Are you struggling with your guitar picking technique? As one of Boston's most sought-after guitar instructors, I've helped countless...