"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

"It is not because things are difficult that we do not dare; it is because we do not dare that they are difficult." — Seneca Just as the Stoic philosopher Seneca reminds us that mastery begins with courage, understanding the flattened 7th resolution requires us to venture beyond the familiar territory of basic guitar theory. This seemingly complex harmonic concept—once understood—becomes one of the most powerful tools in your musical arsenal. Understanding the Magic Behind Hi

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

"Some things are within our power, whilst others are not." - Epictetus, Enchiridion, Chapter I Transform Your Soloing from Technical Exercise to Musical Expression In the opening chapter of his Enchiridion , the Stoic philosopher Epictetus presents a profound truth: we must distinguish between what we can control and what we cannot. This ancient wisdom holds remarkable relevance for guitarists seeking to master improvisation. What lies within your control: Your dedication to

"The impediment to action advances action. What stands in the way becomes the way." - Marcus Aurelius This ancient Stoic wisdom perfectly...

As Epictetus wisely taught us in the Enchiridion: "Every art and every inquiry, and similarly every action and pursuit, is thought to aim...

"What we do now echoes in eternity." - Marcus Aurelius Just as the Stoic philosophers understood that mastery comes through disciplined...

"As in walking you take care not to step on a nail or to sprain your ankle, so take care not to damage your ruling faculty. And if we...

"The chief task in life is simply this: to identify and separate matters so that I can say clearly to myself which are externals not...

Why Humidity Matters More Than You Think in Massachusetts As a professional guitar instructor in Boston, I've seen countless instruments...

In a city once known for its vibrant music scene, Boston's professional musicians now face an uphill battle to earn a living wage. As a...

Are you struggling to make sense of the guitar fretboard? Feeling lost when trying to create melodies or understand music theory? As a...

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

Are you ready to unlock the secrets that professional guitarists use to write compelling music, improvise effortlessly, and understand...

Are you struggling to understand how music theory applies to your guitar playing? As a professional guitar instructor in Boston offering...

Are you just starting your guitar adventure in Boston? As a guitar instructor with years of experience teaching beginners, I've noticed...

As a professional guitarist and instructor offering private lessons in Boston and worldwide online, I've observed a fascinating contrast...

Understanding Rejection in the Music Business In the competitive landscape of professional music, rejection is not merely common—it's an...

Are you a guitarist in Boston dreaming of joining a working cover band? As a professional guitar instructor with years of experience...

As a guitar instructor in Boston, there's no greater satisfaction than witnessing the metamorphosis of beginners into accomplished...