Step 1. Create a teaching plan i.e. Curriculum

The G4 GUITAR METHOD is the result of many years of research, development and feedback from guitar teachers. Even so, the magic of G4 is simply having a plan. In one study done on weight-loss diets they found that most diets work if you stick to them. Teachers who use a method, any method really will get better outcomes for their students compared to those who don't. Having a plan allows you to see what works and to make adjustments. It gives your students and their parents confidence in you. We haven't reinvented the wheel and the success of your teaching is still mostly about you. All we have done is create a lesson plan that frees you up to focus on the actual teaching. 

I was initially inspired by other successful methods used to teach other instruments like piano, violin etc. I've had the privilege of working with many music teachers over my career and noticed that the most successful teachers tended to use some kind of method. Violin teachers often used Suzuki while piano teachers would used Hal Leonard or Alfred's publications.  A local Suzuki violin teacher I knew would recommend students to me to learn guitar. I was amazed at how quickly they picked up guitar.

My first step was to create a guitar method that covered the important skills. The G4 GUITAR METHOD is the result of more than 30 years of research and development. The teachers who use G4 literally save 100's of hours of lesson planning which allows them to focus on the actual teaching. The method saves teachers countless hours of lesson preparation just makes everything easier and better but most importantly it gives students a big advantage. They get clear direction with defined goals. Another huge plus is the ability to track student progress. Studies show that a sense of progress from tracking is a major factor in student motivation, long term commitment and therefore ultimate success.

Step 2. Leverage the power of networking

My initial motivation to build a network was to connect guitar teachers as a way of creating a community but I soon discovered there were many benefits. For example, as solo operator you literally have to do everything. You have to create and develop your curriculum, your business plan, your marketing and brand image, your website, your social media and on and on. On top of that you don't have any feedback from stakeholders. Well intended friends and family can offer opinions but they are generally not invested in your business. This means they don't truly understand your business. When you are part of a network other members are invested. They know and understand your business because it's their business too. 

G4 GUITAR teachers are now located in 5 countries including Australia, Canada, France, UK, US, and growing. The Internet has allowed us to become a truly global community. This means our reputation is spreading. This also sparks insights and new ideas that help our members improve their teaching and businesses. It also creates a sense of community. Connecting with people who can relate to the same challenges you face as a guitar teacher/entrepreneur helps to bring clarity and reassurance. It also helps to be teaching the same syllabus because we can share challenges and strategies.