What inspired you in the beginning to start playing guitar?
My middle school music teacher struck me as being the happiest person in the school. I wondered
if there was a connection to playing music and being happy, so I decided to become Jimmy Page lol.
When did you begin teaching? How long have you been playing? I started playing at age 12. I started teaching at age 19 as my full-time job so that would mean I've been teaching full time for going on 40 years.
Who was your most influential teacher?
I had 4 guitar teachers but Gerald Blakeman in Houston was my classical teacher and the one who introduced me to Jazz. He also helped me get my first job teaching. He encouraged me to ask questions so I would come in each week with about 20 questions written down on a piece of paper for him to answer. One of the most important habits I learned from him was to write down questions, something I still to today.
What is your own teaching philosophy if you have one?
I also encourage my students to ask question. I tell everyone that I don't have one way to teach everyone and that there's realy no one format in the process of learning that works for everyone. Supplementing the fundamental information and techinques with their own personal interest and taste seems to work best.
What are the ages you like to teach?
All ages but most of my students are teens and adults. Many of my students are above 50. I enjoy teaching older adults because they often seem more fascinated by how music works which is something I enjoy teaching.
What kind of music are you gravitating to these days?
I usually play Jazz these days for my own personal practice content when I'm not working on writing something. I also spend a lot of time creating solo arrangements of songs for guitar which I enjoy doing.
Where do you teach in Williamson County?
Kenz Guitars in Georgetown in person and I'm available for Zoom lessons as well.
How can folks get a hold of you? (email and telephone)
craigthigpen@hotmail.com
512-934-7938
