The worldwide community of guitarists and musicians is one of the main reasons why TrueFire is where it is today. With our students’ input and feedback, we stay motivated to continue to expand our library and improve our music e-learning experience. So, while we spend a lot of time highlighting our incredible faculty and content, we think it’s time to move the spotlight on some of our most passionate users.
In this Student Spotlight series, we’ll be showcasing a member of the diverse TrueFire community and sharing their thoughts with you. We hope you find yourself inspired. Ignited we stand!
Student Spotlight: mthee
Your Name:
Matt T.
How long have you been a TrueFire Student?
7+ years.
Tell us a little bit about yourself as a musician:
Playing for 39 years. I was drawn to the sound of the guitar, particularly lead guitar, long before I actually started playing. I enjoy the endless possibilities and challenges. I also have a need to try and play anything that I am drawn to, whether it’s Chet Atkins, Frank Zappa, Danny Gatton, or Charlie Parker. I really enjoy the Nashville session players for their speed and stylistic diversity. From NYC to NC for the last 15 years. My area has a great music scene with Carrboro (Eric Haugen), Chapel Hill, and Durham all close by.
What attracted you to TrueFire at first?
It was an opportunity to learn some serious chops that weren’t available or presented anywhere else like TrueFire was doing. Pretty sure it was a DVD by Ladd Smith.
What are some of your favorite TrueFire courses or lessons?
Any Jason Loughlin, Country Jazz, Western Swing. Love the Bill Evans courses. Some blues, rock, metal, finger-picking. TrueFire really has all the bases covered, and whatever mood I am in, I can find something to work on.
How has TrueFire helped improve your playing?
I had no confidence as a player. Book learning, even with audio, just wasn’t getting me where I thought I could be. Playing along with the instructors without fear of screwing up is great. I could slow down, rewind, print lessons, whatever I needed to. I got enough under my belt that I felt good about my abilities and playing. It really got me over my fear of playing with other people.
Why do you use TrueFire, and how often?
I need to feed my need for guitar and music. Music and playing are my therapy. I am on TrueFire 5-6 days a week on average (I need a lot of therapy). Even if just for a few minutes to work on something.
What is your favorite feature of the TrueFire learning experience?
Being able to slow down the lesson without altering the pitch.
Who is your favorite TrueFire Educator and why?
Jason Loughlin, Robben Ford, Jeff McErlain, Adam Levy, Corey Congilio, Rob Garland. Sorry, it depends on my mood. Just about everyone on TrueFire is an outstanding instructor.
What would you like to see more of at TrueFire?
Maybe some of the newer rock players or heavier guitar styles.
Any other comments?
Keep up the good work, thanks!
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