When it comes to learning a new instrument, things aren’t always black and white.
Photo and images courtesy of Jesse Henry
Jesse Henry
For some, the ability to pick up the guitar and play comes naturally. For others, a little instruction can go a long way. With the innovation of the Color String Guitar Method by Grandview Heights guitarist Jesse Henry, beginner players everywhere can learn the ropes in a manner that’s no more difficult than paint by numbers.
The concept came to Henry as he looked for new ways to teach students ages 6-9 how to play.
“I would look for books for them, and did not encounter any that I thought were educationally modern, looked good and also had an overall theme of including the student in their own learning process,” he says. “Kids can definitely associate with colors, so why not use color strings to correspond to the guitar notation system called ‘tablature?’ I wanted to create a three-part series of books where a student could go from a complete beginner to a solid intermediate player with the ability to play scales, understand basic music theory and play most songs they hear on the radio.”
To begin the learning process, the electric or acoustic guitar is first restrung using colored
strings. Then, the books take the student through various lessons, using a color-coded guitar fret board diagram and numbers to learn popular songs and complete essential exercises.
Henry uses this method when teaching his own students.
“There are a few other teachers that use it as well,” he says. “I will be starting after-school programs in the fall and winter at local elementary schools. I have met with music therapists in Columbus, and they are seeing results by using this method. All the student needs is a good teacher, a guitar, some color strings and book one.”
The guitar instructor teaches aspiring players of all ages – from 6 to 65.
“Two of my grandparents were educators, so I guess teaching is a little hereditary,” Henry
says. “I started teaching my first guitar lessons as a senior in high school. I really didn’t know much besides the basics, but I had a few students and I could teach them a few songs.”
Since then, Henry has become an established guitar instructor through the use of the Color String Guitar Method. As he moves forward with his career, Henry does so with an element of fun mixed in.
“If a person is truly enjoying themselves in the moment, they are happy,” he says. “Everyone on earth enjoys listening to music, and there are some who seek out learning an instrument. I believe success is a subjective experience. It doesn’t matter how much success you have; if you don’t believe it yourself, then how will it impact you and the world around you?”
For more information regarding the Color String Guitar Method books, visit www.colorstringguitar.com or call Henry directly at 614-572-6386 for lessons or to make a purchase.
Stephan Reed is a contributing writer. Feedback welcome at hbealer@cityscenecolumbus.com.
