“This is for those who, like me have always had a hankering to play a musical instrument but have never got around to it and now retired, are wondering whether they are too old to learn the classical guitar. I started learning from Ron Payne when I was 80 I learned for nearly two years and then had a five year lay-off to look after my wife who had become ill. I tinkered around with the guitar during that time but really got nowhere. I’m now 89 and have been back with Ron for over 2 years and have progressed well into Parkening’s second book and am thoroughly enjoying it. I’m obviously not as supple or as quick at committing stuff to memory as the kids, but some arthritis in my fingers has almost gone, and finding my way around the fingering on those higher frets certainly keeps the old brain-box active. So, for those who are wondering, you’re never too old. And incidentally, apart from being an excellent teacher, Ron is a good chatty companion.”

“I started having lessons with Ron approx 18 months ago. During that time my learning of theory and practice has improved exponentially. Ron is a fantastic teacher who is not only a professional guitarist but also and great person with plenty of laughter, patience and compassion. I would highly recommend him for any level of guitar learning.”

“What a fantastic teacher. The lessons are informative, fun and very enjoyable. Since starting with Ron at the beginning of the year my guitar playing has improved more than I could have imagined. I highly recommend Ron to anyone of any age to get lessons from him. I do mine by skype with no problems. Thank you Ron”.

“I just wanted to write you a short note of encouragement during this COVID lockdown no. 6 to say how grateful I have been for the many hundreds of hours of not just knowledgeable and articulate guitar tuition but also the clever cheerful banter. You have been able to channel the love of classical guitar from great maestro Segovia as well as custom fit down to earth accessibility in practise regimens which have inspired me to keep up our lessons even though more than ten years have passed since our first lesson. In particular I commend you on your ability to patiently walk me through the many “wish”pieces that though far from perfect are an ongoing source of motivation to keep playing this wonderful instrument. Thanks so much Ron and see you soon for our next lesson”

“I have been studying with Ron for two and a half years, starting as a beginner at the age of 64. What I have found with Ron is that he is able to guide my development by recognising where I am currently situated in my development and recognise areas of improvement by setting appropriate exercises. His extensive knowledge of the guitar repertoire has enabled him to select pieces that develop my skill and give enjoyment at the same time. He is a good listener and helps me further my understanding of playing techniques in which I am having difficulty and suggests methods to overcome them. Importantly, he has an easy going manner and makes learning fun and interesting – I look forward to my lessons!”

“I have studied in person with Ron while living in Melbourne, and now study with him remotely via Skype. Both methods have proved deeply satisfying. The guitar has been a great source of comfort in my life since I started playing and it was Ron who opened the door. His teaching style is both encouraging and sincere, with a touch of humour… Highly recommended teacher!”

“Last year I was doing my year twelve guitar while also preparing for auditions for future uni applications. I was required to demonstrate sight reading ability during the auditions, which I had no practice in. So I began to take lessons with Ron throughout the year and was surprised with how fast we moved through the material. The lessons were relaxed while pushing steadily through the work, with Ron offering sight reading tips and knowledge, and by the end of the year I was easily uni standard. I am now in my top preference uni and continuing my guitar skills.”