Published on 2nd October 2026 by admin in Uncategorised
Every student’s musical journey is different, and one of the most rewarding parts of teaching guitar is seeing where that journey leads.
In this Student Spotlight, we’re catching up with Nia, a former student of Rivers Way Guitar Tuition who went on to study Music Performance at university, graduating with a BA (Hons).
From discovering her love of fingerpicking and writing her own music to performing in front of audiences and developing ambitions in musical theatre, Nia’s story shows how learning guitar can open doors you might never have expected.
Let’s find out more about her journey!
What first inspired you to learn guitar?
Music has always been part of my family, and I’ve always liked the look of the guitar. I was fascinated by the instrument. I researched local guitar tutors and liked the sound of what Gordon offered.
When did you realise music could become more than a hobby?
I’d always imagined going to university, but originally thought I’d study something like science or history. Once I started writing my own music, I realised guitar was the direction I wanted to take, so I began looking into local colleges.
What was the biggest change in your playing?
Moving beyond simply memorising fret positions and learning to focus on touch, timing and dynamics.
At first, I was mainly concerned with playing the right notes. Over time, I learned how much difference your hands, attack, dynamics and use of space can make. Learning to relax into the groove and listen to the whole arrangement, rather than concentrating only on my own hands, really changed my playing.
Was there a particular technique that became important to you?
I asked Gordon to show me fingerpicking because I enjoyed listening to it. It eventually became my own style and has helped me get many gigs.
What surprised you about studying music at degree level?
The transition from playing guitar as a hobby to studying it at university was more challenging than I expected, especially the music theory side.
The practical playing side also introduced me to real work opportunities. I developed an interest in cruise ships and musical theatre, which opened my eyes to the different directions a music career could take.
What was one of the biggest challenges you faced?
At university, I sometimes had just one day to learn a complex song.
I’d already learned how to break songs down into smaller sections, starting with the intro and then working through each section individually. That approach became invaluable when preparing for last-minute performances and has continued to help me in my musical theatre work.
What achievement are you most proud of?
I’m proud of earning my diploma and degree in Music Performance, but I’m probably most proud of being able to perform in front of people. My younger self wouldn’t have been able to do that.
How did studying music change your practice routine?
I developed a dedicated daily warm-up and practice routine, including arm stretches, finger-dexterity exercises, scales and learning one song a month from The Real Book.
The routine was an idea from a tutor, and it helped me develop the stamina to play for longer periods.
What advice would you give someone learning guitar?
Have patience. Scales and music theory can be boring, but they’re important.
To be able to play the cool stuff, you have to understand how it works.
What’s next for you?
I’d love to work in musical theatre, hopefully tour in the future and continue creating my own music.
Nia’s journey has taken her from learning guitar to studying music at university, performing live and pursuing her ambitions in musical theatre.
If you’d like to hear more from Nia, you can visit her Spotify artist page and explore her music for yourself.
Listen to Nia on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/7i6xTf9wkgwOdBLL42TrHG
It’s fantastic to see how a fascination with the guitar can develop into such a rewarding musical journey. I wish Nia every success with what comes next!
Thinking About Learning Guitar?
Nia’s story is a great reminder that learning guitar isn’t just about mastering songs or passing grades. It’s also about discovering your own musical identity, building confidence and finding opportunities you may never have considered.
At Rivers Way Guitar Tuition, I offer friendly, structured one-to-one guitar lessons tailored to each student’s interests, goals and ability.
If you’re in Chandler’s Ford, Eastleigh, Southampton or the surrounding areas and are thinking about learning guitar, click the link below to get in touch.
https://riverswayguitartuition.co.uk/contact.php
Your own musical journey could start today!
