How long have you been teaching at the Marbella Municipal Conservatory?

I’ve been a guitar teacher for 20 or 22 years. I can’t tell you the exact year I started because it was quite a long time ago (laughs). Before I started at the Conservatory, I taught at the Universidad Popular.

What type of music do you teach?

Mostly I teach classical guitar, but sometimes we teach popular songs to make learning a little more enjoyable for the children.

How old are your students?

Students start learning at eight but we have been teaching a course which is similar to the ‘Preparatorio’ (foundation) level which children begin at seven.

What qualities does a good musician need to have?

You don’t have to play like Mozart or Beethoven to make a good musician; basic qualities and dedication are the key. If a student puts in the time and effort he or she can learn the culture of music and pick up the basic notions of playing guitar.

Where does your interest in the instrument come from?

I think I was born with a guitar (laughs). There was always somebody around playing classical guitar where I lived and it really caught my attention. Later on I used to watch my brother playing at home and that’s about when I started too.

When is the best time to start learning an instrument?

To start studying at the Conservatory, the best age is that which is set at the moment - seven, but a child can start learning earlier if he or she wants to, at home. Nevertheless, it should be made fun, like a game.