Is your guitar playing stuck on a plateau and you can’t seem to make it to the next level? Has everyone told you to just “play through it”? Well I have a few suggestions that may help...

The first is Music Camp. Camp is not just for kids. No doubt you have heard of Jamey Aebersold and his play along cd’s, but did you know he offers a week long Jazz Workshop during the summer? Here is what Jamey had to say about it:

“All in all it's kind of like a week of "jazz heaven." The guitar master classes are graded by ability and the guitar faculty are seasoned players/teachers which will give you information you can instantly use. You'll get answers to all your questions. Also, you'll meet people from all over the world who have interests similar to yours.”

This workshop offers comprehensive classes in theory, ear training and more. They accept students at all levels. For more information go to: http://www.summerjazzworkshops.com

Another music camp is held at Berklee College Of Music. Berklee is an internationally known college that has spawned guitar players like John Scofield, Mike Stern, John Abercrombie, and countless others. Your guitar teacher will be one of their regular staff teachers, so you will be sure to get someone who knows his axe. Also, they offer many different styles and accept all skill levels. For information on their week long summer session go to: http://www.berklee.edu/summer/guitar.html

Another way to get some life back into your playing is to find a new teacher. Not just any teacher - go to the top. Many of today’s top guitar players offer private lessons. Take for example jazz great Jimmy Bruno (www.jimmybruno.com) .He offers private lessons and has even given them via the webcam. When asked if other guitarist of his caliber were receptive to the idea of teaching privately, he said “I don’t know of anyone who would say no.” So go to your favorite guitarist’s website and simply request a lesson!

My last suggestion starts with a question.. Is there a particular book that you got a lot out of musically? Who wrote the book? Does the author have a web site? Track him down. I have a book titled Chordal Bebop Lines written by Jim Bastian (super400@hotmail.com) and it is an excellent study in chord soloing. Jim is the author of six jazz guitar improvisational books, and he teaches from his studio, by phone and even through postal mail. I am certain he is not the only author willing to teach in this fashion and so seek out your favorite author and see what he or she has to offer!

In closing, the options for jump starting your playing are endless and these are but a few suggestions. I hope they work for you.