I was a brand new student 3 years ago and started with Lou based on a recommendation from another student of his that I work with. He has taught me as well as my high school son. We have progressed dramatically and continuously on all the major fronts; sight reading, finger exercises, basic rhythm and lead composition. I can work with him on classical exercises, country, folksy acoustic and heavy metal electric with tons of overdrive. This has made a lifelong goal of playing a musical instrument a true reality. My wife even remarks that she can recognize my feeble attempts to play a certain song by my guitar alone–no accompanying instruments or soundtracks. That speaks well to progressing at a difficult but attainable goal. I highly recommend him!!!!!