Haha, I was thinking about taking it up too. It isn't so difficult to play if one has a grasp of music theory.

Hi John, Well in response to your question i'd say both yes and no. There are teachers everywhere online or in method books, so it depends on your definition of self-taught. If your question is directed towards classroom based/feedback teaching then, no I have never studied with a teacher. I have however structurally set out my studies over the past two and a half years dedicating a few hours to music theory as well as theoretical practice everyday, without prejudice. I find that much like any other aspect of education it is always best to start with a strong theoretical base upon which one can later lay technical foundations. Lastly, I believe that immersion is the key to progress in anything. If one wishes to learn a new language, the best thing to do would be not only to learn grammar but more importantly live in a place surrounded by the language which one is trying to learn. In this way the sheer exposure will do more to drill the language into one's mind than anything else. In the same way if you are hoping to improve faster, surround yourself with; music, podcasts, vlogs, interviews, books, forums and documentaries linked with the instrument and you will see astounding results. Those are my two cents on the matter. I wish you all the best. Mohsin

Thank you Alex.