started guitar at 7 years, had some help but wasnt trained as such... as my guitar and group/band career unfolded, i also studied clarinet at school from 9yrs olod until I was 18, up to grade 7 and did Alevel music but hated it... it was all classical stuff, composing, keys, orchestration, 4 part harmony, modes, chord theory etc... I hated it sooo mcuh (did I mention that?) but looking back I learned some very useful things and dont regret it !!