Early in his career , Satriani worked as a guitar instructor , and some of his former students have become famous with their guitar skills ( Steve Vai , Larry LaLonde , Kirk Hammett , Charlie Hunter , Kevin Cadogan , Alex Skolnick ) . Early in his career , Satriani worked as a guitar instructor , and some of his former students have achieved fame with their guitar skills ( Steve Vai , Larry LaLonde , Rick Hunolt , Kirk Hammett , Andy Timmons , Charlie Hunter , Kevin Cadogan , Alex Skolnick ) .