Learn Guitar your way with a TakeLessons expert

When you’re learning to play guitar, your studies should go beyond simply taking lessons. One of the best ways to improve is to watch other artists. Listening to and emulating your favorite guitarists can help you develop your voice, and advance the learning process.

If you’re taking guitar lessons in Berkeley, you have a thriving music scene to explore. Here are some places where you can catch a show, grab your favorite guitarists' latest album, and find your new dream ax!

Live Music Venues

Whether you’re into jazz, rock, classical, pop, or punk, you can catch a show seven nights a week! Here are three hot venues to get you started.

Starry Plough Pub

The Starry Plough has been a staple in the East Bay since 1973. Catch some of the best acts from the Bay area and beyond every Friday and Saturday night. Every Wednesday is open mic night, so if you’re ready, sign up and show ‘em what you’ve got!

The Alternative Music Foundation / 924 Gilman

If you love original music, you need to check out 924 Gilman. This is the go-to spot for alternative music, and you can hear original music from some of the best local and national artists.

Jazzcaffe’ – Jazzcaffe’ is located right in the heart of the downtown Theatre District. If you love jazz, it’s a great place to hang out and catch great players from the local jazz scene!

Music Festivals

Festivals are great opportunities to see a number of amazing guitarists during the course of a weekend. Here are two festivals you don’t want to miss.

Berkeley World Music Festival

If you’re interested in hearing different styles of music from around the world, get your ticket. This festival brings Afrobeat, Zimbabwean Afro-Pop, Braziliab, Afro Cuban, and a host of other world music to the Bay.

Downtown Berkeley Music Fest

This festival celebrates the musical diversity of Berkeley with an array of performers who run the gamut from folk, Latin, jazz, rock, bluegrass, reggae, soul, and even children’s pop. This festival is held at various venues throughout downtown Berkeley.

More Guitar Resources

From record stores to music shops, you can find everything you need to pursue your passion at these Berkeley stores.

The Starving Musician

Need some new strings or some new TAB books? The Starving Musician is a great resource for guitar supplies. Their knowledgeable staff can help you with repairs, and you can buy, sell, or trade new and used gear.

Blue Note Music

This store specializes in guitars and guitar-related services. They offer professional repairs, sheet music, and a great selection of instruments and amps.

Dave’s Record Shop

A true old school record store, Dave’s stocks a huge selection of jazz, rock, soul, blues, and classical music. If you’re looking for a particular artist or genre, you can find it at Dave’s!

This is just a small sample of all that Berkeley has to offer the budding musician. Check your local listings for other great clubs and live music venues. Make sure you take advantage of all of these opportunities while you’re taking guitar lessons in Berkeley. Get out there, get inspired, and have some fun!