Private Guitar tutoring lessons San Jose, CA.
100% guarantee. Private Guitar instruction for kids and adults. Classes designed for beginners or advanced guitarists. Book a teacher now.
Simple
Our online tools make booking, managing your schedule and paying for lessons easy and hassle-free.
Secure
Easily search and compare teachers in your area, including past student reviews and background checks.
Guaranteed
If you're not completely satisfied, we'll help you find a new teacher or refund any unused lesson credits.
Why TakeLessons?
Our teachers have taught
lessons and counting!
Popular Guitar Teachers near San Jose, CA
Check out some of our most popular teachers near San Jose, CA including Sunnyvale, Palo Alto, Mountain View, Santa Clara and Los Altos.
Studying Guitar in San Jose, CA
by Hristo V. - San Jose Guitar Teacher
San Jose, CA is one of the most vibrant cities in the country. Not only it is the capital of Silicon Valley, but it is also one of the oldest and most culturally diverse cities in the state. The town offers an outstanding display of international and culturally rich mix of arts and music.
As a guitar teacher in this multi-cultural city, I feel so excited about the opportunity to work with so many students from all around the world and with so many different backgrounds, musical preferences, and personalities. It does not matter if you want to become a professional concert guitarist, a studio session cat, or simply play guitar by the campfire on your next camping trip.
San Jose offers so many different resources that can make the musical journey of taking guitar lessons in San Jose so much more exciting and entertaining!
The Bay Area is home to some of the best music festivals in the country. Each summer San Jose presents the Summer Jazz Festival which happens the 2nd weekend in August. Some of the top musicians from all over the world get together for a 3 day extravaganza in the middle of downtown that includes concerts, masterclasses, panel discussions, jam sessions, and more. It is open to all ages and such an environment provides all the needed excitement that is essential to spark, fuel, and kickstart the learning process.
A little further down south, the city of Monterey presents what many consider to be the best jazz/blues festival in the world: The Monterey Jazz Festival is one of these events that is hard to explain in words. The excitement, magic, and pure musical joy that happens every second weekend of September in this beautiful coastal Californian city is simply contagious. As a student taking guitar lessons in San Jose, having the chance to see up close and personal some of the best and most gifted guitarists on the planet, is simply priceless.
Up north, you have SFJAZZ - one of the largest non-profit music organizations in the country. It features leading musical acts from all over the world and boasts a concert schedule that’s almost seven days a week - year round. any student taking guitar lessons in San Jose can have this unique chance to witness the magic live and get all the needed inspiration to get better at their instrument.
San Jose also offers quite an array of jam sessions and open mic settings which are the ideal environment in which a student can try all the new concepts he or she is learning during their guitar lessons, meet new friends and musical partners, and observe what other students and music lovers are doing. These sessions are also the perfect place to network and make connections that can potentially lead to gigs, private engagements, and studio sessions/collaborations.
Every Wednesday evening the Hedley Club at the hotel DeAnza in beautiful downtown San Jose hosts the official San Jose Jazz Jam. All ages and levels are welcome!
Just down the street, the cozy Cafe Stritch presents a jam session every Sunday afternoon. This place is frequented by some of the best musicians in town and features all kind of music genres from rock to blues to jazz. They also present concerts by national and international touring acts seven days a week.
There is also the Blue Rock Shoot coffee shop and deli in downtown Saratoga. They host a open mic / jam session every Sunday and Monday evening and the feature blues, jazz, rock, and singer-songwriters. Another excellent place to get inspired and put some of your skills at practice!
San Jose is also home to the South Bay Guitar Society - a non-profit organization that supports all things guitar. They have an extensive (all year round) concert season and feature some of the best and most accomplished guitarists in the world. Attending such events is always a very special treat for any musicians, student, or music lover.
On top of that, San Jose is home to many universities and community colleges. They all have very demanding and busy concert seasons and feature a lot of free-to-the-community events, concerts, and recitals that are open to all ages.
In summary, San Jose presents the platform and needed musical and arts foundation for any student hoping to take guitar lessons in San Jose. I simply invite you to explore the possibilities!
So get excited and inspired so you can excel, have fun, and develop your inner artist!
About Andrew H.
Close
I place a strong emphasis on fundamentals like technique, theory and musicality. By taking a measured and detail oriented approach I can help you make quick progress through whatever musical style you'd like.
About Andrew
I started teaching as the guitar technique tutor at my local community college before striking off on my own. In 2014, I went back to school to complete my bachelor's degree in guitar performance, after which I received a master's degree from the prestigious San Francisco Conservatory, where I had the privilege if working with some of the finest musicians in the field today. I would love to help you hone your musical skills!
Reviews
· Guitar · In home
· Acoustic Guitar · In home
Andrew H.
About Marty H.
Close
My easy going and patient personality allows me to teach my students to become their best, whether they are just starting out or are more advanced in guitar. I believe the positive relationship between teacher and student is a crucial part of a student's success in learning while having fun playing. My focus is for my students to leave each lesson feeling confident and empowered to want to play and learn more each day. I know what it's like to go from knowing nothing about the guitar to becoming a seasoned musician, so I use extreme patience, encouragement, and guidance with simple guitar techniques. My focus for the beginner is to teach the fundamentals and basic chords for them to play their favorite songs as quickly as possible using a variety of books and personal instruction. For the more advanced player, I focus on theory and advanced techniques to challenge them to play at a higher level. My overall goal is to see the success and achievements of my students to play with ...
About Marty
Banjo s .
*** Lesson Details ***
My easy going and patient personality allows me to teach my students to become their best, whether they are just starting out or are more advanced in guitar. I believe the positive relationship between teacher and student is a crucial part of a student's success in learning while having fun playing. My focus is for my students to leave each lesson feeling confident and empowered to want to play and learn more each day. I know what it's like to go from knowing nothing about the guitar to becoming a seasoned musician, so I use extreme patience, encouragement, and guidance with simple guitar techniques. My focus for the beginner is to teach the fundamentals and basic chords for them to play their favorite songs as quickly as possible using a variety of books and personal instruction. For the more advanced player, I focus on theory and advanced techniques to challenge them to play at a higher level. My overall goal is to see the success and achievements of my students to play with confidence while having fun at the same time.
*** Studio Equipment ***
I have a 1/2 stack Crate amp with preamp 1600GX also a Peavey VYPYR that I can travel with. Various types of affects for guitars electric or acoustic.
*** Travel Equipment ***
I provide guitar book, and lesson plan. Student should provide own guitar if possible.
*** Specialties ***
Christian music, all types of Rock, Folk, Pop, Country, Blues, and Reggae. Types of guitars available to teach are 6 String, 12 String, Electric, and Acoustic.
Reviews
· Guitar ·
Marty is a fantastic teacher. Heâs been great teaching my 14 year old daughter. Heâs very patient and makes playing the guitar so simple for her. The first lesson he really was interested in what SHE wanted to eventually be able to play, then taught her some basics and a few simple cords. By the end of the lesson, she was playing a simple song and was so excited. Also very respectful to me as her parent and has a gentle, non-aggressive personality making us both very comfortable. My daughter now even is writing her own songs and playing guitar to them. I would highly recommend Marty as a guitar teacher, he really knows what heâs doing.
Marty H.
About Mark B.
Close
I teach all levels of guitar lessons, from beginner to advanced professional...in all styles, except classical/flamenco.
About Mark
I started playing guitar at age 9, and recorded 2 singles in the LA area by age 14. I was a music major throughout High School and College. I also learned a lot by educating myself at the Brand Library in the Los Angeles Area, which specializes in the arts. I specialized in advanced music theory and improvisational techniques.
I have enjoyed teaching music lessons since 1978.
I custom tailor a lesson plan to fit your individual needs and goals! I can teach you songs you'd like to learn instantly when I hear them on your iPod, mobile phone, cassette or CD that you bring in. I ca
Sometimes I might inject humor into the learning process to make it an enjoyable learning experience, and to help you remember the important things.
I love the satisfaction of seeing my students grow musically proficient and and seeing the JOY that it brings them. Many of my students have gone on to become professional. I am well-versed and well-equipped to teach many styles: Rock (including all sub-genres...Tribal Ambient neo Punk, etc), Pop, Blues, Jazz, Alternative, Country, R&B, New Age, Ambient, Electronic, Metal (and a few plastics and wood as well).
*** Lesson Details ***
I will develop a personal lesson plan for each individual student. During your lessons, I might cover topics ranging from learning how to play, starting from the basics (if you are a beginner), to choosing music that will inspire you on your level, to improving your technique, ear-training, music reading (if that's what you'd like), reading and understanding tabs (if that's what you'd like), knowing what it is that makes certain chords and notes sound good together for writing your own music, as well as guitar maintenance and adjustments, getting a good tone, amplifier settings, effect pedals (settings & placing them in the most effective order), recording tips, and where to get a decent pizza. Haha.
*** Studio Equipment ***
Living Room or Studio, both very comfortable. Amplifiers, guitars, effects pedals, bass, ukulele, balalaika, drum set, PA system and recording equipment. This is a very serene and peaceful environment with no distractions!
*** Travel Equipment ***
I provide guitar, bass, or ukulele and amplifier when necessary, teaching tools. The student provides their guitar and paperwork I give them.
*** Specialties ***
Teach note reading using Alfred's New Guitar course. Ear Training, Genres: Rock, Pop, Blues, Jazz, Alternative, Punk, Metal, Folk, Country, Hip Hop, Funk, R& B, New Age, Ambient.
What ever your musical preferences are, I will enjoy teaching the kind of music you are interested in. This helps in keeping you motivated to learn more and practice often.
I currently have 5 albums out under my name. A song of mine is on a major new age compilation, and several of my songs have been played on the radio in several countries, and several internet radio programs throughout the world. I have played on other people's albums...some of which have received major radio airplay in Europe, and gone to #1!
Reviews
· Ukulele · In studio
· Acoustic Guitar · In studio
· Acoustic Guitar · In studio
Mark B.
About Rhonda S.
Close
I've been teaching guitar to students of all experience levels and ages for 20 years. I structure lessons so students learn what they want to learn, while also building a strong foundation of basic musicianship. I typically use Hal Leonard Guitar Method for those students who want to learn to read music.
About Rhonda
I made my solo performance debut at age 7 by singing "It's A Small World" acapella in a school talent show. At age 9 I started taking clarinet lessons where I learned musicianship and how to read music. Throughout my school years I also sang in choir, played tenor saxophone in the school jazz band, and hoofed it in marching band.
During my first year in college I took a beginning guitar class for fun and I never looked back! I studied classical guitar for 3 years and piano for 2 years. I ultimately received a Minor in Music from California State University, Hayward in 1990.
I have been playing guitar for 32 years. I have played professionally in the San Franc
I have been teaching private guitar lessons for 25 years and piano for 15. I like to keep learning fun! I am a very patient, compassionate teacher who will come up with creative ways to explain/demonstrate something new.
*** Lesson Details ***
Music is the most fun activity that people of all ages can enjoy. And learning how to play music should be fun too! When students inquire about taking lessons from me I always ask, "What do you want to learn?" I try to keep students interested by showing them things they want to learn. I also believe in teaching the basics. Whether you want to take piano or guitar lessons I believe you should learn basic musicianship which includes learning to read simple notes and where those notes are on your instrument, rhythm concepts, and tempo. It's easier than you think! The more you know the more you can teach yourself later on, and the more you can collaborate with other musicians.
After 3 or 6 months of taking lessons with me, students will be able to read basic music notation. They will be able to play songs either by their choosing or mine, they will have self-confidence to play songs in front of an audience/friends, and they will have the knowledge to figure out how to play songs on their own.
*** Specialties ***
I studied classical guitar at Cal State Hayward and have taught different finger picking styles as well as genres such as pop and country.
Reviews
· Piano · In studio
· Piano · In studio
Thank you,
Promila
· Piano · In home
Rhonda S.
About Jesse M.
Close
Beginner
I'm not currently taking beginner guitar students. Please refer to my studio partner Melissa:
https://takelessons.com/profile/melissa-m62
Intermediate
Learn about common variations of the tonalities you already know and start to venture into more complex rhythm ideas like polyrhythms. Also start to build the chops to learn parts more accurately when learning songs.
Advanced
Expand into more complex polyrhythms as well as asymmetrical meters. Also expand harmony and melody to include modes and chromaticism. Push your skills through original creations or original arrangements of existing material.
About Jesse
I'm currently not taking beginner students on voice/singing, guitar, bass, drums, piano, and ukulele. I highly recommend my studio partners Melissa though. Please check out her profile:
https://takelessons.com/profile/melissa-m62
My Background
I've been playing with classical ensembles and rock bands since 2001. Even though I started on classical trombone and rock guitar, I have come to expand my repertoire to a variety of instruments and genres. During my time in college I performed with the University choir, orchestra, and band. I also have organized, wrote/arranged for, and performed with a variety of bands in my home state of New Mexico, as well as Japan, and the San Francisco Bay Area.
Since 2006 I have been an active teacher. This profession has taken me everywhere from working with classical guitar cla
Philosophy of Learning
Lessons are generally designed to work towards giving students the tools to accomplish their goals and become increasingly independent over time. While all students will study similar fundamentals regarding technique, theory, and performance, every lesson is as different as every person. What kind of music do you want to make? I'll tell you what you need to do to get there, and help you take the steps to achieve your aspirations.
I also love to help students put together a song, record, and produce it for them so that they can have a recording to share with their friends and family.
I also hold events for my students. (Check out our pictures and videos below!)
Younger students have opportunities to perform for friends and family at my studio every few months. Once or twice a year we'll also stage a larger event off site for more individual students and bands classes to perform.
Adult students also occasionally have events where they get a chance to get together and play music as well.
Aside from in-studio lessons, students also have the option to sign up for online lessons via Skype.
(*Online lessons offered during different times than in-studio lessons.)
*Unfortunately due to scheduling issues, I'm not currently accepting students for bi-weekly lessons. I can do regular weekly lessons, or occasional drop-in lessons, but bi-weekly appointments make it really hard for me to give the best scheduled times to my existing weekly students. I'm sorry for the inconvenience.
My studio is equipped with:
*Music Stands
*A P.A. System
*Vocal and instrument microphones
*Guitars, Basses, Ukulele, Banjos, etc
*Two guitar amps and a bass amp
*Various percussion including a fully equipped acoustic drum set
*A Roland V-Drums electronic drum set
*An electric piano console and Yamaha organ
*A MicroKorg Synthesizer
*A Tuba, Trombone, Cornet, Saxophone, and Flute
*An extensive physical and virtual music library
*A recording system that students are not only welcome to use but encouraged to
*HD Webcam and condenser microphone for high fidelity online lessons via Skype
Reviews
· Violin · In studio
· Singing · In studio
· Singing · In studio
Jesse M.
About Neil K.
Close
I've been teaching guitar for the past 15 years. I help students find their unique musical voice through the study of songs and techniques they are interested in. For younger students I also use the Hal Leonard guitar method books to learn music reading. As students advance we switch to William Levitt's Modern method for guitar for jazz students, or Christopher Parkening's classical guitar method for fingerstyle players. Students should be able to play chords to their favorite tunes within 6 weeks. I teach to inspire passion for music. If you love music it makes it fun to practice. When you practice it makes music fun!
About Neil
*** Lesson Details ***
I have played and studied extensively the styles of Jazz, Rock, Blues, Classical, electric and acoustic guitar. I begin lessons by teaching students the fundamentals of the instrument and after a basic grasp of the guitar is developed I encourage students to learn songs / styles of their choice so that the musical experience is inspriring for them. In the first few months beginning students will learn the architecture of the guitar: string names & numbers, finger numbers, fret numbers, tablature, chord diagrams, basic time signatures, strum patterns, chord charts. I divide guitar playing into 3 major principles: Lead playing / improvisation, Chord playing / accompaniment, and Melody / note reading. Lessons will reflect the development of these principles. Scales and arpeggios and music theory lead to improvisation. Chord playing, chord progressions, open chords, bar chords, & power chords are used to play rhythm guitar in songs of the student’s choice. Melody playing is developed through learning to read music. For reading studies I utilize the Hal Leonard Guitar method for beginners and William Levitt’s Modern Method for guitar for more advanced students. For Classical Guitar i work from Christopher Parkening's guitar Method 1 & 2 and Frederick Noad's "Art of Solo guitar Playing."
*** Studio Equipment ***
Room with Chairs, music stands, Amplifier and guitar cables.
*** Travel Equipment ***
students should have guitar, music stand and two arm-less chairs
*** Specialties ***
I specialize in Jazz. I have studied and played various Rock and Popular styles as well. I also teach classical guitar. I try to combine technique and music reading with the learning of songs that interest the student.
Reviews
· Guitar · In studio
· Guitar · In studio
· Guitar · In studio
Neil K.
About Greg D.
Close
About Greg
*** Lesson Details ***
Lessons are provided in a comfortable, fun environment and are private and on a weekly basis. Initially the student will complete a questionnaire before the first lesson to allow me to better understand what experiences the student has had with the guitar and with music in general. Additionally, I try to find out what groups and guitarists he or she likes. Finally, discuss what goals the student has or put another way, what he or she wants to do with the guitar. When we have completed the first lesson, I will better understand what the student’s playing level is and be able to provide a lesson plan based on that level and current experience. The lessons are tailored to each student’s capability and desire to play/practice. The lessons will be challenging but not “out of reach”. The student will feel successful and see the difference in playing within a relatively short time.
I will assess the student’s progress each week, by reviewing the previous week’s work. Based on the student’s progress, I will advance to new material or stay within the same material. The student and I will agree on how much time the student will devote to practicing each week. The student will keep a three ring notebook for adding handouts as they are given. I usually use a guitar book, to have structure, along with supplementary material that fills in the gaps. It is vital to practice on a regular basis in order to improve.
I provide teaching with patience and motivation. Being a parent of a child with ADHD (I homeschooled for one year), I incorporate learning from my parental experiences into lessons as needed. There have been several studies done that show how early music lessons have longtime benefits.
*** Studio Equipment ***
The studio lessons are taught in a music room upstairs with large windows facing the street with guitars, amps, a computer, stereo and seating. The house has 3 cats which are kept separate from lessons. Street parking and/or driveway if needed.
*** Specialties ***
I've taught rock, blues, jazz, classical, contemporary Christian, and music theory. I try to get my students to play along with CD's and listen to others playing what they want to learn. I draw material from the hundreds of books I have collected over the years.
Reviews
· Guitar · In studio
· Guitar · In studio
· Guitar · In studio
Greg D.
About Dennis W.
Close
The guitar is a fun but challenging instrument. I teach my students how to play with proper technique, whether it's an acoustic or electric guitar. I make sure that all my students understand the basics of how to play notes and chords while also playing in proper rhythm.
About Dennis
Music and art have always been a huge part of my life. I have been playing drums for 15 years and have been teaching for 7. I grew up learning to play drums from a private instructor, and have been studying on my own ever since. I have played in many bands in my music career and have also tracked drums in studios for local artists. Today, I currently work at School of Rock in Palo Alto as a private and group instructor, and play in a professional band called Constructs.
I have been drawing ever since I can remember. I mostly draw realistically, but also like to get on the creative side. I enjoy drawing faces and people the most out of any subject. After learning so much about art, the world can be viewed in a complete other perspective.
Reviews
· Drawing · Online
· Drawing · In home
Honestly, the reason why I chose Dennis was because he provided at-home classes and that would avoid the hassle of me having to travel. The first few classes were more of me and him warming up to each other, as I am sure he also found me different.
He comes with all the necessary equipment and spends a few minutes giving you some basics of the stuff we are going to do that day. Then he leaves you to draw while he also draws the same. He glances once in a while at your sheet and gives you very subtle feedback. If you have missed something, he will just try to nudge you in the right direction with minor comments like "Don't you think, these are of the same darkness?, There may be more highlights in this area or the mid tones here and here are of the same darkness. etc.". He never touches your paper, but only guides you.
Sometimes when some focus is needed (for example on the eyes), he will tell you the technique involved in depth and we did one full class just doing eyes, one full class on hair.
It was a little frustrating initially for me as I was not used to the teaching technique, and now I see the point. The first drawing itself turned out be much much better than I had anticipated it to be and he hasn't touched my paper till now - so this drawing is fully mine.
You can also continue drawing and send work via text message to him. You almos t always get detailed instant feedback. The only thing is, I haven't been very diligent in doing drawings due to lack of free time. So once a week for an hour is what I do.
He also spends extra time sometimes so that he can take the drawing to a logical point, sometimes even beyond 1.5 hrs though my session is for an hour each. That shows the commitment he has to his students.
I believe my work will improve as this course continues. We have had about 6 classes and I am already seeing the difference. A long way to go, but the first steps have been right - most of it due to Dennis and his method of teaching. I would say more than teaching, it is a method of mentoring where the hand holding is done in a unique way.
· Drawing · In studio
Dennis W.
About Ahmad G.
Close
I'm Ahmad a very enthusiastic musician. I started out teaching myself guitar at the age of 12. I moved to the U.S. in 2001 and studied music for 15 years receiving my B.M. and M.M in music and audio production at San Francisco State University. I then moved to Los Angeles then studied and trained with John Mayer, Joe Satriani, Steve Vai, George Lynch and many others. I have performed hundreds of concerts in the U.S. as well in Europe and the Middle East with Artists such as Ozzy Osbourne, Metallica, Guns N Roses, Michael Angelo Batio, Ratt, Sammy Hagar, Dokken and many others. I ranked #1 in the Slash Guitar Center competition. I was in the "list of top 5 guitar players ever" according to The Examiner, also picked as one of the best guitarists of 2013 and 2014 consecutively in the Rockwell UnScene magazine, and ranked 3rd in the Steve Vai Sam Ash Best in Shred competition.
I find a student's strengths and weaknesses using various ways to encourage each student. I am very patient, ...
About Ahmad
I'm Ahmad a very enthusiastic musician. I started out teaching myself guitar at the age of 12. I moved to the U.S. in 2001 and studied music for 15 years receiving my B.M. & M.M in music and audio production at San Francisco State University. I then moved to Los Angeles then studied and trained with John Mayer, Joe Satriani, Steve Vai, George Lynch and many others. I have performed hundreds of concerts in the U.S. as well in Europe & the Middle East and toured with Artists such as Ozzy Osbourne, Metallica, Guns N Roses, Michael Angelo Batio, Ratt, Sammy Hagar, Dokken and many others. I ranked #1 in the Slash Guitar Center competition. I was in the "list of top 5 guitar players ever" according to The Examiner, also picked as one of the best guitarists of 2013 and 2014 consecutively in the Rockwe
I find a student's strengths and weaknesses using various ways to encourage each student. I am very patient, kind, flexible, and enthusiastic and I love working with children as much as adults. I strongly support basic skills: sight-reading, pitch and tone.
I have 25 years experience teaching kids and adults guitar. Also performing live and in the studio.
*** Lesson Details ***
My objectives: to help students powerfully communicate through the essence of music and aid the development of children and adults by finding their strengths and weaknesses and to develop their skills and show their musical talents. I emphasize basic skills, good sight-reading, guitar technique, and theory.
Lessons are held at either your home, or mine using composers from various time periods that speaks to the individual student.
Also,I do prefer to work weekly with my students.
A beginner lesson may be 10-15 min. for warm-ups and scales, 10-15 min. theory and rest playtime. In three to six months the student will be able to read sheet music and should be able to perform simple songs.
An intermediate lesson has more focus on music and technique from a specific genre. A specialty is preparation for guitar auditions or doing live or studio gigs.
I enjoy teaching children from age 5 up to adults.
*** Specialties ***
I teach the basic skills very strongly, and also encourage students and challenge them, as well.
I also have new techniques for teaching Electric, Acoustic & CLassical Guitar.
I do prefer to teach a weekly lesson.
Reviews
· Guitar · In studio
Having now spent a year and a half with Ahmad, my progress has been phenomenal.
As a former music major studying saxophone, I have had my share of music teachers. I can say that Ahmad has been the most influential and effective of all. His manageable lessons challenge you enough to make you better without overwhelming you with techniques and theory that you don't understand. Every lesson builds on priors so that you are not wasting time learning scattered and incomplete lessons that you may find in books or video lessons on youtube.
We began simply learning pentatonic scales to build basic right and left hand technique. After spending months learning this, we moved onto major scales, and understanding harmonizing and more music theory. Throughout this, we have also spent time on learning basic rhythms.
Finally, we have moved onto modes, arpeggios, and blues. Although there was a lot of work learning to play scales and arpeggios, it was absolutely necessary in order to understand how to solo over rock and blues music. While I have a long way to go with the instrument, it is so satisfying to have the tools to write music, play solos, and make them sound like you know what you are doing. I would have never been able to do this without Ahmad.
Ahmad is not a magician--you have to put in the work yourself. But he makes your practice efficient so that your time is spent learning valuable skills, instead of bad habits.
If I had to do it all over again, I would have started sooner!
· Guitar · Online
I've been playing guitar for about 20 years, but haven't taken any formal lessons in the past 15 of those. I felt like I was in a rut with my playing so I started taking lessons with Ahmad a few months ago. He was able to immediately help me improve my technique and help me correct some inefficiencies that I didn't even notice I was doing. The word "inefficiencies" in the last sentence was chosen very deliberately because Ahmad has a great way of showing that there are multiple ways to play the instrument and not one specific "right" and "wrong" way.
I feel like I've made more progress in the last 4 months than I had in years.
· Acoustic Guitar · Online
I've been playing guitar and keyboards for many years, so I've been somewhat cautious about approaching a professional instructor to help me "get serious" about the guitar. Like other players, I've run into overly pedantic instructors who take every player back to the beginning and teach the "right" way to play the instrument, but also the loose instructors who have no structure and can't deeply answer theory or technique questions.
Ahmad has managed to build a rigorous teaching methodology while still being fun and really engaged in what the student wants to learn. He's has compiled drawers and drawers full of prepared exercises and explanations, but he's looking to help me find the most helpful topics to work on rather than disregard what I already know.
I have a great time learning with Ahmad, because he knows an amazing amount about music, the guitar, performance, and recording. I throw questions about him about frets, intonation, tuning, chord naming, pick angle, string gauges, fingering, chord voicing. He's consistently humble about his knowledge, and then tells me everything I could want to know on the subject. When I ask about players I like, he's completely familiar with how those players play. It seems like half the time he's had my favorite players as his own instructors.
Best of all, Ahmad really loves music. He's genuinely thrilled at my improvement, and is very respectful of what I already know and how I already play. I've been playing the guitar for a long time, but Ahmad got me excited about making music.
Ahmad G.
About Kenta S.
Close
If you're interested in learning to improvise, compose, or just shred on the guitar I'll help you get there! I have wealth of experience performing jazz and improvised music professionally but am open to all sorts of music and teaching what will help you progress as a musician! I've performed with all sorts of bands from jazz, indie rock, to metal and actively produce and engineer modern, genre-crossing music.
I've taught both privately and for institutions, for a whole range of skill levels and ages; from complete beginners just picking up the guitar to college level students studying more advanced concepts.
About Kenta
I’m a professional musician and audio engineer. I’m mostly involved with jazz and improvised music and have a lot of experience in performance and composition of such music. I recently graduated the New School of Jazz in NYC with a BFA in Jazz performance. I’ve performed extensively with all sorts of bands ranging from jazz, indie rock, to metal, and have had the chance to share the stage with some amazing musicians such as Omar Hakim and Nir Felder.
I blend all sorts of genres and sounds in my own weird music, so I’m welcoming of all genres and styles.
I have quite a bit of experience teaching both privately and for institutions, for a whole range of skill levels and ages. I’ve taught complete beginners just picking up the guitar as well as college level students studying more advanced
You can find my work online with my band (TinderGodz) or under my name.
Feel free to give me a shout if you’re interested or want to ask me any questions!
All the best,
Kenta Shimakawa
Kenta S.
How it Works
From finding the perfect teacher to managing payments, scheduling and tracking your progress, we take care of all the details, so you can focus on learning. Learn More
Search for a teacher
Compare hundreds of teachers based on the criteria that matter to you, including background checks, age and experience.
Schedule your lessons
When you've found the perfect match, schedule your lessons online using the teacher's real-time availability.
Connect with your teacher
Your teacher will welcome you with a personalized curriculum to meet your specific goals and you'll be able to manage your entire schedule through our free online account.
Can't find a teacher in San Jose, CA?
No problem. Our online lesson platform connects you with any teacher, anywhere. All you need is a reliable Internet connection, a webcam and a microphone.
Convenient
Zero travel time is great for a busy schedule.
Affordable
Typically priced lower than local lessons.
Effective
Online students stick with lessons as long as local students.
Average Cost of Guitar Lessons in San Jose, CA
The average cost of 60-minute guitar lessons in San Jose is $75. While the exact cost will vary depending on the teacher, type of lesson, and your location, you should expect to spend anywhere between $40 and $134 per hour.
| 30-min | $30 |
$48 average |
$102 |
| 45-min | $35 |
$48 average |
$70 |
| 60-min | $40 |
$75 average |
$134 |
For the best experience, we typically recommend 60-minute guitar lessons. However, students looking for a more affordable option may want to consider a shorter lesson length of 45 or 30 minutes. On average, 45-minute guitar lessons are 36% less expensive at $48, and 30-minute lessons cost 36% less at $48.
Curious how much guitar lessons cost in your area? Do a quick search to get local prices for the best guitar teachers near San Jose.
Guitar Lesson Reviews from Students
Students are raving about their Guitar instructors on TakeLessons. Check out some of these recent reviews.
Ahmad is very organized & knowledgeable & most importantly patient! I was very nervous about taking lessons but Ahmad immediately put me at ease. He is very encouraging & he is great at what he does. I highly recommend him for all ages & all skill levels!"
I've been playing guitar and keyboards fo
Ahmad has managed to build a rigorous teaching methodology while still being fun and really engaged in what the student wants to learn. He's has compiled drawers and drawers full of prepared exercises and explanations, but he's looking to help me find the most helpful topics to work on rather than disregard what I already know."
I've been playing guitar for about 20 years, but haven't ta
I feel like I've made more progress in the last 4 months than I had in years."
And they're not alone!
Our teachers have taught
lessons and counting!
Get Started with Free Resources
Singing Video Series
for Beginners
Take your voice to the next level. Download free video tutorials to start singing like the star you are!
Quick Guide to Getting
Started With Music Lessons
Getting Started with Music Lessons guides you through selecting a teacher & preparing for your first lesson.
Guitar Video Series
for Beginners
Kickstart your guitar playing. Download free video tutorials to learn about chord progressions, strumming, and more!
Recent Guitar Articles from the Blog
Whether you're just starting out or a seasoned pro, check out the Guitar articles on our blog.
10 Extremely Influential Guitarists Who Were Not Technically Great
You don't have to be a virtuoso guitarist to touch people's hearts with your music! Guitar teacher Samuel B. shares a few of his favorite great-but-not-that-great famous guitar players... Towards the end of Johnny Cash's autobiography, you'll find the following paragraph: As to my musical future, my prospects look good. I can whack on a guitar as incompetently as I could a year ago, probably more so. I can sing just as well, or as badly, as I ever could. And I've got more songs trying to … Read More