Guitar Lessons
The guitar is a polyphonic instrument, similar to a piano, where one can play multiple tones simultaneously to create melodious harmonies. It is easier to transport than a piano, making it a popular choice among musicians. Anyone can learn to play the guitar! The teachers at On The Off Beat Music school make guitar lessons easy, engaging and fun.
Guitar Lessons for Children
Generally, children over the age of 6 have sufficient hand and finger dexterity to learn how to play the guitar. Our guitar lessons for children last 1/2 hour, and we schedule them for the same day and time each week. As their skills progress, the teacher might require longer lessons.
Guitar Lessons for Adults
Whether you are learning to play the guitar or rusty after taking a break for several years, our adult guitar lesson packages are flexible to accommodate busy schedules. We recommend starting with weekly or bi-weekly 45-minute lessons, and we can teach a musical style of your choice, ranging from classical and country music to jazz, pop, and rock. We also teach improvisation, composition and reading chord symbols.
Our Guitar Studios
Our guitar studios are equipped with amps and cables. Just bring your instrument!
Our Guitar Teachers
We have many experienced guitar teachers who teach the basics and proper guitar technique, as well as note reading, rhythm and theory. They all have at least one postgraduate music degree and several years of teaching experience. They will help you meet your goals and develop a deep love for music. If you’re interested in playing a specific style of music, we’ll match you with a teacher who specializes in it. As you advance through the levels and master the technical aspects of playing the guitar, your teacher can help you explore different musical styles. You will learn how to play popular songs by ear or by reading music sheets. We will even help you compose your music.
Starting Guitar Lessons
To get started, please purchase a trial lesson package. This allows you to get comfortable with an instrument and try different teachers to find the perfect fit. Your teacher will assess your skill level and recommend music books from our online music bookstore.
How Long Does It Take To Learn Guitar?
Every child is different; however, kids’ brains are wired to learn quickly. Our music teachers will work at your child’s pace to keep them engaged and enthusiastic. Children are generally able to play simple songs within the first few lessons.
Here’s a fun fact about practice: According to forward-thinking Canadian journalist Malcolm Gladwell, it takes approximately 10,000 hours to become an expert in any field. Playing music is about training your mind and establishing muscle memory; daily practice is the key to becoming proficient. Making time daily to practice what your child learns in school will help them quickly reach the 10,000 hours required to become world-class guitar players.
Renting or Owning a Guitar
While taking lessons, you will require a guitar that you can purchase or rent. This will allow you to take it home to practice. We recommend Long and McQuade or Remenyi for instrument purchases and rentals. Be sure to get the correct-sized guitar for kids. We provide guitar amps and cables in all of our guitar studios.
Performances & Recitals
Performing is an essential element of musical learning, and our students have many opportunities to perform at our Spring and Winter recitals, community events, and our “Music and Munchies” mini recitals. These opportunities help keep students motivated and build their confidence.
If you have any questions we have not answered above, we’d love to hear from you! Contact Us.