Welcome to
Guitar Lessons Reading
I'm Andrew Smith, and I bring a passion for music and a commitment to helping you flourish as a guitarist, whether you're picking up the guitar for the first time or honing your skills. With lessons tailored to each individual, I provide a supportive and engaging environment to learn and grow, catering to students of all ages and skill levels.
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Lessons Tailored To You
After studying at Berklee College of Music in Boston, USA I moved to London and developed a career as a session musician, composer, and teacher. I am a member of the band The Boxer Rebellion and the touring guitarist for Freya Ridings, with both of whom I have toured the world several times. I’ve played many major festivals, TV shows, and radio shows. I have taught dozens of guitar students over the last 10 years, from Beginner to Advanced levels, both privately and in schools.
Prices
£28.00 per 1/2 hour, £45.00 per hour
Guitar Teacher
Andrew SmithLocation
St Mary's Rd, Oxford OX4 1QD, UKGet in touch to find out more.
Find out more about my guitar lessons, as well as book your first guitar lesson.
Your Experienced Guitar Teacher
As a committed and passionate guitar tutor here at Guitar Lessons Reading, I ensure that each of my guitar lessons in Reading meets industry standards. My experience as a professional musician allows me to provide comprehensive instruction that covers all aspects of guitar playing, from fundamental techniques to more advanced skills like music production and performance.
With my extensive knowledge of music theory and years spent teaching guitar, I guarantee lessons that are both educational and enjoyable. My music studio is equipped with everything you need to help you on your musical journey, regardless of your current skill level.
Prices:
£28.00 per 1/2 hour
£36.00 per 3/4 hour
£45.00 per hour
Lessons are weekly, fortnightly or as suits you.
Advice for New Students
Private Guitar Lessons In Reading
As a professional guitar teacher based in Reading, I take pride in offering lessons that are both enriching and fun. My guitar lessons are designed to cater to a wide range of skill levels—from complete beginners to more advanced players. Whether you are interested in learning the acoustic guitar, electric guitar, classical guitar, or even the ukulele, each lesson is tailored to meet your individual needs and musical goals.
What New Students Can Expect
During your first guitar lesson, I will assess your current skill level and we’ll have a conversation about your musical interests and objectives. This helps me to create a lesson plan that is uniquely suited to you. If you're a complete beginner, don't worry! We'll start with the basics, laying down a solid foundation in music theory, guitar playing techniques, and ear training. For more advanced players, I help refine your skills in improvisation, performance, and perhaps even music production, depending on your interests.
Lesson Structure
Each session takes place in my well-equipped home studio, providing a supportive environment where you can comfortably explore your musical ideas. My teaching style is both structured and flexible, ensuring we cover essential technical skills while also giving you the freedom to experiment and develop your own unique style. We can also prepare for graded exams if you aim to formally assess your progress, but the primary focus is always on making faster progress and enjoying the journey.
Diverse Range of Styles and Genres
I teach a variety of genres, including rock, jazz, classical, and contemporary music, allowing you to explore different styles and expand your repertoire. Additionally, I offer specialised lessons for those interested in bass guitar and piano.
Commitment to Excellence
Whether your goal is to play the guitar proficiently, compose your own music, or perform in front of an audience, my lessons are designed to help you achieve your musical aspirations in a fun and engaging manner.
Professional Guitar Tutor
Diverse Musical Styles and Genres
I offer lessons in a broad range of styles and genres to make sure that each student can find and develop their own musical voice. Whether you are interested in classical guitar, rock, jazz, or contemporary music, my guitar lessons are individually tailored to suit your passions and goals. For those wanting to explore other instruments, I also provide bass lessons and piano lessons. From beginners eager to learn guitar basics to advanced students looking to refine their improvisation and performance skills, my lessons are designed to meet your needs.
Focus on Individual Growth
Each session you take with me as your guitar teacher is custom-designed to help you grow as a musician. For beginners, we'll start with the essentials of music theory, ear training, and basic guitar techniques. More advanced players can benefit from sessions focused on improvisation, performance skills, and even music production. I also prepare students who are interested in taking grades or pursuing formal assessments in their musical journey. My approach is flexible but structured, ensuring that we cover all necessary skills while also giving you the freedom to develop your unique style.
A Passion for Teaching
My passion for teaching guitar is evident in every lesson I offer. As a guitar teacher, my mission is to make learning this wonderful instrument a fun and fulfilling experience. With options for both in-person and online lessons, I aim to make high-quality guitar instruction accessible to everyone. Whether you aim to become a fluent performer, compose your music, or just enjoy playing for fun, my guitar lessons offer the perfect balance of professional guidance and personal enjoyment.
Commitment to Excellence and Flexibility
My extensive experience as a professional musician ensures that you receive top-tier instruction that is both professional and engaging. Additionally, I offer flexible scheduling to accommodate your busy lifestyle, making it easier than ever to learn guitar. From electric guitar to ukulele, my lessons are designed to help you become the guitarist you aspire to be.
Electric and Acoustic Guitar Lessons
Techniques for Electric Guitar and Acoustic Guitar
When you start learning to play the guitar, whether it's the electric guitar or the acoustic guitar, there are a variety of techniques that I, as your guitar tutor, will teach you to ensure you become a well-rounded guitarist. My approach incorporates both fundamental and advanced techniques suited to your skill level and musical interests.
Basic Techniques for Beginners
In your first lesson, we'll cover the essentials. For both electric and acoustic guitars, this includes learning basic chords, strumming patterns, and fingerpicking techniques. We'll also dive into music theory, exploring scales and chord progressions to help you understand the building blocks of music. As one of your dedicated guitar teachers, I make sure these foundational lessons are engaging and accessible, setting the stage for more advanced skills.
Intermediate Techniques and Improvisation
As you progress, we'll delve into more complex techniques. For electric guitar students, this might include learning to play riffs, power chords, and soloing. We'll explore the subtleties of bending, hammer-ons, pull-offs, and vibrato. Our sessions will also cover improvisation, helping you develop the ability to create your own melodies and solos on the spot.
For acoustic guitar players, we'll focus on techniques such as fingerstyle playing, percussive elements, and intricate strumming patterns. You'll also learn to read and play tablature, allowing you to master a wide range of songs from different styles and genres.
Advanced Techniques and Music Production
For those at an advanced skill level, our lessons will become highly specialised. Electric guitarists can expect to learn advanced soloing techniques, harmonics, and tapping. We'll also delve into music production, teaching you how to record and produce your own tracks, enhancing your contemporary music skills.
Acoustic guitarists will refine their fingerstyle playing and learn advanced chord voicings and alternate tunings. Whether you are interested in classical pieces or modern acoustic hits, our lessons will be tailored to your goals.
Preparing for Music Exams and Performances
If you're interested in formal assessments, I prepare students for graded music exams. We'll focus on all the required elements, including scales, sight-reading, and performance pieces. This thorough preparation ensures you feel confident and ready to excel in your exams.
Performing live is a crucial aspect of becoming a fluent guitarist. We'll work on stage presence, dynamics, and how to engage with an audience. Whether it's at a music school gig or a personal performance, you'll be ready to showcase your skills.
Choosing me as your guitar tutor means you'll receive tailored, comprehensive lessons designed to guide you on your musical journey. Whether you want to learn for fun, take exams or become a session guitarist. Together, we'll make your dreams of becoming a skilled guitarist a reality.
Choose me as your guitar tutor, and let's make your musical dreams a reality. Whether you're taking your first lesson or looking to improve your advanced skills, you'll find that my teaching style, commitment to excellence, and extensive experience make me the perfect guitar teacher for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Guitar lesson costs vary but typically range from £20 to £40 per hour, depending on the tutor's experience and location. High quality guitar tutors will usually fall into this bracket.
Yes, 30 minutes can be enough for beginners, offering focused learning without overwhelming new students.
Beginners generally need 10-20 lessons to grasp basic skills, but continuous practice and lessons are recommended for improvement. If you are looking to buy your own guitar then do check out Hickies music shop located at City Centre, 153 Friar St, Reading RG1 1HE.
Children can start guitar lessons as young as 5-7 years old, depending on their interest and physical ability to handle the instrument.
Yes, having your own guitar is essential for practice between lessons, ensuring consistent progress.
St Mary's Rd, Oxford OX4 1QD, UK Full teaching address will be provided upon first lesson booking.
Location
Teacher
Andrew SmithFind out more about my guitar lessons and how to book your first session.
Contact Me