Jonathan Bower

Hiya!

My name is Jonny, and I’m a professional guitarist and guitar teacher based in Fleet, Hampshire. I have been playing guitar for almost 20 years, and after achieving my grade 8 at the age of 16, I went of to study Music at degree level. Since then I have developed a real passion for teaching, and have been teaching students of all ages and abilities for seven years. I currently teach privately, as well as lecturing at London School of Theology in Guitar and Guitar Skills.

I also perform live very regularly (most weekends) and have had the privilege of playing at some of the UK’s biggest venues, including ExCeL London and the OVO Wembley Arena. I pride myself on being not just a guitarist, but a musician, and I aim to carry this philosophy into all my lessons, preparing students not just for exams or standalone performances, but for making music in the real world.

I have always aspired to be a well-rounded musician, not settling on a particular style or genre, but instead seeking to hone my skills across as broad a musical landscape as possible. This has served me incredibly well as a teacher, allowing me to teach across stylistic boundaries and help students develop in whichever areas they most want to grow.

My approach not only draws upon established syllabuses and repertoire, but is also tailored to each individual student’s goals and unique challenges. Whilst tried-and-tested methods certainly exist, no two students are the same, and everyone learns differently. As such, whilst everyone can benefit from a structured approach, I believe the sweet spot lies somewhere between a well-defined framework and bespoke material.

I also aim to see every one of my students inspired. I’m always keen to know what kind of music makes them tick, which players excite them most, and what skills they’d like to have by the end of the journey. I believe an inspired student is far more likely to make meaningful progress than someone who is simply going through the motions of practice. I also believe this is one of the best ways to encourage musical growth outside of, and in addition to, our lessons. I want every student to fulfil their potential, and that requires a level of discipline that I believe is best sustained by genuine inspiration.

I also know that engaging with music is one of life’s most rewarding and enjoyable experiences. Learning music should be fun! I strive to make the learning, performing, and teaching of music an enjoyable experience, and I hope that’s true for every student I teach. If my students aren’t enjoying the process, then I’m not doing my job. I aim to create a patient, friendly, and low-pressure environment while still upholding the discipline and commitment that musical progress requires.

Whatever your musical goal, I’d love to help you achieve it. Whether you’re learning to strum along to your favourite songs, progressing through graded exams, preparing for university, or simply picking up the guitar for the first time, I look forward to hearing from you.