Hey Portland! I’m Rick Klaras, and I want to teach you to play guitar.
Make Music With Me!
Looking for Portland guitar lessons? Take guitar lessons with me, and you won’t just learn to play an instrument; you’ll also learn how music really works! Plus, you’ll have a ton of fun!
I’ll teach you to play the music you love and help you develop musical literacy and strong fundamentals.
By the way, I also offer bass and ukulele lessons!
Learn From the Best
I’ve been playing guitar for nearly 30 years, and I have more than a decade of experience teaching guitar lessons. I’m proud (and grateful) to have sixty 5-star Google reviews and counting. I currently have openings for beginning and intermediate guitar, bass, and ukulele students of all ages.
I teach all styles of rock, blues, folk, country, pop, funk, music theory, improvisation, songwriting, standard notation, musical arrangement, and more!
In-Person and Online Guitar Lessons Now Available!
I’m currently offering in-person guitar lessons, and I’m following a strict COVID safety protocol to keep you safe. I’m also offering online lessons for those who are far away or would prefer to maintain social distancing.
Are you ready to make music?
Get in Touch for a Free Intro Lesson!
Here’s What My Students Say:
After not playing guitar for years and never having learned anything passed bar chords, I contacted Rick and he immediately helped me understand different ways to navigate the fretboard. After... read moreAfter not playing guitar for years and never having learned anything passed bar chords, I contacted Rick and he immediately helped me understand different ways to navigate the fretboard. After just a few months my skills in playing lead have grown so much. I recommend learning from Rick if you feel like you’ve hit a wall in learning guitar. His knowledge will help you appreciate the guitar much more. read less
Dario O.
After years of trying to teach myself guitar using a varied assortment of books and online videos, I decided to finally find myself a teacher here in PDX. After spending... read moreAfter years of trying to teach myself guitar using a varied assortment of books and online videos, I decided to finally find myself a teacher here in PDX. After spending a week or two in total analysis paralysis searching, I decided to give Learn Guitar PDX a try. I could not be more pleased! Rick, the teacher and sole proprietor of Learn Guitar PDX, is the real deal — patient, knowledgeable, and ready, willing, & able to meet you where you are. I’ve been studying with him for just under a year and have made far more progress than I thought possible. Between work and family, my schedule can get hectic, and when it does, Rick has always been willing to work with me on finding alternate times for lessons. Five stars and two enthusiastic thumbs up from me! read less
Scott D.
I picked up guitar as my pandemic project after meaning to get around to learning to play for the last 30 something years. I started learning with Rick (aka Learn... read moreI picked up guitar as my pandemic project after meaning to get around to learning to play for the last 30 something years. I started learning with Rick (aka Learn Guitar PDX) via Zoom classes 15 months ago. I literally didn’t know how to hold a guitar correctly when I started and can now play easy 4 or 5 chord songs (which is to say much of the pop music catalog). Rick has been super patient and helpful all along the way - even when I can’t stand to hear myself plunk through another attempt at whatever lesson is bedeviling me at present he always has encouragement and helpful pointers. Rick has returned to in-person lessons in his studio but he and I have stuck to Zoom classes as it’s very helpful for my busy schedule and I’m still able to take lessons while traveling even. If you’re curious about learning an instrument give Rick a try! He’s super approachable, patient and has a witty sense of humor tied into his deep knowledge of the music world. I also think we’ve played a ZZ Top riff, some Pavement and Dolly Parton all within the same 30 minutes - 30 minutes well spent! read less
John D.
My teen has been taking virtual bass lessons from Rick for approximately a year, he started as a completely new player who was tentative about his ability to build his... read moreMy teen has been taking virtual bass lessons from Rick for approximately a year, he started as a completely new player who was tentative about his ability to build his skills. Working with Rick has not only helped him to become a more proficient early level bass player, it has increased his self confidence and drive to work through pain points and get to the other side successfully. Rick is patient, adaptable and able to pivot to meet the needs of students as they arise while helping them focus on the big picture. I would happily recommend him for music lessons to anyone looking but especially for teens who may need a little additional support. read less
Leo M.
Rick is the best! I’ve been taking lessons from him for about 1 1/2 years at this point. He is patient, he is funny, and he helps make music enjoyable,... read moreRick is the best! I’ve been taking lessons from him for about 1 1/2 years at this point. He is patient, he is funny, and he helps make music enjoyable, rather than stressful. I recommend him fully for anyone that wants to truly learn guitar! read less
Rick P.
My 17 year old son has been taking guitar lessons with Rick for over a year now. He started online lessons during the pandemic and has continued to take... read moreMy 17 year old son has been taking guitar lessons with Rick for over a year now. He started online lessons during the pandemic and has continued to take lessons with Rick after we moved across the country. Rick has been a very patient and encouraging teacher. He's the type of teacher that meets each student where they are and personalizes his lessons. As others have said, Rick is wonderful at creating genuine relationships with his students. I am grateful for his consistent positive presence in my son's life each week. read less
Kristie R.
If you'd like to learn guitar, I highly recommend Rick! He is beyond patient and very focused during lessons. I was an absolute beginner and have been learning online with... read moreIf you'd like to learn guitar, I highly recommend Rick! He is beyond patient and very focused during lessons. I was an absolute beginner and have been learning online with Rick. I am very happy with the progress he has helped me achieve this year! You will find that he is very kind and has a straight forward system for lessons, which has been great. At the same time, he is a creative and flexible teacher, when needed. Ten zillion stars!! read less
Jasmine D.
Rick is an excellent teacher, even when zoom is the only option, he's found a way to make the lessons engaging. He also does a great job of holding you... read moreRick is an excellent teacher, even when zoom is the only option, he's found a way to make the lessons engaging. He also does a great job of holding you accountable, which is really what I needed. read less
Ken P.
My son (13 yo) has been taking lessons from Rick for a little over a year and he is learning how to play guitar! While that's obviously great, what I've... read moreMy son (13 yo) has been taking lessons from Rick for a little over a year and he is learning how to play guitar! While that's obviously great, what I've been most impressed with is how Rick has established a genuine relationship with my son that has bridged the typical frustrations of beginner guitarists, middle school age development, and frankly, a global pandemic. When he started he was meeting Rick in his studio for in person lessons, but within three months he needed to pivot to lessons on Zoom due to physical distancing requirements. While this took a little getting used to, he has continued to progress in his abilities. In addition, he looks forward to his half hour online with Rick each week! In part, I think this is because so much of his time is spent with members of our own household and he hasn't been able to socialize as much with others. But even more so, I think it is because Rick is such a fun, motivational teacher, and just a great guy in general! read less
Ben H.
I'd like to say that Rick is an amazing musician and teacher. It's been ~1 year that I've taken lessons with him and I have to highlight a few things:... read moreI'd like to say that Rick is an amazing musician and teacher. It's been ~1 year that I've taken lessons with him and I have to highlight a few things: - He has demonstrated deep knowledge in music ( theory, technique, song writing, msuic production) and if there is something he hasn't mastered he lets you know (but he certainly knows a lot) - His lessons are based on the student's goals. Since day 1 he asks you what do you want to get from the lessons so he can guide you and set clear objectives that will target those goals . - He is extremely patient. It doesn't matter for how long I was stuck in an exercise or how long it took me to understand something, he takes a step back and explains you as many times as needed with the same patience as he did the first time. - His passion for teaching and music, you can see how much he enjoys doing this and certainly transmits that energy to his students. At least this happens to me. I would strongly recommend anyone interested in guitar to take lessons with Rick, it doesn't really matter if you're a beginner or advanced, there are plenty of things to be learned from him. read less
Fabian G.
After reading all the other glowing reviews that Rick has received over the years/months/weeks, I can personally vouch for them. Whether you're an adult picking up a guitar for... read moreAfter reading all the other glowing reviews that Rick has received over the years/months/weeks, I can personally vouch for them. Whether you're an adult picking up a guitar for the first time or already an intermediate or advanced student, Rick's combination of knowledge, ability and patience will elevate your playing - No doubt! Even with my questionable musical talent, I feel and hear myself getting better with each lesson. Whether its reminding me to play closer to the frets or demonstrating how to put some swing into the alternate picking exercises, Rick has elevated my playing. He can do the same for you no matter your age. So if you're in the Portland area, heck, with the pandemic - anywhere with an internet connection, you owe it to yourself to check out Learn Guitar PDX if you want to further your guitar journey! read less
Jeff H.
Rick is a great guitar teacher! He is positive and encouraging. Also, prompt and organized. My 12 year old son is learning to read music and has made great progress... read moreRick is a great guitar teacher! He is positive and encouraging. Also, prompt and organized. My 12 year old son is learning to read music and has made great progress as a beginner, we highly recommend Rick! read less
Liza S.
Rick is friendly and fun. I had some nerves about playing in front of someone and he helped me feel comfortable. Rick has been very encouraging and informative helping me... read moreRick is friendly and fun. I had some nerves about playing in front of someone and he helped me feel comfortable. Rick has been very encouraging and informative helping me progress on my guitar journey! I was very hesitant to take lessons with all of the stuff available on the internet for free. Now that I have started lessons with Rick I highly recommend them!!! It makes a huge difference to have someone sit down 1 on 1 with you and give advice specific to you as an individual! So if you were like me, know that lessons are worth it! My learning is much clearer and more rewarding than random internet information. read less
Walter M.
My 8 yr old had been playing guitar for two years prior to meeting Rick. Her skills and enthusiasm for playing has skyrocketed. She explained to me that "Rick teaches... read moreMy 8 yr old had been playing guitar for two years prior to meeting Rick. Her skills and enthusiasm for playing has skyrocketed. She explained to me that "Rick teaches in a way that is easy for me to understand." He's patient and funny, my daughter adores him. We can't recommend him enough. read less
C J.
Taking lessons with Rick has been great! I've been going once a week for a little over a year and I'm really happy with the results. Taking lessons... read moreTaking lessons with Rick has been great! I've been going once a week for a little over a year and I'm really happy with the results. Taking lessons as an adult was nerve racking for me because I had kind of written myself off, thinking I'd never be able to get the hang of it. Rick does a great job of taking you through the basics and building each week, but more importantly he's thoughtful in talking to you about what songs/musicians you like and want to learn, and incorporating that into the lesson as well. Do yourself a favor and book a lesson! read less
Cynthia C.
Rick Klaras is the greatest! Our 11yo son is learning to play the ukulele with Rick and is thoroughly enjoying it and learning a lot as well! Highly recommended!
Shannon G.
Rick is super with our son, patient instructor with attention to detail! Also, flexible and helpful with scheduling. Recommendation without reservation! Andrew
Andrew J.
Rick is an absolute pleasure to learn from. I always hesitated to pay to learn when you have the internet at your fingertips but he is the internet version of... read moreRick is an absolute pleasure to learn from. I always hesitated to pay to learn when you have the internet at your fingertips but he is the internet version of learning guitar with all the quick links ready to answer and demonstrate! Seriously every question and tangent I’ve ever presented to him he’s had the direct answer along with other things to consider as well. In addition to the standard lessons, Rick has been helping me write music to lyrics I wrote that I’m going to use to propose to my lady with which has been an extraordinary experience. He’s also always been so flexible with my schedule as I’m a fireman and bartender which has been incredible. He’s very easygoing and fun to hang with while learning - has made learning guitar fun for sure. read less
Tyler W.
I can't say enough about Rick and Learn Guitar PDX. After not playing the guitar for over 15 years, I really wanted to get back to playing but was having... read moreI can't say enough about Rick and Learn Guitar PDX. After not playing the guitar for over 15 years, I really wanted to get back to playing but was having a hard time getting started. After my first lesson with Rick I felt very comfortable and confident that he could get me playing again. I've been learning so much and am playing better than I ever have, I'm so happy to be working with Rick and Learn Guitar PDX! read less
Peter W.
My 11 year son loves Rick! He says he’s a great teacher and easy to understand !
Amy G.
I have been taking lessons with Rick for almost a year. He is a wonderful musician and teacher. He is great for all levels and backgrounds. I was worried that... read moreI have been taking lessons with Rick for almost a year. He is a wonderful musician and teacher. He is great for all levels and backgrounds. I was worried that since I have a long background with music in other instruments I would have trouble connecting with a teacher (since I'm so picky). Rick is very patient and goes at your level. He is very flexible, and always works with me and my crazy schedule. The price is fair and worth it. I really could not have asked for a better experience. He has knowledge of all different types of music which makes lessons fun and productive. I would highly recommend Rick to any guitarist with goals for any style and starting at any level! read less
Emily L.
Rick has been teaching my daughter to play guitar for almost two years. She sometimes goes to the lesson a bit grumpy but always when she leaves she is upbeat... read moreRick has been teaching my daughter to play guitar for almost two years. She sometimes goes to the lesson a bit grumpy but always when she leaves she is upbeat and enthusiastic. He is consistently patient and kind. I’d recommend him whole heartedly. He rocks! read less
Audrey M.
Been taking lessons as a beginner guitarist for a few months with Rick,he’s an excellent teacher,highly recommend
rr k.
I’ve been taking lessons from Rick for a few months now. Overall he’s a great teacher with lots of patience. Learning the guitar as a beginner can be frustrating and... read moreI’ve been taking lessons from Rick for a few months now. Overall he’s a great teacher with lots of patience. Learning the guitar as a beginner can be frustrating and difficult at times, but he does a good job motivating me to persevere and that it’s alright to make mistakes. I would definitely recommend Rick whether you are brand new and picking up the guitar for the first time, or if you have experience and would like to better your skills and techniques. read less
Andrew N.
I’m retired and have time to take guitar lessons. I’m so glad to have found Rick to teach me. He is very patient, clear instructions, and knowledgeable. I would recommend... read moreI’m retired and have time to take guitar lessons. I’m so glad to have found Rick to teach me. He is very patient, clear instructions, and knowledgeable. I would recommend Rick for any age group. Thanks Rick! read less
Monica F.
Rick is so special. He is an amazing, thoughtful, caring person, who happens to be an amazing guitar teacher. He has the patience of a saint, a great sense of... read moreRick is so special. He is an amazing, thoughtful, caring person, who happens to be an amazing guitar teacher. He has the patience of a saint, a great sense of humor, and is a joy to work with. Beyond that, he is super well organized, caring, and really helps me learn and grow as a guitarist. I would recommend him highly to absolutely anyone who wants to learn guitar from the best. read less
Kat S.
My daughter has been taking lessons with Rick for some time now, and it's been a great experience! Rick is patient with children, but also really good at holding them... read moreMy daughter has been taking lessons with Rick for some time now, and it's been a great experience! Rick is patient with children, but also really good at holding them accountable in a kind, no-nonsense manner. I also appreciate that he uses not only the sometimes dry lesson book but also teaches pop and rock songs that my daughter adores, and customizes them so they're at the right skill level when needed. This has kept lessons interesting and fresh. I would highly recommend Rick as a teacher for children or adults. My kiddo is his biggest fan! read less
Jami F.
I've been getting lessons from Rick for about a year now and it's been a great experience. I had no guitar experience, I just woke up one day and... read moreI've been getting lessons from Rick for about a year now and it's been a great experience. I had no guitar experience, I just woke up one day and said I wanted to learn, and I've made so much progress from our initial lesson. Rick's incredibly patient, keeps me engaged by challenging me with new songs to learn and creates a really fun learning experience. I highly recommend him if you're interested in taking lessons! read less
Justine J.
I have loved music since the Sixties but I have never been a musician until lately. A few years ago I bought a ukulele and learned to play, completely self... read moreI have loved music since the Sixties but I have never been a musician until lately. A few years ago I bought a ukulele and learned to play, completely self taught. I finally decided to buy a guitar a couple of months ago and I knew that I need a good instructor. The first person that I contacted never got back to me, which proved to be very fortunate, because when I searched again I found Rick and Learn Guitar PDX. Rick responded almost immediately and welcomed me to an introductory lesson. After that first meeting I knew that he was what I was looking for in a guitar teacher. He is organized, friendly and ready to lead you on your musical journey. After taking lessons for a couple of months, I couldn't be happier with my progress and my weekly visits with Rick. He is patient, detail oriented and able to connect with musicians of all ages. It feels like you're learning and playing with a friend. I would recommend Rick's lessons to anyone and I feel fortunate to have found an instructor like him. read less
Wayne S.
Taking guitar lessons from Rick has been a great experience. His lessons are a highlight of my week, as he is an incredibly patient and knowledgeable teacher. I've been able... read moreTaking guitar lessons from Rick has been a great experience. His lessons are a highlight of my week, as he is an incredibly patient and knowledgeable teacher. I've been able to start learning how to play some of my favorite songs, which is awesome and something that felt so frustrating attempting to do on my own. I would highly recommend anyone looking to learn to play guitar, to do so through learn guitar pdx. Also, his dog is ridiculously cute. read less
Alexis A.
If you're in the market for a super rad guitar teacher, check out Rick. My son, Quinton, loves him. Rick is cool, patient, hilarious, and just an all around great... read moreIf you're in the market for a super rad guitar teacher, check out Rick. My son, Quinton, loves him. Rick is cool, patient, hilarious, and just an all around great human. And he's awesome with free spirits! read less
TheScratchkin B.
Rick is a rad teacher! After a few months of failing to teach myself guitar, I started taking lessons from Rick. As an adult with absolutely no musical experience at... read moreRick is a rad teacher! After a few months of failing to teach myself guitar, I started taking lessons from Rick. As an adult with absolutely no musical experience at all, Rick made any nervousness about being "too old to learn" dissipate immediately. He's hilarious, so kind, and his encouragement and support is unwavering. His belief in his students is unmatched. He really cares about his students and takes interest in catering musical selections to be based on your favorite bands and songs. He's great at gauging musical taste and coming up with songs to play within your skill level. I give Rick 5 stars and a high-five! read less
Ellen W.
Rick has been teaching guitar to our teen son for a couple of years, and I would definitely recommend him. He is patient and kind while also providing enough push... read moreRick has been teaching guitar to our teen son for a couple of years, and I would definitely recommend him. He is patient and kind while also providing enough push and motivation to keep our son continually learning and improving his skills. He has made it fun for our son and has helped him learn a few of his most favorite songs along the way. We look forward to continuing lessons with Rick for the foreseeable future. read less
Alice W.
I have been taking lessons for over a year with Rick and he has been superb! He has always been willing to work with me on whatever I choose--whether... read moreI have been taking lessons for over a year with Rick and he has been superb! He has always been willing to work with me on whatever I choose--whether it's theory, learning different songs, or anything else (how to properly adjust your strap, changing strings and stretching them afterwards, what to look for in an amp--whatever). I look forward to every week's lesson, and he's just generally a pretty cool guy. Always a pleasure! read less
John L.
I'm 41 years old and just decided this year that I wanted to learn guitar. I had no musical training whatsoever, other than some recorder lessons in grade school.... read moreI'm 41 years old and just decided this year that I wanted to learn guitar. I had no musical training whatsoever, other than some recorder lessons in grade school. Rick has been a fantastic teacher, and I'm very glad that I found him. Not only has he been very patient, he's been encouraging and a pleasure to talk to. I'll be continuing to take lessons with Rick, and if you're looking for lessons yourself, I highly recommend you give him a try! read less
Nick G.
I fully echo the positive reviews others have left. Rick has been nothing but patient and encouraging since I first started guitar lessons seven months ago. I was... read moreI fully echo the positive reviews others have left. Rick has been nothing but patient and encouraging since I first started guitar lessons seven months ago. I was a complete novice and didn’t know what to expect, but he has always proven to be a great teacher. Even when my chords would make others cringe, he is positive about my progress and emphasizes what I have gotten right. He even gives out stickers! Would definitely recommend him to others. read less
Julee W.
Rick is knowledgeable, talented and a natural at teaching. He’s a good listener and knows how to adjust to an individual’s learning style. And, on top of that, he’s fun!
N
Rick is an extremely knowledgeable, patient and helpful guitar teacher. He breaks down the theory in a way that makes it easy to grasp and keeps the material directed towards... read moreRick is an extremely knowledgeable, patient and helpful guitar teacher. He breaks down the theory in a way that makes it easy to grasp and keeps the material directed towards what you are interested in. Highly recommend for any skill level. read less
Casey E.
Great teachers! A fun and positve environment making it easy to learn and grow. We've been taking lessons from Joel for the last 15 months and it's been a wonderful experience.
pam k.
My 12 year old has been learning guitar from Rick for over a year now and he has learned quite a bit during this time. We are very pleased with... read moreMy 12 year old has been learning guitar from Rick for over a year now and he has learned quite a bit during this time. We are very pleased with Rick and with my son's achievement. Rick is an awesome teacher, vocalist, and guitarist and we highly recommend him. Our son is excited to learn from Rick and practices at home without being asked to; we don't have to make him do it anymore 🙂 Rick has helped him learn some songs of his choice and any kid would love that kind of tutoring and encouragement. Thank you, Rick! read less
bruh b.
Rick is clear, attentive and goal oriented. I'm an adult student with a busy life. And on those weeks when my practice does not match our goals he adjusts and... read moreRick is clear, attentive and goal oriented. I'm an adult student with a busy life. And on those weeks when my practice does not match our goals he adjusts and works to keep me moving forward. Which I appreciate. Also, I very much appreciate that RIck is an active musician. His passion comes through in his teaching. read less
Eric L.
Rick doesn't rush me to the dead corner if I can't play the thing. He's nice and supportive. I feel more comfortable picking the strings. My dexterity goes up with... read moreRick doesn't rush me to the dead corner if I can't play the thing. He's nice and supportive. I feel more comfortable picking the strings. My dexterity goes up with each exercise. Also, he plays pretty nice music. Check out on SoundCloud! read less
Dat N.
Rick has been an amazing guitar teacher for our teenage daughter, and we're so happy we found him! Each week our daughter leaves her lesson excited about what she... read moreRick has been an amazing guitar teacher for our teenage daughter, and we're so happy we found him! Each week our daughter leaves her lesson excited about what she learned and practiced with Rick, and wants to share it with us as soon as we get home. Rick strikes a wonderful balance between helping our daughter master the songs she wants to play while also introducing her to new music that expands her knowledge and builds new skills. She feels comfortable sharing her singing and songwriting with him as well which speaks to his patience, kindness, and ability to connect with young people. Rick makes lessons fun and engaging, and we highly recommend him to anyone looking for a guitar teacher. read less
R&J A.
Rick had been teaching our 11 year old daughter for over a year. She has made a lot of progress as a beginner--Rick is so patient with her. Beyond the... read moreRick had been teaching our 11 year old daughter for over a year. She has made a lot of progress as a beginner--Rick is so patient with her. Beyond the fundamentals she is learning, Rick also works with her on pop songs in which she has interest. Rick is flexible and a good communicator. He also gives very good feedback to keep my daughter on track. I highly recommend Rick and learnguitarpdx!! read less
Shannon M.
Rick is an incredible teacher and a very nice person! I highly recommend lessons with Rick.
Abigail S.
Rick has been such a wonderful instructor to my daughter, who expressed interest in learning ukulele but who was nervous about whether it would be difficult since she has never... read moreRick has been such a wonderful instructor to my daughter, who expressed interest in learning ukulele but who was nervous about whether it would be difficult since she has never studied music before. Rick has made her feel so comfortable every step of the way, and I have been able to listen to them make such lovely music together sitting in on the lessons in his charming studio. Rick has a gentle, encouraging manner with kids, and my daughter has been transformed from someone who was nervous about trying music to someone who is making big plans about joining the band at school. Thank you for everything, Rick! read less
Richard M.
Been taking lessons for nearly a year now. Rick is always very patient, knowledgeable, and friendly. He is willing to give you everything you need to really learn how to... read moreBeen taking lessons for nearly a year now. Rick is always very patient, knowledgeable, and friendly. He is willing to give you everything you need to really learn how to play music. Highly recommended!!! read less
Mathew W.
Rick has a rare combination - a highly skilled guitarist AND a special teacher. He truly listens, takes notes, and then prepares for your lesson. When you... read moreRick has a rare combination - a highly skilled guitarist AND a special teacher. He truly listens, takes notes, and then prepares for your lesson. When you arrive you feel as if he's been waiting for you all week long. I've learned so much from him. Practice is fun again! Chris read less
Chris K.
I have taken classes with Rick for the last 6 or so months. Going into it I was fully prepared to begin with the most monotonous and grueling songs for... read moreI have taken classes with Rick for the last 6 or so months. Going into it I was fully prepared to begin with the most monotonous and grueling songs for the first year at least. While he does incorporate classic beginners songs, he also writes tablature that learners can understand in order for you to play your favorite songs right off the bat. I love playing and I have learned so much faster than I had expected to; and I think that my passion had a lot to do with Rick's teaching styles. He's incredibly patient and helpful, and he works around my schedule as much as he can. Also, his lessons are pretty much the cheapest you can find in the Portland area. All around this guy is a great teacher. read less
Katy B.
My daughter is 11 and takes lessons with Rick. We could not be happier with the lessons! His communication style is perfect with kids, authentic, kind, direct and funny. My... read moreMy daughter is 11 and takes lessons with Rick. We could not be happier with the lessons! His communication style is perfect with kids, authentic, kind, direct and funny. My daughter loves the lessons and talks about how much she loves them with her friends. The lessons themselves a a good balance of theory, music literacy and creative invention. I also love the consistency of the lessons and how my daughter is able to work on a project from beginning to end over a a series of many lessons and to feel the success of pulling off a difficult piece completely. Rick is the best! read less
Mya R.
I've taken lessons from Rick for almost two years now and he is a great guy and an amazing teacher. He is an awesome guitar player and is extremely... read moreI've taken lessons from Rick for almost two years now and he is a great guy and an amazing teacher. He is an awesome guitar player and is extremely knowledged in music theory. But the best part is that he is a very patient teacher and is really good at passing on what he knows in a way that is easy to understand. I learned so much from him in regards to theory and technique, both of which are challenging enough to learn let alone teach. Also, If I have a question about something throughout the week he always helps me out in an email or text. I can't recommend him enough, he is great at what he does and will help you learn quickly. Awesome teacher! read less
adam c.
Rick is an amazing guitar teacher. He crafts lessons to suit your style and experience, and does an excellent job of combining theory and practice to make you not... read moreRick is an amazing guitar teacher. He crafts lessons to suit your style and experience, and does an excellent job of combining theory and practice to make you not just a better guitar player, but a better musician. He is affable, organized, and very devoted to his students, even putting out a monthly newsletter for them in which he provides tips, links, advice, etc. I highly recommend. read less
Charlie P.
Rick is a gifted teacher, offering structure to the student's musical interest with a relaxed approach and genuine enthusiasm for the craft. He allows the student to feel comfortable with... read moreRick is a gifted teacher, offering structure to the student's musical interest with a relaxed approach and genuine enthusiasm for the craft. He allows the student to feel comfortable with the learning process from the beginning, enabling them to grow the confidence needed to truly enjoy it. I'm listening to my son practice right now- it brings joy to my heart to hear him learning songs he always wanted to play and creating the sounds he always wanted to hear. The gift of music is a gift for life. Priceless. read less
Grace K.
Rick is an excellent teacher. Scheduling: Prompt responses and flexible regarding scheduling. Lessons: He tailors the lessons and content based on my feedback and his vast experience as a... read moreRick is an excellent teacher. Scheduling: Prompt responses and flexible regarding scheduling. Lessons: He tailors the lessons and content based on my feedback and his vast experience as a musician. The result is fun, challenging, customized lessons and homework that blends playing songs, learning music theory, and skill development exercises. This customized approach, well rounded approach is extremely beneficial and fun for a beginner like myself. He is also extremely knowledgeable about music equipment (guitars, amps, etc), which has been really helpful, as I purchased a new guitar. I would highly recommend Rick for young and old, beginners or experienced musicians. He is a great teacher. A++++ read less
Al B.
I've been working with Rick for about 6 months now and I couldn't speak more highly of him as a teacher. I had wanted to learn guitar for years, but... read moreI've been working with Rick for about 6 months now and I couldn't speak more highly of him as a teacher. I had wanted to learn guitar for years, but couldn't get over the fear of possibly not being good enough (so why bother?). He assured me that many people felt and overcame not only that fear but several other handicaps. In addition to learning how to read music, I'm learning chords, strumming patterns and techniques. Rick makes each lesson varied and enjoyable. We have a lot of laughs and I look forward to each session. His approach to teaching comprises patience, compassion and structure -- three things I needed for this goal to become a reality. I feel that he is as invested in helping me learn as I am in wanting to learn! Thank you for everything, Rick! read less
Kelly L.
Howdy, I'm a beginner guitarist who has been taking lessons from Rick for a while now. He's a very relaxed, skilled, and encouraging teacher. I really appreciate the opportunity to... read moreHowdy, I'm a beginner guitarist who has been taking lessons from Rick for a while now. He's a very relaxed, skilled, and encouraging teacher. I really appreciate the opportunity to give input on what types of music or specific songs I'd like to work on. Rick gives regular instruction on music theory along with technique that is very helpful the more I practice. I'd recommend Rick to anyone wanting to improve their guitar playing. Dave read less
Dave P.
Rick taught me guitar when I was in high school. He's as good at teaching as he is at playing - which is pretty damn good, imho. I could only... read moreRick taught me guitar when I was in high school. He's as good at teaching as he is at playing - which is pretty damn good, imho. I could only imagine he's gotten even better over the years. read less
Kyle Z.
I have been taking guitar lessons from Rick for over a month now. He is a very knowledgeable, patient, and educated teacher that i would recommend to all of... read moreI have been taking guitar lessons from Rick for over a month now. He is a very knowledgeable, patient, and educated teacher that i would recommend to all of my friends and family. Learning guitar has been a great experience that everyone should participate in. Rick is always willing to teach and is a top tier guitarist. read less
Jeremy G.
In the few lessons that I did have with Rick, I learned more about the intricacies involved in creative and inspiring guitar play than anywhere else in 14 years of... read moreIn the few lessons that I did have with Rick, I learned more about the intricacies involved in creative and inspiring guitar play than anywhere else in 14 years of guitar and bass playing. Rick truly is a one-of-a-kind musician and teacher. Whether it's from his solo projects, to his (recently dismembered) band, Invisible Orchestra, you'll find nothing but creative and inspiring innovation. No matter if you're just interested in learning an awesome riff, or the theory behind the Dorian scale: look no further. Rick's lessons and teachings will leave a permanent positive impact on the way you look at guitar, which, in turn, will transcend into the way you look at nature, the world, and your everyday life. read less
Tony I.
Rick was knowledgeable and patient with me and my guitar studies. It was clear to me that I could have studied with him for years to come. Unfortunately, as an... read moreRick was knowledgeable and patient with me and my guitar studies. It was clear to me that I could have studied with him for years to come. Unfortunately, as an adult learner, I had to stop so that I could focus on other things but if I can return to the guitar, Rick is top on my list for instruction. Still, when I have time to sit with the guitar, I refer to his notes and remember the guidance, which is invaluable. read less
Hob A.
