My son (13 yo) has been taking lessons from Rick for a little over a year and he is learning... 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

Rick is friendly and fun. I had some nerves about playing in front of someone and he helped me feel... 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

Rick is an excellent teacher, even when zoom is the only option, he's found a way to make the lessons... 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

Rick is a great guitar teacher! He is positive and encouraging. Also, prompt and organized. My 12 year old son... 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

Rick is a great guitar teacher! He is positive and encouraging. Also, prompt and organized. My 12 year old son... 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

My 8 yr old had been playing guitar for two years prior to meeting Rick. Her skills and enthusiasm for... 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

My 8 yr old had been playing guitar for two years prior to meeting Rick. Her skills and enthusiasm for... 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

After reading all the other glowing reviews that Rick has received over the years/months/weeks, I can personally vouch for them.... 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

I'd like to say that Rick is an amazing musician and teacher.
It's been ~1 year that I've taken lessons with... 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

I can't say enough about Rick and Learn Guitar PDX. After not playing the guitar for over 15 years, I... 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

Taking lessons with Rick has been great! I've been going once a week for a little over a year... 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

Rick is an absolute pleasure to learn from. I always hesitated to pay to learn when you have the internet... 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.
He’s also 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 for sure. read less

Rick has been an incredible teacher to our teenage son! He's patient, encouraging, skilled and keeps his students engaged. We... read moreRick has been an incredible teacher to our teenage son! He's patient, encouraging, skilled and keeps his students engaged. We couldn't be happier! read less

My 11 year son loves Rick! He says he’s a great teacher and easy to understand !

Rick is super with our son, patient instructor with attention to detail!
Also, flexible and helpful with scheduling. Recommendation without reservation!
Andrew

Rick Klaras is the greatest! Our 11yo son is learning to play the ukulele with Rick and is thoroughly enjoying... read moreRick 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! read less

Rick is so special. He is an amazing, thoughtful, caring person, who happens to be an amazing guitar teacher. He... 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

I have been taking lessons with Rick for almost a year. He is a wonderful musician and teacher. He is... 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

My daughter has been taking lessons with Rick for some time now, and it's been a great experience! Rick is... 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

I've been getting lessons from Rick for about a year now and it's been a great experience. I had... 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

I’m retired and have time to take guitar lessons. I’m so glad to have found Rick to teach me. He... 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

I have loved music since the Sixties but I have never been a musician until lately. A few years ago... 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

I’ve been taking lessons from Rick for a few months now. Overall he’s a great teacher with lots of patience.... 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

Been taking lessons as a beginner guitarist for a few months with Rick,he’s an excellent teacher,highly recommend

Rick has been teaching my daughter to play guitar for almost two years. She sometimes goes to the lesson a... 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

Rick had been teaching our 11 year old daughter for over a year. She has made a lot of progress... 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

Rick is knowledgeable, talented and a natural at teaching. He’s a good listener and knows how to adjust to an... read moreRick 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! read less

Rick doesn't rush me to the dead corner if I can't play the thing. He's nice and supportive. I feel... 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

I fully echo the positive reviews others have left. Rick has been nothing but patient and encouraging since I... 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

I'm 41 years old and just decided this year that I wanted to learn guitar. I had no musical... 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

I have been taking lessons for over a year with Rick and he has been superb! He has always... 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

If you're in the market for a super rad guitar teacher, check out Rick. My son, Quinton, loves him. Rick... 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

Taking guitar lessons from Rick has been a great experience. His lessons are a highlight of my week, as he... 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

Rick is an extremely knowledgeable, patient and helpful guitar teacher. He breaks down the theory in a way that makes... 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

Great teachers! A fun and positve environment making it easy to learn and grow. We've been taking lessons from Joel... read moreGreat 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. read less

I took lessons from Rick for a couple of years. Rick was always very patient, knowledgeable, and fun! What I... read moreI took lessons from Rick for a couple of years. Rick was always very patient, knowledgeable, and fun! What I loved most was that he would teach technique through conventional methods but also throw in some rad songs that kept it fun. I would highly recommend him as a teacher for both children and adults. read less

My 12 year old has been learning guitar from Rick for over a year now and he has learned quite... 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

Rick is clear, attentive and goal oriented. I'm an adult student with a busy life. And on those weeks when... 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

Rick has been an amazing guitar teacher for our teenage daughter, and we're so happy we found him! Each... 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

Rick has been teaching guitar to our teen son for a couple of years, and I would definitely recommend him.... 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

Rick is a rad teacher!
After a few months of failing to teach myself guitar, I started taking lessons from... 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

My daughter took ukulele from Rick for 6 months, in that time the improvement was amazing due to the fact... read moreMy daughter took ukulele from Rick for 6 months, in that time the improvement was amazing due to the fact that Rick is kind, patient and his passion is kid focused and never getting frustrated no matter how many times they had to redo the chords. My wife is a PPS teacher and she mentioned how Rick is a natural as not easy to show passion with every student. I would highly recommend him to anyone who is thinking of getting their kids into music. Very talented musician. read less

Rick is an incredible teacher and a very nice person! I highly recommend lessons with Rick.

Been taking lessons for nearly a year now. Rick is always very patient, knowledgeable, and friendly. He is willing 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

Rick has been such a wonderful instructor to my daughter, who expressed interest in learning ukulele but who was nervous... 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