As a guitarist for 23 years and an instructor for 10, I've unfortunately seen it all too often: a new guitarist plays a song that they've been practicing for weeks but fails to get beyond the surface level of the song. They might play it well but can't quite name the chords or key they're in, can't improvise a solo or lead riff, or would simply be unable to learn it if they couldn't find a tab.

It's a double-edged sword, really; the guitar is an easy instrument to pick up but nearly impossible to master. A lot of us tend to learn to play whichever song we've fantasized about playing in front of a packed crowd and kind of just...stop there. In reality, there can be a lot to dissect and learn from songs beyond simply playing them and that is where I like to come in. Learn exactly why that chord sounds so good right there, what this time signature change achieves, or how you can play inverted chords instead of open chords to completely change the feel of the song.

Sign up for a free introductory 30 minute lesson with the link below and see how you can deepen your understanding of the guitar.

Learn How To Play (and Understand) the Guitar

What people are saying.

  • "I was searching for guitar lessons for my son when I came across Painted Bear. I read their reviews and they were great so I went ahead and sent a message to get more info on the classes. They were so quick to respond and set me up a free lesson with Jeremy! After that initial lesson, I went ahead and signed up my son to start getting virtual lessons. Let me tell you that he has learned so much more this year than all the other two/three years combined when he was taking lessons here locally. I can hear my son practicing and I am amazed at how well it is going and how much he has learned. My son is a bit shy and quiet, but Jeremy knows how to work with him. I have also noticed that my son is actually enjoying playing the guitar now! I am so very pleased with Jeremy and this company. They are amazing and very responsive!"

    — Irma V.

  • "Mr. Jeremy is a great guitar instructor! My six year old son truly enjoys his lessons and looks forward to them every week. Jeremy is very patient and knowledgeable. He is truly a great teacher who connects with my son, engages and encourages him so much. He is great at responding to messages and providing lessons and things to work on during the week that were taught in the lesson. My son and I both give him high praise!"

    — Nayeli C.

  • "Everything about Painted Bear is stellar! From the first session to over a year later now, our son looks forward to lessons with Jeremy every week. He has learned so much and has had a blast along the way. Jeremy is fun and engaging, all the while ensuring that his student is grasping the concepts for the week. He completes each session with a detailed recap and tips to strengthen the previous lesson. Jeremy has been a role model and super positive influence on our son, encouraging confidence and individuality. We are all grateful to have crossed paths with Jeremy!"

    — Deana K.

  • "My daughters teacher, Jeremy is so great. I really admire his way of teaching. He shows professionalism and patience every time. My daughter feels very comfortable being taught by him."

    — Nancy C.