Best guitar teachers in Philadelphia: Top 1-on-1 guitar instructors, costs & how to choose

With its legendary musical roots, from the smooth grooves of Philly Soul to groundbreaking hip hop and indie rock, Philadelphia offers endless inspiration for guitarists and music lovers alike.

From mastering fingerpicking techniques to shredding powerful rock solos, the city’s vibrant scene encourages guitarists of all levels.

If you’re serious about learning or picking the guitar back up, a 1-on-1 guitar teacher can personalize lessons to your goals, whether that’s blues improvisation, learning essential chord progressions, or understanding music theory to write your own songs.

In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know about choosing the best guitar teachers in Philadelphia, from how lessons are structured, to what they cost, to the top-rated guitar instructors in Philadelphia for adults and kids you can book through Wiingy, who specialize in styles ranging from jazz and classical to rock and pop.

Why work with a guitar teacher in Philadelphia?

Private guitar lessons offer major advantages over group classes – especially in a city with as deep and diverse a musical legacy as Philadelphia.

• Personalized practice routines tailored to your goals, whether you’re just starting with basic chords or gearing up to perform at a Fishtown venue or South Street open mic. Philly’s music scene – steeped in soul, jazz, and indie grit – challenges you to grow and find your unique sound.
• Real-time feedback on technique, rhythm, and style that can help you prepare for local showcases, auditions, or even bigger stages. After all, this is the city that shaped artists like Patti LaBelle, The Roots, Jill Scott, and Meek Mill – all known for their passion and performance power.
• Private lessons also help build confidence, so you can own the stage like Philly’s greats, whether you’re aiming for live gigs, auditions at local arts schools, or simply want to play your favorite songs with friends.
• With flexible learning options, lessons can easily fit into your schedule – perfect for students, working professionals, or anyone balancing music with a busy life. 

Whether you’re playing for fun or planning to go pro, 1-on-1 guitar lessons in Philly help you level up faster and stay inspired by the city’s creative energy.

Factors to consider when choosing the right guitar teacher in Philadelphia

Finding the right guitar teacher isn’t just about credentials – it’s about connecting with someone who understands your musical goals and learning style, especially in a city as creatively diverse as Philly.

Here’s what to look for:

• Experience: Do they teach all skill levels? Whether you’re picking up a guitar for the first time or prepping for a live set in Fishtown or an audition at a local arts school, you’ll want a teacher who’s comfortable guiding beginners and advanced players alike.
• Style: Can they teach the genres you love? Philly’s music scene pulses with soul, jazz, indie rock, blues, and hip hop. Your tutor should be able to match your taste – whether you’re into John Coltrane’s cool jazz or Meek Mill’s raw energy.
• Format: Do they offer online, in-person, or both? Whether you’re based in Center City, West Philly, or the suburbs, flexibility matters. 
• Flexibility: Can you easily reschedule or book a trial lesson? Life in Philly can move fast – between school, work, and SEPTA delays – so a teacher with a flexible, student-friendly approach makes all the difference.

Pro tip: Wiingy guitar tutors are expert-vetted, offer free trials, and cover every style and skill level.

Best guitar teachers in Philadelphia

From beginners to advanced players, Wiingy offers personalized 1-on-1 guitar lessons in Philadelphia, available online or face-to-face. Meet some of the exceptional tutors who make it happen.

 1. Jess Araten – Best for music theory and techniques

• Specialties: Acoustic, electric, classical, and bass guitar; personalized learning; performance confidence
• Experience: Featured in Guitar Player Magazine; played with members of Guns N’ Roses, Aerosmith & Earth, Wind & Fire; full-time New Orleans-based musician and educator
• Ideal for: Students who want to explore diverse styles, develop their unique voice, and stay creatively inspired

What makes Jess stand out?

Jess Araten brings the spirit of New Orleans – and a whole lot of soul – into every lesson. With a background that blends rock, funk, blues, and experimental music, Jess offers students a rare mix of technical mastery and creative exploration. 

Whether you’re a total beginner or a seasoned player looking to level up, Jess knows how to make guitar lessons feel fresh, fun, and totally personalized.

A former Guitar Player Magazine spotlight artist and now a full-time musician releasing music under the name Yska, Jess has shared stages with legends and continues to collaborate across genres. 

Her teaching style is all about connection: with the instrument, with your goals, and with your unique musical voice. Students love how she tailors lessons to match their pace and passions – always encouraging curiosity, growth, and expression. 

Want to see how Jess’s approach works in real life? Check out this story where one learner shares how Jess helped them master power chords and build the confidence to express themselves through music.

Level up with Jess’s real-world music insights and personalized coaching – book now.

2. Gabriela Velarde – Guitar lessons with music theory and chord progressions

• Specialties: Classical and popular guitar styles; music theory; performance preparation
• Experience: Bachelor’s degree in Music (Guitar Performance); international courses and masterclasses with distinguished guitarists; 5+ years of teaching
• Ideal for: Students seeking detailed, personalized lessons in classical and popular guitar, from beginners to advanced performers

What makes Gabriela stand out?

Gabriela Velarde’s approach to guitar teaching is rooted in a deep understanding of both classical precision and popular music expression. 

With years of study under masters like René Izquierdo and Irina Kulikova, Gabriela brings an international perspective to her lessons, blending technical mastery with artistic creativity. 

Whether you’re learning the intricacies of classical pieces or exploring modern styles, her lessons are designed to foster growth and build a strong foundation in both theory and practice.

Known for her patient and tailored teaching style, Gabriela ensures that each lesson speaks to the individual needs of her students. 

From crafting effective practice routines to preparing for performances, she takes a holistic approach to learning, always aiming to make each student feel supported and challenged. 

Ready to build a strong foundation in both classical and popular styles? Book a lesson with Gabriela today and start your musical journey with expert guidance.

3. Tomás Insaurralde – Best for chord progressions and music theory

• Specialties: Guitar technique, songwriting, applied music theory, group rehearsals
• Experience: Over 18 years of playing and teaching; co-director of Garage School; former member of Carola Mobile and Los Buenos Tiempos
• Ideal for: Beginners and intermediate players eager to learn through songs, explore musical theory, and develop their own style

What makes Tomás stand out?

With over 18 years of playing and songwriting experience, Tomás brings a wealth of knowledge to each lesson, making sure students not only improve technically but also gain a deeper understanding of the music they love. 

His experience with bands like Carola Mobile and Los Buenos Tiempos, combined with his time as co-director of Garage School, allows him to blend both the technical and collaborative aspects of music in a way that is both fun and effective.

Whether it’s learning to coordinate guitar and vocals, developing technique, or diving into music theory, Tomi ensures the process is enjoyable, practical, and stress-free. 

His unique blend of song-driven teaching, group rehearsal dynamics, and digital content ensures students gain the confidence to play, explore, and grow as musicians – on their own terms.

Curious about the impact Tomi has on his students? This success story dives into how one student built strong musical foundations and finally found confidence with chords thanks to Tomi’s guidance.

Want to learn guitar through the songs you love? Book a session with Tomás today.

4. Jacob Eisen – Guitar lessons with theory integration and music specialties

• Specialties: Jazz guitar, performance technique, music theory, composition
• Experience: Bachelor’s in Music with honors from Humber College; performed at venues across Toronto; studied with renowned jazz musicians like Lorn Lofsky and Trevor Giancola
• Ideal for: Students of all levels who want to explore jazz guitar, develop technical skills, and enhance creativity

What makes Jacob stand out?

Jacob Eisen’s teaching approach combines his passion for jazz guitar with a commitment to making learning fun, interactive, and practical. 

His studies with Canada’s top jazz musicians, including Lorn Lofsky and Jocelyn Gould, have shaped his approach to teaching and performing. Jacob’s lessons are tailored to each student, focusing on both technical mastery and creative expression. 

His personalized plans blend theory and practice, helping students develop a deep understanding of music while honing their performance and composition skills. 

Whether you’re just starting or looking to take your guitar skills to the next level, Jacob creates a supportive environment where students can thrive and grow, just as many of his former students have, both on stage and in their professional music careers.

Want to master jazz guitar or improve your performance skills? Book a session with Jacob and elevate your technique and creativity.

5. Nathanael Koenig – Best for chord progressions, ear training, and music theory

• Specialties: Classical guitar, pop, rock, jazz, ear training, technique, music theory
• Experience: Graduate of McNally Smith College of Music; performer with Project Mercury, The Authority Figures, Jake Brisson Band; composer and recording artist
• Ideal for: Students of all levels who want to learn through the music they love and build strong, versatile guitar skills

What makes Nathanael stand out?

Nathanael Koenig’s teaching philosophy is centered on creating a personalized, engaging experience that allows students to explore the music they love while building strong musical foundations. 

With a diverse background in performing, composing, and teaching, Nathanael brings a broad range of musical influences into every lesson, from classical guitar to pop, rock, and jazz. 

Instead of focusing on one-size-fits-all exercises, Nathanael breaks down and analyzes the music you enjoy, helping you understand the techniques behind your favorite riffs and the theory behind the chords. 

Whether you’re just starting or looking to advance your skills, Nathanael’s lessons make learning feel like an exciting, natural journey through the music you love.

Curious how your favorite songs can teach you music theory? Book a lesson with Nathanael and experience a fresh, enjoyable way to learn guitar.

Inside a 1-on-1 guitar lesson: 3 real student stories

Here’s a glimpse into what a private guitar lesson looks like, shared through the stories of real Wiingy students:

1. “Building confidence through performance” – Ethan

“I always felt nervous playing in front of others. My tutor, Giacomo, helped me practice with backing tracks and gradually build confidence. Now, I can perform my favorite songs with more ease and confidence.”

What you’ll learn: Performance techniques, backing tracks, confidence building

2. “Overcoming stage fright with soloing” – Chloe

“I was terrified of playing solos in front of others. My tutor, Jasmin, focused on helping me build confidence by practicing in front of a mirror and with backing tracks. Slowly, I started performing more freely.”

What you’ll learn: Performance anxiety, improvisation, soloing techniques

3. “Getting the right timing with complex rhythms” – Ava

“I struggled with more advanced rhythm patterns like the dotted half note. My tutor, Collin, broke it down for me slowly, and once I understood how to apply it to my songs, I felt more confident with complex rhythms.”

What you’ll learn: Advanced rhythm techniques, dotted half note, timing

Guitar lesson costs in Philadelphia

Both online and in-person lessons can be effective. It depends on your goals and learning preferences.

Option	Price range	Format	Best for
Wiingy Tutors	$15 – $35/hr	Online or in-person	Beginners, flexible budgets
Private Local Tutors	$40 – $100/hr	Mostly in-person	Intermediate to advanced
Celebrity/High-End Coaches	$150 – $300/hr	Studio-based and in-home	Professional performance prep

Wiingy offers a free trial lesson, no long-term contracts, and flexible scheduling.

Want to find affordable guitar teachers? Browse experienced guitar tutors on Wiingy, which offers flexible pricing and expert guidance – starting at just $15/hr.

Online vs in-person guitar teachers in Philadelphia

Guitar lessons can be successful in either format; your choice should reflect your learning style, experience, and musical goals.

Format	Pros	Cons
Online	Flexible, more affordable, access to top tutors anywhere	Limited hands-on guidance
In-person	Great for stage presence, studio access	Higher cost, limited scheduling

With Wiingy, you can choose the format that fits your lifestyle and even switch between online and in-person lessons in Philadelphia as your needs change

How to get started with a guitar tutor on Wiingy

Starting your guitar journey is easy:

1. Browse guitar tutors here
2. Book a free trial
3. Start playing with a tutor who understands your goals and musical style

To kickstart your guitar journey, start by reading through our detailed guide on How to learn guitar for beginner-friendly strategies and tips.

Looking for vocal coaches too?

If you’re interested in strengthening your singing skills alongside learning guitar, check out our blog on the Best Vocal Coaches in Philadelphia.

This guide features handpicked voice teachers who specialize in various styles, from classical and jazz to pop and musical theatre, and offer both in-person and online lessons.

FAQs from guitar learners in Philadelphia

Learn from the best guitar teachers in Philadelphia 

Philadelphia has always been a city that strums – home to legendary guitarists, vibrant music scenes, and iconic venues. Whether you’re dreaming of rocking out on stage or simply want to master your favorite songs, the right guitar teacher can help you unlock your full potential.

Start learning today with a top-rated guitar teachers on Wiingy – helping Philly guitarists of all levels refine their skills with flexible, 1-on-1 guitar lessons.