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

From iconic rock legends like Alice Cooper and Stevie Nicks to today’s rising indie and Latin artists, Phoenix has long been a city fueled by music and creativity.

It’s a place where guitarists of all levels can find inspiration – from gritty electric solos to soulful acoustic melodies, and the right teachers to help them grow their skills.

Whether your goal is to perform onstage at local venues like the Crescent Ballroom, master fingerstyle techniques, or simply strum your favorite songs for family and friends, Phoenix offers a welcoming and energetic environment to learn and thrive as a guitarist.

Working 1-on-1 with a guitar teacher can make a huge difference, especially if you’re serious about learning (or picking it back up again). A good teacher can help you build proper technique, understand music theory, and stay motivated with lessons tailored to your goals.

In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about finding the best guitar teachers in Phoenix – from how lessons typically work to pricing, plus a look at some of the top-rated guitar teachers available through Wiingy.

Best guitar teachers in Phoenix

Wiingy connects you with top 1-on-1 guitar teachers in Phoenix – online or in person – who help students of all ages and experience levels. Meet some of our standout instructors:

1. Jonah Brooks – Private guitar teacher with 15+ years of experience

Jonah Brooks is a Chicago-based guitarist, producer, and multi-instrumentalist. With over 3 million solo artist streams and contributions to his band “One Car Garage”, he specializes in indie, jazz, and lofi music. 93% of students report clear progress in chords, strumming, and transitions.

Experience

• Teaching Experience: 15+ years
• Professional Background: Jonah holds a bachelor’s degree in Music. He also studied jazz with Henry Johnson of the Ramsey Lewis Group.
• Rating: 4.2/5

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Pricing

• 30-minute Rate: $16
• Hourly Rate: $32/hr
• Trial Lesson: Yes, trial lesson is available.

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Specialties

• Classical Guitar
• Bass Guitar

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Age & Skill Suitability

• Age Groups: Kids, Adults
• Skill Levels: Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced

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Teaching Style

• Approach: Jonah fosters a dynamic and supportive learning environment, focusing on the individual needs of each student. He combines creativity with structured learning to ensure a well-rounded and enjoyable experience.

2. Shannon Liddy – Private guitar teacher with 14+ years of experience

Shannon Liddy helps students find freedom and joy in learning music they love. Her goal is to inspire a lifelong passion for music. 90% of students enjoy learning without feeling pressured.

Experience

• Teaching Experience: Playing guitar for 14 years and teaching for the past 4 years.
• Professional Background: Shannon holds a diploma in Music.
• Rating: 4/5

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Pricing

• 30-minute Rate: $19
• Hourly Rate: $38/hr
• Trial Lesson: Yes, trial lesson is available.

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Specialties

• Acoustic Guitar
• Electric Guitar
• Classical Guitar
• Bass Guitar

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Age & Skill Suitability

• Age Groups: Kids, Adults
• Skill Levels: Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced

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Teaching Style

• Approach: Shannon uses tools like Backing Track Libraries, Metronome Apps, PDF Sheet Music, Looping Pedals, Amp Simulators, and DAWs. Her teaching style is creative, interactive, and adaptable, with a strong focus on support and encouragement.

3. George Kozatsas – Private guitar teacher with 10+ years of experience

George Kozatsas has worked on music videos and played in rock bands. He brings his passion for music into every lesson. 94% of students say his lessons are fun, focused, and easy to follow.

Experience

• Teaching Experience: 10+ years
• Professional Background: Shannon holds a Bachelor’s degree.
• Rating: 4.6/5

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Pricing

• 30-minute Rate: $16
• Hourly Rate: $32/hr
• Trial Lesson: Yes, trial lesson is available.

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Specialties

• Electric Guitar
• Classical Guitar

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Age & Skill Suitability

• Age Groups: College-level students
• Skill Levels: Intermediate

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Teaching Style

• Approach: Shannon uses tools like Backing Track Libraries, Metronome Apps, PDF Sheet Music, Looping Pedals, Amp Simulators, and DAWs. Her teaching style is creative, interactive, and adaptable, with a strong focus on support and encouragement.

4. Charlie Wilson – Private guitar teacher with a diploma in music from the Institute of Contemporary Music Performance

Charlie Wilson’s journey in music includes playing in theatre pit bands, function bands, and his own band, Coming Up Roses. He finds great joy in watching students grow from novices to confidently playing their favorite songs.

Experience

• Teaching Experience: 3+ years
• Professional Background: Charlie holds a Diploma in music from the Institute of Contemporary Music Performance.
• Rating: 4/5

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Pricing

• 30-minute Rate: $19
• Hourly Rate: $38/hr
• Trial Lesson: Yes, trial lesson is available.

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Specialties

• Electric Guitar
• Chords and Rhythms
• Music theory

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Age & Skill Suitability

• Age Groups: Kids, Adults. Also, for those with ADHD, ASD, Anxiety or Stress Disorders.
• Skill Levels: Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced

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Teaching Style

• Approach: Charlie uses tools like amp simulators, backing track libraries, and ear training software to make online lessons interactive. He also follows different programs such as A-Levels, AP, and IB to match student needs.

5. Raine Stern – Private guitar teacher with 8+ years of experience 

Raine Stern offers coaching that meets you where you are. Great music comes when you feel safe to push limits is what she believes. Students feel comfortable opening up, leading to breakthroughs. Over 94% find the lessons fun, focused, and easy to follow.

Experience

• Teaching Experience: 8+ years
• Professional Background: Raine holds a bachelor’s degree in Music.
• Rating: 5/5

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Pricing

• 30-minute Rate: $17
• Hourly Rate: $34/hr
• Trial Lesson: Yes, trial lesson is available.

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Specialties

• Electronic
• Film/Movie
• Metal
• Pop
• Folk

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Age & Skill Suitability

• Age Groups: Kids, Adults
• Skill Levels: Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced

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Teaching Style

• Approach: Raine organizes notes and materials in a shared Google Drive folder after each lesson. In the first session, Raine helps you set up audio from your DAW into Google Meet or Zoom, making the tech setup easier when you’re starting out.

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. “Mastering precision picking and staying on beat” – Ethan

“I used to struggle with right-hand picking, especially at faster tempos. My tutor introduced me to the metronome, which helped me stay on track. We worked on alternate picking, and now I’m able to play faster and with more control.”

What you’ll learn: Right-hand picking, timing, metronome use

2. “Breaking through finger independence to play with ease” – Emma

“My fingers weren’t moving independently, and it made playing more complicated than it should have been. My tutor showed me how to isolate each finger and practice transitions one at a time. Now, my playing feels much smoother.”

What you’ll learn: Finger independence, muscle memory, chord transitions

3. “Breaking free from scales to create melodic solos” – Dylan

“I used to rely only on pentatonic scales for solos. My tutor introduced me to seventh arpeggios, and it was a game-changer. Now, I can create melodies instead of just running through scales.”

What you’ll learn: Arpeggios, improvisation, melody creation

Guitar lesson costs in Phoenix 

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	$19 – $35/hr	Online or in-person	Beginners, flexible budgets
Private Guitar Teachers	$60 – $100/hr	Mostly in-person	Intermediate to advanced
Celebrity/High-End Coaches	$70 – $150/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 teachers on Wiingy, which offers flexible pricing and expert guidance – starting at just $19/hr.

Why work with a guitar teacher in Phoenix?

Private guitar lessons in Phoenix come with major advantages over group classes, where the music scene is thriving and incredibly diverse.

• With personalized practice plans shaped around your goals, whether you’re picking up your first chords or getting ready for a gig at Crescent Ballroom or The Van Buren, Phoenix’s music culture encourages you to develop your own unique style.
• You’ll get real-time feedback on your technique, rhythm, and stage presence, essential for standing out at local showcases, open mic nights, or even big events like the M3F Festival, whether you’re covering a classic like “Hotel California” or performing your own original song.
• Private lessons also build the confidence you need to perform like some of Phoenix’s own legends – artists like Alice Cooper, Stevie Nicks, and Chester Bennington, who all found their voice here.
• Plus, lessons are flexible to fit your busy schedule – whether you’re a student balancing schoolwork or a professional squeezing in practice between meetings. They also make a perfect complement to local school music programs or prep for auditions at arts-focused schools around the Valley.

Whether you’re strumming for the first time, prepping for a performance, or just jamming for fun, working 1-on-1 with a private guitar teacher will help you grow your skills faster and more effectively.

Factors to consider when choosing the right guitar teacher in Phoenix

Finding the right guitar teacher isn’t just about checking qualifications — it’s about finding someone who understands your musical vision and matches your learning style.

Here’s what to keep in mind:

• Experience: Are they comfortable teaching all skill levels? Whether you’re prepping for a show at a local venue like The Rebel Lounge or just jamming with friends in Tempe, you’ll want a teacher who can guide beginners and advanced players alike.
• Style: Can they teach the genres you’re passionate about? From classic rock and indie to country and Latin music, Phoenix’s diverse music scene covers it all — and your teacher should be able to meet you where your interests are.
• Format: Do they offer lessons in-person, online, or both? With Phoenix’s wide layout — from downtown to the suburbs — having flexible learning options makes a big difference.
• Flexibility: Can you easily reschedule or try out a session? Life moves fast under the desert sun too, and a teacher who can work with your busy schedule will make it much easier to stay consistent and motivated.

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

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Online vs in-person guitar teachers in Phoenix

Guitar lessons in Phoenix 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

How to get started with a guitar teacher on Wiingy

Starting your guitar journey is easy:

• Browse guitar teachers
• Book a free trial
• 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.

Conclusion

In Phoenix, where the desert meets vibrant culture and music flows through the streets, picking up the guitar can lead you on an unforgettable musical journey. 

Whether you’re pursuing a career in music or just playing for the pure joy of it, the best guitar teachers in Phoenix can help you thrive.

Start your lessons with a top-rated guitar teacher on Wiingy, offering flexible, personalized lessons designed to suit your goals and lifestyle in the sunny Valley of the Sun.

Also interested in singing?

Many guitar students also explore vocals to enhance their musical expression. Check out our list of the best vocal coaches in Phoenix to find top-rated teachers who can help you develop both skills together.

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