Best guitar teachers in Portland: top 1-on-1 guitar teachers, costs & how to choose

From the indie rock vibes of bands like The Decemberists and Modest Mouse to the folk and experimental sounds thriving in the city, Portland has long been a hub of creativity and musical innovation.

It’s a place where guitarists of all levels can find inspiration and the right teachers to help them grow.

Whether your goal is to perform onstage at local venues like the Doug Fir Lounge or Mississippi Studios, or simply play your favorite songs for family and friends, Portland offers a welcoming and vibrant 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).

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

Best guitar teachers in Portland

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

1. McKinley Hudson – Private guitar teacher with a bachelor’s in music composition from Henderson State University

McKinley Hudson is passionate about sharing music and helping others grow as musicians. If you have a song without tabs, McKinley will transcribe it for you. 86% of students see clear milestones as they progress.

Experience

• Teaching Experience: 10+ years
• Professional Background: McKinley holds a bachelor’s degree in Music Composition from Henderson State University.
• Rating: 4.8/5

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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

• Acoustic Guitar
• Electric 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: McKinley helps you choose songs based on your preferences and uses chord shapes to play them. You’ll work on lead lines and learn Ear-Training, Theory, intervals, and Roman Numeral Chord Nomenclature. As you progress, he will dive into more advanced technical and theoretical concepts.

2. Sidhanth G. – Private guitar teacher with a master’s degree

Sidhanth Gupta focuses on combining theory with practical application to enhance your musical journey. He aims to boost your creativity and musicality. 88% of parents notice improved self-esteem and stage presence.

Experience

• Teaching Experience: 14+ years
• Professional Background: Sidhanth holds a master’s degree in music.
• Rating: 4.9/5

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Pricing

• 30-minute Rate: $15
• Hourly Rate: $30/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: Sidhanth uses tech tools like Amp Simulators, DAWs, and Metronome Apps for interactive lessons. He tailors lessons to match educational standards like A-Levels, IB, and more.

3. Jess Araten – Private guitar teacher with a bachelor’s degree from University of Pennsylvania

Jess Araten is a full-time musician and educator, releasing music as ‘Yska’. She adapts to each student’s learning style to help them reach their musical goals. 93% of students report progress in chords, strumming, and transitions.

Experience

• Teaching Experience: 8+ years
• Professional Background: Jess holds a bachelor’s degree from University of Pennsylvania. He also performed with Guns N’ Roses and Aerosmith and got featured in Guitar Player Magazine.
• Rating: 4.8/5

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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

• 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: Jess uses tech tools like Amp Simulators, Chord Diagram Apps, and Ear Training Software. This makes online learning interactive and fun.

4. Shraddha Buddan – Private guitar teacher with a bachelor’s of arts in music from University of Kwa-Zulu Natal

Shraddha Buddan blends technique-focused instruction with creative musical expression. She aims to inspire growth and confidence through interactive and adaptable teaching methods. 89% of students say their rhythm and timing improved quickly.

Experience

• Teaching Experience: 5+ years
• Professional Background: Shraddha holds a bachelor’s of arts in music from University of Kwa-Zulu Natal.
• Rating: 4.9/5

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Pricing

• 30-minute Rate: $18
• Hourly Rate: $36/hr
• Trial Lesson: Yes, trial lesson is available.

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Specialties

• Acoustic Guitar
• Electric Guitar

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Age & Skill Suitability

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

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Teaching Style

• Approach: Shraddha uses tech tools like Amp Simulators, DAWs, and Metronome Apps to improve learning. She follows curricula like A-Levels, AP Program, and IB to ensure complete skill development.

5. Derek Roland – Private guitar teacher with 20+ years of experience

Derek Roland’s teaching is not just about sharing knowledge. It’s also about building motivation and problem-solving skills to help you succeed in music. 88% of parents notice better self-esteem and stage presence.

Experience

• Teaching Experience: 20+ years
• Professional Background: Derek holds a bachelor’s degree in Jazz Guitar Studies. He is also an author of guitar e-books.
• 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

• Chord Progressions
• Chords and Rhythms
• Scales and Modes
• Songs and Repertoire
• Fingerstyle

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Age & Skill Suitability

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

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Teaching Style

• Approach: Derek uses tech tools like amp simulators, DAWs, and metronome apps to create interactive online learning. He follows curricula like A-Levels, AP Programs, and IB to provide a complete educational approach.

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

Here’s what you can expect from a private guitar lesson – told through the experiences of real Wiingy students.

1. “Improving finger movement and chord transitions” – Emma

“I struggled with quick chord changes, especially moving between C and A minor. My tutor helped me minimize my hand movement, and now I can transition smoothly and faster.”

What you’ll learn: Chord transitions, finger movement, speed

2. “Strumming patterns and rhythm mastery” – Ava

“My rhythm was inconsistent, especially with faster strumming patterns. My tutor had me count out loud while strumming, which helped me stay on beat and improve my timing.” 

What you’ll learn: Strumming patterns, rhythm control, counting out loud

3. “Strumming with precision and confidence” – Chloe

“My strumming always felt off-beat, especially when I switched between chords. My tutor had me count out loud to better feel the rhythm and ensure I stayed in time. It’s helped me gain so much control!”

What you’ll learn: Strumming precision, rhythm control, counting out loud

Guitar teachers cost in Portland

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	$35 – $100/hr	Mostly in-person	Intermediate to advanced
Celebrity/High-End Coaches	$100 – $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 teachers on Wiingy, which offers flexible pricing and expert guidance – starting at just $19/hr.

Why work with a guitar teacher in Portland?

Private guitar lessons in Portland come with major advantages over group classes-especially in a city where the music scene is eclectic, supportive, and rich with guitar traditions.

• With personalized guitar practice plans shaped around your goals, whether you’re picking up your first chords or getting ready to play riffs and solos at local venues like the Crystal Ballroom or Mississippi Studios, Portland’s music culture encourages you to develop your own unique guitar style.
• You’ll get real-time feedback on your strumming technique, rhythm, and musical expression—essential for standing out at open mic nights, music festivals like PDX Pop Now!, or collaborative jam sessions in the city’s many music hubs.
• Private guitar lessons also build the confidence you need to perform like Portland’s own guitar legends – artists and bands who have defined the city’s sound with creativity and innovation on six strings.
• Plus, lessons are flexible to fit your busy schedule – whether you’re a student balancing classes or a professional juggling work and life. They also complement local school guitar programs and help prepare for auditions at arts-focused schools or community music groups.

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 Portland

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 gig at a local venue or just playing for friends in a Portland coffeehouse, you’ll want a teacher who can guide beginners and advanced players alike.
• Style: Can they teach the genres you’re passionate about? From indie rock and folk to blues, jazz, and experimental styles, Portland’s diverse music scene covers it all-and your teacher should meet you where your interests are.
• Format: Do they offer lessons in-person, online, or both? With Portland’s spread from downtown to surrounding neighborhoods, having flexible learning options is a big plus.
• Flexibility: Can you easily reschedule or try out a session? Life moves fast in Portland’s creative community too, and a teacher who can work with your busy schedule will help you 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 Portland

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

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.

Also thinking about singing while you play?

Learning guitar and want to improve your singing too? Check out our list of the best vocal coaches in Portland – perfect for guitarists who sing or want to perform with confidence. You’ll find top-rated coaches for all styles and skill levels.

Conclusion

Known for its rich music culture and legendary guitarists, Portland is a city where the guitar truly thrives. Whether your goal is to perform live at renowned venues like the Doug Fir Lounge or simply to perfect your favorite songs, finding the right guitar teacher in Portland is key to reaching your full potential.

With flexible, one-on-one lessons, top-rated guitar teachers on Wiingy are ready to help Portland guitarists of all skill levels improve and grow.

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