Guitar Specialist & Multi-instrument Instructor | Build Tone, Skill & Real Musicianship

Welcome to my page! My name is Joshua Gerling, I am the Founder, owner and instructor of Paris Guitar Academy located in Paris, Texas. I started my career teaching at the local music store in 2018. I took the ball and ran with it, expanding into my own lesson studio and focusing on student performance skills by continuing the 'student jams' that started at the music store back then, and creating other various opportunities for student ensemble performances. I have been involved in music in a variety of capacities my entire life, so, whatever your musical goal is, whether it is your first time picking up a guitar, whether you've played for years and feel stuck, or even if you are a veteran player who wants to learn a new approach, there is a place for you here. I teach all varieties of guitar, but am also branching out into beginner lessons for piano, violin, trumpet, and drums.

My approach is personalized lessons, catering to each individual student's learning and playing style. In addition to this, I focus on keeping a healthy balance of creativity, theory, discipline and light-hearted fun. I tend to use the Hal Leonard Methodology books, but do not rely on these strictly. A wide variety of resources and approaches are implemented, including a fast-tracked approach known as the 'rock n' roll method'. I believe there is a lot that goes into making my lessons different and more effective than typical lessons. Focusing on how to practice, not just what to practice ensures steady, noticeable progress as long as directions are followed. Patience, passion and communication are all things I have received high praise for that I believe makes the difference. Finally, encouraging, inspiring and providing direction for students to go out and play and create and act on opportunities of their own so that they get out of the bedroom practicing and out in the world creating is something I believe to have had a huge difference in why my program works.