Brooklyn Guitar School — Local services in New York

I came to Brooklyn Guitar School for private singing and guitar lessons. My goal was to be able to play a song for my wedding instead of reciting vows. I had no vocal training and only a tiny bit of guitar experience from over a decade ago. I happened to find one of the BGS teachers playing the song I wanted to learn on YouTube. When calling to schedule a trial lesson they very helpfully set me up with Jaime because he could teach voice AND guitar.

The first lesson was phenomenal. Jaime is a real pro and made me feel comfortable despite the embarrassing nature of doing vocal exercises for the first time. He had all sorts of exercises and tips ready at all times. In only 10 lessons I went from barely being able to play the chords to singing and playing at the same time with heart and style. Not only did Jaime help me get better at the technical aspects of singing/playing, he also gave great advice on how to perform better and put my heart into the music.

Learning how to play/sing has helped other parts of my life too. My vocal chords are much better able to handle all the lecturing I have to do as a university professor. Plus, I can see how learning to sing has boosted my general confidence (even as an adult).

One great thing about this school is that I needed to be able to practice and keep it a secret from my fiance. Their multiple locations allowed me to sneak in daily practice in between errands. Also, all of the staff is super friendly in a genuine way. Clearly everyone is passionate about music and teaching. (As a teacher myself, I can really tell.)

The school has all sorts of diverse events and classes happening. I got to take a free vocal workshop. There was even an adult showcase where I could have practiced playing for strangers/in front of a large group to get over my nerves.

Before I started taking lessons I only figured I would stick around until the wedding. But I had so much fun and enjoyed the people so much that I'm considering group classes this fall when I return from my honeymoon. I've always wanted to be able to sing in harmony with other people and they even have a class for that!

BIG THANKS TO JAIME AND EVERYONE AT BROOKLYN GUITAR SCHOOL for helping me make my special day extra...

I was given a gift certificate to Brooklyn Guitar School after my wife researched it online. I had taken guitar lessons back in the Bronze Age when I was a kid, and I love music of all kinds (OK, maybe not too much disco or Dixieland at any one sitting, but otherwise, let 'er rip). BGS teaches a series of incremental skill- and song-based beginners classes that allow you to quickly learn chords, strums and technique, play cool songs right away, and have nearly illegal amounts of fun while you are doing so. Koby taught my Absolute Beginners classes and I have been with Michelangelo ever since. They are both accomplished professional musicians; and experienced, enthusiastic and patient teachers who make sure you get it right while you're having a great time. Taking group lessons also allows you to interact with other noobies, support each other and learn together. The school also sponsors open house sessions, sing-alongs and vocal classes, and group performances. They sponsored an ACLU fundraiser by teaching "Songs of Peace and Freedom" (This Land Is Your Land, For What Its Worth, Redemption Song, City of Immigrants, If I Had A Hammer). We played the songs again in Union Square Park this past June. The school has a wonderful funky, laid-back vibe; and is welcoming to old and young students alike. The staff is uniformly cool and helpful-they can't do enough for you (from suggestions about buying an instrument to helping replace a busted E string.) So I am over a year into my studies, a proud graduate of their "Beginner" classes; and it's just great to be able to fell like I can actually "make music" every so often. I can't imagine learning...

Been 2 years since I wrote the review below. This past performance at the Way Station in Brooklyn moved me to write a second one. Never would believe I would play on stage with fellow performers. Brooklyn Guitar School gave me that opportunity. Everyone works to create a safe place to grow and express your abilities despite doubts that players always have about themselves. Despite the fear that comes when performing. Teachers and fellow students are very positive and supportive so you are not afraid to get out there. Safe and also real. REAL ROCK ...REAL ROCK AND ROLL. Two thumbs up for Brooklyn Guitar School! I played guitar in my teens but could never get past basic open chords. Three years ago I started lessons at Brooklyn Guitar School. The fit was so right for me. Comfortable environment where everyone, young and old, experienced and novice, is welcomed and valued. The instructors are accomplished professionals in their own right, and all know how to teach different types of styles to different types of players.

Private lessons are great, and in Performance classes students play with other students. This allows players to come together in a "band' and perform both at the music center and at a local establishments... and there is nothing like the real thing to build confidence and musicianship.

And if you are part of the Brooklyn Guitar School, you are also a part of a citywide Guitar School, with opportunities in Manhattan and Queens as well as Brooklyn.

So if you are looking to grow musically, I highly recommend checking them out. The place is right, the people are right, and the...