Guitar Lessons
Discover the joy of music with private and online guitar lessons at Long & McQuade. Our one-on-one lessons are open to students of all ages and skill levels. Whether you are learning the guitar for the first time or building on experience, our teachers offer personalized guidance that helps students gain confidence, strengthen technique, and enjoy every step of their musical growth.
Register NowWhy Choose Long & McQuade for Guitar Lessons?
Train with experienced Guitar instructors who teach players of all ages and skill levels in welcoming lesson studios equipped with professional equipment for a comfortable learning experience. Enjoy flexible scheduling with daytime, evening, and weekend options that accommodate your schedule. As a trusted name in music education across Canada, Long & McQuade offers a reliable path to achieving your goals.
What Guitar Topics Will I Learn?
Guitar is a skill that grows with you over a lifetime. The topics below are what many students typically start with, but your path can take many directions. Whether your goal is to play for personal enjoyment, join a school or community ensemble, or prepare for a professional career, private Guitar Lessons provide the foundation and expert guidance to keep you progressing at every stage.
Beginner & Intermediate Topics
- Proper posture, hand position, and finger placement
- Producing a clear tone with strumming and picking
- Reading music, rhythm, and guitar tablature
- Playing basic chords, scales, and simple melodies
- Developing strumming patterns, fingerpicking, and basic techniques
- Introduction to dynamics, phrasing, and expressive playing
- Performing beginner pieces in rock, pop, classical, blues, or folk styles
- Playing along with songs and small ensemble music
Advanced & Professional Topics
- Advanced Students & Performers
- Expanding range, tone control, and technical fluency
- Advanced scales, modes, improvisation, and extended repertoire
- Classical, jazz, blues, and contemporary works
- Building endurance, phrasing, and stylistic interpretation
- Advanced picking, chord voicings, and soloing techniques
- Ensemble and band performance skills with a focus on timing and blend
- Preparation for auditions and exams, including RCM, school, or professional opportunities
- Techniques for recording, live performance, and stage confidence
Any Age | Any Stage | Any Style
Guitar Lessons for Kids
Ages 7-12
What to Expect for Kids Learning Guitar
- Supportive one-on-one guitar lessons that make learning fun
- Focus on hand position, chords, strumming, and picking techniques
- Introduction to reading music, rhythm, and playing in time with others
- Encouragement to build confidence through practice and performance
- Flexible approach, whether learning casually or preparing for exams
Learning Outcomes
- Play simple melodies and chords with proper technique
- Develop a steady sense of rhythm and timing
- Strengthen focus, patience, and coordination through regular practice
- Build confidence performing in optional recitals and group activities
Guitar Lessons for Teens
Ages 13-18
What to Expect for Teens Learning Guitar
- Learn guitar in rock, pop, jazz, classical, or acoustic styles
- Prepare for RCM exams, school auditions, or band performances
- Receive guidance for school ensembles, talent shows, or recording projects
Learning Outcomes
- Build creative independence and a strong musical identity
- Strengthen discipline and confidence through regular practice
- Use music as a positive outlet for stress and self-expression
- Develop a lifelong skill that supports both academic and personal growth
Guitar Lessons for Adults
Ages 19+
What to Expect for Adults Learning Guitar
- What Adults Can Expect
- Lesson times available on weekdays, evenings, and weekends
- Play the music you enjoy from rock, pop, jazz, blues, or classical
- No exams required unless you choose to set personal milestones
- Lessons focused on steady progress, enjoyment, and relaxation
Learning Outcomes
- Reduce stress and support wellness through music
- Strengthen memory, focus, and coordination
- Build a rewarding hobby that fits your lifestyle
- Gain confidence and a sense of achievement
"I've always wanted to learn, but I don't have a Guitar."
This is one of the most common concerns we hear, and the good news is
you don't need to own a Guitar to start learning.
At Long & McQuade, we make it easy for beginners to get started
without the pressure of buying an instrument right away. We offer
affordable Guitar rentals and can help you choose the right model to
suit your needs. Our team is here to support you every step of the
way.
Understanding the Different Types of Guitars
If you're thinking about starting Guitar Lessons, here's a simple guide to the main types of Guitars. Each has unique qualities and is suited to different players, styles, and goals.
Acoustic Guitar
The most popular choice for beginners and singer-songwriters. Acoustic guitars produce a warm, full sound that requires no amplification. They are versatile for strumming chords, fingerpicking, and playing a range of music styles, including folk, pop, and country.
Electric Guitar
Known for its wide range of tones and styles, the electric guitar typically requires an amplifier and is often used in genres such as rock, blues, jazz, and pop. Its lighter strings and slimmer neck make it easier for many beginners to press chords and play solos.
Classical Guitar
Classical guitars typically use nylon strings, which are softer on the fingers, making them more comfortable for new players. They are designed for classical, flamenco, and Latin styles, and are often used to build a strong foundation in fingerpicking and technique.
Bass Guitar
Bass guitars feature four, five, or six strings and a longer neck, producing deep, low-pitched tones that form the foundation of most bands. Bass guitars are essential for genres like rock, jazz, funk, and pop, providing rhythm and groove. Bass guitars are available in both acoustic and electric models.
"How do I Pick the Right Guitar Teacher?"
Choosing the right guitar teacher is one of the most critical steps in
your musical journey. At Long & McQuade, we believe a great instructor
is not only experienced but also the right fit for your goals,
personality, and learning style.
Whether you're a parent looking for a patient, encouraging teacher for
your child, a teen interested in joining the school band, or an adult
learner seeking a new hobby, Long & McQuade will help you find the
perfect teacher for your Guitar lessons.
Choosing the Right Program at Long & McQuade
Private Guitar Lessons
Private Guitar Lessons at Long & McQuade are one-on-one with weekly 30- or 60-minute sessions. Your instructor creates a personalized learning plan tailored to your skills and goals. Flexible scheduling makes it easy to fit practice into busy weeks. Private lessons are suitable starting at age 7.
Online Guitar Lessons
Online Guitar Lessons at Long & McQuade are one-on-one with weekly 30-, 45- or 60-minute sessions. Your instructor creates a personalized learning plan tailored to your skills and goals. Flexible scheduling makes it easy to fit practice into busy weeks. Online lessons are suitable starting at age 7.
"Should I take any Exams or Tests?"
It really depends on your goals and how you learn best.
Exams are always optional for Guitar students. For those who want structured milestones and formal recognition of their progress, music exams can be a valuable choice. In Canada, there are a few main exam boards that students may participate in.
Most Popular Exam Options in Canada
Exams can help students stay motivated, track progress, and gain a
sense of achievement. They also provide valuable credentials that can
be used for school credit or future opportunities in music.
Not every student needs to pursue exams; some prefer to play for fun
or focus on performing. But for those who enjoy having goals, exams
are an excellent way to celebrate progress and build confidence.
Royal Conservatory of Music (RCM)
The Royal Conservatory of Music is one of Canada’s leading music education programs, known for its nationally recognized graded exams and diplomas. RCM offers guitar exams with a focus on structured progression from beginner levels all the way to advanced levels. Students develop technique, tone production, and musical interpretation through graded repertoire, sight reading, music theory and ear training. This pathway is ideal for players who want formal recognition and a strong foundation in classical performance.
ABRSM (Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music)
The Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music (ABRSM) is a UK-based examination board with programs available in Canada. ABRSM offers graded guitar exams from Grade 1 through Grade 8, as well as advanced diplomas for performers and teachers. Students focus on emphasizing tone, phrasing, and stylistic interpretation across different musical periods, alongside sight reading and aural training. ABRSM’s global reputation makes it an excellent choice for students pursuing internationally recognized music credentials.
Trinity College London
Trinity College London is a UK-based music education board with exam centers accessible to Canadian students. Trinity offers guitar exams from Initial to Grade 8 and advanced diploma levels, covering both classical and contemporary acoustic playing. Students can choose between standard graded exams or performance-only options, giving flexibility in how they demonstrate their skills across classical and modern genres.
"How can I be successful in my Guitar Lessons?"
It's all about being consistent with practice.
The students who grow the most on their musical journey are the ones who practice regularly. Practicing for even just a few minutes a day can make a big difference.
Frequently Asked Questions
