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Peaceland Music We help students reach their goals in music and in life by teaching them healthy techniques and attitudes to have towards their training. Many of the things learned here can enrich other areas of a student's life. We want our students to be happy, and to rock! Many times have our students applied our methods to their academic life, making vast improvements in their performance (much to their parent's delight).

Our methods are not just for the young though! We have students ranging from three years old, to folks who are well into their life. Music is for everyone to enjoy!

Currently we are giving lessons for:

- Guitar
- Bass
- Drums
- Piano/Keyboards
- Mandolin
- Banjo
- Violin
- Recording and production
- Composition
- Voice

A free introductory lesson is available to all first time students!
Highlights and features
  • Available Monday through Sunday
  • One on one lessons
  • Duet lessons
  • Personalized lesson plans
People
John Whitehead
John Whitehead
Private Instructor
I've been teaching with Peaceland Music for 8 1/2 years (as of 7/2014). I started out as a student here, and was so amazed by what I'd learned that I just had to share it with other people.

When I can to James Musser for lessons at Peaceland Music, I was about to quite playing guitar altogether! I learned new habits and attitudes that helped take me to the next level of playing and enjoyment. After about six months of practice, I mentioned to James that I would like to teach as well. He helped me get started, and here I am today, doing something I never thought possible.

Taking lessons was a life changer for me, who knows where music will take you!
Reviews (22)
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Robert Russell
Feb 18, 2022
I've been going to Dennis for bass lessons for 4 years. My son also takes guitar lessons. We've learned a lot from Dennis. He's a great teacher who knows multiple instruments. If he doesn't know something, he won't make up the answer. My son and I played 2 recitals which was a lot of fun and work. I highly recommend in person lessons to help avoid or break any bad habits. I haven't had any lessons with James but he's also very friendly and knowledgeable.
Cm Galaxy Jam
Jun 17, 2020
Had our first lesson today. Joseph was really great, patient and accommodating, and extremely knowledgeable. He explained everything in a way that's fun and easy to understand. He also had some good advice on purchasing and using musical equipment. That being said, be prepared to walk into a small space, definitely no frills compared to other music studios we've gone to, which explains the great prices for lessons.
Danka G.
Jul 28, 2018
John is awesome! Every since my daughter started taking guitar lessons with John, she has improved soooo much! He is very patient, crazy good at playing guitar, and most important a great instructor. He makes it easy for a young child to understand all the basics, doesn't jump from song to song every lesson, he makes sure student is comfortable and understands each lesson before moving onto next. I would strongly recommend John for anyone who is seriously considering playing a guitar, he is excellent!
Danka G.
Jul 28, 2018
John is awesome! Every since my daughter started taking guitar lessons with John, she has improved soooo much! He is very patient, crazy good at playing guitar, and most important a great instructor. He makes it easy for a young child to understand all the basics, doesn't jump from song to song every lesson, he makes sure student is comfortable and understands each lesson before moving onto next. I would strongly recommend John for anyone who is seriously considering playing a guitar, he is excellent!
Joseph K.
Jan 30, 2018
James is a fantastic, multi-talented music instructor - from basic chords and scales, to advanced techniques and songwriting - and he's one of the most versatile musicians that I've ever seen! He also introduced me to musicians and genres that I would have never discovered on my own. I'm extremely grateful to have been a student of his.
Sirpa T.
Jul 08, 2017
John has taught our girls for over a year in piano, guitar and now also drums. He is the most patient, skilled, fun and genuine teacher. We want our children to grow to love music as they learn to play, and that's exactly what happens at Peaceland Music.
Robert R.
May 18, 2017
I'm learning bass from Dennis. I've had 2 lessons and I like what I'm learning. Dennis is a patient teacher who simplifies the learning. We also like a lot of the same music, so that's a big plus. These are my first music lessons. I'll probably upgrade to 5 stars after a few more lessons.
Bobbie V.
Mar 13, 2017
John was my teacher, he was so patient with my learning style. He was able to provide more than adequate lessons. He even helped me learn my favorite songs on piano! I highly recommend him if you are interested in a teaching service that will go according to your personal learning pace!
Janet M.
Jul 23, 2016
Mr. James Musser great!!! I'm very happy my daughter is taking vocal classes and next week she's going to take violin classes with him as well.
Steve W.
Oct 23, 2015
Until I left SoCal for Seattle, for about 3 years I studied guitar with James Musser, master musician and teacher and founder of Peaceland Music. He gave me keys to guitaring development that still keep opening doors to new skills and keener musicianship. It's hard to tone down the superlatives in describing how helpful James can be, but most important, he tunes in to where you are in your development and what approaches suit your learning style best.

His engaging temperament makes him incredibly easy to work with and his perceptivity ensures that he gives his students work that challenges without overwhelming. He listens to you so that you learn new ways to listen to yourself and grow as a musician. I've had several guitar teachers over the years, and none has surpassed James, who has earned my highest rating.
Phillip Y.
Oct 17, 2015
I have an instructor who caters the lesson in a way that helps me learn and keeps it fun and engaging. couldn't really ask for anything more
Mudd L.
Oct 14, 2015
Saw their sign for guitar lessons driving up Crenshaw Blvd. by my work. Was going over to Australia to play guitar with friend's band opening for a international touring act at very large venues. Friend sent over disc with songs for me to learn. Since they are in Australia I needed to learn all the songs on my own and be able to hit the ground ready to play them live.

I am primarily a drummer so this was a big challenge. I called James and he said he could help. He was able to schedule me on my lunch hour weekly until I flew out to Melbourne. He has a great system and easily dissects songs. By the time I left I knew the songs and was ready to play them live. He has a great teaching method, a great attitude, and is able to work with any abilities.

It was so helpful I continued lessons when I got back. He has since helped me with classical guitar which I studied at my local junior college, and also on drum styles I would like to refine. Best instructor I have ever had hands down. Affordable and worth much more then he charges.
Doreen W.
Oct 05, 2015
James is amazing. He really teaches you how to appreciate your talent and be patient with yourself. I had him for guitar and voice lessons. Really great place to grow musically .
Kathy M.
Oct 03, 2015
My son has been taking guitar lessons from John (Whitehead) for about a year now. We couldn't be happier. John is professional, patient and very competent. My son has mild autism, so it's sometimes challenging to find an instructor who can get the best out of him. John has a relaxed attitude but he also stresses proper technique, so I feel like we've really struck gold. I would recommend Peaceland Music to anybody.
Jayson J.
Oct 02, 2015
As an industry professional, I went to Peaceland to make sure that I didn't slip on my guitar skills and knowledge. Working with John Whitehead, I was able to actually grow my repertoire, keeping me sharp for whatever I was doing! He is very good at tailoring his teaching style to the student, making sure to impart his vast skills in a way that the learner gets and keeps it fun, so students of all ages enjoy their lessons and want to keep learning and practicing! Great place to learn a great hobby, if you're thinking of going somewhere else, don't!
Jayson J.
Oct 02, 2015
As an industry professional, I went to Peaceland to make sure that I didn't slip on my guitar skills and knowledge. Working with John Whitehead, I was able to actually grow my repertoire, keeping me sharp for whatever I was doing! He is very good at tailoring his teaching style to the student, making sure to impart his vast skills in a way that the learner gets and keeps it fun, so students of all ages enjoy their lessons and want to keep learning and practicing! Great place to learn a great hobby, if you're thinking of going somewhere else, don't!
David O.
Oct 01, 2015
John is the best teacher I've had. He is great at working with people of varying skill levels and learning speeds. It's been fun learning the piano again with him.
Melanie F.
Jul 23, 2015
Reposting my children's reviews as they absolutely love having John as their teacher: I want to give John 6 stars. He is a very good teacher and he is nice to me. He gives me good music to play and has helped me to write my own song. - Kathryn (age 6) John is a very cool musician. He is a great teacher and gives me good advice. He chooses great music for me to play, like Star Wars. - Alex age 9
Mike K.
Jun 18, 2012
James is a kind, gentle, humble soul who's got the guitar chops like nobody's business. While you can spend years hitting your head against the wall trying to learn on your own or through YouTube "lessons, " James quietly, effectively zeroes in your weaknesses (many you didn't know you had) and strengthens the foundation of your playing rather than shallow fixes. Great guy, loves guitar and loves teaching to all ages, including middle-aged adults like myself. Go see him!
Mike K.
Jun 17, 2012
James is a kind, gentle, humble soul who's got the guitar chops like nobody's business. While you can spend years hitting your head against the wall trying to learn on your own or through YouTube "lessons," James quietly, effectively zeroes in your weaknesses (many you didn't know you had) and strengthens the foundation of your playing rather than shallow fixes. Great guy, loves guitar and loves teaching to all ages, including middle-aged adults like myself. Go see him!
Kai L.
Jul 26, 2009
They are always busy and never available. ive trying to get a hold of them for 2 months. i give up. im sure there good just never available. so you shouldnt plan on going any time soon
Robert Russell
I just had my first bass lesson yesterday. My teacher, Dennis, seems very knowledgeable. He's also pretty friendly.