NYC Guitar School

Business Details

22 Years

experience

Learn Guitar with NYC's Friendliest Guitar School

NYC Guitar School was founded in 2004 with a mission to coach personal greatness through music education. Our team of over 50 expert instructors, trained at institutions like Berklee College of Music and Manhattan School of Music, brings global expertise and a passion for teaching. We prioritize personalized learning, offering private lessons, group classes, and online instruction tailored to students of all ages and skill levels. Our community-driven approach fosters connections through events, performances, and collaborative programs like rock bands and summer camps.

With five physical locations across New York City and live-online options, we combine proven teaching methodologies with flexible scheduling to accommodate busy lifestyles. Our commitment to student growth is reflected in over 15,000 students served and hundreds of five-star reviews across platforms. We emphasize practical skill development through music students love, ensuring measurable progress while maintaining a supportive, inclusive environment.

Services

Guitar Classes Private Lessons Group Classes Online Lessons In-Home Lessons Vocal Lessons Rock Band Programs Summer Camp Suzuki Guitar Gift Certificates

Details

Year established: 2004

Highlights and features

We offer customized lessons with 50+ expert instructors trained at top music institutions
Our proven teaching methodology helps students progress faster through music they love
We provide flexible scheduling with in-studio, in-home, and live-online options
Our community includes 15,000+ students with opportunities for performances and events
We combine technical instruction with confidence-building through collaborative programs

What people say

World-class instructors Supportive community Flexible scheduling Amazing progress Seamless online transition

Website

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Services

Private Guitar Lessons

Customized guitar instruction tailored to individual learning goals and schedules. Expert teachers provide real-time feedback while students access hundreds of video tutorials and PDF resources. Flexible scheduling accommodates busy lifestyles with options for in-studio, in-home, or online sessions. No commitment policy allows 100% refunds for unused lessons.

Group Guitar Classes

Structured group programs for all skill levels with proven step-by-step curricula. Students benefit from peer interaction while developing technical skills and performance confidence. Available in-studio or online with seasonal performances and rock band opportunities. Classes include Absolute Beginner, Lead Guitar, and specialized ensembles for different age groups.

Online Guitar Instruction

Live-online lessons and classes accessible from anywhere worldwide. Interactive platform maintains quality instruction with real-time feedback. Includes access to extensive video library and practice resources. Seamless transition between in-person and virtual formats ensures continuous learning without location limitations.

Rock Band Programs

Collaborative music experiences for intermediate players focusing on ensemble skills and live performance. Includes Kids Guitar Club (ages 8-11) and Teen Guitar Ensemble (ages 12-16) with seasonal showcases. Develops stage presence, teamwork, and musical communication through group rehearsals and public performances.

Summer Guitar Camp

Intensive summer programs combining technical instruction with performance preparation. Designed for different age groups with Suzuki Guitar options for young children. Includes group activities, instrument exploration, and final showcase events. Provides immersive musical experiences while maintaining safe, supportive learning environments.

People

Dan Emery

Founder

Dan Emery founded NYC Guitar School in 2004 with a vision to make guitar education accessible and transformative. He developed the school's unique teaching philosophy emphasizing personal growth through music while building a community of over 15,000 students.

Michelangelo Quirinale

Guitar Instructor

Michelangelo brings 15+ years of teaching experience and rock music expertise to Brooklyn Guitar School. A Berklee College of Music graduate, he specializes in helping students master rock classics while developing individual playing styles.

Tia Vincent-Clark

Guitar Instructor

Tia has been teaching guitar for over 20 years with a focus on patient, enthusiastic instruction. Her teaching career began in 1999 and she brings extensive experience in both classical and contemporary guitar techniques to NYC Guitar School.

Rob Adler

Guitar Instructor

Rob specializes in blues guitar instruction with professional experience performing in bands across the country. He brings a deep understanding of musical development and performance techniques to his teaching at NYC Guitar School.

Koby Williamson

Guitar Instructor

Koby studied classical guitar at Mannes College and has performed at prestigious venues like Lincoln Center. With 16 years of playing experience, he combines technical mastery with accessible teaching methods for students of all levels.

Questions

What guitar lesson options are available for beginners?

We offer Absolute Beginner private lessons, group classes, and our Rock Band 101 program. All options provide foundational skills with patient instructors who adapt to individual learning paces.

Can I take lessons online if I don't live in NYC?

Yes! Our live-online lessons connect students worldwide with expert instructors. The platform supports real-time feedback and includes access to our extensive video library and practice resources.

What age groups do you teach?

We teach all ages from children as young as 3 (Suzuki Guitar) through adults. Programs include specialized instruction for different developmental stages and learning needs.

Are there performance opportunities for students?

Yes! We host seasonal showcases, open mics, and rock band performances. Our community events provide valuable stage experience in supportive environments for all skill levels.

How do I choose between private lessons and group classes?

Private lessons offer personalized one-on-one instruction, while group classes provide peer interaction and structured curricula. Many students combine both for comprehensive musical development.

What makes NYC Guitar School different from other music schools?

Our unique combination of expert instructors, community focus, flexible scheduling, and proven teaching methodology creates an optimal learning environment. We emphasize personal growth through music students love.

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Reviews (5)

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Tanya Chauhan

Jul 23, 2020 Report

NYCGS is AMAZING! The culture of acceptance, encouragement and mutual respect starts at the top and runs all the way to the youngest students. Great teachers and super supportive of students. They have come up with many creative solutions for students during recent restrictions on in person activities and kept the community intact and engaged. Thank you!

Dominick Papandrea

Jun 15, 2020 Report

I've been going to NYC Guitar School East for a little over a year. I had been playing guitar for about 20 years but needed to break through a ceiling I reached with my playing, and I did big time. Classes have been opening up things for me in a big way. I have private lessons every week with Eric and he's not only a great teacher but exactly what I was looking for. I've been learning things I never knew I could or would learn. Also, I've attended the social showcase events and they're a ton of fun and a great way to see and meet other musicians. Overall, it's a really supportive environment and well worth the cost. Highly recommend this school.

Gregory Cozzolino

Jun 12, 2020 Report

I have been taking guitar lessons for more than 4 years with NYC Guitar School EAST. The experience has been excellent. Scheduling is easy and they always try to accommodate you with the best schedule for your needs. The staff is very friendly, responsive, and truly care about the students. My current teacher Sam is always positive and patient. He encourages you when you feel like you hit a roadblock in your playing and has an effective approach to developing your skills. Sam also makes sure classes are enjoyable and inspiring.

From sharing his professional experiences in music to finding the right songs to teach, Sam always keeps you engaged and learning. I have noticed huge progress in my playing and thanks to NYC Guitar School EAST, I am taking the next steps in advancing my guitar skills.

Andreas Tsatsas

Mar 19, 2020 Report

We love this place. I have been taking guitar lessons there for 4 years! My instructors have been great. So patient and motivating to the students. They really encourage creativity! Every kid that takes lessons here loves it!

Monique Navarro

Feb 19, 2020 Report

I love NYC Guitar School East! My son and my husband are having lessons with Eddy. Both are super enthusiastic about their lessons. Eddy is at the same time patient and encouraging while maintaining a structured lesson and ensuring practice! My son likes it so much, he joined the Rock Band lessons with Subrina - the Rock Star! The recitals are at the end of the semester - super mellow atmosphere for the kids. The school also has the amazing support of Madeline! She is always knowledgeable, eager and helpful with any guitar questions.