Welcome to

Rochester's School of Guitar

school guitar

Our Programs Suit All Ages 7+, All levels, and budgets

guitar lessons
Kids Lessons
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Teens Lessons
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Adult Lessons

Our Core Advantages

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Flexible Schedule

We use a gym model for guitar lessons at Rochester School of Guitar. This gives even people with busy schedules the flexibility they need to learn the guitar.

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Tested and proven curriculum

At the School of Guitar, lessons are designed around a skillset-based curriculum that has been tested and received over 60k hours of feedback. You won’t be our guinea pig—we know how to get the result.

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Choose Your Path

We will create an action plan to close the gap between where you are on the guitar and where you want to go. Whether it’s learning your favorite songs, playing lead guitar, fingerpicking, or anything else, we have you covered.

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Trained Teachers

Unlike many other schools in Rochester, NY, all teachers at the School of Guitar get training to become better teachers and keep up to date with changes to the curriculum. This provides students with a high-quality, consistent experience no matter who they learn from.

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Jams and showcases

At the School of Guitar, we offer students the chance to participate in jams and our optional student showcases at no extra cost. This allows students to transition from bedroom warriors to performing musicians.

Student Reviews

Carrie Cohen
Carrie Cohen@Carrie_Cohen
A fun, low pressure place to learn guitar. I'm a super busy adult learner and appreciate the accommodating schedule and patient teachers.
Dawson Marshall
Dawson Marshall@Dawson_Marshall
It’s been a great experience learning how to play the guitar here! I absolutely love the environment, very welcoming and laid back! I went in not knowing how to play anything and today i am able to work on any piece of music that interests me! Anybody thinking about learning how to play should definitely consider signing up with Rochester school of guitar! Chris has a great staff at both locations I absolutely love this place
Joshua Nagy
Joshua Nagy@Joshua_Nagy
Rochester's School of Guitar is fantastic. At the time of this review I've been attending classes for almost 2 years, and it's been a very positive experience me. The material and structure has allowed me to improve my guitar skills faster than I ever did on my own. And it's not just for beginners looking to start guitar for the first time. The fretboard classes offered are great for intermediate and advanced players looking to take there playing to the next level.
Vincent James Nenno
Vincent James Nenno@VincentJamesNenno
Rochester School of Guitar has been a really great experience for learning guitar. Chris and the instructors have a great system to make sure you're achieving your goals and progressing as a guitar player while still having fun and not being overwhelmed. The classes are always enjoyable, helpful, and leave you motivated to keep playing while also giving you the necessary knowledge and tools to practice at home and keep making progress. Would recommend them to anyone at any skill level!
Ronald Phillips
Ronald Phillips@RonaldPhillips
I just retired and always wanted to learn how to play the guitar. Started up with Chris and his team a few months ago and I am amazed at the progress I am making. They make it challenging (but not overwhelming) and fun. Highly recommend!
Alan R
Alan R@AlanR
The methods of teaching done at this school are terrific. It’s a great balance between being educated, but allowing space for the student to apply the principles taught. The environment is relaxed and motivating. I highly recommend Rochester School of Guitar for anyone interested in learning the guitar at multiple levels!
Frank
Frank@Frank
I have been enjoying my time learning guitar at Rochester's School of Guitar. I did the self training method for a week or two before I realized I needed structure and that is what Chris gave me. My favorite part of the lesson isn't being told what or how to do something, but being explained why a certain technique should be done in a specific way. It makes me actually understand why I am doing something a certain way, and this causes me to actually stick with what I am being told.
Dick K
Dick K@DickK
I've tried lessons a few times over the years and learned a few chord shapes but not how to play a guitar. Since I started lessons with Chris I am actually learning how to play and I both enjoy and learn at every lesson. Chris's approach is comprehensive and he is able to address each student's need based on their current ability. He is an excellent teacher and uses a strong plan to learn multiple guitar skills.
Craig Foster
Craig Foster@CraigFoster
Learning to play guitar well is a challenging endeavor. Chris and his team of instructors have a great system that can fit any level of experience and they make learning fun. I've learned a lot in the short time I've been taking lessons and I've met some really cool students too!
James Camardo
James Camardo@JamesCamardo
I've been taking lessons, with Chris and his staff , just under two years. Absolutely enjoying my musical journey with this group. I never played an instrument or have any "natural" musical talent. I spoke to 3 different guitar teachers ...all promised to teach me songs and play in 6 weeks. 1/2 hour sessions ..1 on 1. Chris said he will teach me to play guitar. 1 hour class and up to 6 in a class setting. It's not in your face and this is what you're learning today. There's a process...they will show you something and give you time to work on it. The instructors will rotate from student to student and it works. The instructors know what I'm working on and the level I'm at. Not everyone is at the same level. I've come a long way from not knowing a chord to learning to read music, learning to create my own rhythms, and being able to play songs. I've met some good people and as students...we do help each other. No matter your age or skill level..you will benefit from the school of guitar.
Maiya Doohan
Maiya Doohan@MaiyaDoohan
I started taking guitar lessons with Rochester’s School of Guitar in November 2023 and have made so much progress! I enjoy the in-person corrections and feedback. Excited to continue my lessons with them!
Sara Silverstone
Sara Silverstone@SaraSilverstone
Chris has put together a really unique program. He keeps it interesting and I'm motivated to learn even when it's hard. I'm making progress and having fun. Highly recommended for old beginners like me!
Lois Thom
Lois Thom@LoisThom
I've been taking lessons from Chris for 6 months after not playing for 40 years. The studio has a positive, encouraging vibe where each student is focused on their own lesson plan. Chris and his instructors offer plenty of indivdual attention, identify strengths and weakneses, and help set realistic goals. I'm happy with the instruction I've received and progress I've made. Best of all, it's fun!
Maria Potter
Maria Potter@MariaPotter
Chris, I think that this is a very professional school that does a very good job of teaching. With a very good use of examples and methods. I will recommend Rochester School of Guitar to my family and friends.
Adam Averbuch
Adam Averbuch@AdamAverbuch
I've been taking lessons with Chris and the team for about six months, and I've enjoyed the process. I like having a structured plan of what to work on; I never feel like I have to fend for myself. Classes are a lot of fun, and I feel like I've been making steady progress.
Rich Coffey
Rich Coffey@RichCoffey
Chris and the other teachers are awesome. They have a plan for each individuals personal development. Not a cookie cutter same plan for everyone. I have been going to class for about 6 months and I’m learning and progressing each week. Only regret is that I didn’t start sooner!
Ronald Meulendyk
Ronald Meulendyk@RonaldMeulendyk
I tried learning on line but that wasn't working until i found Chris and his staff. They had me playing the chords correctly which made a huge difference. The one on one teaching is excellent and what i needed. highly recommended.
Joseph Irvin
Joseph Irvin@Joseph_Irvin
Chris and his team are fantastic teachers! Whatever level of guitar you're starting at, they have a plan for helping you get better. Hopefully this new location helps spread the good word
Marc Malatesta
Marc Malatesta@MarcMalatesta
I have been learning on my own for a few years and since starting with them, I am quickly learning what I am doing wrong. Chris and his team make learning to play easy and fun for any level of experience. Highly recommend! And they have two locations!
Dan Higgins
Dan Higgins@DanHiggins
Great place to learn guitar. I’m an older person and Chris is really helping me improve.
Darren Pynn
Darren Pynn@DarrenPynn
Chris and his instructors are outstanding ! While the approach is organized and purposeful, they also stress the importance of taking time to play for fun. I guarantee you will improve !
Marty Zess
Marty Zess@MartyZess
I have been going here for about 6 months and it is a great place to learn. I find the teachers all help you concentrate on learning the basics and improving every class while still keeping it fun. I’m sure that you will enjoy learning here. Give them a call.
Emily Hutchison
Emily Hutchison@EmilyHutchison
Great place that accommodates all skill levels. As a newbie to guitar I love the structure and variety they offer. Everyone is very nice as well!
Thomas Finnerty
Thomas Finnerty@ThomasFinnerty
Great environment for someone brand new to playing guitar. Staff is knowledgeable and friendly, lessons are fun!
Sam Starr
Sam Starr@SamStarr
Chris and his staff are great, I've been going for almost a year now and I have made a ton of progress.
John Doe
John Doe@username
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Tyler Tiede
Tyler Tiede@TylerTiede
I’ve progressed a lot faster learning with chris and have developed much better practice habits.
Michael Quigley
Michael Quigley@MichaelQuigley
A great place to learn guitar. Good people with a heart to teach you guitar
McKenzie Rice
McKenzie Rice@McKenzieRice
All the teachers do a wonderful job helping with my specific needs, and the environment is super friendly!!
Sebastian Zebrak
Sebastian Zebrak@SebastianZebrak
Great teaching and wonderful location. Love Chris’s unique sense of humour.
John Doe
John Doe@username
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Fred P.
Fred P.@FredP.
So far it’s been a great experience, definitely recommend these guys 👍👍
Rochester's School of Guitar - Brighton place picture
4.9
Based on 69 reviews
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Tran N Khai Minh profile pictureTran N Khai Minh
16:19 15 Jan 26
I have been taking classes for around 6 months and it has been a good experience so far.

The thing I like the most is the progress-based curriculum, where you "unlock" harder levels after completing easier ones. It's very interesting and encouraging to visualize my progress and improvement with the instrument: it's like grinding for better gear in a video game, except I’m actually learning something meaningful.

The schedule is also very flexible, which is incredibly helpful for busy college students like me. There are weeks when I can’t attend class, and being able to move those hours to another week makes it much easier to stay consistent.

Growing up, I believed I had no talent, discipline, or natural ability for music. Being able to play songs I never thought I could - and to understand music as more than just "funny noise sounds good" - is something I'm truly grateful to this school and the teachers.
Walter Smith profile pictureWalter Smith
23:04 30 Dec 25
Where do I start? I began lessons five months ago, and at 59, had doubts that I could start from absolute zero and get the hang of it. Thanks to Chris’s teaching approach, I’m not just making progress—I’m actually loving the process. I look forward to the lessons and the daily time I carve out for practice. If you’re on the fence, just commit and stay open to it. The teachers are kind and supportive, and I leave every lesson understanding more and feeling more confident.
Robert Jacobs profile pictureRobert Jacobs
17:14 22 Dec 25
I tried learning guitar by watching videos on the web, but I simply couldn't succeed. The school's guitar curriculum and the thoughtful feedback provided during class have made all the difference for me. I can't believe how much progress I've made.
Anthony Musso profile pictureAnthony Musso
20:53 16 Dec 25
I’m about 2 months into lessons and have made great strides with the school’s help. Chris is fantastic to work with and very knowledgeable. Highly recommend to anyone getting started with learning guitar.
Sarah Greber profile pictureSarah Greber
14:09 04 Dec 25
From day 1, having lessons at this studio was a perfect fit for our teen. She’s learning technique while having fun and enjoying every minute. Atmosphere is casual and not stressful. Highly recommend!
Kendall Clark profile pictureKendall Clark
19:16 22 Nov 25
I’ve been taking lessons here for just under six months and I recently had my first performance! The classes are really great for getting you comfortable with the guitar very quickly. Chris, Brad, and Cam are patient teachers who strike a balance between accommodating your skill level and pushing you to try new and challenging techniques. Would recommend!
Gary Rosenberg profile pictureGary Rosenberg
23:50 18 Nov 25
I've been playing for decades without making significant progress. Chris and the team have helped me tremendously. They are excellent teachers and provide an encouraging positive atmosphere. I give my highest recommendation to the guitar school.
Ryan Slomiany profile pictureRyan Slomiany
14:12 30 Oct 25
After only a month of lessons, the instructors fixed many years of bad mechanics and had me understanding scale shapes way better than I had before. Would highly recommend.
Josh Skillicorn profile pictureJosh Skillicorn
20:47 13 Aug 25
The practices this business uses are honest appalling. This business will continue to charge you for lessons you don’t receive. I did not participate in any June lessons to my own doing as I felt these lessons were not beneficial for me. Upon attempting to cancel the lessons for July, I was charged due to a couple day window for cancellation. While this could be my fault everyday life does happen. I did not receive lessons in June so due to my busy schedule, having a full time job and finishing up my enlistment, I hoped this business would have some empathy for my situation and refund my money. However the instructor did not hold any understanding or compassion about the situation. After a short text message exchange we did conclude a refund would not be offered and I feel that is very unfair given the circumstances.
Sue Kubala profile pictureSue Kubala
18:42 08 Aug 25
I just retired and always wanted to learn how to play the guitar, tried lessons a few times over the years and never really felt I was getting any better. I feel I have made more progress with Chris in the last 4 months than I had made in all of my other attempts at lessons combined. The teachers are very enthusiastic and I really enjoy the individual attention and feedback given at each lesson. Best of all I am having fun and really enjoying playing guitar !!!
Gabe Bennett profile pictureGabe Bennett
22:14 05 Aug 25
Great lessons. The curriculum is effective, the teachers are friendly and knowledgeable, and it’s priced well. What more could you ask?
Alana Conrow profile pictureAlana Conrow
21:37 18 Jul 25
These guys really know what they’re doing and want people to succeed.
Mollymauk Shepard profile pictureMollymauk Shepard
16:23 04 Jul 25
Fantastic place to come and learn guitar. Chris is great and Brad who taught most of my lessons equally so. Always patient, fantastic instruction. Picked up a lot here and definitely saw a noticeable improvement in a few short months over years of just noodling around myself at home. If you are wanting to really learn not just guitar but also how to properly practice guitar this place is excellent 👍
Tom Ramos profile pictureTom Ramos
18:59 04 Jun 25
Chris is a great guitar teacher and really makes the classes fun and engaging. I look forward to my lessons with him as well as Dave! I cannot say it enough but seriously...trust the process. If you put your faith in Chris he will get you rocking out in no time!
Adam Rothfuss profile pictureAdam Rothfuss
17:13 24 May 25
I really enjoy Rochester's School of Guitar, and I have seen amazing progress in my guitar playing ability after just two months of lessons. Chris and all of the other teachers do a great job at ensuring we use proper techniques and understand what we are playing. We train in many different areas of playing guitar rather than focusing on one thing at a time. I would definitely recommend signing up for lessons with Chris if you want to become a great guitarist!
Kirsten Goranowski profile pictureKirsten Goranowski
13:28 14 May 25
Awesome place for guitar lessons!!! Well structured and very knowledgeable/ talented staff. I love the group atmosphere, and directed towards fundamentals and technique!!!
Carrie Cohen profile pictureCarrie Cohen
04:43 14 Dec 24
A fun, low pressure place to learn guitar. I'm a super busy adult learner and appreciate the accommodating schedule and patient teachers.
Fred P. profile pictureFred P.
00:20 08 Feb 24
So far it’s been a great experience, definitely recommend these guys 👍👍
Maria Potter profile pictureMaria Potter
20:49 04 Feb 24
Chris, I think that this is a very professional school that does a very good job of teaching. With a very good use of examples and methods. I will recommend Rochester School of Guitar to my family and friends.
Ronald Meulendyk profile pictureRonald Meulendyk
17:36 26 Jan 24
I tried learning on line but that wasn't working until i found Chris and his staff. They had me playing the chords correctly which made a huge difference. The one on one teaching is excellent and what i needed. highly recommended.
Anna allen profile pictureAnna allen
15:19 24 Jan 24
just spoke to Chris , he was totally rude he was trying to be a salesman and wanted 275 dollars a month for lessons 2× a week I only wanted to go 1 time...folks look elsewhere..don't waste your time here.
Ronald Phillips profile pictureRonald Phillips
18:59 02 Nov 23
I just retired and always wanted to learn how to play the guitar. Started up with Chris and his team a few months ago and I am amazed at the progress I am making. They make it challenging (but not overwhelming) and fun. Highly recommend!
Dawson Marshall profile pictureDawson Marshall
16:55 20 Aug 23
It’s been a great experience learning how to play the guitar here! I absolutely love the environment, very welcoming and laid back! I went in not knowing how to play anything and today i am able to work on any piece of music that interests me! Anybody thinking about learning how to play should definitely consider signing up with Rochester school of guitar! Chris has a great staff at both locations I absolutely love this place
Joshua Nagy profile pictureJoshua Nagy
15:25 21 Jun 23
Rochester's School of Guitar is fantastic. At the time of this review I've been attending classes for almost 2 years, and it's been a very positive experience me. The material and structure has allowed me to improve my guitar skills faster than I ever did on my own. And it's not just for beginners looking to start guitar for the first time. The fretboard classes offered are great for intermediate and advanced players looking to take there playing to the next level.
Vincent James Nenno profile pictureVincent James Nenno
21:11 05 Apr 23
Rochester School of Guitar has been a really great experience for learning guitar. Chris and the instructors have a great system to make sure you're achieving your goals and progressing as a guitar player while still having fun and not being overwhelmed. The classes are always enjoyable, helpful, and leave you motivated to keep playing while also giving you the necessary knowledge and tools to practice at home and keep making progress. Would recommend them to anyone at any skill level!

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