Best 17 coaches for Guitar lessons near Oakland, CA

I’m a lifelong guitarist who’s learned the economics of the fretboard—how to say more with less. Over decades of performance, arranging, and teaching, I’ve come to see the guitar not as a maze of shapes but as a unified field of melody, harmony, and movement. My lessons are for intermediate players who want to stop memorizing and start understanding: to connect patterns, find melodic pathways, and unlock their own voice.

"Amazing teacher, so kind and patient. I was extremely nervous and he thought me a lot on the first day can’t wait for more lessons. Highly recommend

As a guitarist for almost 20 years, I began playing guitar at 9 years of age and started playing classical guitar. I then picked up the electric guitar at 16, acoustic guitar at 20, and now play flamenco and jazz guitar at 30. I know advanced chords like 6, 9, 7th, 7b9, 7#9, 7b5, 7#5, advanced scales like altered, Lydian dominant, Phrygian dominant, modes, harmonic and melodic minor, etc. I know music theory very well and self-taught myself all kinds of lessons like borrowed chords, modulation, diatonic keys, dominants, tritone substitution, backdoor dominants, secondary dominants, etc. I also create my own music using music theory, circle of fifths, and advanced techniques. I can also use tabs to read music. I'm specifically, however, good at the guitar and almost every time I play at the guitar center, I receive compliments and praises of people telling me that I'm very talented.

I'm 47 and have been studying, writing and performing music since the age of 15. I have a B.A. in Music from San Francisco State University where I studied classical intensely, as well as jazz and world music. I live in South Berkeley and have been teaching private lessons here for the last 20 years at my home studio in a cooperative house. I worked for BandWorks School of Rock in Oakland as a band coach for 6 years and now currently have my own independent program. I enjoy performing classical music for weddings and events, playing shows with local rock, metal and Django/Hot Club swing groups, writing original music and scoring for films. I love and appreciate genuine passionate music of all genres, languages and cultures.

"Daniel is a great guitar teacher who strikes a balance between theory and practical play. Daniel engaged our child (8) by playing songs they wanted to play even if Daniel had never heard them before. He equipped our kid with tools that allowed him to practice at home. Daniel really brought out the confidence and love in our kid to keep playing the guitar. We're so grateful for finding Daniel!!

Music is my life, and for 30 years, I've shared that passion by teaching guitar to aspiring musicians. Having performed professionally, I bring real-world experience to every lesson, making learning fun and effective. Let's unlock your musical potential!

As a professional guitarist of over 2 decades, I am always seeking to teach and assist others in unlocking their true musical potential. Whether you want to be well- versed in classical, rock, blues, or jazz, we can create an organized plan to get you to where you want to be with the guitar.

As a professional guitarist and songwriter with over two decades of experience, I’ve toured and performed all around the US and Canada as part of the award-winning duo, The Singer & The Songwriter. My style of teaching emphasizes creativity and discovery, and adapts to each students’ specific needs. My approach to guitar encourages curiosity over correctness, and keeps the love of music at the heart of every lesson.

"Thu has fostered and encouraged my daughter’s love of guitar. After meeting with Thu for a lesson, she is always energized and inspired. Thu builds her confidence and challenges her with new learning and ideas. He has been such a gift to our whole family!

Music is my life, and guitar is my passion! As a professional musician for many years, I'm eager to share my knowledge with students of all levels. I've taught guitar for over 20 years, focusing on developing a strong foundation in technique and music theory.

Born and raised in the rustic landscapes of New Hampshire, I spent my formative years immersed in the rich tapestry of music, thanks to the inspiring influence of my parents—both talented recording artists. My mother, a classical singer with a master's degree, not only imparted her passion for music but also shaped the local community as the chair of the voice department at the Concord Community Music School, where I first began my musical journey at the tender age of six. My father was a guitarist and producer, who built the first home recording studio I know of. Together, they were the centerpiece of a local children's rock group, Peggosus. I spent most days immersed their various crafts. From the moment I stepped foot in CCMS, music became my language and my calling. At thirteen, I picked up the guitar, and it ignited a lifelong relationship with the instrument that I continue to explore. My academic pursuits took me to the Berklee College of Music, where I earned my Bachelor of Music with the highest honors, further propelling my passion for music education. My journey has taken me across the country, performing with numerous bands and absorbing a wealth of musical experiences that inform my teaching. I take pride in offering a unique singing method that delivers immediate results to my students, fostering both confidence and skill in their vocal performance. In tandem with this, my guitar-study approach transcends genre boundaries, enhancing flow and technical ability almost instantly. With a commitment to nurturing creativity and fostering a love for music, I strive to guide my students in unlocking their full potential, encouraging them to find their unique voice in the vibrant world of music.

Hey, I’m Kosta Varvatakis. I’ve been playing guitar for over 25 years and have been lucky enough to tour the U.S. and overseas with my former band Hatriot. I’ve recorded four albums and worked on tons of songs over the years—writing, recording, and featuring on tracks across the heavy music spectrum. Now, I’m all about sharing what I’ve learned to help up-and-coming players find their sound snd sharpen their skills. If you’re ready to level up, I’ve got your back.

Unlocking musical potential is my specialty. With 22 years of experience playing guitar and bass (acoustic and electric), and as a recording artist, I tailor lessons to individual goals, fostering creativity and technical proficiency. Let's embark on your unique guitar journey!