Learn Guitar Chicago

Business Details

Expert Guitar Lessons in Chicago

Founded by Mitch Lavin, Learn Guitar Chicago is dedicated to developing musicians through personalized guitar instruction. With over 30 years of professional experience and a teaching career spanning since 1999, Mitch combines foundational techniques with modern technology to cater to students of all skill levels. The curriculum emphasizes chords, rhythm, and improvisation, utilizing state-of-the-art recording tools to enhance learning. Virtual and in-person lessons are available, ensuring flexibility while maintaining high-quality education. The studio serves Chicagoland, focusing on rock, blues, and jazz genres.

Mitchs approach prioritizes musical growth over rote song learning, fostering well-rounded artists. His expertise, honed through performances at iconic venues like The Cubby Bear and Double Door, informs a structured yet adaptable teaching philosophy. Students benefit from tailored exercises, real-time feedback, and a supportive environment. The program accommodates beginners and advanced players alike, with a client base exceeding 50 students. Learn Guitar Chicagos commitment to innovation and personalized instruction solidifies its reputation as a trusted resource for aspiring musicians.

Services

Guitar Lessons Virtual Lessons In-Person Lessons Improvisation Training Rock & Blues Instruction

Highlights and features

We offer 30+ years of professional guitar experience and teaching expertise.
Our curriculum combines foundational techniques with state-of-the-art recording technology.
Flexible virtual and in-person lesson options tailored to individual needs.
Personalized feedback using Pro Tools software for detailed progress analysis.
Proven track record with over 50 students and 20+ years of teaching experience.

What people say

Comprehensive curriculum Casual and fun approach Seamless virtual transition Well-rounded musicianship Expert guidance

Website

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Services

Guitar Lessons

Learn Guitar Chicago provides tailored guitar lessons for all skill levels, focusing on chords, rhythm, and improvisation. Using a structured curriculum and Pro Tools technology, students receive detailed feedback to accelerate progress. The program emphasizes musical growth over rote learning, fostering confidence and creativity in rock, blues, and jazz genres.

Virtual Lessons

Virtual guitar lessons via Zoom offer flexibility without compromising quality. Students receive the same structured curriculum and personalized feedback as in-person sessions, ensuring seamless progress. This option caters to remote learners or those preferring home-based instruction while maintaining interaction with Mitch's expert guidance.

In-Person Lessons

In-person lessons at our Chicago studio provide hands-on instruction with immediate feedback. Students benefit from a focused environment equipped with professional gear and technology. This option fosters direct interaction, ideal for those seeking immersive, face-to-face learning experiences tailored to their pace and goals.

Improvisation Training

Specialized improvisation training teaches the art and science of spontaneous musical expression. Using advanced techniques and real-time analysis, students learn to create solos and explore creative freedom. This service targets intermediate to advanced players aiming to master lead guitar in rock, blues, and jazz contexts.

Rock & Blues Instruction

Focused rock and blues guitar instruction covers essential techniques, scales, and styles. Students study iconic artists like Clapton and Stevie Ray Vaughan while developing their unique sound. The curriculum blends theory with practical exercises, preparing students to perform confidently in these genres.

People

Mitch Lavin

Founder & Guitar Instructor

Mitch Lavin has taught guitar professionally since 1999, drawing on 30+ years of performance experience at Chicago venues like The Cubby Bear. He specializes in rock, blues, and jazz, using a structured curriculum and Pro Tools technology to personalize lessons for over 50 students.

Questions

What skill levels do you teach?

We cater to all levels, from beginners picking up a guitar to advanced players refining their technique.

Do you offer virtual lessons?

Yes, virtual lessons via Zoom provide the same structured curriculum and feedback as in-person sessions.

What genres do you focus on?

Our curriculum emphasizes rock, blues, and jazz, with techniques applicable to various musical styles.

How are lessons personalized?

We use Pro Tools recordings to analyze progress and tailor exercises to individual goals and skill gaps.

What equipment do you use?

Lessons incorporate Pro Tools software and professional gear, including Fractal Axe-Fx units and diverse guitar models.

Reviews (6)

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Jimmy M.

Jan 08, 2021 Report

I LOVE LEARN GUITAR CHICAGO! I've been a student for 5 years now! I've come so far! Mitch has an extremely comprehensive curriculum and a super casual and fun approach to teaching the guitar! Originally, I started in the studio but due to Covid we were seamlessly able to convert to virtual with zero issues and it's amazing! If you're a newbie or more advanced, LGC is the best place in Chicagoland to work on your skills! 5 Stars! Highly recommended!

Snorkeling B.

Dec 04, 2018 Report

I am going into month 5 with Mitch. I was a "guitar player" years ago. Or so I thought. I would stress that this type of learning for a younger person would be an ideal situation. This comes from a guy who noodled and noodled for YEARS in my previous playing without a proper teacher or direction. The Youtube dreamer. I can say that this 5 month (once a week) period is the most I have ever learned about an instrument, music and just all around being a musician.

I don't think I even set out to become a musician when I picked up my guitar for the first time in years, but if you hang with this program, you will become a musician too(I'm not there yet but I see it!). So yes, even for someone a bit older as myself, this program is the place to be. Not to mention, the pure joy and sense of fulfillment that comes with learning, failures, new horizons - all within the program. You really have no idea just how good you can get in a short period of time, and I'm talking to everyone. Highly recommended.

Nick G.

Jun 16, 2018 Report

I have been taking guitar lessons from Mitch for about 5 months and have learned so much in a short period of time. Many years ago, I worked with another person for lessons and feel like I wasted my time and money. Mitch's attention to detail and shaping lessons around your strengths is a huge plus and has accelerated my development. Besides that, Mitch is really outgoing and a great guy to chat with. If you are looking for a true professional who also makes sure you are having fun, he is your guy!

Tripp Chapman

Apr 28, 2017 Report

Mitch is a great teacher. He makes learning to play guitar fun. His teaching method has made me explore music in a way that I could not have imagined. I highly recommend him as a guitar teacher for all ability levels.

William P.

May 28, 2015 Report

I don't usually write reviews but now that I'm a year and a half into it, it's time. Mitch is GREAT! Upon first meeting him and completely nervous about learning to play guitar, Mitch made me, and still does, feel very at ease. He has great knowledge and is VERY patient. If your thinking about lessons, Mitch is the best.

D S.

Aug 30, 2012 Report

I have been playing guitar for a long time, but never learned how to play lead before. However, after just a brief period of time with Mitch, I can already play some solos. I highly recommend Mitch to anybody else in a similar situation.