How guitar lessons work

Explore guitar lessons with Hawi Gondwe in London: acoustic and electric guitar, music you enjoy and practical help with your next steps.

Begin with your musical interests

Tell me what you enjoy listening to and what you would like to play. Beginners do not need previous musical knowledge. If you already play, bring a song or passage that shows where you would like help. We can choose a useful starting point together.

Acoustic and electric guitar

Acoustic tuition can explore fingerstyle playing, strumming and accompanying songs. Electric lessons can develop riffs, rock soloing, jazz improvisation and control of your sound. You can focus on the instrument and styles that interest you.

Building the foundations

Early lessons can introduce clear notes, open chords, straightforward strumming patterns and short riffs. We can break down a difficult movement and connect the exercise to a song, keeping practical music-making at the centre of the lesson.

Developing intermediate and advanced playing

More experienced guitarists can explore tone, expression, improvisation, complex chord progressions and composition. Lessons can also address stage performance, recording and developing an individual sound. Bring a specific goal so we can decide where to focus.

Theory and songwriting

Theory can explain a musical idea you are already hearing or playing. We can explore the relationship between chords and melody, work on a song structure or consider how guitar parts fit together. The amount of theory follows your interests and learning needs.

Children and adult learners

I welcome children aged 5 and upwards, teenagers and adults, including complete beginners. Tell me the learner’s age, experience and musical interests so we can discuss a suitable starting point and lesson length.

Instruments and practice

There are guitars and equipment at my studio if bringing your instrument is inconvenient. Regular access to a guitar between lessons helps you revisit the material. Ask before buying one if you would like to discuss a suitable instrument.

Choosing where to learn

Most lessons take place at my home teaching space on Arlington Road, Camden, London, NW1 7HD, near Camden Town Underground station. The full teaching address is provided when you book. A small number of lessons at students’ homes may be available; include your area when enquiring so we can discuss availability and the additional travel charge.