◈ Homepage — http://irguitarlessons.com/Enroll Your Future Rockstar for 2026 Summer Camp Today! ABOUT OUR STORY TEACHERS LOCATION & CONTACT FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS EVENTS REVIEWS PRIVATE LESSONS GUITAR LESSONS FOR ADULTS GUITAR LESSONS FOR CHILDREN GUITAR LESSONS FOR TEENS PRIVATE LESSON TUITION & FEES GROUP CLASSES DUO LESSONS JAM NIGHT GROUP CLASS TUITION & FEES SUMMER CAMPS LEARNING HUB BLOG YOUTUBE CHANNEL LEARNING MATERIALS STUDENT SPOTLIGHT GIFT CERTIFICATES TRY FREE I.R. GUITAR LESSONS Lessons for Everyone BOOK YOUR FREE INTRO LESSON I.R. GUITAR LESSONS IS AN OAKLAND MUSIC SCHOOL DEDICATED TO THE GUITAR. We provide students of all ages the opportunity to create a lifelong passion. REGISTER FOR SUMMER CAMP WHY CHOOSE I.R. GUITAR LESSONS? THE BAY AREA'S BEST TEACHERS We’re proud of our incredibly talented, friendly, and experienced faculty. Whatever your needs, our superstar instructors can help! FREE INTRO LESSONS Test drive the I.R. Guitar Lessons experience with a free intro lesson. It's a great way to meet with a teacher, get a feel for their style, and start crossing stuff off your guitar to-do list. COMPLIMENTARY INSTRUMENT RENTALS At I.R. Guitar Lessons, we’re happy to offer free instrument rentals for our students. We have ukuleles, acoustic guitars of all sizes, electric guitars, and bass guitars available to our students at no additional cost. PERFORMANCE OPPORTUNITIES Performing is a vital aspect of learning to play an instrument and our students enjoy recitals and ample performance opportunities.  Always free, optional, and pressure-free, these chances to play and perform for others are a shaping point for young musicians. FUN, HANDS-ON APPROACH There is no reason that learning any musical concept cannot be enjoyable.  Our tailor-made curriculum is fun, hands-on, and exciting while still being holistic and rooted in proper technique and musical literacy.  We give you the tools to play Bach today and rock tomorrow. COMMUNITY I.R. Guitar Lessons isn't just a school, it's a community.  When you become a student here, you're plugged into a network of like-minded individuals who can share, socialize, and collaborate with one another. PROVEN TRACK RECORD Our students have won talent shows and guitar competitions, scored in the top 1% on music examinations, and even recorded full-length albums.  We’re grateful and honored that so many people have chosen to leave us 5-star reviews on Yelp. BOOK YOUR FREE INTRO LESSON BOOK YOUR FREE INTRO LESSON WHAT OUR STUDENTS ARE SAYING: “ I came across IR Guitar as I was browsing the internet looking for a place to learn to play guitar. They answered all my questions, were very flexible with scheduling and provided stellar customer service. Ian is an excellent teacher; he is patient and knowledgeable. Additionally, the place is very clean and cute. I’d highly recommend it to anyone no matter your level of expertise! — Jocelyne F. “ I have a great guitar teacher who can meet the needs of students of many levels. I’m an adult student with years of playing but very few of studying. I.R. Guitar Lessons is taking my newfound discipline in the art of guitar and tailoring it through artful listening and humor. — Mitch G. “ I am learning how to play guitar again and it makes my heart so happy. Thanks I.R. Guitar Lessons for making me feel like a rockstar! — Tinneke M. I.R. GUITAR LESSONS, 3419 GRAND AVENUE SUITE #203, OAKLAND, CA 94610(510) [email protected] ◈ Interior Pages — 19 pages crawledI.R. Guitar Lessons | Bay Area Guitar Lessons About Our Story Teachers Location & Contact Frequently Asked Questions Events Reviews Private Lessons Guitar Lessons for Adults Guitar Lessons for Children Guitar Lessons for Teens Private Lesson Tuition & Fees Group Classes Duo Lessons Jam Night Group Class Tuition & Fees Summer Camps Learning Hub Blog YouTube Channel Learning Materials Student Spotlight Gift Certificates try free About Our Story Teachers Location & Contact Frequently Asked Questions Events Reviews Private Lessons Guitar Lessons for Adults Guitar Lessons for Children Guitar Lessons for Teens Private Lesson Tuition & Fees Group Classes Duo Lessons Jam Night Group Class Tuition & Fees Summer Camps Learning Hub Blog YouTube Channel Learning Materials Student Spotlight Gift Certificates try free Private Lessons Guitar Lessons for Adults Guitar Lessons for Children Guitar Lessons for Teens Private Lesson Tuition & Fees Schedule an Intro lesson Guitar Lessons for Children Give your child every advantage According to a study by Johns Hopkins University, children who study music are activated "mentally, physically, and emotionally."  Compared to children who didn't participate, musically active students experience a boost in reading skills, memory, and mathematical ability. Most importantly, music offers them an enriching avenue for self-expression and it's never too early to start. We recommend that our younger students take 30-minute lessons. Back to Top I.R. Guitar Lessons, 3419 Grand Avenue Suite #203, Oakland, CA 94610 (510) 866-5670 [email protected] I.R. Guitar Lessons | Bay Area Guitar Lessons About Our Story Teachers Location & Contact Frequently Asked Questions Events Reviews Private Lessons Guitar Lessons for Adults Guitar Lessons for Children Guitar Lessons for Teens Private Lesson Tuition & Fees Group Classes Duo Lessons Jam Night Group Class Tuition & Fees Summer Camps Learning Hub Blog YouTube Channel Learning Materials Student Spotlight Gift Certificates try free About Our Story Teachers Location & Contact Frequently Asked Questions Events Reviews Private Lessons Guitar Lessons for Adults Guitar Lessons for Children Guitar Lessons for Teens Private Lesson Tuition & Fees Group Classes Duo Lessons Jam Night Group Class Tuition & Fees Summer Camps Learning Hub Blog YouTube Channel Learning Materials Student Spotlight Gift Certificates try free Private Lessons Guitar Lessons for Adults Guitar Lessons for Children Guitar Lessons for Teens Private Lesson Tuition & Fees   private lesson tuition we offer two options for private lessons All lessons are offered by dedicated faculty and feature easy scheduling, free guitar rentals, and ample performance opportunities! Monthly Membership The tried and true model designed to maximize performance! Students enjoy a reserved lesson slot, once a week, at the best value. (price represents four lessons ) 30 mins: 207 per month 45 mins: 308 per month 60 mins: 402 per month Single Lessons Perfect for students who don’t plan on taking four lessons a month, these lessons serve as a great way to check-in and jump start your playing! 30 mins: 59 per lesson 45 mins: 82.4 per lesson 60 mins: 105.93 per lesson   Back to Top I.R. Guitar Lessons, 3419 Grand Avenue Suite #203, Oakland, CA 94610 (510) 866-5670 [email protected] I.R. Guitar Lessons | Bay Area Guitar Lessons About Our Story Teachers Location & Contact Frequently Asked Questions Events Reviews Private Lessons Guitar Lessons for Adults Guitar Lessons for Children Guitar Lessons for Teens Private Lesson Tuition & Fees Group Classes Duo Lessons Jam Night Group Class Tuition & Fees Summer Camps Learning Hub Blog YouTube Channel Learning Materials Student Spotlight Gift Certificates try free About Our Story Teachers Location & Contact Frequently Asked Questions Events Reviews Private Lessons Guitar Lessons for Adults Guitar Lessons for Children Guitar Lessons for Teens Private Lesson Tuition & Fees Group Classes Duo Lessons Jam Night Group Class Tuition & Fees Summer Camps Learning Hub Blog YouTube Channel Learning Materials Student Spotlight Gift Certificates try free Group Classes Duo Lessons Jam Night Group Class Tuition & Fees Group Class Tuition All classes are instructed by dedicated faculty and feature easy scheduling, free guitar rentals, and ample performance opportunities! Duo Lesson Tuition Duo Lesson Tuition: 125 per month, per student Back to Top I.R. Guitar Lessons, 3419 Grand Avenue Suite #203, Oakland, CA 94610 (510) 866-5670 [email protected] I.R. Guitar Lessons | Bay Area Guitar Lessons About Our Story Teachers Location & Contact Frequently Asked Questions Events Reviews Private Lessons Guitar Lessons for Adults Guitar Lessons for Children Guitar Lessons for Teens Private Lesson Tuition & Fees Group Classes Duo Lessons Jam Night Group Class Tuition & Fees Summer Camps Learning Hub Blog YouTube Channel Learning Materials Student Spotlight Gift Certificates try free About Our Story Teachers Location & Contact Frequently Asked Questions Events Reviews Private Lessons Guitar Lessons for Adults Guitar Lessons for Children Guitar Lessons for Teens Private Lesson Tuition & Fees Group Classes Duo Lessons Jam Night Group Class Tuition & Fees Summer Camps Learning Hub Blog YouTube Channel Learning Materials Student Spotlight Gift Certificates try free Song Lab (Songwriting Camp) from $250.00 sale Build-A-Band (Rock Band Camp) from $250.00 sale Sound Playground (Music Exploration Camp) from $250.00 sale Back to Top I.R. Guitar Lessons, 3419 Grand Avenue Suite #203, Oakland, CA 94610 (510) 866-5670 [email protected] I.R. Guitar Lessons | Bay Area Guitar Lessons About Our Story Teachers Location & Contact Frequently Asked Questions Events Reviews Private Lessons Guitar Lessons for Adults Guitar Lessons for Children Guitar Lessons for Teens Private Lesson Tuition & Fees Group Classes Duo Lessons Jam Night Group Class Tuition & Fees Summer Camps Learning Hub Blog YouTube Channel Learning Materials Student Spotlight Gift Certificates try free About Our Story Teachers Location & Contact Frequently Asked Questions Events Reviews Private Lessons Guitar Lessons for Adults Guitar Lessons for Children Guitar Lessons for Teens Private Lesson Tuition & Fees Group Classes Duo Lessons Jam Night Group Class Tuition & Fees Summer Camps Learning Hub Blog YouTube Channel Learning Materials Student Spotlight Gift Certificates try free Essential Open Chords $0.00 Minor Pentatonic Scales $0.00 3-Note-Per-String Modes $0.00 Blank Guitar Tab Paper $0.00 Blank Music Staff Paper $0.00 Blank Guitar Chord Diagrams $0.00 Back to Top I.R. Guitar Lessons, 3419 Grand Avenue Suite #203, Oakland, CA 94610 (510) 866-5670 [email protected] I.R. Guitar Lessons | Bay Area Guitar Lessons About Our Story Teachers Location & Contact Frequently Asked Questions Events Reviews Private Lessons Guitar Lessons for Adults Guitar Lessons for Children Guitar Lessons for Teens Private Lesson Tuition & Fees Group Classes Duo Lessons Jam Night Group Class Tuition & Fees Summer Camps Learning Hub Blog YouTube Channel Learning Materials Student Spotlight Gift Certificates try free About Our Story Teachers Location & Contact Frequently Asked Questions Events Reviews Private Lessons Guitar Lessons for Adults Guitar Lessons for Children Guitar Lessons for Teens Private Lesson Tuition & Fees Group Classes Duo Lessons Jam Night Group Class Tuition & Fees Summer Camps Learning Hub Blog YouTube Channel Learning Materials Student Spotlight Gift Certificates try free Learning Hub Blog YouTube Channel Learning Materials Student Spotlight  Student Spotlight Every month I ask a current I.R. Guitar Lessons student questions about their guitar playing life in the hope that their answers will remind us that we're all in this together. If you'd like to be featured, lemme know! penny, Age 13 Studies with Ian Rowe 1. How long have you been playing and why’d you choose guitar? I've been playing for about three years. I play it now because it's fun, but it wasn't always. 2. What about your lesson do you look forward to the most? My teacher is really funny, and we end up laughing a lot.   3. What song are you working on right now and how’s it going? I'm working on a challenge piece for me: El Sueño de la Muñequita by Barrios. It's going okay. I know most of the notes, but the harmonics are hard.     4. What's been your favorite guitar moment thus far?                    Practicing guitar under the redwoods with friends while drinking a root beer float.   5. Musically speaking, where do you want to be a year from now? Better.   6. Any advice for folks who’re new to guitar? Watch and listen to others play.   These last two questions are for Penny’s mother. 7. As a parent, what has been the most helpful tool or strategy you’ve used to support your child’s musical journey? We're working on creating a routine by practicing a little bit at the same time every day.   8. How has playing guitar impacted your child’s life outside of music? She has been extrapolating what she had learned from playing guitar to other areas of her life. Lessons such as how learning to get good at something takes hard work, practice and consistency. Back to Top I.R. Guitar Lessons, 3419 Grand Avenue Suite #203, Oakland, CA 94610 (510) 866-5670 [email protected] I.R. Guitar Lessons | Bay Area Guitar Lessons About Our Story Teachers Location & Contact Frequently Asked Questions Events Reviews Private Lessons Guitar Lessons for Adults Guitar Lessons for Children Guitar Lessons for Teens Private Lesson Tuition & Fees Group Classes Duo Lessons Jam Night Group Class Tuition & Fees Summer Camps Learning Hub Blog YouTube Channel Learning Materials Student Spotlight Gift Certificates try free About Our Story Teachers Location & Contact Frequently Asked Questions Events Reviews Private Lessons Guitar Lessons for Adults Guitar Lessons for Children Guitar Lessons for Teens Private Lesson Tuition & Fees Group Classes Duo Lessons Jam Night Group Class Tuition & Fees Summer Camps Learning Hub Blog YouTube Channel Learning Materials Student Spotlight Gift Certificates try free Summer camps at I.R. guitar lessons We’re excited to run three camps this summer; a songwriting, rock band, and music exploration camp. Each camp will run for one week (Monday - Friday) and each is available as a full day, 9:00am - 3:00pm, or half day, 9:00am - 12:00pm. All camps are held at our studio at 3419 Grand Avenue and are tons of fun! All camps are $439 for a week of full day camp or $250 for a week of half day camp. Check out our blog about the value of summer camps! jump to registration song lab A songwriting Camp ready? Set? Write! Session 1: 6/8 - 6/12. 9:00am - 3:00pm or 9:00am - 12:00pm. Session 2: 7/13 - 7/17. 9:00am - 3:00pm or 9:00am - 12:00pm. No experience neccesary! Ages 8-14 Song Lab is a songwriting and composition camp where kids ages 8–14 discover how songs are made and learn that they already have everything they need to write their own. Campers explore lyrics, melody, rhythm, and song structure through fun, hands-on activities, creative games, and group collaboration. Kids can write songs on their own or work together, experimenting with styles and sounds while building confidence in their musical ideas. A highlight of SongLab is the chance for campers to record their original songs in a supportive, kid-friendly studio setting. With guidance from experienced instructors, kids learn the basics of recording and hear their music come to life. Song Lab is a welcoming space where imagination leads, curiosity is encouraged, and every kid leaves with new skills, new songs, and a recording they can be proud of. sign up for camp! build-a-band A rock Band camp Plug in, let’s rock! Session 1: 6/22 - 6/26. 9:00am - 3:00pm or 9:00am - 12:00pm. Session 2: 7/27 - 7/31. 9:00am - 3:00pm or 9:00am - 12:00pm. ~6 months experience with instrument of choice (guitar, bass drums, keyboard, or voice)  recommended. Ages 8-14 Build-A-Band is a rock band camp where kids come together to form real bands, learn real songs, and make real music Campers try out instruments like guitar, bass, drums, keyboards, and vocals , then team up with fellow musicians to build a band from the ground up. With guidance from experienced instructors, campers learn the basics of playing in a group; keeping a beat, listening to each other, writing parts, and bringing songs to life together. Each day mixes hands-on music making , band rehearsals, creative games, and confidence-building activities in a fun, supportive environment.  Rooted in Oakland’s rich music culture, Build-A-Band is all about collaboration, creativity, and letting kids discover their own sound.   sign up for camp Sound PLayground A music exploration camp where sound becomes play! Session 1: 6/15 - 6/19. 9:00am - 3:00pm or 9:00am - 12:00pm. Session 2: 7/20 - 7/24. 9:00am - 3:00pm or 9:00am - 12:00pm. No experience necessary! Ages 4-7 Sound Playground is a summer camp for kids ages 4–7 , designed as a joyful, hands-on introduction to the world of music. At Sound Playground, music is something to explore, touch, and play .  Campers get the chance to try a wide variety of instruments—including percussion, guitar, ukulele, piano, and voice —while learning the basic musical ideas behind each one. Through songs, movement, games, and creative play, kids discover how sound works and how music feels. Each day encourages curiosity and enthusiasm rather than perfection.  Campers explore different musical styles, play together in groups, and build confidence as they make music in a supportive, age-appropriate environment. In an encouraging space, kids develop a love of music , a sense of rhythm, and excitement about learning. Sound Playground creates a strong foundation for future musical learning by sparking imagination, joy, and a lifelong curiosity about sound. sign up for camp Back to Top I.R. Guitar Lessons, 3419 Grand Avenue Suite #203, Oakland, CA 94610 (510) 866-5670 [email protected] I.R. Guitar Lessons | Bay Area Guitar Lessons About Our Story Teachers Location & Contact Frequently Asked Questions Events Reviews Private Lessons Guitar Lessons for Adults Guitar Lessons for Children Guitar Lessons for Teens Private Lesson Tuition & Fees Group Classes Duo Lessons Jam Night Group Class Tuition & Fees Summer Camps Learning Hub Blog YouTube Channel Learning Materials Student Spotlight Gift Certificates try free About Our Story Teachers Location & Contact Frequently Asked Questions Events Reviews Private Lessons Guitar Lessons for Adults Guitar Lessons for Children Guitar Lessons for Teens Private Lesson Tuition & Fees Group Classes Duo Lessons Jam Night Group Class Tuition & Fees Summer Camps Learning Hub Blog YouTube Channel Learning Materials Student Spotlight Gift Certificates try free About Our Story Teachers Location & Contact Frequently Asked Questions Events Reviews Frequently Asked questions What's an intro lesson? Intro lessons are free, 30-minute guitar lessons where you can visit the studio, meet a teacher, and take the whole I.R. Guitar Lessons experience for a test drive. It’s not a sales pitch or a “consultation”, it’s an honest-to-goodness first lesson. how do i sign up? Check out the calendar here! You can also call/text at 510-866-5670 or email us at [email protected] How should i prepare for my intro lesson? No worries! Intro lessons are meant to be casual, fun, and comfortable for everyone. Bring your instrument if you have one, if you don’t, you can borrow one of ours. You don’t need to prepare to play anything, but do come ready to chat about the kind of music you like and your goals for playing the guitar. do you teach adults? Absolutely! I.R. Guitar Lessons is unique in that about half of our students are adults, so you’ll be right at home with a teacher that speaks your language. Do I Need to have my own guitar? Nope! We’re happy to lend you a ukulele, acoustic guitar, electric guitar, or bass guitar for use during your lessons as well as practice at home. Where're you located? We’re at 3419 Grand Avenue in Oakland, upstairs in suite 203. Our door is sandwiched right in-between Tracy’s Nails and Shogun Japanese Sushi & Grill. There’s plenty of parking around on Grand Avenue, Mandana Boulevard, and Elwood Avenue. How much does it cost? We have private single lessons ranging from $59 - $105, monthly memberships from $207 - $402, and group classes for $110. Check out the tuition page for more details! How do i pay? We accept all debit and credit cards as well as Venmo. how long are lessons? Private lessons can be 30, 45, or 60 minutes. All group classes are 30 minutes. what happens if i miss a lesson? Flexibility is the name of the game! If you need to miss a lesson, just let us know via Pike13, phone, or email at least 24 hours in advance and you can reschedule or receive a tuition credit. You can cancel and reschedule as often as you need to and you’ll never be on the hook for lessons you paid for but didn’t attend. how often should i take a lesson? The tried and true model is one lesson per week. Some students do take bi-weekly lessons but it’s not recommended for beginners. All group classes meet once per week. When will i see progress? There’s no single answer other than “it depends.” That’s not a very fun answer, but it’s the truth. Depending on how much you practice at home and how often you attend lessons, you’ll see considerable progress after 4-6 weeks. It’s an investment! what happens in months with five lessons? If you’re enrolled in a monthly membership or group class, that fifth lesson is free! Do i have to take a lesson every week? Nope! You’re very welcome to enroll in single lessons, a la carte lessons that allow you to book and pay as you go. These are great for people who need an occasional check-in or a quick refresher. do you have group classes? We sure do! We have weekly beginner group classes for both kids ands adults, check ‘em out! Can I take lessons with a friend or family member? Yes, we have duo lessons that allow you to take private lessons as a pair. Do i get to choose the songs i learn? Absolutely! The easiest songs to play are the ones you’re most excited about. We’ll always give you our advice and are happy to give you suggestions for songs, too. Can you help me prepare for an event? Sure thing! We’ve helped folks prepare to play at their engagements, weddings, for birthdays, and other special events. We’ve also helped actors with guitar acting and playing for the stage. Let us know what we can help with! Can i buy lessons for someone else? You sure can! Check out the gift card store. How much do i need to practice? It depends on your goals and timeline, but generally 15-20 minutes a day works wonders! do i need to commit to a certain amount of time or sign a contract? Nope! You’re free to come and go as you please. There’s no hidden fees or “gotchas”, if you need to make a change or find that we’re not the right fit for you, cancelling is as simple as sending an email. when are lessons available? Lessons are available every day of the week, check out the full schedule here. what styles of music do you teach? Just about everything; pop, rock, folk, acoustic, jazz, metal, classical, etc. Check out the teacher’s bios to see the styles they specialize in. Do I need to learn to read music? Unless you’re playing classical or jazz, no, because most styles of popular music aren’t notated like that. Instead, you’ll become fluent in tab, chord charts, and of course, using your ears to figure out what’s going on. Musical literacy is awesome, though, so if that’s a goal of yours, do it, we can help! Do you just teach guitar? We teach ukulele, acoustic guitar, electric guitar, and bass guitar. We also teach songwriting and composition. Back to Top I.R. Guitar Lessons, 3419 Grand Avenue Suite #203, Oakland, CA 94610 (510) 866-5670 [email protected] I.R. Guitar Lessons | Bay Area Guitar Lessons About Our Story Teachers Location & Contact Frequently Asked Questions Events Reviews Private Lessons Guitar Lessons for Adults Guitar Lessons for Children Guitar Lessons for Teens Private Lesson Tuition & Fees Group Classes Duo Lessons Jam Night Group Class Tuition & Fees Summer Camps Learning Hub Blog YouTube Channel Learning Materials Student Spotlight Gift Certificates try free About Our Story Teachers Location & Contact Frequently Asked Questions Events Reviews Private Lessons Guitar Lessons for Adults Guitar Lessons for Children Guitar Lessons for Teens Private Lesson Tuition & Fees Group Classes Duo Lessons Jam Night Group Class Tuition & Fees Summer Camps Learning Hub Blog YouTube Channel Learning Materials Student Spotlight Gift Certificates try free Group Classes Duo Lessons Jam Night Group Class Tuition & Fees sign up Duo lessons Duo Lessons are semi-private lessons that combine the tailored approach of private lessons with the accessibility of a group class.  Team up with a family member, friend, or significant other and learn together. Duo Lessons are scheduled just like private lessons, with a designated instructor to guide each class through personalized curriculum and specialized attention.  You set both the schedule and the pace! Duo Lessons have a maximum of two students per class.  Back to Top I.R. Guitar Lessons, 3419 Grand Avenue Suite #203, Oakland, CA 94610 (510) 866-5670 [email protected] I.R. Guitar Lessons | Bay Area Guitar Lessons About Our Story Teachers Location & Contact Frequently Asked Questions Events Reviews Private Lessons Guitar Lessons for Adults Guitar Lessons for Children Guitar Lessons for Teens Private Lesson Tuition & Fees Group Classes Duo Lessons Jam Night Group Class Tuition & Fees Summer Camps Learning Hub Blog YouTube Channel Learning Materials Student Spotlight Gift Certificates try free About Our Story Teachers Location & Contact Frequently Asked Questions Events Reviews Private Lessons Guitar Lessons for Adults Guitar Lessons for Children Guitar Lessons for Teens Private Lesson Tuition & Fees Group Classes Duo Lessons Jam Night Group Class Tuition & Fees Summer Camps Learning Hub Blog YouTube Channel Learning Materials Student Spotlight Gift Certificates try free September 6, 2025 Getting Started, Tips for Parents Ian Rowe Your First Guitar Lesson You’ve finally done it, you booked an intro lesson for yourself or your kid, and now you’re probably wondering what to expect and how to prepare. Let’s go over a few things to make sure that come lesson time, you’re ready to hit the ground running. Ian Rowe May 1, 2026 Getting Started , Practice Planning , Tips for Parents What Should I Practice? Ian Rowe May 1, 2026 Getting Started , Practice Planning , Tips for Parents What Should You Practice on Guitar? A Simple Plan That Actually Works One of the most common frustrations I hear from both kids and adults is this; “I sat down to practice… and didn’t really know what to do.” That usually leads to one of two things; playing the same thing over and over, without improving, or avoiding practice altogether The fix isn’t more time, it’s having a simple plan. Here’s an easy, effective way to structure your practice so you actually make progress, without overthinking it. 1. Start With Something You Already Know Begin with something familiar…a song, a riff, a chord progression you’ve played before. This does two important things: builds confidence warms up your hands It also reminds you, “Oh yeah, I can do this.” Keep this part short, about 2 to 3 minutes. 2. Work on One Small Challenge This is the most important part of your practice. Pick one thing that needs improvement: a tricky chord change a small section of a song a scale or exercise a rhythm that feels awkward The key word here is small . Not the whole song. Not everything at once. Just one section. Slow it down, repeat it, and focus on doing it cleanly. This is where real progress happens. 3. Slow It Down More Than You Think Most students try to play things at full speed too soon. That usually leads to: mistakes frustration reinforcing bad habits Instead, slow it down until you can play it correctly. Then repeat it. Clean and slow beats fast and sloppy every time. Speed comes later. 4. Repeat With Purpose Repetition is necessary, but only if it’s focused. Instead of mindlessly playing something 20 times, try this: play it once notice what went wrong adjust play it again That small moment of awareness makes repetition effective. 5. End With Something Fun Finish your practice with something you enjoy. play a song you like improvise revisit something that feels easy This helps you leave the session feeling positive and that feeling matters. It’s what makes you want to come back tomorrow. 6. Keep It Short and Consistent You don’t need long sessions., 10 to 20 minutes is plenty for most students. What matters is showing up regularly. A simple structure like this, done consistently, leads to steady improvement. Final Thought Good practice isn’t about doing more, it’s about doing the right things, in a simple, repeatable way. If you: start with something familiar focus on one small challenge slow things down repeat with purpose end on a high note you’ll get more out of 15 minutes than most people get out of an hour and over time, those small, focused sessions add up to real progress. 🎸 Older Posts Back to Top I.R. Guitar Lessons, 3419 Grand Avenue Suite #203, Oakland, CA 94610 (510) 866-5670 [email protected] I.R. Guitar Lessons | Bay Area Guitar Lessons About Our Story Teachers Location & Contact Frequently Asked Questions Events Reviews Private Lessons Guitar Lessons for Adults Guitar Lessons for Children Guitar Lessons for Teens Private Lesson Tuition & Fees Group Classes Duo Lessons Jam Night Group Class Tuition & Fees Summer Camps Learning Hub Blog YouTube Channel Learning Materials Student Spotlight Gift Certificates try free About Our Story Teachers Location & Contact Frequently Asked Questions Events Reviews Private Lessons Guitar Lessons for Adults Guitar Lessons for Children Guitar Lessons for Teens Private Lesson Tuition & Fees Group Classes Duo Lessons Jam Night Group Class Tuition & Fees Summer Camps Learning Hub Blog YouTube Channel Learning Materials Student Spotlight Gift Certificates try free Private Lessons Guitar Lessons for Adults Guitar Lessons for Children Guitar Lessons for Teens Private Lesson Tuition & Fees Schedule an Intro Lesson Guitar Lessons for Teens Stand out The National Association for Music Education noted that students who participated in music scored higher in every category of the SAT and ACT than their non-musical peers.  Students who don't receive musical training miss out on critical development like the establishment of an excellent work ethic, a sense of self-discipline and results-oriented goal setting. Above all, music provides a consistent, reliable outlet for young men and women during a time in which so much is changing. We recommend that our teenage students take 45-minute lessons. Back to Top I.R. Guitar Lessons, 3419 Grand Avenue Suite #203, Oakland, CA 94610 (510) 866-5670 [email protected] I.R. Guitar Lessons | Bay Area Guitar Lessons About Our Story Teachers Location & Contact Frequently Asked Questions Events Reviews Private Lessons Guitar Lessons for Adults Guitar Lessons for Children Guitar Lessons for Teens Private Lesson Tuition & Fees Group Classes Duo Lessons Jam Night Group Class Tuition & Fees Summer Camps Learning Hub Blog YouTube Channel Learning Materials Student Spotlight Gift Certificates try free About Our Story Teachers Location & Contact Frequently Asked Questions Events Reviews Private Lessons Guitar Lessons for Adults Guitar Lessons for Children Guitar Lessons for Teens Private Lesson Tuition & Fees Group Classes Duo Lessons Jam Night Group Class Tuition & Fees Summer Camps Learning Hub Blog YouTube Channel Learning Materials Student Spotlight Gift Certificates try free About Our Story Teachers Location & Contact Frequently Asked Questions Events Reviews our studio I.R. Guitar Lessons is located at 3419 Grand Avenue, Oakland, CA. 94610. Suite 203 . We’re open Monday - Friday from 9:00am - 9:00pm and Saturday and Sunday from 9:00am - 4:00pm. You’ll find our door between Shogun Japanese Sushi and Traci’s Nails. Head up the stairs and you’ll see us right at the top, you can’t miss it! We’re also very happy to offer online lessons!   parking We don’t have a reserved parking lot, but there’s plenty of parking on Grand Avenue (metered), Mandana Boulevard (free), and Elwood Avenue (free). There are also two paid parking lots in close walking distance at 3270 Grand Avenue and 3711 Grand Avenue . COntact We’re always excited to talk shop and we’d love to hear from you! Give us a shout and we’ll be happy to help. Call or text 510-866-5670 or send us a message and we’ll get back to you shortly. Back to Top I.R. Guitar Lessons, 3419 Grand Avenue Suite #203, Oakland, CA 94610 (510) 866-5670 [email protected] I.R. Guitar Lessons | Bay Area Guitar Lessons About Our Story Teachers Location & Contact Frequently Asked Questions Events Reviews Private Lessons Guitar Lessons for Adults Guitar Lessons for Children Guitar Lessons for Teens Private Lesson Tuition & Fees Group Classes Duo Lessons Jam Night Group Class Tuition & Fees Summer Camps Learning Hub Blog YouTube Channel Learning Materials Student Spotlight Gift Certificates try free About Our Story Teachers Location & Contact Frequently Asked Questions Events Reviews Private Lessons Guitar Lessons for Adults Guitar Lessons for Children Guitar Lessons for Teens Private Lesson Tuition & Fees Group Classes Duo Lessons Jam Night Group Class Tuition & Fees Summer Camps Learning Hub Blog YouTube Channel Learning Materials Student Spotlight Gift Certificates try free One Guitar Lesson from $59.00 One Month of Guitar Lessons from $207.00 Full Year of Guitar Lessons $2,268.00 One Month of Group Guitar Classes $110.00 Back to Top I.R. Guitar Lessons, 3419 Grand Avenue Suite #203, Oakland, CA 94610 (510) 866-5670 [email protected] I.R. Guitar Lessons | Bay Area Guitar Lessons About Our Story Teachers Location & Contact Frequently Asked Questions Events Reviews Private Lessons Guitar Lessons for Adults Guitar Lessons for Children Guitar Lessons for Teens Private Lesson Tuition & Fees Group Classes Duo Lessons Jam Night Group Class Tuition & Fees Summer Camps Learning Hub Blog YouTube Channel Learning Materials Student Spotlight Gift Certificates try free About Our Story Teachers Location & Contact Frequently Asked Questions Events Reviews Private Lessons Guitar Lessons for Adults Guitar Lessons for Children Guitar Lessons for Teens Private Lesson Tuition & Fees Group Classes Duo Lessons Jam Night Group Class Tuition & Fees Summer Camps Learning Hub Blog YouTube Channel Learning Materials Student Spotlight Gift Certificates try free About Our Story Teachers Location & Contact Frequently Asked Questions Events Reviews Meet your teacher We’re here to help you become the guitarist you’ve always wanted to be by balancing the technical and creative elements of music. Whether you’re a first-timer, or a seasoned player looking to improve, we’ve got the tools to take you to the next level. Click on the photos to read about our faculty! Ian is an award-winning classical guitarist and teacher. As a concert artist, Ian has been lauded by critics and audiences alike, with his solo concerts and appearances with orchestras taking him to three continents and over a dozen countries. Ian completed his graduate degrees at the San Francisco Conservatory of Music where he studied with David Tanenbaum and Sergio Assad. A word from Ian:  “When I started this guitar school, I wanted to foster a community of guitarists who love to listen to, play, and perform music. No matter their goals, age, or style, my priority is to ensure my students have the tools necessary to be independent and thoughtful players. My aim isn’t just to make better players, but players who love what they do.” Specialties: Classical, Rock, Metal, Blues, and Pop Availability: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday Dr. Ian Rowe, Founder Book a free lesson with ian Bradford  is a lifelong musician, guitarist, composer, and educator based in the Bay Area. With a background in classical, jazz, and metal, each style brings a diverse and dynamic approach to the guitar, crafting lessons based on the needs of his students. Growing up immersed in a wide range of musical styles, he developed a deep appreciation for both technical mastery, creative expression, and music theory. His formal studies took him to the West Coast, where he refined his craft under the mentorship of esteemed guitarists and composers. Throughout his career, Bradford has collaborated with musicians across multiple genres and backgrounds, shaping a musical philosophy that blends structure with exploration. A word from Bradford: "My approach to teaching is rooted in the belief that music is a bridge between technical skill and personal expression. Whether we're diving into jazz improvisation, the intricate textures of classical music, or the technical feats of metal. My goal is to help you build confidence, curiosity, and a deep connection with your instrument. Learning extended techniques and a vast knowledge of music theory along the way. Wherever you are in your musical journey, there’s always something new to discover, and I love sharing those breakthrough moments with my students." Specialties: Rock, Metal, Blues, Pop, and Classical Availability: Thursday, Friday, and Saturday Bradford Boyajian book a free lesson with bradford Robert is a multi-instrumentalist with a focus in guitar. He has recorded and toured the world extensively with Grammy-winning artists, as well as having worked in major film, TV composing and scoring sessions. The genres and styles he is able to draw from and bring to the table are diverse and many. Robert has had the opportunity to learn and gain a strong musical education from several high level professionals and academics in the Los Angeles area. His studies bring real world experience regarding the many aspects of live performance and studio recording. A word from Robert: “My goal with every student is to engage with them in the learning process. I want to figure out the best approach to having them gain the skills they want to learn, and teach those skills in a manner that is fun and makes sense. I have a curriculum of strong fundamentals that I use with every student , but I also highly encourage the student to pick songs they want to learn so they can enjoy the process in a way that is clearly relatable. In the end, I want to explore music with my students and discover the “aha” and magic moments that come from learning something new.” Specialities: Rock, Pop, Brazilian, Blues, and Classical Availability: Tuesday and Thursday Robert Castillo book a free lesson with robert Ryan Beckwith is a guitarist, multi-instrumentalist, composer, and producer with over 15 years of teaching experience and a B.A. in Music Education from Berklee College of Music. Ryan has written and produced music scores for film and television, and performed in numerous bands spanning pop, funk, jazz, metal, and beyond. His diverse experience allows him to adapt fluidly to any style, blending technical skill with expressive creativity. Drawing on years of performance and production, Ryan brings a deep understanding of both the artistic and practical sides of music to every lesson. A word from Ryan: “Music has always been my way of lifting myself out of the mundane and reconnecting with something bigger. Learning an instrument can be challenging, but the reward—those moments when something finally clicks or understanding something that gives you goosebumps—is pure magic. My goal as a teacher is to understand how each student learns best, so that together we can build confidence, joy, and independence as musicians. Even after our lessons end, I want my students to feel equipped to keep growing, exploring, and finding inspiration in their own way." Specialities: Jazz, Rock, Metal, Blues, Pop, and Folk  Availability: Monday and Saturday Ryan Beckwith book a free lesson with Ryan Travis is a guitarist, songwriter, and producer native to the Bay Area. Travis grew up immersed in the blues music scene playing with local legends like Lisa Kindred and Austin De Lone, eventually traveling to Boston to attend Berklee where he studied with guitarists Shaun Michaud and Norm Zocher. His journey through guitar led him to work with a wide variety of musical minds and styles that informed his art, music and pedagogy. In addition to teaching he writes and performs his own music and audiovisual art under the moniker Tarot Frank A word from Travis:  “My approach as a professional artist and musician gives me a unique perspective towards the world of guitar and how it connects to music as a whole. My mission in our lessons is to meet you where you're at and further develop within you that sense of curiosity, excitement and confidence that will drive your relationship with your instrument. Wherever you are along the path there's always something new to discover, and as a teacher, I live for those vicarious 'a-ha' moments that I share with my students." Specialties: Rock, Folk, Country, Blues, and Pop Availability: Saturday and Sunday Travis Yee book a free lesson with travis Essie Deville is a passionate music educator and artist dedicated to empowering emerging musicians through creativity, curiosity, and hands-on exploration. With over a decade of teaching experience and a lifelong love for sound, they specialize in guiding students as they discover the art of music, audio engineering, and modern production tools. Essie’s teaching style blends technical skill-building with imaginative experimentation, helping students develop confidence in everything from instrumentation, beat-making and songwriting to recording, mixing, and digital storytel I.R. Guitar Lessons | Bay Area Guitar Lessons About Our Story Teachers Location & Contact Frequently Asked Questions Events Reviews Private Lessons Guitar Lessons for Adults Guitar Lessons for Children Guitar Lessons for Teens Private Lesson Tuition & Fees Group Classes Duo Lessons Jam Night Group Class Tuition & Fees Summer Camps Learning Hub Blog YouTube Channel Learning Materials Student Spotlight Gift Certificates try free About Our Story Teachers Location & Contact Frequently Asked Questions Events Reviews Private Lessons Guitar Lessons for Adults Guitar Lessons for Children Guitar Lessons for Teens Private Lesson Tuition & Fees Group Classes Duo Lessons Jam Night Group Class Tuition & Fees Summer Camps Learning Hub Blog YouTube Channel Learning Materials Student Spotlight Gift Certificates try free Group Classes Duo Lessons Jam Night Group Class Tuition & Fees JAm Night Jam Night is a free, monthly opportunity for students to get together and play with others. Whether we’re improvising over blues progressions, or strumming and humming together through popular songs, this is a great time to come together and share with our community. For Adults; The first Wednesday of the month at 7:30pm For Kids; The first Saturday of the month at 12:30pm sign up! Back to Top I.R. Guitar Lessons, 3419 Grand Avenue Suite #203, Oakland, CA 94610 (510) 866-5670 [email protected] I.R. Guitar Lessons | Bay Area Guitar Lessons About Our Story Teachers Location & Contact Frequently Asked Questions Events Reviews Private Lessons Guitar Lessons for Adults Guitar Lessons for Children Guitar Lessons for Teens Private Lesson Tuition & Fees Group Classes Duo Lessons Jam Night Group Class Tuition & Fees Summer Camps Learning Hub Blog YouTube Channel Learning Materials Student Spotlight Gift Certificates try free About Our Story Teachers Location & Contact Frequently Asked Questions Events Reviews Private Lessons Guitar Lessons for Adults Guitar Lessons for Children Guitar Lessons for Teens Private Lesson Tuition & Fees Group Classes Duo Lessons Jam Night Group Class Tuition & Fees Summer Camps Learning Hub Blog YouTube Channel Learning Materials Student Spotlight Gift Certificates try free Private Lessons Guitar Lessons for Adults Guitar Lessons for Children Guitar Lessons for Teens Private Lesson Tuition & Fees Schedule an Intro Lesson Guitar Lessons for Adults invest in yourself It’s never too late to learn an instrument, and research has shown that playing music, regardless of ability, has a positive effect on stress level management.  As an adult, learning a new instrument can seem daunting, but in some ways, it’s easier.  Adults have the initiative, the desire, and the discipline, and they are better equipped to tackle complicated, abstract concepts.  It’s surprising to see how quickly things make sense, and what there is to accomplish is limitless! I.R. Guitar Lessons is unique in that nearly 50% of our students are adults. In addition to their private lessons, we’re happy to offer our adult students opportunities to connect and play with other students and we often host get-togethers to help our folks plug in to a new community. Back to Top I.R. Guitar Lessons, 3419 Grand Avenue Suite #203, Oakland, CA 94610 (510) 866-5670 [email protected] I.R. Guitar Lessons | Bay Area Guitar Lessons About Our Story Teachers Location & Contact Frequently Asked Questions Events Reviews Private Lessons Guitar Lessons for Adults Guitar Lessons for Children Guitar Lessons for Teens Private Lesson Tuition & Fees Group Classes Duo Lessons Jam Night Group Class Tuition & Fees Summer Camps Learning Hub Blog YouTube Channel Learning Materials Student Spotlight Gift Certificates try free About Our Story Teachers Location & Contact Frequently Asked Questions Events Reviews Private Lessons Guitar Lessons for Adults Guitar Lessons for Children Guitar Lessons for Teens Private Lesson Tuition & Fees Group Classes Duo Lessons Jam Night Group Class Tuition & Fees Summer Camps Learning Hub Blog YouTube Channel Learning Materials Student Spotlight Gift Certificates try free I.R. Guitar Lessons Lessons for Everyone book your free intro lesson I.R. Guitar Lessons is an Oakland Music School Dedicated to the Guitar. We provide students of all ages the opportunity to create a lifelong passion. register for summer camp Why Choose I.R. Guitar Lessons? The Bay Area's best Teachers We’re proud of our incredibly talented, friendly, and experienced faculty. Whatever your needs, our superstar instructors can help! Free intro lessons Test drive the I.R. Guitar Lessons experience with a free intro lesson . It's a great way to meet with a teacher, get a feel for their style, and start crossing stuff off your guitar to-do list. Complimentary instrument rentals At I.R. Guitar Lessons, we’re happy to offer free instrument rentals for our students. We have ukuleles, acoustic guitars of all sizes, electric guitars, and bass guitars available to our students at no additional cost. Performance opportunities Performing is a vital aspect of learning to play an instrument and our students enjoy recitals and ample performance opportunities.  Always free, optional, and pressure-free, these chances to play and perform for others are a shaping point for young musicians. fun, hands-on approach There is no reason that learning any musical concept cannot be enjoyable.  Our tailor-made curriculum is fun, hands-on, and exciting while still being holistic and rooted in proper technique and musical literacy.  We give you the tools to play Bach today and rock tomorrow. Community I.R. Guitar Lessons isn't just a school, it's a community.  When you become a student here, you're plugged into a network of like-minded individuals who can share, socialize, and collaborate with one another. Proven track record Our students have won talent shows and guitar competitions, scored in the top 1% on music examinations, and even recorded full-length albums.  We’re grateful and honored that so many people have chosen to leave us 5-star reviews on Yelp . book your free intro lesson book your free intro lesson What Our Students Are Saying: “ I came across IR Guitar as I was browsing the internet looking for a place to learn to play guitar. They answered all my questions, were very flexible with scheduling and provided stellar customer service. Ian is an excellent teacher; he is patient and knowledgeable. Additionally, the place is very clean and cute. I’d highly recommend it to anyone no matter your level of expertise! ” — Jocelyne F. “ I have a great guitar teacher who can meet the needs of students of many levels. I’m an adult student with years of playing but very few of studying. I.R. Guitar Lessons is taking my newfound discipline in the art of guitar and tailoring it through artful listening and humor. ” — Mitch G. “ I am learning how to play guitar again and it makes my heart so happy. Thanks I.R. Guitar Lessons for making me feel like a rockstar! ” — Tinneke M. Back to Top I.R. Guitar Lessons, 3419 Grand Avenue Suite #203, Oakland, CA 94610 (510) 866-5670 [email protected] I.R. Guitar Lessons | Bay Area Guitar Lessons About Our Story Teachers Location & Contact Frequently Asked Questions Events Reviews Private Lessons Guitar Lessons for Adults Guitar Lessons for Children Guitar Lessons for Teens Private Lesson Tuition & Fees Group Classes Duo Lessons Jam Night Group Class Tuition & Fees Summer Camps Learning Hub Blog YouTube Channel Learning Materials Student Spotlight Gift Certificates try free About Our Story Teachers Location & Contact Frequently Asked Questions Events Reviews Private Lessons Guitar Lessons for Adults Guitar Lessons for Children Guitar Lessons for Teens Private Lesson Tuition & Fees Group Classes Duo Lessons Jam Night Group Class Tuition & Fees Summer Camps Learning Hub Blog YouTube Channel Learning Materials Student Spotlight Gift Certificates try free About Our Story Teachers Location & Contact Frequently Asked Questions Events Reviews I.R. Guitar Lessons Founder & Director, Dr. Ian Rowe as a kid, I wanted to be a rockstar, who doesn’t? and then i taught my first guitar lesson, sometime during college, and i haven’t looked back since I still remember my first guitar lesson … it didn’t go very well. I was bad; like bad, bad. I was eleven years old and after unsuccessfully trying to convince my parents to enroll me in drum lessons, I found myself in a small, attic-like room above the local music shop. I figured if I couldn’t play drums in the punk band, like I really wanted to, guitar wasn’t such a bad second. My teacher, whom I’m still good friends with, shattered that illusion almost immediately as he handed me an acoustic classical guitar. The next thirty minutes, the memories of which are still seared into my brain, were rough. If natural guitar playing talent exists, I don’t have it, but for whatever reason, the guitar had gotten its hooks in me that day. I dutifully played and practiced through high school and without much thought, I applied, auditioned and was accepted to a conservatory on a classical guitar scholarship. It was there, in an attempt to fund my Domino’s habit, that I taught my first guitar lesson. I can’t tell you what it was about teaching the opening riff of “Blister in the Sun” to that kid, but I knew in that instant that my journey with the guitar wasn’t just about me anymore. I knew in that instant that the passion I felt playing the guitar couldn’t touch how I felt about teaching. After graduate school, a couple more guitar degrees, and a brief career as an academic, I found myself in Oakland. In 2016, I formed I.R. Guitar Lessons, a school dedicated to the guitar, its music, and its students. My vision was to create a place where music could be taught in a way that fostered creativity and inspired students to find their passion. A center for students of all ages, abilities, and styles to come together as one musical community. A place that helped students play at whatever level they wanted, so long as they loved what they did. Since its inception, I.R. Guitar Lessons has become home to over a thousand students and their families.  I cherish the opportunity to share the joy of music making with my students and colleagues and I take great pride in all their accomplishments. It’s truly an honor and an inspiration to be surrounded by such talent and dedication. Back to Top I.R. Guitar Lessons, 3419 Grand Avenue Suite #203, Oakland, CA 94610 (510) 866-5670 [email protected] I.R. Guitar Lessons | Bay Area Guitar Lessons About Our Story Teachers Location & Contact Frequently Asked Questions Events Reviews Private Lessons Guitar Lessons for Adults Guitar Lessons for Children Guitar Lessons for Teens Private Lesson Tuition & Fees Group Classes Duo Lessons Jam Night Group Class Tuition & Fees Summer Camps Learning Hub Blog YouTube Channel Learning Materials Student Spotlight Gift Certificates try free About Our Story Teachers Location & Contact Frequently Asked Questions Events Reviews Private Lessons Guitar Lessons for Adults Guitar Lessons for Children Guitar Lessons for Teens Private Lesson Tuition & Fees Group Classes Duo Lessons Jam Night Group Class Tuition & Fees Summer Camps Learning Hub Blog YouTube Channel Learning Materials Student Spotlight Gift Certificates try free May 31 12:00 PM 12:00 Spring Recital Sunday, May 31, 2026 12:00 PM 3:00 PM 12:00 15:00 Piedmont Veteran's Hall (map) Google Calendar ICS View Event → Jun 8 to Jun 12 Song Lab, A Songwriting Camp (Session 1) Mon, Jun 8, 2026 9:00 AM 09:00 Fri, Jun 12, 2026 3:00 PM 15:00 I.R. Guitar Lessons (map) Google Calendar ICS READY? SET? WRITE! Session 1: 6/8 - 6/12. 9:00am - 3:00pm or 9:00am - 12:00pm. Session 2: 7/13 - 7/17. 9:00am - 3:00pm or 9:00am - 12:00pm. No experience necessary! Ages 8-14 All camps are $439 for a week of full day camp or $250 for a week of half day camp. Song Lab is a songwriting and composition camp where kids ages 8–14 discover how songs are made and learn that they already have everything they need to write their own. Campers explore lyrics, melody, rhythm, and song structure through fun, hands-on activities, creative games, and group collaboration. Kids can write songs on their own or work together, experimenting with styles and sounds while building confidence in their musical ideas. A highlight of SongLab is the chance for campers to record their original songs in a supportive, kid-friendly studio setting. With guidance from experienced instructors, kids learn the basics of recording and hear their music come to life. Song Lab is a welcoming space where imagination leads, curiosity is encouraged, and every kid leaves with new skills, new songs, and a recording they can be proud of. Register View Event → Jun 15 to Jun 19 Sound Playground, A Music Exploration Camp (Session 1) Mon, Jun 15, 2026 9:00 AM 09:00 Fri, Jun 19, 2026 3:00 PM 15:00 I.R. Guitar Lessons (map) Google Calendar ICS WHERE SOUND BECOMES PLAY! Session 1: 6/15 - 6/19. 9:00am - 3:00pm or 9:00am - 12:00pm. Session 2: 7/20 - 7/24. 9:00am - 3:00pm or 9:00am - 12:00pm. No experience necessary! Ages 4-7 All camps are $439 for a week of full day camp or $250 for a week of half day camp. Sound Playground is a summer camp for kids ages 4–7 , designed as a joyful, hands-on introduction to the world of music. At Sound Playground, music is something to explore, touch, and play .  Campers get the chance to try a wide variety of instruments—including percussion, guitar, ukulele, piano, and voice —while learning the basic musical ideas behind each one. Through songs, movement, games, and creative play, kids discover how sound works and how music feels. Each day encourages curiosity and enthusiasm rather than perfection.  Campers explore different musical styles, play together in groups, and build confidence as they make music in a supportive, age-appropriate environment. In an encouraging space, kids develop a love of music , a sense of rhythm, and excitement about learning. Sound Playground creates a strong foundation for future musical learning by sparking imagination, joy, and a lifelong curiosity about sound. register View Event → Jun 15 to Jun 19 Sound Playground, A Music Exploration Camp (Session 1) (Copy) Mon, Jun 15, 2026 9:00 AM 09:00 Fri, Jun 19, 2026 3:00 PM 15:00 I.R. Guitar Lessons (map) Google Calendar ICS WHERE SOUND BECOMES PLAY! Session 1: 6/15 - 6/19. 9:00am - 3:00pm or 9:00am - 12:00pm. Session 2: 7/20 - 7/24. 9:00am - 3:00pm or 9:00am - 12:00pm. No experience necessary! Ages 4-7 All camps are $439 for a week of full day camp or $250 for a week of half day camp. Sound Playground is a summer camp for kids ages 4–7 , designed as a joyful, hands-on introduction to the world of music. At Sound Playground, music is something to explore, touch, and play .  Campers get the chance to try a wide variety of instruments—including percussion, guitar, ukulele, piano, and voice —while learning the basic musical ideas behind each one. Through songs, movement, games, and creative play, kids discover how sound works and how music feels. Each day encourages curiosity and enthusiasm rather than perfection.  Campers explore different musical styles, play together in groups, and build confidence as they make music in a supportive, age-appropriate environment. In an encouraging space, kids develop a love of music , a sense of rhythm, and excitement about learning. Sound Playground creates a strong foundation for future musical learning by sparking imagination, joy, and a lifelong curiosity about sound. register View Event → Jun 22 to Jun 26 Build-A-Band, A Rock Band Camp (Session 1) Mon, Jun 22, 2026 9:00 AM 09:00 Fri, Jun 26, 2026 3:00 PM 15:00 I.R. Guitar Lessons (map) Google Calendar ICS PLUG IN, LET’S ROCK! Session 1: 6/22 - 6/26. 9:00am - 3:00pm or 9:00am - 12:00pm. Session 2: 7/27 - 7/31. 9:00am - 3:00pm or 9:00am - 12:00pm. ~6 months experience with instrument of choice (guitar, bass drums, keyboard, or voice)  recommended. Ages 8-13 All camps are $439 for a week of full day camp or $250 for a week of half day camp. Build-A-Band is a rock band camp where kids come together to form real bands, learn real songs, and make real music Campers try out instruments like guitar, bass, drums, keyboards, and vocals , then team up with fellow musicians to build a band from the ground up. With guidance from experienced instructors, campers learn the basics of playing in a group; keeping a beat, listening to each other, writing parts, and bringing songs to life together. Each day mixes hands-on music making , band rehearsals, creative games, and confidence-building activities in a fun, supportive environment.  Rooted in Oakland’s rich music culture, Build-A-Band is all about collaboration, creativity, and letting kids discover their own sound.   Register View Event → Jul 13 to Jul 17 Song Lab, A Songwriting Camp (Session 2) Mon, Jul 13, 2026 9:00 AM 09:00 Fri, Jul 17, 2026 3:00 PM 15:00 I.R. Guitar Lessons (map) Google Calendar ICS READY? SET? WRITE! Session 1: 6/8 - 6/12. 9:00am - 3:00pm or 9:00am - 12:00pm. Session 2: 7/13 - 7/17. 9:00am - 3:00pm or 9:00am - 12:00pm. No experience necessary! Ages 8-14 All camps are $439 for a week of full day camp or $250 for a week of half day camp. Song Lab is a songwriting and composition camp where kids ages 8–14 discover how songs are made and learn that they already have everything they need to write their own. Campers explore lyrics, melody, rhythm, and song structure through fun, hands-on activities, creative games, and group collaboration. Kids can write songs on their own or work together, experimenting with styles and sounds while building confidence in their musical ideas. A highlight of SongLab is the chance for campers to record their original songs in a supportive, kid-friendly studio setting. With guidance from experienced instructors, kids learn the basics of recording and hear their music come to life. Song Lab is a welcoming space where imagination leads, curiosity is encouraged, and every kid leaves with new skills, new songs, and a recording they can be proud of. Register View Event → Jul 27 to Jul 31 Build-A-Band, A Rock Band Camp (Session 2) Mon, Jul 27, 2026 9:00 AM 09:00 Fri, Jul 31, 2026 3:00 PM 15:00 I.R. Guitar Lessons (map) Google Calendar ICS PLUG IN, LET’S ROCK! Session 1: 6/22 - 6/26. 9:00am - 3:00pm or 9:00am - 12:00pm. Session 2: 7/27 - 7/31. 9:00a