Guitar & Ukulele Lessons in Chicago, IL
Lesson Inquiry
At Bucktown Music, anyone can learn to play the guitar
Learning guitar & ukulele should be a fun process and something that students can enjoy for many years to come. That’s why our guitar teachers teach songs and material that students like. From rock to jazz and pop, we teach all genres and styles.
We teach children through adult players and tailor each lesson to the student’s goals and interests. Whether you are just starting out or if you are tired of trying to figure it out yourself on YouTube, we’ll help you reach your goals.
Our Approach to Guitar Lessons
Build strength We Make Guitar Lessons Fun!
We all know the feeling: you hear your favorite song come on and you can’t resist the urge to play along on your air guitar! We can help you convert your musical fantasies into reality – while preserving that irresistible sense of joy you feel when playing along. We want each of our students to LOVE their musical experience with us!
Whether you come to us planning on becoming the next Jimi Hendrix or simply wanting to play songs around the campfire with your friends, our top-notch instructors will help you progress quickly toward your goals while ensuring you have fun along the way.
We Emphasize Healthy Technique
Regardless of your ultimate goals, our teachers will prioritize strong fundamentals including proper posture, hand positioning, chords, fretting, picking, and strumming. As students progress, these basics will become second nature – and serve as the foundation from which students can apply their skills across a variety of genres and styles.
We want our guitar students to be literate, well-rounded musicians. Beginners and seasoned performers alike will find value in our approach, coupling technical instruction with elements of music theory and music history in each lesson.
We Care About Your Musical Interests
Take ownership of your own musical style and grow your talents! Our dedicated instructors are committed to hearing your goals and helping you reach them. We pride ourselves on equipping each student with the tools they need to reach their fullest musical potential.
Creativity, self-discovery, and passion come to life at Bucktown Music. Whether your goal is to pursue the guitar professionally in an orchestra or as a soloist, or just to play for your own personal enjoyment, your guitar teacher will support you throughout your musical journey.
Our Guitar Teachers:
Hudson Hamilton
Piano, Guitar, Voice, Ukulele
Hi! My name is Hudson Hamilton and I am currently earning my Masters in K-12 Music Education at North Park University. I also have a BA in Music Business Management from Columbia College Chicago.
Nate Traynor
Guitar
Nate Traynor is a Chicago-based guitarist and songwriter with 16 years of experience. As the main songwriter and guitarist for the Marvin Stumbles Band, Nate performs frequently across the midwest/Chicago area, and his band has independently released three albums.
James Cross
Piano, Guitar, Bass, Ukulele
Private Lessons Instructor
Group Class Instructor
Piano, Guitar, Bass, Ukulele
We Offer Simple Pricing to Fit Your Schedule & Budget
What you can expect
Tell us about your musical goals.
Match with one of our expert instructors.
Play music! Parents get progress reports.
Frequently Asked Questions
Get StartedWhat Age Should My Child Start Guitar Lessons?
The minimum age recommended for starting guitar lessons is 7 years old. Due to the thickness of the strings and fine motor skills needed to play the instrument, we do not recommend starting guitar any younger. For younger students, we recommend learning the ukulele.
The minimum age we recommend a student start ukulele lessons is 5 years old. For younger students, we recommend an intro to music program. Starting age will largely depend on the student, some may need to wait longer than others depending on factors such as fine motor skills, attention span and overall interest in music.
Do I Need a Guitar/Ukulele to Start the Lessons?
Yes, you will need a guitar or ukulele to start the lessons. Without an instrument, you won’t be able to practice between lessons and make weekly progress. If cost is a concern, good beginner guitars are inexpensive and most music stores have a 30-day return policy if it’s not for you.
The #1 Reason to Study Guitar at Bucktown Music?
Our instructors are warm and friendly, and get to know each student and parent on a personal level. We work with you, or your child, to craft a lesson plan that fits individual needs and the student’s favorite type of music.
Whether you’re playing in local bands, a seven year old taking their first lesson, or a fifty year old returning to the guitar after many years, we’ll set goals to achieve your musical aspirations.
We balance musicianship and fun by making sure that each lesson you are challenged with a new technical or theory concept, but always end with something fun such as your favorite riff or song. We use a variety of guitar method books to accomplish this and encourage students to bring CDs or their iPod, or iphone to their lesson to learn their favorite tunes. If you have an interest in ukulele, banjo, bass or mandolin lessons – we got you covered!
How Qualified are Your Guitar Instructors?
Our guitar and ukulele teachers have received their education from prestigious institutions all over the country. Each is highly qualified to teach and create personalized lesson plans for their students.
What Will I Learn from Guitar Lessons with Bucktown Music Teachers?
Beginner guitar students can expect to work on chords, simple songs and melodies, sight reading and theory.
Our instructors balance musicianship and fun by making sure that each lesson presents a new technical challenges or theory concept, and ends with something fun, such as your favorite riff or song.
We use a variety of guitar method books, and encourage students to bring their smartphone or CDs to their lesson to learn their favorite tunes.
Our guitar teachers teach rock, blues, metal, country and classical guitar lessons on electric and acoustic guitars. Beginner students can expect to work on chords, simple songs and melodies, sight reading and theory.
Ready to Get Started?
We are ready to partner with you to help you become a more accomplished musician. We truly believe that consistent, compassionate private instruction is the key to your musical growth. We are happy to evaluate and discuss your interests, goals and plans!
What is the Schedule for Guitar Lessons?
Mondays: 4:30, 6:00, 6:30, 7:00, 7:30 PM
Tuesdays: 3:00, 3:30, 4:00, 7:30 PM
Saturdays: 10:00, 10:30, 11:00 AM, 12:00, 1:00 PM
