Luke Thomas Guitar Lessons
Best of 2023
4 hires on Lessons.com
25 years in business
About this pro
My teaching approach: Fun and educational! I have been teaching guitar for over 12 years. As a hungry student myself, I have invested many years into learning the guitar, and learning how to teach. I have a Bachelor's Degree from the University of Wisconsin in Applied Music and Jazz Studies. I love playing music, and I love sharing my passion with other people. I have much more to say, so please contact me. All of my lessons are tailored to the individual and are matched to your interests and skill level. I also run Bucket List Band Camps, which is a five-week course designed for adults. You can check it out at blbandcamps.com.
My guitar lessons take place in my music studio or student's home. Guitar Lessons with me take place in the following areas: Diamond Bar, Chino Hills, Corona, Yorba Linda, Chino, Fullerton, Anaheim, Pomona, Walnut, Pasadena and more. Guitar Techniques: Lead guitar, Rhythm guitar, Open tuning, Chords, Chord-lead, Fingerstyle, Slide Guitar, Vocal Accompaniment, Performance, Improvisation, Jamming Skills, Reading Music, Music Theory, Scales and Exercises, Song Writing, Recording and Production, Guidance In Equipment Selection
I love sharing what I know and getting students excited about learning. I try to incorporate the historical significance and cultural relevance of the music we are working on, and keep a steady course for improvement and achievement. I love working with people of all ages and abilities, and seeing my students succeed is very satisfying.
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Credentials
Chino Hills, CA 91709
Phone verified
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Bucket List Band Camp is all the name implies and SO much more. Master Luke creates the perfect atmosphere, combining his kindness as a teacher, toughness (treating each of us like a total pro), along with the encouragement an artist needs to flourish in any environment. As a seasoned performer having sung for thousands of audiences of all sizes, I was amazed how much I learned - I took risks on stage that I had never imagined I could! I was truly impressed by the musicality, direction and professionalism of Luke Thomas, the creator and director of the Band Camps. Thank you for this gift, it has been invaluable! Thank You! Adrienne
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Luke is one of the greatest teachers that I've had in my life, including college professors and advanced workshop instructors. I've worked on Jerry Garcia solos note for note with Luke, and we've discussed elements of music theory. Sometimes technical but always fun. And I trust Luke's musicianship completely. He's tops in my book.
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Luke takes the time to explain and teach the importance of technique and the fundamentals at a quick and fun pace, and will have you playing in no time or playing better than before!
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Luke is an amazing teacher, and I've been taking both acoustic and electric guitar lessons with him for about 4 years. He tailors his lessons to the needs of each individual student, making sure that you learn good technique while you're learning to play songs that YOU like and want to learn. His teaching style really works for me and has kept me motivated to continue to build my skills with increasingly challenging songs. I'm only sorry I didn't start sooner!
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FAQs
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
I like to meet with the student for at least an hour for the first lesson to figure out strengths, weaknesses, and goals. Each student has their own learning style and speed and I tailor each long-term lesson plan to you.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have worked at LA College of Music and have taught at many workshops, summer camps, and music schools. I also have experience as a music director and bandleader. But more importantly, I actually love teaching! There are many teachers out there who are great guitar players and love to talk about gear or show off, but I'm more interested in engaging my students in a way that's fun, interesting, and creative - and you will see results right away.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
I charge $65+ an hour depending on how far I have to drive. 45-minute lessons are $50+. I don't usually do half-hour lessons as I don't feel it's enough time.
How did you get started teaching?
I started teaching when I was still in high school when I figured out I could share the things I had learned in a really focused way, and that I enjoyed sharing what I had learned. I worked as an assistant at summer music camps, and started teaching full-time while studying music in college.
What types of students have you worked with?
I've worked with students as young as five through adult. I teach all styles, but primarily focus on blues, rock, jazz, acoustic, electric and improvisation. I specialize in lessons for kids and adults who want to play in bands, and I organize bands and camps. You can see my adult camps at blbandcamps.com.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
I went with my family to Disneyland to check out the lights and watch the show. There was a jazz combo playing and I got to talk with my nephew about music because he was so into it.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Find someone who likes to teach and has a passion for helping other people improve. Make sure you spend enough to get a decent instrument so that you're not fighting against your guitar. Write down some goals for yourself as well as specific songs and artists you like, and share them with your perspective teacher.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
What are you good at? What songs can you play? What do you like to play and listen to? What are ten songs that are on your "must learn" list? What are your goals in terms of performing? What can you get involved with that will keep you playing and motivated? I help students find playing opportunities outside of private lessons.