Hello, I’m Steve Gilpin. I’m 45 years old and live in Chicago. I’ve been playing guitar for 32 years and ukulele for nearly 16. If you’d like help shaping your sound, learning techniques and theory to help you play other’s songs and who knows…? Maybe someday you’ll be writing songs of your own!

Founded in 2013, Etc. Music School, located in Evanston, Illinois, is led by Artistic Director Mike O'Mara, a teacher with over 15 years of experience. The school offers a unique approach to music and theatrical education, focusing on collaboration, team-learning, and confidence-building. It provides private lessons, ensembles, and classes in various disciplines, including Piano, Flute, Voice, Violin, Viola, Guitar, and Music Composition. Honored with the Evanston Mayor's Award for the Arts in 2014, the school is committed to fostering students' artistic goals through creative experimentation.

Based in Oak Park, Illinois and its surrounding areas, School of Rock is a leading name in performance-based music education. It offers both in-person and online music lessons for all ages, from toddlers to adults. School of Rock combines one-on-one drum, bass, keyboard, vocal, and guitar lessons with group practices, making learning music an enjoyable experience. It also includes a unique pre-school music experience program, "Little Wing". From day one, students are encouraged to play music and perform at local venues, guided by experienced instructors who are local musicians themselves.

Founded in 1959, Guitar Center has become the largest chain of musical instrument retailers in the world, with a significant presence in Chicago, Illinois and surrounding areas. They don't just sell musical gear from top brands, but also offer unique services such as musical instrument repair, professional musician services, and musical instrument rentals. Beyond products and services, Guitar Center is committed to inspiring individual musical dreams and empowering their customers. They also have a dedicated division, Guitar Center Lessons, that offers music lessons and education.

Founded in 2012, School of Rock Elmhurst is the national leader in music education, located in Elmhurst, IL. Serving students aged three and a half and up, they offer private and band-based lessons in guitar, bass, drums, singing, and piano, taught by professional musicians. They provide both in-person and online music lessons, making learning to play music fun through their performance-based method. From day one, students are immersed in an interactive environment, taking part in local live performances, and becoming part of a great community of musicians.