Joe Downes

As an experienced guitar tutor with a rich background in live performance, I bring a wealth of practical knowledge to my teaching. Having performed on cruise ships and in various shows across the UK, I’ve honed my skills in diverse musical genres, engaging with audiences of all backgrounds. My teaching approach combines technical expertise with real-world performance experience, ensuring students not only master the guitar but also gain the confidence and creativity to perform with flair. Whether you’re looking to play for fun or develop a professional level of musicianship, I’m here to guide you every step of the way.

My guitar lessons will typically start with a brief warm-up, focusing on finger exercises or chord transitions to improve dexterity and muscle memory. The lesson will then progresses to the core topic, such as learning new chords, techniques (e.g., strumming, fingerpicking, or soloing), or exploring a specific song or musical style. I always encourage students to practice at their own pace, while setting clear goals for each session to ensure consistent progress. Key lesson goals include improving technical skills, building musical understanding, enhancing creativity, and boosting performance confidence. Each lesson concludes with a review and homework, reinforcing what was learned and preparing for the next lesson.

Whether you’re a beginner who wants to learn to play your favourite songs, or a more advanced player aspiring to take their playing to the next level and captivate audiences, my insight will give you the tools to develop and take you on your own personal guitar journey.