Guitar Lessons with John McGinley

I specialize in rock, folk and blues guitar technique and work with all skill levels (ages 16 – adult), focusing on your personal interests and goals.

Teaching Style

Lessons can range from very structured to loose and improvisational, depending on the needs and learning style of the student. I also try to maintain a comfortable and fun atmosphere for learning.

John's Background

My musical career began when I picked up my first guitar at the age of thirteen. Since then, I’ve gone on to play lead guitar in rock bands, theatre productions, swing orchestras and alongside singer/songwriters.

John's Studio

In addition to teaching guitar for 10+ years, I’m also a recording engineer and owner of Watercourse Recording studio in PA. I work with artists, musicians and voice talent from across the country.

3 Essential and Easy Practice Tips

3 Essential and Easy Practice Tips

Finding your practice groove can take some time and effort but once you discover it, the rewards will be unmistakable. Here are 3 simple things you can try to make practice more fun and efficient: 1. Keep it short, but consistent You'll be far better off having fun,...

5 Guitar Must-Have’s

5 Guitar Must-Have’s

Here are a five gadgets that are universally helpful to almost any guitar player. If you've been playing for any length of time, you likely have some or all of these items already. If not, maybe it's time to update that guitar wishlist! String Winder The string...

Chords Will Get You to Solos

Chords Will Get You to Solos

Solos don't happen in a bubble. Even if you're a vocalist singing acapella (without accompaniment), there will almost always be an implied chord structure supporting what you're singing. When many people think of solos, they think of scales. While scales are essential...

Frustration is Part of the Process

Frustration is Part of the Process

Ever feel frustrated with your progress on the guitar?  Well, don't worry because you're in good company.  One of the most common themes I hear from students is some variation of frustration. First off, just know that struggling to get where you want to be...

Learning to Solo

Learning to Solo

There are two primary approaches to constructing a solo on the guitar:  1) Work it out in advance  2) Improvise. Regardless of the method you're using, it can help to think of the solo as a structure that has a beginning, a middle and an end and not just a...

How Did They Get That Sound?

How Did They Get That Sound?

Ever hear a sound that you know is a guitar but you just can't figure out how it's done?  More often than not, it's because the guitar's signal is being processed through an effects pedal.  Listed below are the main types of guitar effects as well as some...

John is an excellent teacher. My daughter has been taking lessons for about a year. She really enjoys playing the guitar and plays well because of John. 🙂  (see all testimonials)

Debbie Farrell