7 Best Schools for Guitar Lessons in Ottawa
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced guitarist, it won’t hurt to perfect your craft by taking the best guitar lessons in Ottawa.
So for today, we’re going to take a closer look at the schools and instructors that inspire students to improve their strumming skills.
We’ve also rounded up some interesting FAQs at the end of this article to guide you further.
How Much Do Guitar Lessons Cost in Ottawa?
These days, most music schools conduct both in-person and online lessons. Of course, it’s a given that private in-home tutorials are costlier than virtual classes, as illustrated by the table below.
| GUITAR LESSONS | ESTIMATED COST |
| Virtual lesson (30 minutes) | $27 per lesson $162 for a six-lesson package |
| Virtual lesson (45 minutes) | $37 per lesson $222 for a six-lesson package |
| Virtual lesson (1 hour) | $47 per lesson $282 for a six-lesson package |
| In-home lesson (30 minutes) | $37.50 per lesson $225 for a six-lesson package |
| In-home lesson (45 minutes) | $45 per lesson $270 for a six-lesson package |
| In-home lesson (1 hour) | $55 per lesson $330 for a six-lesson package |
For convenience, a lot of guitar tutorial services package their lessons under one price so that the student can continue to learn and practice on a regular basis. The rates above reflect some of the schools we’re reviewing today.
The great news is that Ontario doesn’t charge HSTs for music lessons, which is a relief.
The Best Guitar Lessons in Ottawa
There are many great guitar lessons in Ottawa, but we selected only the ones who meet the following criteria:
With that in mind, let’s get you on the road to becoming a good guitarist!
1. Rockstar Music Central
| SERVICES | https://rockstarmusic.ca/lessons |
| ADDRESS | 320 Jack Purcell Ln, Ottawa, ON K2P 1M8, Canada |
| CONTACT NUMBER | +1 613-707-4017 |
| WEBSITE | https://rockstarmusic.ca |
| OPERATING HOURS | Monday – Friday: 9 AM – 9 PM; Saturday – Sunday: 9 AM – 5 PM |
Rockstar Music Central is a highly regarded network of university-educated musicians, teachers, and recording industry professionals offering exceptional guitar lessons. Their approach is tailored to meet the individual needs and goals of students, whether they are beginners or advanced players. The school’s commitment to providing high-quality music education is reflected in their Top Choice Award for Top Music School in 2021. With a variety of programs, including private lessons and community-based opportunities, Rockstar Music Central fosters musical growth and confidence in their students.
One of the primary benefits of Rockstar Music Central’s guitar lessons is their personalized matching process, ensuring each student is paired with a teacher who complements their personality and musical objectives. This tailored approach facilitates a supportive learning environment where students can thrive. The free trial lesson is another advantage, allowing students to meet their instructor and ensure a good fit before committing. The instructors are not only highly qualified but also passionate about music, bringing a wealth of experience to their teaching.
Another significant strength of Rockstar Music Central’s guitar program is their emphasis on practical performance. Students have numerous opportunities to perform in regular concerts and events, which enhances their musical proficiency and builds confidence. This focus on performance is integral to their teaching philosophy, providing students with real-world experience and helping them develop leadership skills. The combination of community-based programs and one-on-one lessons ensures a comprehensive and enriching learning experience.
However, there are some drawbacks to consider. Due to the popularity of Rockstar Music Central, there can be longer wait times for lesson availability, which might be frustrating for eager students. Additionally, while the cost of lessons reflects the quality of instruction, it may be higher compared to smaller, local music schools, which could be a consideration for those on a tighter budget.
In conclusion, Rockstar Music Central is an outstanding choice for guitar lessons, thanks to their personalized approach, expert instructors, and emphasis on performance. Despite potential wait times and higher costs, the comprehensive and well-rounded musical education they provide makes them an excellent option for aspiring guitarists. Their dedication to fostering confidence and developing well-rounded musicians ensures that students receive valuable and enriching instruction.
Pros
- Personalized teacher matching
- Community-based programs and one-on-one lessons
- Emphasis on performance
Cons
- Higher costs compared to smaller music schools
2. Metro Music
| SERVICES | Guitar, drum, and piano lessons, guitar repair, shop for musical instruments |
| ADDRESS | 695 Bank St (in the Glebe) Ottawa, ON |
| CONTACT NUMBER | 613-233-9688 [email protected] |
| WEBSITE | https://metromusicottawa.ca/ |
| OPERATING HOURS | Closed on Mondays Tuesdays and Fridays 10 AM – 6 PM Wednesdays and Thursdays 10 AM – 7 PM Saturdays 10 AM – 5 PM Sundays 12 noon – 5 PM |
Metro Music Ottawa is proud of being around for over 50 years and offering both Canadian-made guitars and music lessons to its customers. It holds instructions for guitar, piano, bass, drums, and music theory.
The rates for 30-minute guitar instructions are pretty affordable at just $30. It’s great that this is the price tag for all levels and styles, with availability during daytimes at evenings at any day of the week (except Mondays).
Its instructors understand music theory and know how to read music, which allows them to tailor their curriculum to their student’s needs and skills levels. Even beginner ukulele and advanced electric guitar can be learned at Metro Music.
There’s an impressive list of specializations per instructor ranging from songwriting to classic and fingerstyle guitar.
And should you need a guitar to use during lessons, don’t forget that the company is first and foremost a musical instruments store! The great thing about it is that it offers both brand-new guitars (acoustic, electric, classical, folk, bass, etc.) and even used ones in great condition.
Pros
- Carries Canadian-made guitars
- Affordable lesson rates
- Guitar instructors have different specializations
- Good range of guitars and other instruments for sale
Cons
- Confusing operating hours
- Closed on Mondays
- No BBB accreditation
Customer Reviews
A great local business
“A great local business. I have many fond memories of Metro Music that date back… I hate to admit it… decades.” – Cooper Langford
Kind, courteous, professional support
“I am Ottawa busker Nikki G . I’ve been busking for 20 years. With Danielle, I have experienced nothing but kind, courteous and professional support mixed in with compassion and human kindness. Winter or summer, if I broke a string, or a peg got jammed in, her skill level and talent is really something to see.” – Nikki Gregoire
3. School of Rock
| SERVICES | Virtual classes, guitar, drums, piano, singing, bass guitar lessons, music programs |
| ADDRESS | 2003 St. Joseph Blvd Orleans, Ontario K1C1E5 |
| CONTACT NUMBER | (613) 841-8118 |
| WEBSITE | https://locations.schoolofrock.com/orleans |
| OPERATING HOURS | Monday to Thursday 2.30 PM – 9 PM Fridays 5.30 PM – 7 PM Saturdays 9 AM – 12 noon Closed on Sundays |
If you want to become a rockstar guitarist, the School of Rock Orleans might just be your cup of tea. For starters, it combines one-on-one lessons with group band practices.
The school offers programs by age group, skills level, and interests. Little Wing is for 3 to 5-year-olds, Performance is for 8 to 18-year-olds, Adult programs are for 18-year-olds and above, and online lessons are available for everyone regardless of age.
For the Adults program, School of Rock stays true to its main thrust which is to provide students with a performance-based music approach. This means they are expected to learn music concepts that will eventually be applied in a live performance setup in an Orleans musical venue.
Private lessons combined with group rehearsals are conducted weekly.
Free trial lessons are available at no obligation so potential students can see if the programs are a good fit for them. A price guide somewhere on the website would be nice, though.
Pros
- Offers free trial lessons
- Combines solo lessons with group band practice
- Performance-based approach
- Online lessons available
Cons
- Doesn’t provide a price guide
- Somewhat confusing operating hours
- No BBB accreditation
Customer Reviews
Had a great time and a sense of accomplishment
“My son had an awesome time at the March Break camp. He had fun and learned how to play in a band with no previous experience playing an instrument. He ended his March Break having had a great time and with a sense of accomplishment. Now he’s making playing music a part of his life. Being in a band is a team sport and a lot of fun, thanks to the School of Rock!” – Barbara G.
Teachers really push students to try new things
“Teachers really push you to try new things and every time I end up surprising myself!” – Crystal S.
4. The Ottawa Vocal and Instrumental School of Music
| SERVICES | Virtual music classes, singing lessons, adult group guitar lessons |
| ADDRESS | 830 Campbell Avenue Ottawa, ON K2A 2C4 |
| CONTACT NUMBER | (613) 722-1010 [email protected] |
| WEBSITE | http://www.ottawaconservatory.com/ |
| OPERATING HOURS | Mondays 3 PM- 9 PM Tuesdays to Thursdays 10 AM – 9 PM Fridays 12 noon – 6 PM Saturdays 10 AM – 5 PM Closed on Sundays |
Boasting over 40 years of teaching music, The Ottawa Vocal and Instrumental School of Music is recognized by the Ministry of Education as a tax-deductible institution.
It offers private lessons for guitar, piano, bass, saxophone, drums, flute, ukulele, violin, vocals, and even dance and theory. Students preparing for the Royal Conservatory of Music examinations can also train under its RCM program.
Its rates for guitar lessons are reasonable, starting at $30 for a half-hour. Hourly lessons are $58, with adult guitar courses at $100 per hour for eight-week in-house classes.
Another good thing about the Ottawa Vocal and Instrumental School of Music is that it can accommodate kids as young as six years old for its private lessons on guitar, bass, or ukulele. The school can also accommodate those who want to follow the Royal Conservatory of Music curriculum.
And if you don’t want to do a solo class, you can opt for a semi-private guitar lesson with another student. This shared lesson costs $40 per student for a half-hour session.
Pros
- Offers training for RCM examinations
- Reasonable rates for guitar lessons
- Shared lessons offered
- Kids as young as six can enroll
Cons
- Confusing operating hours
- Could do with a better website design
- No BBB accreditation
Customer Reviews
Class is paced at student’s speed
“I have truly enjoyed my group guitar lessons with Rob! The class is paced just at my speed. I have come away with being able to know the core chords and even play some songs! Highly recommend for beginners!” – Julie C.
The 8-week course worked wonders
“The 8-week guitar course was amazing. Being a left-handed player it’s pretty hard to find things online to play yourself, but Rob explained the finger positioning and it worked out pretty nicely. Each week you get to learn something new and at the end of 8 weeks, I was able to strum and play a couple of Bollywood songs of my choice which was a fantastic feeling. I had the guitar for almost 1&1/2 years, tried learning online but to no advantage, couldn’t get anywhere. I am so happy I found this 8-week course and it worked wonders. Definitely worth if you are a beginner.” – Harry P.
5. Ottawa Guitar Studio
| SERVICES | Guitar lessons, customized practice plans |
| ADDRESS | 1107-2750 Carousel Crescent, Gloucester, ON K1T 1Z5 |
| CONTACT NUMBER | +1 613-413-4090 |
| WEBSITE | https://www.ottawaguitarstudio.com/ |
| OPERATING HOURS | Monday to Sunday 9 AM – 9 PM |
It’s great when a guitar lesson website gives a lot of information about how it can help students become better guitar players. However, the way Ottawa Guitar Studio presents it kind of reads like an infomercial.
Mickey Magennis is the driving force behind the school. He has a Bachelor of Music Honors degree from Carleton University in Ottawa and can teach his students how to break down the component parts of guitar playing.
Verified client feedback typically mentions how he has helped students improve their rhythm and timing as well as made them feel as if they’re part of a real band.
He has a lot to say about his journey to becoming a guitar mentor and not a lot of information on how he prices and structure his lessons. However, the presence of student testimonies by text and video sort of makes up for this, somewhat.
He also offers free introductory sessions, which is awesome. Potential students can sign up for acoustic or electric trial lessons at no charge.
Pros
- Free intro session
- Open seven days a week
- Generally good client feedback
Cons
- The website reads more like an instructor’s blog
- No other musical instruction offered
- Doesn’t provide a pricing guide
- No BBB accreditation
Customer Reviews
Improved rhythm, timing, and strumming in a short time
“Mickey has improved my rhythm, timing, and strumming in the short time I have been with him. I look forward every week to my lesson and enjoy learning something new from Mickey. This is my very first time with a guitar teacher and I would highly recommend Mickey.” – Jim O.
Lessons are definitely worth it
“When Mickey put on additional drum tracks and played along, it felt like playing in a real band and making real music. The instructor Mickey is very enthusiastic and knowledgeable, and the lessons are definitely worth it.” – Andrew N.
6. Garnett Guitar School
| SERVICES | Guitar, Bass, Music Theory, Ear Training Composition, Songwriting |
| ADDRESS | 324 Wild Iris Ave. Ottawa, ON |
| CONTACT NUMBER | (613) 739-9204 [email protected] |
| WEBSITE | www.larrygarnett.weebly.com |
| OPERATING HOURS | Monday, Tuesday, and Friday 10 AM – 6 PM Wednesdays and Thursdays 10 AM – 7 PM Saturdays 11 AM – 1 PM Closed on Sundays |
Larry Garnett is a time-tested music artist that regularly performs in the Ottawa area as a solo acoustic singer guitarist, studio guitarist, and as substitute lead guitarist for various bands.
Within those years, he established his guitar school in the early 2000s. He has since have had 22 fruitful years of experience in teaching.
Mr. Garnett is a one-man show regarding his guitar lessons, but don’t let that deter you. What we like about him is that he makes time for any student who is willing to learn, and he makes his lessons accessible via online or in person in his studio.
Though we do have to point out that he doesn’t offer lessons on Sundays and holidays. So if you’re an older adult who doesn’t have a lot of free time on the weekdays, he might not be the best choice.
If you’re looking for a versatile guitarist with a great experience in teaching, Larry Garnett is just the man for the job. And if you’re an experienced student who would like to learn about music theory, he’s got that covered too!
We would like to note that if you’re interested in enrolling a minor to his services, a letter of agreement must be signed by their guardian. In addition to this, the Garnett Guitar School also requests to have a full month payment at the first day of each month.
The Garnett Guitar School provides an introductory lesson for $20. You can choose between a half-hour lesson, priced at $30, and a full hour lesson, priced at $50.
Pros
- Certified Advanced Guitarist from Berklee College of Music (Boston)
- SOCAN/ACTRA & Musician’s Union
- All lessons include relevant music theory and PDF handouts
- Adaptable lessons for each student’s abilities
Cons
- Closed on Sundays and Holidays
- Does not teach classical guitar
Customer Reviews
I highly recommend him in this capacity.
“Larry is a very talented, creative, and experienced musician, guitarist, and teacher. I highly recommend him in this capacity and because of his warm and collaborative personality.“
I love taking lessons with Larry.
“I met Larry in 2014. He practiced with me cover songs to accompany me at my Jinglebell event. I then started lessons and he gave back much of the confidence I had lost as I had stopped playing guitar due to severe vision loss. Larry adapted his teaching to orally guide me to learn new pieces that I would memorize. He also taught me theory and how chords were formed. He helped me generate chords to 2 of my original songs and then I took it from there slowly adding guitar part of my lyrics and melodies which I wrote without an instrument in my hand. I say many times this week I was not a good student didn’t practice the homework sometimes life is just too crazy but I love taking lessons with Larry.”
7. U-Rock Music School
| SERVICES | Private Lessons, Group Lessons, Summer Lessons, Artist Development Sessions |
| ADDRESS | 216 Tempest Dr, Stittsville, ON |
| CONTACT NUMBER | (613) 457-5064 |
| WEBSITE | https://u-rockschool.com/ |
| OPERATING HOURS | Monday to Thursday 3:30 AM – 8 PM Friday 3:30 AM – 7:30 PM Closed on Saturdays and Sundays |
What we like about U-Rock Music School is that it not only produces happy students, but also happy parents. We were amazed to hear so many positive stories of parents witnessing their kids grow in confidence as a result of their lessons with the school.
A top-rated music school in Ottawa, U-Rock provides both private and group lessons for students all school year. Online lessons are also available for those who prefer to learn from home, which is a convenient option in these times.
We like that kids are given the option to learn the guitar with another sibling or friend, as this sometimes serves as good motivation to do well in the craft.
They also don’t charge any registration fees, which is a big plus. This makes their lessons more accessible to families who are on a tighter budget.
What parents and students love about them is that they offer plenty of opportunities for students to showcase their talents, from, holding 6 shows every year and a series of open mic events in between.
Perhaps the biggest compliment for U-Rock is how they produce confident artists who love their instruments. More than just the technical skills learned, we think that the best kind of growth a music school could cultivate are excellent mindsets and a love for learning.
Pros
- Top-rated music school in Ottawa
- No registration fees
- Shared private lessons for families and friends
- Six shows annually
- Open mic events throughout the year
- Online lessons available
Cons
- A few reports of needing to better communicate no-refund policy
Customer Reviews
Builds kids’ confidence
“U Rock is a wonderful music school! Both of my kids have been students for 4+ years, and have blossomed from shy kids who like music to confident musicians able to rock to a large audience, sing and play 3 instruments each. This cool confidence has also translated to school school, where they make presentations and do public speaking with ease. Communications with Cathy, Brian and all the teachers have always been excellent. I highly recommend U Rock!”
Keeps kids engaged
“We have been very pleased with U-Rock. I shopped around when my daughter decided that she wanted to learn guitar. Finding that the cost was about the same everywhere we decided on U-Rock. What drew me to this school is that they specialize in kids. They take an approach that teaches the fundamentals of the instrument but also keeps the kids engaged and wanting to learn. My daughter has been with the school for guitar for two years now and this year has also joined their teen rock band as a vocalist. I love the opportunities available at this school to learn and grow as a musician as well as the opportunities to perform publicly several times per year. Cathy, Brian and their team are supportive and my daughter just loves it there. I would recommend them without a doubt.”
FAQs About Guitar Lessons in Ottawa
With this listicle, we hope you can find the best guitar lessons in Ottawa to help you on the road to creating beautiful music.
Send us a message if you have other instructors for guitar lessons to recommend.
And in case you want to pursue other passions outside of a structured education system, consider the following published listicles of private classes and lessons: