Guitar Lessons

Ages 7+

The guitar is a versatile and creative instrument, and this course is designed with that in mind. Guitar students can learn to read music, read from TAB, and play by ear. Plenty of fun extras, such as play-along multimedia and drum samples, make for a more complete learning experience. Our guitar teachers are professionals who bring their own intense musical training, passion, and years of performing and studio experience to every lesson. To play like a pro, you need to learn from a pro—it’s as simple as that!

Top image: An Orrett Music Academy student playing acoustic guitar outside, with another student playing piano nearby. Bottom image: a boy proudly holds his guitar, all students wearing Orrett Music Academy T-shirts.

Who We Are

Music, a shared treasure within our community, thrives at the heart of Orrett Music Academy. Founded by Dave Orrett, an expert composer and performer, the academy embodies a philosophy where community and passion for music come first. Dave’s unique and engaging teaching techniques, rooted in a lifetime of musical devotion, serve as a cornerstone for our approach. At Orrett Music Academy, each lesson is not just about learning notes; it’s about embarking on a musical adventure, fostering a deep, enduring love for music in every student.

An Orrett Music Academy student performing on a small stage, playing guitar

Modern Electric vs. Acoustic Guitar

This is a difficult choice for many students new to the guitar. Sure, the electric guitar has the instant ‘cool’ factor, but the acoustic is a wonderful instrument with a gorgeous sound. Ultimately, the most important thing is choosing whichever instrument excites the young student most. But know that you do not need to bring your guitar to your first lesson. If you don’t have one yet, that’s fine. Consider getting input from your new teacher, who may be able to help guide you. Also, remember that you can rent-to-own a guitar rather than purchasing one outright. Just ask!

Breaking Myths About Guitar Lessons

We have helped many students hone their guitar skills in Etobicoke and Oakville over the past 18 years. Most of our students have been open and receptive to what we teach, making significant strides in their abilities. Some individuals who have self-taught themselves on the guitar may wonder why they need formal lessons. We’d like to address some of these common misconceptions.

I Can Play By Ear

You can only go so far by playing by ear. Without the theory to back it up, your progress will be limited. While some people may have enough natural talent to get by without it, for 99% of us, theory and structured lessons provide the foundation needed to play and excel at a higher level.

Theory Could Curb My Creative Abilities

Studying the right way won’t stifle your creativity; it will actually enhance it. In the worst case, you can take what you find useful from theory lessons and apply it when needed. Many of today’s rock stars, who fear losing their ‘street cred,’ often downplay their professional music training and musical theory backgrounds. However, if you get them alone, they’d likely admit just how crucial that foundation was in shaping who they are today. You’ve got to walk before you can run!

I Can Teach Myself

Would you teach yourself how to fly an airplane? Would you teach yourself how to design and develop a website? Trial and error can only take you so far. Having an instructor helps you refine your skills more efficiently and effectively. Even the most talented composers didn’t learn in isolation.

Also, think about the feedback you’ll get from an instructor. Often, we’re more interested in hearing what we want to hear than hearing the truth. A great teacher will offer honest, constructive feedback about your progress and guide you step-by-step to become the kind of guitar player you aspire to be.

I Can Just Get What I Need Online

Although the internet offers many great instructional videos, they won’t get you there on their own. A skilled instructor ensures that you practice correctly. For example, many people, when learning on their own, make the same mistake multiple times before finally getting it right. While getting it right is a step forward, the goal is to reach a point where you can do it effortlessly. Without the right guidance, an inexperienced student might think they’ve mastered something after getting it right once, not realizing they haven’t fully grasped it yet.

We hope the information we’ve shared will be helpful to you. If you’re looking for a guitar teacher in Etobicoke or Oakville, don’t hesitate to reach out. Our teachers are ready to help you start your journey toward becoming a better player today!

An Orrett Music Academy student performing on stage, sitting with a guitar and singing.

How It Works

Begin your musical adventure with us at Orrett Music Academy. Our approach is simple yet effective, guiding students through their musical passions with one-on-one lessons and group lessons. Nestled in the heart of Etobicoke and Oakville, we’re here to make your musical journey enjoyable and fulfilling. Join a welcoming community of learners and discover your child’s musical potential in a supportive environment.

Begin your child’s musical journey at Orrett Music Academy. Share with us about your child, and let us tailor a custom musical education plan that resonates with their unique interests and aspirations.

Experience our teaching firsthand. Schedule trial lessons with our dedicated teachers to find the perfect match for your child’s musical education.

Join us in nurturing your child’s love for music. We’re committed to being there every step of the way, ensuring a supportive and enriching musical journey.

Mini Recitals

Get ready to showcase your musical progress! Our Mini Recitals provide a supportive and exciting opportunity for students of all levels—whether you’re learning piano, drums, guitar, or any other instrument—to perform in front of family and friends. Build confidence, celebrate your achievements, and enjoy the joy of live music.

Testimonials

It truly is never too late to learn. As a mature student, I was excited but felt a bit overwhelmed at the prospect of learning. That changed at Orrett Music Academy. Everything is explained clearly and the music we are playing really takes me back. Bravo!

Michael D.

Student

We have 3 children who all play piano. We had 3 teachers before being introduced to Dave Orrett of Orrett Music Academy; my children all say Dave is the best and the most fun teacher ever. He organizes recitals and is very encouraging and supportive of all his students.

Stephen C.

Parent

I have learned so much more than I ever would without the Orrett Music Academy because Christian and the teachers are very helpful!

Adam C. R.

Student

My favorite thing about this school is that you feel like there is no limit on your music. You can express your feelings in a way that sounds and feels so beautiful, that way is playing music! I’m very thankful. This school is one of the best things that happened to me.

Mina V.

Student

I have learned a lot more when I started going to this music school. My piano teacher is very funny and it is fun going to piano lessons!

Carly C.

Student

Dave and the staff at the Orrett Music Academy really go out of their way to make us feel at-home. They constantly ensure that we are involved in the process of learning which really personalizes the experience for our family. We started with one daughter taking piano lessons, then added my son on guitar, and now Mom (me) is taking voice lessons. I truly can’t say enough about my 4 years at OMA and tell my friends every chance I get.

Kim B.

Parent

Let us know you’re interested and we’ll be in touch to schedule your trial lesson.

Book a Trial

Trial Lesson - New Form

Student Info

Private Lessons
Intro Piano (4-8)
Classical Piano (5+)
Modern Piano (5+)
Voice (5+)
Violin (4+)
Ukulele (5+)
Drum Kit (7+)
Guitar (7+)
Bass Guitar (7+)
Private Musical Theatre (5+)
Acting (8+)
Not Sure
Group Classes
Steps To Music Group Classes (3-4 & 4-5)
Musical Theatre Group Classes (5-7 & 8-12 & 12-17)
Enriched Musical Theatre Group Class (10-17)
Pop Choir (5-7 & 8-11)
Pop/Rock Band (7-17)
Adult Beginner Guitar Circle (18+)
Adult Band (18+)

Second Student Info

Private Lessons
Intro Piano (4-8)
Classical Piano (5+)
Modern Piano (5+)
Voice (5+)
Violin (4+)
Ukulele (5+)
Drum Kit (7+)
Guitar (7+)
Bass Guitar (7+)
Private Musical Theatre (5+)
Acting (8+)
Not Sure
Group Classes
Steps To Music Group Classes (3-4 & 4-5)
Musical Theatre Group Classes (5-7 & 8-12 & 12-17)
Enriched Musical Theatre Group Class (10-17)
Pop Choir (5-7 & 8-11)
Pop/Rock Band (7-17)
Adult Beginner Guitar Circle (18+)
Adult Band (18+)

Third Student Info

Private Lessons
Intro Piano (4-8)
Classical Piano (5+)
Modern Piano (5+)
Voice (5+)
Violin (4+)
Ukulele (5+)
Drum Kit (7+)
Guitar (7+)
Bass Guitar (7+)
Private Musical Theatre (5+)
Acting (8+)
Not Sure
Group Classes
Steps To Music Group Classes (3-4 & 4-5)
Musical Theatre Group Classes (5-7 & 8-12 & 12-17)
Enriched Musical Theatre Group Class (10-17)
Pop Choir (5-7 & 8-11)
Pop/Rock Band (7-17)
Adult Beginner Guitar Circle (18+)
Adult Band (18+)
Please use this section to inform us of additional information you would like to include. We will be giving you a call shortly!
You do not need to have or own the instrument(s) for trial lessons. We will have the instrument(s) available for you at the school for your trial. If you register for ongoing lessons with us, we recommend renting from Long & McQuade or our teachers can help you choose an instrument to purchase.
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