So many times over my career at NYC Guitar School, someone has told me something like: “I love this place–but man, I wish I’d found it when I was a kid. I wanted to play The Beatles (or Radiohead, or The White Stripes). But my parents signed me up with a classical guitar teacher

Playing guitar with someone else! I’ve been playing guitar for a long time—and I have to admit, I’m still not over how fun it is. I still begin most days with a few minutes of playing along with a favorite song or running through some drills. (By “begin” I mean “after I start dr

Make Music New York spoke with Dan Emery, founder and CEO of NYC Guitar School, who organizes the annual Mass Appeal: Guitars event, about how to get involved in this summer’s jam in Union Square on Saturday, June 21st.  MMN

That’s When the Trouble Began. Dreaming On In A Wobbly World. It’s really happening! A dream I’ve held for over two decades is coming to life: an entire floor of an actual building in the most exciting city in the world—New York City—dedicated to musical progress, human greatness, and

Push Through, Rock On: Why Fight-Thrus Matter in Music and Life Last weekend, I had the absolute pleasure of attending the NYC Guitar School Rock Band Showcase at Connolly’s on 45th Street. I was blown away by how great the performances were—each band brought so much energy, passion,

Why Playing Along with Songs Is One of the Best Ways to Practice Guitar Want to have more fun practicing guitar—and get better while doing it? One of the best ways to level up your skills is by playing along with your favorite songs. It’s motivating, keeps you in rhythm, and teaches r

If you make it to the starting line every day, the finish line will take care of itself. So, it’s the new year, and you’re thinking about a resolution.  That’s awesome! Whether you want to get in shape, save more money, or want to learn guitar, your success is absolutely possible

Who You Are Matters More Than What You Want Why Identity is the Secret Ingredient in Creating Lasting Change.   Many of us are beginning to think about our goals for next year. Common New Year’s resolutions include improving finances, losing weight or exercising more. And happil

Have More Fun and Build More Momentum In Music And Life By Celebrating Your Incredible, Awesome, and Very Tiny Progress! News flash—you’re not perfect, and neither am I. And we can’t be! None of us is perfect at everything we set out to do, and we literally can’t be. Even the best mus