Mike is awesome! I've been wanting to learn how to play guitar for some time now and was thrilled to find this gem of a human in the neighborhood. Mike takes the time to learn about your personal goals and intentions and meets you where you are at. He is very present and patient, and is so knowledgeable about music, it's impossible to not soak up some music theory and riffology through pure osmosis. I highly recommend taking lessons with Mike, wherever you are on your guitar journey! Also, he can play pretty much any song you name, it's just fun to be in his studio to see him in action. Thank you, Mike!!! read more

Mike really should be charging a lot more for the value he provides. He was recommended to me by Laura Christine (Gene Hoglan's wife) who reassured Mike he was excellent and had a similar teaching style that she employed. Mike provided a ton of structure and direction that I feel most guitar teachers in my past have lacked. I showed him the music I was trying to record and he came up with drills that helped me play and learn my band's original songs much more quickly. His biggest strength is that he comes at guitar with a sense of intentionality and direction. He knows a large variety of music and knows how show you the path to achieve relaxed proficiency at whatever you want to learn. I haven't met a ton of guitar teachers with this amount of skill, and ability to verbalize their strategies. read more

Mike's a legend! Extremely talented and an excellent teacher. He helped me with my guitar lead skills for an upcoming recording I had awhile back. Love his Theory Thursday YouTube series and all he does for the music community! read more

Mr. Guitar Lessons was such a good teacher, not to mention a supremely talented musician and stylish rocker, he had me wondering if there was a MRS. Guitar Lessons! read more

MR Guitar Lessons - Pictured: Scruffy Dreamboat! - Musical Instruments & Teachers Near Me - San Diego, California

I decided 4 months before my wedding to surprise my wife at the reception by playing the guitar and singing. I've never played before. I called Mike and he was so positive and reassuring that I could not only do it but also perform well. He worked with me on the basics and gave me many tips and tricks. His many suggestions were like epiphanies. The performance was fantastic and made the wedding even more special. Mike, My wife and I thank you. read more

I highly recommend Mike for learning guitar. I had never held a guitar in my life, but had wanted to for years. So finally I ended up getting one, but I realized I hadn't the slightest clue what to do in order to play the music I love. So I bought lessons from Mike to learn, and it was well worth. Instead of just learning basic lessons and songs you're un-interested in, he encourages expanding out and listening to music you thoroughly enjoy. He helps you learn those songs as well as incorporating teachable moments that stay with me as I continue to play. So as said before I highly recommend Mike and encourage you to at least try 1 lesson and go from there. read more

Mike is a great teacher who focuses on teaching you the fundamentals while also taking an interest in the types of music you like to help you learn some riffs/songs. I've been taking lessons from him for about 3 months, picking up guitar in your 40's is not easy :-). Mike continues to be very patient and also very accommodating. I travel a lot for work and it's not uncommon for me to have to cancel and reschedule our lessons, he's always cool about it. Also available via text if you're trying to work on something and need a video or some advice. read more

Mike is so real. The highlight of my week is going to his studio for a lesson. Not only is he a great musician, he patiently teaches too. Soon to be sixty, I am loving learning guitar. Mike is interested in what your goals are and teaches how to get there. HIGHLY RECOMMEND! I enjoyed reading his other 100% 5-star reviews because of all the things I missed. Thanks Mike read more

Mike is one of the best guitar teachers San Diego has to offer. He came highly recommended and I'm glad I took the advise. He is the type of teacher that gets you to work hard but makes it really fun so you crave learning more and more. From learning a few licks to full songs and/or theory he's got you covered. Mike is also very patient. He is structured, organized and an absolute gem to work with. Thank you Mike! read more

I started playing guitar as a pandemic hobby, and after a year of struggling on my own, I decided to take lessons with Mike. He showed me that there are more interesting things to play than power chords, and that understanding music fundamentals helps you be a better guitarist. After 3 months of lessons, I find myself playing more often, and I have a well-structured practice routine and clear steps for improving. Thanks for making my hobby so much fun, Mike! read more

I got nothin' but love for Mike. His skills are legit. He presents the lessons in a way that allows the student to look at the same concept in different ways. He doesn't just teach, he LISTENS. He wants to know what the student wants from the guitar and then he draws that out. Speaking as a recording artist myself, one year ago, I never thought I'd be playing lead guitar. But now all the guitar solos on my recordings are done all by myself. :) ROCK ON, MIKE!!! read more

Mike is a professional and great teacher with a wealth of knowledge and experience not just limited to guitar but in all aspects of music. His approach is individually tailored to the student's needs.His methods of teaching will ensure constant progression and breaking your plateaus while addressing, correcting, and improving habits. He'll have you playing your favorite songs and even navigating your way around the fret board to write your own rifts sooner than you think! read more

Hands down the best guitar instructor in San Diego. I've been taking guitar lessons on and off in San Diego for over 10 years and Mike has influenced me and motivated me to take it more seriously. I say off and on over the years because no other instructor has motivated me like Mike has. He is patient and really cares about his students. I meet students coming and going from time to time when I show up early and everybody absolutely loves him. There's a reason why he's rated the #1 guitar instructor in San Diego. You should find out why. I'm glad I did. read more

Mike has been my teacher for a year now. He is the most patient, awesome and cool instructor you can find. If you want to learn how to play metal and solos the right way or to improvise and make stuff up or to get faster and shred that guitar CALL him now! do it !! If you want your guitar to make otherworldly sounds he'll show you what gadgets you need, and honestly I think he has them all!! Lessons are fun fun fun, especially when jamming with Jeff (The BeatBuddy). Yes he names them gadgets! He teaches you any style of music you like, each lesson is about what YOU want to learn. Some weeks you feel like learning a new song or maybe you just want some exercises to get faster or do scales and licks or just listen to him talk about music and get motivated. I would highly recommend him. read more

I have been working with Mike for 3 years now. As someone starting guitar at 50, Mike has helped me disengage my brain and feel the music. He knows his theory, but for me spoon feeds it within the context of the lesson, which always centers around a song or lick. Mike is always striving to improve his teaching methods and studio space. It's nice to see his dedication, plus he has the chops and gigging experience to back it up... read more

I've been taking lessons from Mike for a few months now. He's receptive to what I want to learn (already learned a couple of my favorite songs and some of the music theory behind them) and really knows his stuff across multiple genres. It's a friendly, relaxed atmosphere and Mike makes it lots of fun. He is available to answer questions any time and I look forward to my lesson each week. read more

I have been taking guitar lessons here for almost a year. My expectations have been blown away. Not only have I progressed quicker than others I know who just started, but I am sure I have had way more fun. Mike is a great teacher and knows how to get the fundamentals across in a non-intimidating way. Mike is also punctual and well prepared for every lesson. I have decided to continue for at least another year and probably longer. If you are thinking of picking up guitar, look no further than MR Guitar Lessons. read more

I took lessons from Mike for years until life got in the way. If I could make the time now I wouldn't even think of calling anyone else. I appreciate the amount of time Mike spent making sure I had the basics down pat and correcting old bad habits. I know if I'd continued with my weekly lessons I'd be really good today. While I'm no amazing player by anyone's measure, I can pick up a guitar and make music thanks to Mike. ImI ~ Dave read more

My kid is totally loving the guitar because of instructor Mike, he looks forward to his lesson every week. Can't wait to see how far he's going to come a year from now, exciting! read more

Mike was my second guitar teacher until I had to move out of San Diego due to work reasons. I really had fun learning a lot of stuff from him. He is mellow and uses a practical real world hands on approach to learning guitar. Plus if you want to learn to rock out and play metal or shred he can teach you that as well. Plus he is a walking encyclopedia of gear so if you want to get tones and pedals while learning he can steer you in the right path. He now has a weekly free online show called Theory Thursday that I highly recommend where he hosts a guest musician and they jam and talk gear and how to play at a professional level along with tips for aspiring rock stars. He cares about his students as well. read more

Mike is a great guitar teacher. I came in as a self taught intermediate who had a good feel for the basics but really needed some more knowledge in terms of theory and developing musical IQ. Mike helped fill those gaps and unlock a new level in my playing. He's also got a solid studio with all tube amps and top of the line equipment which create a good learning environment. read more

Started weekly lessons last February. Mike is a great guitar instructor and will work with you to figure out your musical interests and what you need to do to get where you want to go. I view him as a rocker/music nerd, but he's more than that. He's got technique and music theory down and is well-versed in a variety of musical styles. He listens to and plays almost everything. So, if you want to learn how to play the guitar, go find Mike. Just remember, learning to play a musical instrument doesn't happen overnight and you have to practice too, but getting there can be a blast with Mike as your guitar teacher. read more

After playing the guitar for about 4 years, I finally decided to take guitar lessons for the first time and the first person that was recommended to me was Mike. Not only is he kind, but he's also extremely patient when it comes to teaching and always finds a way to inspire me to want to work harder. read more

Mike is a great guitar instructor! I came to him with only some knowledge of basic chords. My biggest challenge has been with strumming and switches. Mike is extremely patient and meets you where you are at. He makes lessons fun and makes sure that your goals are achieved, whether it be to play a song you love or to learn how to read music. Mike is very well educated in musical theory, so if you want to dive deeper he's your guy. He encourages guitar exercises to strengthen your fingers and of course practice! We have a set list of songs that we work on and he has been great with helping me build confidence in playing. I highly recommend Mike if you're looking for an instructor that is competent, patient, and makes playing the guitar fun read more

I have been taking guitar lessons with Mike for over a year and I have made significant improvements through his teaching. I have learned scales, posture, hand technique, but most of all...THEORY! Mike is very passionate and professional! I am lucky to have chosen him for guitar instruction! He has a great live show (Theory Thursday) every Thursday which features many musicians and it is very informative! read more

I was given four lessons with Mike as a birthday gift and I enjoyed it so much, I kept it going on my own--it's been well over a year now! Mike loves music and is passionate about playing and teaching guitar. He can dazzle you with his playing in a wide variety of styles, but he is also a great teacher who can explain theory and technique in a constructive and understandable way that doesn't take the fun out of it, and propels you forward on the next step of your own personal guitar journey. If you get stuck on something in between lessons, Mike is available to answer questions by text message or he'll even send a video demonstration! The lessons are super fun, AND I'm getting better every week (with practice). What more could you ask for? read more

Amazing! A guitar instructor that gets me! Mike makes payments and scheduling easy and he listens! I have excelled more in the past six weeks and I have in the past year and will definitely continue my lessons! It's my 39th birthday this week and I'm finally guitar player, rock on! read more

I really enjoy my lessons from mike. I tried learning on my own but was struggling. The way he teaches makes you realize things you didn't even consider when it comes to playing the guitar. He's always super flexible and understanding with my busy work schedule! read more

Mike is the man! Always patient and has a lot of enthusiasm about his craft. Highly recommend taking lessons no matter what your skill level is he will literally take you to new levels! read more

Mike provides a very pleasant learning adventure. As a recording musician, I've found that after a few lessons with mike, my over all playing and composition skills improved dramatically. Mike is not a boiler plate teacher doing it for the money. He is the real deal and he loves what he does. read more

Mike is the man. If you want to learn and will put the time into practice Mike will help you to achieve all your Rockstar dreams !!

For many years, I played guitar by ear. And, for many years, I was poor to mediocre at best, never putting forth the effort to get better or really learn the instrument. A couple of months ago, I finally decided I wanted to get good and gain the ability to learn and play what was in my head. After doing a bit of research online, I decided to give Mike a call. It was a great decision. Not only is Mike a phenomenal player, he is a great teacher, as well. He's mellow and easy to get along with, extremely patient and encouraging. Being a fan of creating original music, I had mentioned during one of my first lessons that I have an interest in songwriting. Mike immediately picked up on that and has been helping me focus on scales, chord progressions and creating choices and options that I can use when writing. After only two months, my playing has improved many times over (practice, people!), and I've already noticed a big difference in my songwriting. If you're looking to learn theory, proper technique, or just have fun regardless of the genre you're going for (metal/rock, folk, funk, etc.), give Mike a call. read more

I have nothing but great things to say about Mike. He is a fantastic player who I had the pleasure of seeing play live at the Casbah with his band Fusebox. Not only does he have all the chops but his tone is outstanding. Working with him has changed the way I think about playing guitar. He has shown me the spiritual healing power that an instrument has and I'm forever grateful to him. read more

Mike is an incredible guitar teacher! His patience and willingness to explain things in a manor that anyone can understand is what makes him stand out from the rest. Within a few minutes of working with Mike his experience and knowledge will start to show. I found working with him to be a very easy going experience and I look forward to seeing him every week. If you are looking for a guitar instructor stop looking and give Mike a call. You won't regret it! read more

I started guitar lessons with Mike for my 6 year old daughter and I was very happy with the level of patience and understanding Mike offered. She has since decided to play sports and do choir in school but still asks about Mike all the time. If she goes back to it Mike is easy to find and very accommodating to her / our schedule. read more

My 16 year old son has been taking lessons from Mike for 2 years, and has advanced by leaps and bounds under his tutelage. My son says that his guitar lessons with Mike are always the "highlight" of his week. If you are looking for a fun, kind, patient, and skilled guitar teacher, then please don't hesitate to choose Mike. He knows his music theory, as evidenced by his guitar show "Theory Thursday," viewable on Facebook Live and YouTube, and is well-respected in the music community. read more

I started lesson with Mike for several months now. He is really patient and listens to what I want to learn not what he wants me to learn. He is also well versed in theory and techniques so the lessons were custom tailored for what you need to learn. I would strongly recommend Mike for the beginners to pro for learning guitar. Great guitar instructor! read more

I came to Mike after struggling to learn to play rock and metal type music from another teacher who focused on just exercises and not learning music. Mike is the real deal a hardcore rocker with teaching chops and a passion for classic rock, metal, blues. He really makes learning to play the guitar tons of fun! I learned a ton from him in the short time that I took lessons from him. He also is a walking encyclopedia of guitar tech from pedals to amps to how to string a guitar and this really saved me a lot of head aches in terms of using my gear and having more fun in the learning process. I only stopped lessons because I had to move out of San Diego for work in Sacramento. Plus he is a great guy and really wants you to succeed and have fun. Highly recommended! read more

Mike is great - he knows what he's talking about and lessons are super fun. He works to tailor your lessons based on your interests and skill level. Highly recommended. read more

Mike is a fantastic guitar instructor and I can see my son's progress in just a few months! He's instilling good technique while also being fun and inspiring. I highly recommend him for those teens that want to bring out their inner "rock star" in a very professional manner. read more