Probably more difficult than figuring out which guitar to buy when I decided to pick it up was…read moredeciding on a teacher. The internet is filled with many instructors with impressive credentials. What I noticed about Dave's website is that, unlike others who focused on what they know, Dave focused on how he would teach a student. There is that big, big difference between knowing something and teaching it, and Dave was focused on helping the student to learn. I have been with Dave for two years this month and am very happy with my choice. Yes, of course he knows how to play, and knows this intricacy of the fretboard and that intricacy of theory. But anyone teaching should know those things anyway. What I like about Dave, and why I highly recommend him, is that he is interested in getting me to play that way, and will go over a piece, or even a measure, as many times as necessary to get me there. Thankfully, he not only knows how to teach, but also possesses that most important attribute for someone in the field: the patience of Job.

I've been taking lessons weekly with Dave for over a year now. When I started, I'd never played an…read moreinstrument before--except for the trombone back in 4th grade band. Dave worked with me to help me learn how to read standard notation and tabs, get familiar with the fretboard, and begin developing as a guitar player. Dave's got an amazing depth of knowledge of styles and theory. He's helped me with flatpicking and fingerpicking styles, and I'm now able to play some rudimentary versions of Doc Watson and Rev. Gary Davis tunes. I want to emphasize that his help has allowed me to get there in just a year of playing--friends of mine who've been playing for years are surprised by my playing, and I give full credit to Dave. His greatest assets as a teacher, without a doubt, are his patience and encouragement. There's been hundreds of times when I've flubbed notes and chords over and over, and he's never once shown any frustration, but just said, "that's all right, take your time." He's passionate about the music he teaches, and that enthusiasm definitely inspires me to practice, practice, practice! Dave is friendly and knowledgeable, a calm and patient teacher, and an amazing guitar player. You won't regret picking Dave to teach you how to play!

My daughter has been in vocal training at Hunt Valley Music since she was 7 years old. (She is now…read more13). We love it! There are several reasons for the positive review: First, the instructor teaches in an age appropriate manner. At 7, my daughter sang "Hannah Montana", and now, as she auditions more seriously, she is working on both Broadway Musicals and Art Songs. Second, the instructor works hard at improving her range, prioritizes warming up, and challenges her to learn new vocal techniques. ("vibrato" last year, and "runs" this year, for example.) Third, the style is very laid back; the instructor encourages, but never "pushes", which is so important when teaching kids in our opinion. Last, the instructor is "up" on what is going on in the community, from upcoming auditions in children's theater, to age-appropriate shows coming to the Lyric! The voice students have their own small recital at HVM, as this type of training clearly differs from the traditional instrumental variety. It is thoughtful that the "brass" at HVM realize this, and that the instructor gives the kids their own chance to shine vocally. We have not had any problems with make-ups or fees. You pay upfront for the month, and, as long as you call in advance with a conflict, the instructor bends over backwards to work with you to schedule a make-up lesson. (We try hard to be respectful, as does she. Sometimes, though, a huge mountain of homework happens. The teacher gets it!) It is worthy to note that the voice instructor has never missed one of my daughter's shows, and has written several thoughtful recommendations for her over the years when we have needed them. These actions go "above and beyond" in our opinion. Fantastic place for kids who are interested in learning music!

I am genuinely shocked to have to be writing this review. Mark (the owner) threatened my son (his…read moreguitar student) with violence when he let him know he would be quitting lessons. My son has taken lessons with Mark since 2021. He is about to graduate from high school, and told Mark that he will need to wind down lessons as he goes to college. Mark became irrationally upset. He threatened to throw my son's guitar out the door, began swearing, tore up the monthly lessons check and threw it at my son, and raised his fists to challenge him to fight. Thankfully my son had the presence of mind to just leave and get away from him. He came home early from his lesson very distraught. We did call the police to make a report. Apparently Mark's justification for this behavior is that my husband and I didn't talk with him enough about how the lessons were going. He never called us to report anything. Unfortunately we had no idea there was any sort of expectation for us to communicate, and even if there were I can't imagine that reason ever justifying threatening and yelling at a student. I'm so shocked by the end of this years long interaction we've had with Hunt Valley Music, but feel like I absolutely must warn people. He is clearly not a safe person to be teaching children.

We LOVE our music classes with Ms. Betina, Ms. Joanna and Mr. Bryce. My son loves the various…read moreinstruments that come out each week and the predictable flow of the class.

its Groovy Baby has a been wonderful experience for my child. He looks forward to attending class…read moreeach week.

My son has enjoyed his lessons at Columbia Guitar Studio, and I would highly recommend it to those…read moreinterested in learning to play guitar. I'm always impressed with David's ability to connect with each student on an individual level, regardless of age and temperament, and help them to maximize their potential. Bonus: my teen son looks forward to his weekly lessons, and we typically leave the studio with a chuckle over David's dry wit.

Great instructor - my both sons absolutely enjoy the lessons! If you ever decide to learn playing…read moreguitar, contact David at Columbia Guitar Studio, you won't be disappointed.

This place is great! The best teachers ever! They teach a wide range of instruments. From the…read moreukulele to the drums. Brendan is my teacher for guitar. He is great! he teaches you fast. And In a few lessons he'll have you playing songs! If you're looking for a great place to learn an instrument fast come to stages!!! Charles ( the manager ) comes around a lot and peeks into your lesson. He is so nice. I've known Charles since I was 3 or 4 years old. All the employees here are amazingly friendly and are ready to help you at any time!!!

They treat others like you can not even read a single sign. I tried to go in to see if they sell…read moreany strings and how much the repairs are for at least 4 guitar. The sign said no restroom I read that and was not going in there for that. White lady said no lesson? It says No restroom and approached furiously in their store giving us nasty look after repeating no restroom multiple times and pointing to the sign .Did not even let us speak for question. Can not tell if she was owner but def not going in, I didn't even get to check the inside. How rude!

I went here when I was younger in like middle school and it helped my voice mature so well. I'm…read moreeven thinking about bribing my child here now !! Mia was the best!!

Jorge is an excellent coach and teacher. His approach is very professional and he truly cares about…read morehis students. From the first lesson on I knew this was the type of teaching I've always wanted. His studio is also always clean and impeccable. Highly recommend Zen Guitar Studios!

Carol is an expert singing instructor. She has an incredible grasp of musicality, vocal pedagogy,…read moreanatomy, and songwriting. She helped me correct years of bad singing technique and took my voice to a new level. I highly recommend her for anyone seeking to improve their voice.

Carol is a fantastic teacher. I've been receiving lessons from her a little for over a year now and…read moreI can say without a doubt that she is the best instructor I've ever worked with. I've learned more from her in a year than I have from all of my previous voice teachers combined. Carol is kind, dedicated, and knowledgable, and consistently works to provide her students with the most up-to-date information and techniques. Lessons with her are the highlight of my week!