No experience necessary, no experience like it!
The backbone of the Old Town School experience. Our group guitar classes provide a solid musical background using both traditional and popular music styles. There’s a guitar class for every level of player, and even if you’re a beginner, you’ll be able to play a song on your very first day of class.
Learn a new skill and have fun while you do it! Our classes run every day of the week at different times of the day to fit into your busy schedule.
Welcome to the largest, longest running group guitar program in the world!
Most classes have 4-14 folks, for 8-week sessions.
The folk tradition is playing, singing and coming together to learn and meet new people in the process.
From pure beginners to shredders looking for new skills, there’s a place for every guitarist.
Most classes end the session with a showcase on stage for friends and family to attend.
Classes run every day most times of the day to fit into your busy schedule.
No guitar, no problem! Our music store has a great guitar for you to rent and practice with all session.
You will find both Skills or Core classes and Repertoire (Rep) Classes. Skills classes teach you the basic techniques necessary to advance through the program. Repertoire classes reinforce skills and focus on playing more songs using learned techniques.
Complete Beginners? Start With Guitar 1
Self-Taught? Learned From Videos? Start At Guitar 2
Barre Chords? Haven’t Played In A While? Take Our Placement Quiz
You’re entering a special musical community when you sign up for a class. Join in open jams, our Second Half gatherings after class, visiting artist residencies and other community events all around Chicago.
Looking to be a lord of the low end? Our group classes focus specifically on the fretted electric bass and can get you holding down the bass grooves in no time. Beginners welcome too!
Go beyond the basics and learn the nuts and bolts of music and create your own. Finish your songs or start creating with our accomplished songsmiths to kickstart your creativity!
Over 250 of the most talented artists in Chicago are ready to inspire you in classes and lessons. If you know who you’re looking to study with, browse the listings and see their available classes.
You don’t have to own an instrument to join our classes. You are able to apply a percentage of your rental fee toward a purchase of a new instrument too!
Not sure where to begin your musical adventure? Visit these resources to find you the right class for your skill level.
Whether you’re a complete beginner or an experienced musician, private lessons provide opportunities to get personal attention. We offer 30, 45 and 60-minute varieties at both campuses and you can start any time.
Read about our policies around class refunds, credits, and applicable discounts.
A tradition since 1957, each session two songs are chosen, one from the songbook and one from the general repertoire. All classes are encouraged to learn these tunes and apply the skills they are working on at their individual levels.
You have to get here to be here! Easy access to our campuses via public transportation in both Lincoln Square and Lincoln Park.
We provide financial aid to both children and adults for private lessons and group classes based on financial need.
Our artist engagement services offers a wide array of entertainment for any occasion by talented, professional artists. Everything from soloists to 11-piece bands, we can help take your event to the next level and help support the school at the same time!
A great way to get more involved with Old Town School, supporting our mission providing arts education for everyone. Member benefits include class discounts, gifts and early access for concert tickets.
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James G. Hart Foundation
Geraldine Keefe
Negaunee Foundation
Rob and Karen Ospalik
Tomford and Grossman Family
