Online guitar lessons have skyrocketed in popularity, and for good reason. Learning to shred or strum your favorite tunes has never been easier, with a range of platforms that cater to beginners and pros alike. Whether you’re someone who dreams of playing like Hendrix or just wants to nail that tricky riff from a pop song, there’s an online course for you. Let’s dive into the best online guitar lessons, what makes them stand out, and how to get started on your journey from plucking those first notes to playing full songs like a pro.
Why Choose Online Guitar Lessons?
Online guitar lessons offer flexibility, affordability, and access to resources that traditional lessons can’t always match. Whether you’re juggling a busy schedule or just prefer learning in your pajamas, there’s something magical about logging into a lesson on your own terms. But that’s not all—online guitar platforms are packed with interactive features and a vast library of songs and techniques that can propel your skills much faster than you’d imagine.
Convenience and Flexibility: Learn Anytime, Anywhere
One of the biggest perks of online guitar lessons is that you’re not tied to a fixed schedule. Want to learn at 2 a.m. when inspiration strikes? No problem. Platforms like Guitar Tricks and Justinguitar let you dive into lessons on your own time, whether you’re sitting in a coffee shop, at home, or even on the go. It’s like having a guitar teacher in your back pocket.
Plus, let’s not forget the ability to hit the replay button on that tricky barre chord tutorial until you’ve mastered it. No need to wait for your next in-person lesson to ask your teacher to repeat something—just rewind.
Affordability: A Fraction of the Cost
In-person lessons can cost anywhere from $40 to $100 an hour, depending on your location and the experience of the teacher. Compare that to a monthly subscription for platforms like JamPlay or TrueFire, where you get access to thousands of lessons for as little as $20 a month. That’s like having an all-access pass to a masterclass series—without breaking the bank.
These platforms also often offer free trials or free beginner courses, so you can dip your toes in without committing. In fact, Justinguitar offers one of the best free options for beginners, making it a perfect starting point if you’re on a budget.
Best Online Guitar Lesson Platforms in 2024
With so many platforms out there, it can feel like you’re drowning in choices. But don’t worry—I’ve sifted through the noise to give you the best of the best. These platforms aren’t just popular—they’re built for progress and packed with value.
Guitar Tricks: Best for Structured Learning Paths
Guitar Tricks is the gold standard for anyone looking for a well-organized and structured approach. With over 11,000 lessons, they offer everything from beginner basics to advanced techniques. Their intuitive interface allows you to follow a clear learning path, whether you’re starting from scratch or focusing on a specific genre. From blues to country, there’s a course for you.
The platform also stands out for its song lessons. Unlike other platforms, Guitar Tricks features licensed, note-by-note song tutorials for artists like AC/DC, Pink Floyd, and Eric Clapton. So, whether you want to learn the exact solo from “Comfortably Numb” or riff along to “Back in Black,” they’ve got you covered.
Justinguitar: Best Free Option for Beginners
If you’re just starting and don’t want to shell out any cash yet, Justinguitar is where you should be. This completely free platform has been a go-to for beginners since 2003. Justin Sandercoe, the charismatic teacher behind the platform, has a knack for breaking down complex ideas into bite-sized lessons. It’s like having a friendly guide who’s always patient, never frustrated, and ready to help you conquer that first chord progression.
While the platform’s free offering is a major draw, Justinguitar also offers premium content that delves into more advanced techniques and styles. But even if you never pay a dime, you’ll have access to hundreds of beginner lessons and song tutorials.
JamPlay: Best for Intermediate and Advanced Players
If you’ve already mastered the basics and are itching to go deeper, JamPlay is for you. Known for its high-quality video production and in-depth courses, JamPlay excels at niche techniques and styles. Whether you want to explore jazz improvisation or deep dive into metal riffs, JamPlay’s expert instructors can take you there.
The platform is also great for its live classes, where you can interact with instructors in real-time. This feature adds a more personal touch to online learning, especially if you miss the direct feedback of an in-person teacher.
TrueFire: Ideal for Genre-Specific Learning
For the guitar player who already has a solid foundation but wants to explore specific genres, TrueFire is unmatched. With over 50,000 lessons and more than 7000 YouTube uploads, this platform is particularly strong for blues, jazz, and fingerstyle. The lessons are thorough, and the playlists are meticulously organized to guide you through various skill levels.
TrueFire isn’t just for advanced players, though. It’s got something for everyone, but its specialized courses make it a favorite for guitarists looking to hone in on a particular style or technique.
What to Look for in an Online Guitar Course
Choosing the right online guitar course is a bit like picking the perfect guitar. You need to find something that feels right for you. Here are some things to consider when narrowing down your options.
Skill Level: Tailored for Beginners to Pros
The best online guitar platforms don’t just cater to one skill level. They grow with you. A solid platform, like Guitar Tricks, offers a structured path that starts with the basics and gradually introduces more advanced techniques as you progress. Justinguitar excels at this for beginners, but for more advanced players, platforms like TrueFire or JamPlay are better suited.
Content Variety: Lessons, Songs, and Genres
When you’re learning guitar, variety is key. One of the best ways to stay motivated is by learning the songs you love. Platforms like Guitar Tricks and JamPlay offer a vast library of song tutorials in different genres, from rock to blues to country. If you’re passionate about a specific genre, look for a platform that specializes in it.
Teaching Styles and Instructors
The style of teaching can make or break your learning experience. Some platforms, like TrueFire, excel at offering a wide variety of instructors, each with their own teaching style. If you prefer a laid-back, humorous approach, look for instructors that match that energy. Others, like Guitar Tricks, focus on polished, professional presentations with step-by-step guidance.
Free vs. Paid Guitar Lessons: Which is Right for You?
It’s the age-old question: should you pay for lessons, or is free content enough? The answer depends on your goals.
Pros and Cons of Free Lessons
Free lessons, like those on YouTube and Justinguitar, are a great way to dip your toes into the world of guitar playing. You can learn the basics without spending a dime, which is fantastic for those who aren’t sure about committing to the instrument yet. However, free lessons often lack structure. You’ll find yourself bouncing from one video to another, which can slow your progress.
The Benefits of Paid Platforms
Paid platforms like Guitar Tricks and JamPlay offer something that free platforms can’t: a clear, structured learning path. These courses are designed to build upon each other, guiding you from beginner to advanced levels. Plus, the production quality and depth of content are much better on paid platforms. You’re paying for expert instruction, progress tracking, and sometimes even live feedback—things that can take your playing to the next level.
Actionable Tips to Maximize Your Online Guitar Learning Experience
Learning guitar online isn’t just about watching videos—it’s about actively practicing and applying what you learn.
Set a Regular Practice Schedule
Just like anything worth learning, guitar takes time and dedication. The best way to improve is by setting a regular practice schedule. You don’t have to practice for hours every day—20 to 30 minutes of focused practice is often more effective than spending hours mindlessly strumming. Break your practice into sections: warm up, work on technique, learn a new song, and review past material.
Make Use of Practice Tools
Most online platforms come with some incredible tools to help you practice more effectively. Features like looping and slow-motion playback are available on Guitar Tricks and JamPlay, allowing you to slow down tricky solos or chord changes and repeat them until you nail it.
Conclusion: Start Your Guitar Journey Today
There’s never been a better time to learn guitar. With online platforms like Guitar Tricks, Justinguitar, and JamPlay offering everything from beginner lessons to advanced techniques, you have all the tools you need at your fingertips. Whether you’re just starting or looking to refine your skills, pick a platform, set a practice schedule, and start playing. After all, the only thing standing between you and your next guitar solo is a little bit of practice.