I was trying to learn the guitar on and off for a few years and always had questions that I couldn’t get quick straight answers to. I decided to seek out a professional teacher, as I have in the passed to help overcome the barriers I’ve encountered. As with pass instructors I was expecting to be disappointed once again, with boring techniques and one way communications. Tom has made learning the guitar enjoyable for me by actually listening to my needs as a student and teaching at a pace which is comfortable for me in a relaxing setting. I have found Tom has gone above and beyond with his level of patience, he has always been willing to spend extra time on a subject or skill that I’ve had trouble grasping. Tom has even help me come out of my “musical shell”, from creating melodies and harmonies to actually singing. Whether I’m in the mood for acoustic or electric guitar, the blues, country, rock or classical. Tom has been accommodating without hesitation. He has a way of applying a lesson to any of the styles I feel like learning in that session. The only thing that would improved my experience with Tom, is if I could find more time to practice between lessons.

Throughout my time in high school, I went to him for guitar lessons and I learned rather quickly. The lessons aren’t boring and he allows the lessons to revolve around whatever your musical tastes happen to be. If you are truly into music, you will make great progress with his guidance. Now that I’m out of high school, I still retain much of the knowledge he taught me and I use it to continue to advance my skills. On a side note, has also helped broaden my interests to other styles of music and other instruments. Worth every penny.

I studied classical guitar with Thomas several times, as well as hiring him to record my first demo album. He has a rare and valuable ability to focus and sustain attention to detail. All his work with me or for me was excellent. I also admire him for his versatility, as I am strictly a classical player, but he is plays many styles well and composes, records, and is a fine teacher.

Tom is an amazing guitar teacher who can help any skill level of player. “Your book” is what he teaches you not from some expensive book you don’t have the money for. Tom’s guitar studio is just as incredible and he will help his students record their work!

Mr. Shugar is an outstanding guitar and music teacher, as well as a very talented and professional performer. He has taken our daughter from being unable to read music, to being able to read, analyze, and perform very complex classical standards and contemporary pieces alike. His lessons are prompt, although he always finds extra time to make sure his students understand the concepts being taught. His knowledge, passion and love of music is quite infectious to those exposed to teaching and performances.

Thomas Shugar is the best guitar instructor I have ever come across. Each student gets a personalized curriculum and Thomas gets his students playing fluently and quickly. In comparison to many other instructors I have tried, Thomas cares about his students being able to play and hold interest. For the money, it’s the best investment to have him as your instructor. The price is comparable to others, but the instruction in comparison is priceless. I highly recommend him. He will be teaching my son and he taught me. He is a valuable addition to your interest in guitar.

I met Tom about a year ago when I first came into learn how to play guitar. His incredible knowledge and passion for music gave me the drive I needed to wanna make music myself one day. He makes learning fun and he breaks things down in ways that you can actually understand what he’s trying to teach you. I’ve learned so much from him in a short period of time and I also feel I made a new friend as well. I will continue my musical journey with a great teacher and one day have my own music too.

Tom Shugar teaches guitar the right way. He creates the perfect balance between work and fun. Most important thing with learning any instrument is ENJOYING playing the instrument, and Tom makes sure you are playing the music YOU like. Take all of your method books and burn them. Tom’s custom method is the only way to learn AND enjoy the guitar.

I’ve always wanted to play the guitar, but had no idea what I was doing. I started taking lessons from a couple of instructors and became bored with what ‘they’ thought I should learn, the usual basic kiddy songs dragging them out for weeks on end. Tried YouTube videos, which are always limited information and one way without any feedback or encouragement. That all changed when I responded to an ad in the paper for Guitar Lessons with Tom Shurgar. I was blown away by how open and encouraging and friendly Tom is, along with his extensive knowledge of music. He’s helped me understand from the basic to the more advanced theories and guitar techniques. Tom answers every question, simple or complicated with clarity and passion. He’s not only taught me how to play guitar, but also encouraged and helped me in my journey of writing music and even helped me fine tune and record my music in his studio. To this day, if I’m stuck on a guitar part, need a little push or a refresher, Tom always makes the time for me. I’m forever grateful for helping me find that missing piece in my life. The gift of music.