What my students say.

I am learning to play the guitar at age 24 and I could not have asked for a better teacher. Truly, Jimmy is amazing beyond all expectations. So grateful to have these teachings to guide me on my guitar journey, I always get clarification at whatever I am unsure of when I ask.

I can't recommend Jimmy Kershaw highly enough as a guitar teacher. He has been an absolute joy to work with and has helped me improve my guitar skills in ways I never thought possible. Jimmy is incredibly knowledgeable about music theory and guitar technique, and he is always willing to help me explore different genres to find my own unique voice on the instrument. But what really sets Jimmy apart is his patience and kindness. He truly cares about his students and takes the time to listen to our goals and struggles. He never makes me feel ashamed for making mistakes — instead, he encourages me to keep trying and offers gentle guidance until I get it right. He is always on time, comes prepared with thoughtful lesson plans tailored to my needs, and communicates clearly and promptly. I feel incredibly lucky to have found such a talented and caring teacher. He has helped me grow as a musician and as a person.

Jimmy has been a tremendous resource for me while learning guitar! The world of guitar is very unfamiliar and overwhelming to a new player. But thanks to Jimmy, I always found myself getting better and more confident week after week. He had me learning to play songs in just a few weeks, and did not introduce me to guitar theory until I was truly ready. I felt this was the best way to learn. I cannot thank Jimmy enough for his guidance throughout my guitar journey!

Jimmy is a fantastic teacher, musician, and friend. I was a student of Jimmy's for 6 years and in that time I built my love for music under his mentorship. He constantly pushed his students to be the best musician they could be. His passion for music and teaching shows when you talk to his students. I was fortunate enough to be in a gigging band that Jimmy created for 5 years, and being in the group taught me how to work with other musicians. I feel like I am a better musician and person for knowing Jimmy. I'm currently pursuing a degree in music education with a focus in classical guitar — which wouldn't have been possible without the skills he taught me. Jimmy is a friend for life, and you'll learn that being a student of his.

I started lessons with Jimmy in my 60's. A few years ago I was asked to play at a student event as part of a makeshift faculty band — my first gig would be before 800 people, and I hadn't performed live in over 40 years. Well, that's the student Jimmy got. He has been great — endlessly encouraging, blending playing with music theory, while patient with what time I could put into practice. As a teacher myself, I can attest to Jimmy's skill. Combined with his love of music and his interest in the success of each student, I don't think you could do better.

In my Sixties I decided to learn how to play guitar. So I bought one and asked for a teacher. I was recommended to see Jimmy Kershaw. Right away he got me to relax and said let's have fun — that's part of his teaching method. Jimmy takes his time teaching. When teaching chords he told me to think ahead. He always asks me what song I'd like to learn. He has taught me a lot. Sometimes if I cannot make a lesson date he always finds time to make my lesson on a day that I can. Besides being my teacher he has become a friend.

Ever since I started lessons at a young age Jimmy has been there to guide me through my musical journey. If it weren't for him I would never have been a part of the musical projects I've had the privilege of working on. Jimmy has always been there for me not only as an outstanding teacher, but also as an amazing friend I can count on. As long as you have the passion and you're willing to work hard, Jimmy can make anything possible and you will find success under his wing.

Jimmy is not only a great teacher but a great person. It's hard to find someone who has the skills but also isn't arrogant about his playing. Jimmy is very humble but his chops are top level, and he can do many styles. He has taken me very far in the months I've had lessons with him and he always pushes you. The lessons are fun and laid back and you will do things you actually want to do. I have only great things to say.

Jim has been my son's guitar teacher for the last 6 years. In all that time, my son has not once told me he didn't want to go to his weekly lesson. In fact, most weeks he is reminding me so we don't miss it. Jim has been so encouraging and supportive. He has appropriately challenged my son, pushing him just enough, which has led to amazing progress. This experience has been so enriching and we are very grateful for finding such a talented teacher.

I have been taking guitar lessons for a little over a year now with Jimmy and I must say, with his thorough and unique style of teaching, it has made me a more confident, relaxed player. I always look forward to my next lesson because he is not only a great teacher but a good friend.

I have been a student of Jimmy's since I was just about six years old. Over the years he was patient, kind, considerate, and committed. He is extremely passionate in seeing his students succeed — a quality all teachers should have. He uses only the best methods to ensure his students are comfortable and having fun while learning how to play music. I couldn't have found a better person to learn guitar from.

At 64, I've considered myself a lifelong beginner. My lessons with Jimmy have enabled me to reach a "next" level, where I can finally see myself reaching my goals.

Jimmy takes the time to understand his students and is realistic when it comes to practicing.

I was a student of Jimmy Kershaw's for 7 years. Not only is he a talented guitar player, he is an outstanding teacher. His knowledge and experience will give you the skill set required to go as far as you want to go. P.S. He WILL know when you haven't practiced.

With Jimmy, I was always making progress even when I didn't realize it. When I was frustrated, he could point out how far I'd come.

I've been playing guitar for 30 years, but I never took the time to understand music as a language so I could communicate with other musicians. That's where Jimmy comes in. He developed advanced lessons to help me put together techniques I was already playing — but in a way where I now understand what and why I'm doing it. My playing has taken off to the point where I'm sight-reading hard jazz songs with a vastly expanding understanding of theory and composition. I was a guitar player, but Jimmy is helping me become a musician.

My son has been with Jimmy for over 5 years now. Not only is he a great guitar player, but an excellent teacher. My son has learned so much. Highly recommend him for any level — beginner or advanced.

Jimmy, I'm so glad I have you as my teacher. I am super happy with my progress and couldn't have made it this far without your help. My only regret is not finding you 20 years ago!