Hi, my name is Noel Wentworth, and I’ve been teaching music for more than 25 years and playing and performing for more than 40 years. Over the years, I’ve had the pleasure of teaching hundreds of students, from kids and teens to adults and retirees. I really enjoy helping students become more comfortable and confident with the guitar, no matter where they’re starting from.

I like to keep my lessons relaxed, supportive, and practical. I take the time to get to know each student and understand what they want to get out of their lessons. For some students, that means learning their favourite songs. For others, it might be improving technique and rhythm, learning music theory, writing songs, or developing the skills needed to play with other musicians.

I hold a Diploma in Music Performance from Selkirk College and a Licentiate in Music Education through RSL Awards. I’ve also served as an RSL Awards provincial representative and participated on the Student Advisory Panel for Selkirk College. These experiences have given me a strong background in both music and music education.

I also bring my experience as a working musician and recording artist into my lessons. I’ve released two albums, Motion(2002) and Change (2004), and I continue to draw on my years of playing, performing, recording, and learning music when I work with students.

For me, guitar lessons are about more than just learning the notes. I want students to understand their instrument, play music they actually enjoy, and develop skills they can continue to use as they grow as musicians. Most importantly, I want them to have fun and look forward to picking up their guitar.

Guitar lessons are designed to build practical skills, confidence, and a strong musical foundation. What you learn will depend on your experience, interests, and goals.

Lessons may include:

• Chords and chord changes
• Strumming and picking
• Scales and music theory
• Lead guitar and improvisation
• Riffs, power chords, barre chords, and solos
• Guitar tablature and standard notation
• Rhythm, timing, and phrasing
• Song structure
• Ear training
• Effective practice habits

Performance Opportunities

Students who enjoy performing can take part in relaxed student showcases held twice a year. These performances give students a chance to share what they've been working on, build confidence, and experience playing for an audience in a supportive environment.

Online Guitar Lessons

Online guitar lessons are also available when attending the studio isn't practical or when the student is sick. Students can continue learning from home while receiving personalized instruction and feedback from Noel.

Whether you're picking up a guitar for the first time, getting back into playing, or looking to take your skills further, lessons are adapted to where you are and what you want to learn.

Kids and Young Beginners

Students age 9 and up can learn guitar in a fun, encouraging environment while building a strong foundation. Lessons can include chords, rhythm, technique, coordination, practice habits, and songs they enjoy playing.

Teens

Teen students can explore the music they enjoy while developing their skills as guitarists. Depending on their interests, lessons may include rock, pop, blues, alternative, metal, improvisation, songwriting, and music theory.

Students involved in school music programs can also get help with guitar technique, repertoire, theory, and playing skills.

Adults

It's never too late to learn guitar. Adult students may be complete beginners, returning to guitar after many years, or experienced players looking to improve.

Lessons can focus on learning favourite songs, improving technique, understanding music theory, improvisation, songwriting, performance, or specific guitar skills.

Whatever your age or experience level, the goal is to help you become a better guitarist while enjoying the music you're learning to play.

For students who enjoy working toward a specific goal, guitar lessons can include preparation for RSL Awards (Rockschool) graded exams.

Noel can help students prepare for Rockschool Guitar Grades 4, 5, and 6, with lessons covering the repertoire, technical skills, and musicianship required for each grade.

Preparation can include:

• Selecting and learning the required repertoire
• Developing the technical skills needed for the grade
• Scales, arpeggios, and other technical exercises
• Sight-reading
• Performance preparation
• Mock assessments
• Improving timing, technique, and musicality

Rockschool exams give students a structured way to track their progress and work toward a recognized musical achievement. Passing Rockschool Grades 4, 5, and 6 can also be used toward BC Ministry of Education external high school credit.

Guitar exams are completely optional. They provide another path for students who enjoy having a clear goal, working through a structured program, and seeing their progress over time.

For younger beginners, we recommend starting with piano lessons with Lora Wentworth or ukulele lessons (ages 7+) with Noel Wentworth.

Some Helpful Guitar Learning Resources

Electric vs. Acoustic Guitar: Which one should beginners choose? 

5 things to Know Before Starting Guitar Lessons in Glenmore, Kelowna 

What to Expect in Your First Guitar Lesson in Kelowna