Overview
Our guitar and bass instructors teach rock, pop, blues, metal, country, jazz, funk, and classical styles on electric, acoustic, and bass guitar. Guitar students start with chords, melodies, and strumming patterns; bass students learn to lock in with the beat, build grooves and walking bass lines, and understand how the bass connects rhythm and harmony. Every student works on reading, theory, and technique, and every lesson ends with something fun, like your favorite riff, bass line, or song. Bring your phone and we'll help you learn the music you love.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the #1 reason to study guitar or bass at M&M Music?
Our guitar and bass instructors get to know each student and build a lesson plan around their favorite music. Whether you're an eight-year-old picking up your first guitar, a teen who wants to join a band or jam with friends, or an adult returning to the instrument after many years, we'll set clear goals and help you reach them.
What types of music can I play on guitar or bass?
Guitar is a very versatile instrument and is commonly used in pop, rock, jazz, country, metal, blues, folk, R&B and even Latin music. Bass is the backbone of almost every style, from pop, rock, funk and R&B to jazz, Latin, gospel and metal. If there's a band, there's a bassist!
Should my child play the electric or acoustic guitar? What is the difference and do you need to learn one instrument before the other?
Both electric and acoustic guitar are played the same exact way. The only difference is what styles of music they are best at playing and how the instruments feel when played. The acoustic guitar is a great instrument choice if you want to be able to sit around a campfire and play some of your favorite songs with family or friends singing along. Acoustic guitar uses no amplification so the instrument needs to be bigger and use thicker tougher strings in order to be heard (might be more challenging for younger hands). It's best suited for styles like country, folk, and soft rock. The electric guitar is a very versatile instrument that uses amplification to get its sound. Although it requires a guitar amp to make a loud enough sound, the sound can be adjusted to work for many different types of music from clean pop and jazz music all the way to loud crunchy metal music (guitar amps usually come with headphone jacks for quiet playing).
Do I need to learn guitar before bass?
No! Many students start right on bass. Most basses have four strings, and beginners can play real songs quickly by focusing on rhythm and groove. Smaller "short-scale" basses are available for younger students or smaller hands.
Do I need to own an instrument to take lessons?
It is recommended to have an instrument of your own in order to get the most out of lessons. If you need help or advice on finding an instrument that will suit your needs, wants, and budget, ask your teacher at M&M music before making a purchase.
How long does it take to learn guitar or bass?
Luckily, both guitar and bass have a great learning curve for beginners. Within the first couple of lessons you will be able to play some of your favorite songs at a basic level, and bass players can often start playing along with recordings right away. Although they are easy instruments to jump into, players can spend years perfecting their craft and finding their sound. There is always room to grow and learn new things.
I don't have any musical background or ability. Can I still help my child practice?
Yes! Short, consistent practice matters more than musical knowledge. Ask the teacher what your child should work on each day. Sore fingertips are normal for new guitar and bass players; they toughen up within a few weeks of regular playing, so encourage your child to stick with it.
