Guitar Lessons

I have taught guitar lessons across the North Country for over 20 years. Whether you're picking up a guitar for the first time or refining your skills, I offer customized lesson plans tailored to your goals.

  • Beginner to Advanced instruction for acoustic and electric guitar.

    Scheduling is flexible and can be offered in-person or online.

    In-person lessons are offered in Potsdam at the Potsdam Public Library, in the Trinity Episcopal Church Community Space, or by other arrangement.

    Lessons are either 40 or 60 minutes depending on age and skill level of student.

  • Group lessons are offered on a case-by-case basis for groups of 2 or more students at an adjusted rate.

  • Music theory classes are offered for beginner to intermediate learners.

I offer live music rooted in folk, bluegrass, blues, country, and jazz traditions, featuring fingerstyle acoustic guitar and versatile electric playing. I have experience performing solo, in duos, trios, and full band settings, and can provide both lead and rhythm guitar as needed.

Whether you need background music for an event, a featured performance, or accompaniment for other artists, I can tailor the sound to fit your needs — offering vocals, acoustic and electric guitar across a range of styles.

Performance

2023, Performing for an art exhibit opening at Jernabi

Coffeehouse, Potsdam, NY

about me

I have been playing guitar for over 25 years and have provided 20 years of private and professional instruction to students across the North Country. My teaching experience was greatly enhanced during my time with Musical Way Academy under the leadership of Jon Dufore, where I expanded my student base, led group lessons, and further developed my instructional skills.

In 2024, I ran a Guitar 101 program funded by the SLC Arts Regrant Program at the A.A.K. Middle School in Potsdam, and I have taught music classes for two summers through the SLC Arts Teen Summer Arts Program. I also maintain a consistent private lesson schedule with students throughout the North Country region. This past summer, I worked with GardenShare to perform at several farmers markets in Potsdam, Canton, and Gouverneur.

Recently, I was selected to attend the New York State Foundation for the Arts (NYFA) "Artist as Entrepreneur" conference held at St. Lawrence University.

Contact me

Interested in learning more about lessons or booking for a performance opportunity?

Reach out by using the form, or:

Call/Text (315)212-4385

Email marklyonguitar@gmail.com