In-Person Guitar Lessons in Toronto
Private Guitar, Theory, Technique, Composition, and Production Lessons in the GTA
Meet Your Guitar Instructor
Hi there! My name is David Piluso. I’m a professional guitarist, composer, and producer based in Toronto, Canada. I’m excited to share my passion for music with you through personalized, in-person guitar lessons that cater to your unique interests and goals.
Whether you’re a complete beginner picking up the instrument for the first time, or an advanced player looking to further refine your musicianship, I’m here to help you unlock your full potential.
I bring both practical industry experience and formal academic knowledge to my teaching, having earned my Bachelor of Fine Arts and a Master of Arts in Music from York University.
As an active performer and producer, my personal style blends jazz fusion with progressive rock. My debut record, ‘Blue Hour‘ (2024), charted on the first page of Bandcamp’s jazz and fusion genres and has been featured on major outlets like Jazz.FM91, CBC Radio, Toronto’s 311 service, among others.
Regardless of your skill level or stylistic interests, I’m passionate about helping my students grow in their musical journey. I always aim to create a supportive and inspiring environment and take your progress and goals seriously. While I specialize in progressive rock, jazz fusion, and metal, the knowledge and insights you gain from lessons will be applicable to any musical direction you’re interested in.
Guitar Lessons
I focus on creating an inspiring and educational environment where you can grow as a player. We will cover technique, repertoire, improvisation, and knowing your way around the fretboard.
Music Theory & Songwriting
Understanding music theory opens up a whole new world. Whether you’ve never read music before, or want to explore advanced jazz harmony and composition, I’ll guide you along the way.
Music Production
In today’s digital world, having music production skills is a valuable skill to have as an artist. Learn the essentials of recording guitars, editing, mixing.
Topics we can cover
Every student is at a different stage in their musical journey. Lessons are custom tailored to you, which may include:
- Technique: alternate picking, legato, sweep picking)
- Musical Expression: Phrasing and touch
- Composition: Melody, harmony, writing guitar solos
- Improvisation: Spontaneously create and interact with music
- Practical Theory: Leaning the fretboard, understanding modes, scales, and chords
- Gear & Tone: Dialling in your amplifier or modeller, and pedals
- Music production: Recording your own music
In-Person Lesson Pricing
My rate for in-person lessons are listed below. A single introductory can be booked, although the teaching facility where I teach these lessons books 4 lessons at a time. For more affordable rates, online lessons are also an option.
1 hour
$73
45 mins
$58
30 mins
$43
Frequently Asked Questions
Where to lessons take place?
Lessons are conducted locally in the Greater Toronto Area at a dedicated music school facility, usually in Thornhill.
Reach out via the form below for specific location details!
Do you teach complete beginners?
Absolutely. I teach all levels from beginner to advanced. I enjoy helping absolute beginners build a strong foundational technique.
What is your teaching method?
If you have specific goals or questions you’d like to work through, we will spend time with that. For students who feel stuck, or for those who don’t know what to work on, I can also take the lead and introduce you to new concepts and ideas. My goal as a teacher is to give you the knowledge and skill set to work through musical problems.
Do I need my own guitar?
Yes, students need their own instrument to get started. If you need suggestions for a new instrument, feel free to reach out and I will send you some recommendations in your budget.
Can I book single lessons?
I teach in-person lessons at a lesson studio that does pre-book lessons on a monthly basis consisting of 4 lessons. However a single introductory lesson can be booked.
More info on rates and payments
The pricing for in-person lessons reflects the cost of my teaching rate along with the music school’s studio fee. If you’re looking for more affordable lessons, consider online lessons which have a reduced rate and can be booked individually and at your convenience.
Ready to get started?
Fill out the form below and I will get back to you shortly to setup a lesson!
