Concert guitarist and recording artist, RCM certified teacher, 20 years teaching experience, University trained, available for online and in person guitar lessons.

I've been learning classical guitar with Michael for 3 years and he's the best guitar teacher I've ever worked with. In fact, he's one of the best teachers I've studied with in any discipline. I think that what makes learning from him so special is that he has the musical expertise to always see where my playing can improve, and he has a generous, positive and understandable way of explaining and demonstrating so that I always enjoy our lessons. I can't recommend him enough.

I've been studying guitar with Michael for the past 3 years, and could not recommend him enough for future students, no matter the level of experience.

While it is difficult to summarize why guitar lessons with him remain a highlight of my week, a few reasons stick out:

1. His expertise: Micheal is a true master of his craft - he once played a flamenco piece he had been 'casually learning' that completely blew me away. The dedication he gives to guitar is infectious, and inspires me to practice hard at my little repertoire pieces!

2. Personalization and patience: I learned from Michael during very busy and very calm periods of my work life. He was both very understanding and flexible, ensuring I could leave class feeling productive with just the right amount to chew off every time.

3. A healthy dose of humour and fun: I feel lucky to have found a guitar-teacher-turned-friend in Michael, which is such a strong motivator to keep at guitar. His ability to maintain the right amount of focus and fun during classes is perfect for people at all levels, at all stages of life.

I could write an essay! But all-in-all - I strongly, strongly recommend!

I have been studying classical guitar with Michael for just over 5 years after a lengthy absence from the classical world. Michael is an exceptional instructor and artist and I have benefited from his experience in helping me improve my overall technique and understanding of the repertoire. Michael’s strengths are that he ‘listens’ to the challenges that I’m facing and that he is an incredible problem solver - if I'm having trouble with a piece or particular passage, he can readily detect a possible cause and provide an actionable, alternative or solution. While maintaining a friendly, relaxed and engaging interaction, he provides positive and constructive feedback on all aspects of my playing; he has not only helped me improve technically but also continues to push me to improve the ‘musicality’ of my playing. I strongly recommend Michael to any student of the guitar whether it be for more serious pursuits such as exam preparation or simply just for the joy and fun of playing.

Michael is a very talented musician and guitar teacher. He can play and teach a wide variety of styles and tailors his lessons to the types of songs and music I want to learn. He is very patient and able to explain things very clearly. My guitar playing has definitely improved because of Michael!

It is a well-documented fact that Michael is a world class musician. Beyond his musical accomplishments and accolades, Michael is also a superlative teacher.
I am a senior and I am in my fourth year of studying with Michael. I had no musical background prior to starting classical guitar lessons with Michael. I am currently working on pieces from RCM Level 2. I have learned so much over the last few years, all due to Michael's excellent teaching techniques and skills. As a former educator myself, I appreciate Michael's gentle approach, his patient, positive manner and his commitment to excellence. He has an intuitive understanding of my needs. He is flexible and knows how to build my guitar skills and musical development, so that I always feel a sense of accomplishment and productivity. Michael is always encouraging and each lesson is filled not only with work, but also with a healthy dose of humour. Each lesson is a pleasant experience.
I am grateful to have the good fortune to be taught by Michael. Studying with Michael has definitely been a major highlight in my life.
-Tony

I have had the privilege of being Michael's student for over four years. Michael's profound knowledge, patient teaching style, and passion for music have immensely enriched my journey as a classical music student. Under his guidance, I have not only honed my skills but have also achieved remarkable success in RCM exams. I can confidently say that Michael's teachings have been instrumental in my achievements and keeping the passion for learning more going. To anyone looking for a dedicated and exceptionally talented guitar teacher, I wholeheartedly recommend Michael Kolk.