Contact JAMES

‪JAMES DOWNES
Email: folkyeah@guitarlessonswithjames.com‬

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Testimonials

James is an astute, active listener and mentor, who's helped me find my songwriting voice.  I've gained confidence in my songwriting ability, and have become a better critical listener to my music thanks to him. James has a great at identifying a 'wow' factor, explaining why it works and is moving.  He uses his mastery of music theory, guitar, piano, vocals, and lyric writing to offer suggestions on how to enhance your song. I truly look forward to sharing my songs with James.

- Dave K.

It has been amazing working with James for the past year to improve my skills on the guitar, as well as singing and songwriting! He is an inspiring, upbeat, patient, flexible and thorough teacher, working with me each week on my needs no matter what they are! I have come a long way this past year! I can now sing confidently with my guitar playing, I am able to nail an improv riff in just about any key and have also written my first two songs just recently.  He doesn't tell you how to do it, but guides and works with you by asking questions, demonstrating, making suggestions and providing great feedback. At the end of the day I feel like I am in charge of my learning, which is empowering! I have learned SO much and feel very fortunate to have found James for my guitar, singing/songwriting instruction!

- Virginia C.

The instruction I've gotten from James was exactly the missing piece I needed to take that step from dabbling in guitar to really playing. I told him the kind of music I hoped to play and we structured the lessons around that. If you're down to learn something new from someone super knowledgeable, friendly, and supportive- setting something up with James is the way to go!

- Logan K.

I decided to take guitar lessons later in life (in my 60’s) to learn something new, creative and fun! I went through several teachers until I found James and knew immediately that he was the right one. He is the real deal- an amazing musician and a skilled teacher-kind, patient, organized and encouraging. I am happy to say that I am now (in less than 1 year) playing some of my faves- Neil Young, Carly Simon and Fleetwood Mac!

- Siri S.

My return to guitar playing with James has been pure joy! He is a natural-born teacher who hones right into the perfect balance of creative challenges, targeted exercises and individualized song picks. It doesn’t get better than this.

- Beth K.

I’m definitely a better guitar player than I was when I first started taking lessons with James. He tailors each lesson to my needs and has opened my mind to new possibilities.

- Dan F.