Experienced tutor in Guitar in Santa Monica, Chuck offers private lessons tailored to your needs.

I took lessons with Chuck for nine years. He taught me electric and acoustic guitar, electric bass, music theory, how to sing, and how to write songs.

Chuck is receptive to whichever direction you want to take your learning. If you want to learn pop, punk, jazz, metal, classic rock, blues — you name it, he has you covered. If you want to learn a specific song in a given genre, Chuck can teach it to you and write out the tabs for you to reference between lessons. If you want to learn how to play in a new genre, Chuck can give you exercises and songs to develop your technique. He’s patient when you’re learning something new, and he’s happy to walk you through any sheet music to make sure you understand what’s happening and how to play it.

Chuck has been instrumental in helping me develop my craft as a songwriter. He’s a killer songwriter himself, and he knows what he’s talking about when it comes to writing standout, professional songs. He offers lyrical critique, options for how to harmonize melodies, and sound advice on how and when to edit your musical ideas. He can also help you set the song in a key that sits comfortably within your vocal range. This makes a huge difference when you’re first learning to perform your own songs, because singing your songs well builds confidence as a singer-songwriter.

If you’re thinking about taking lessons from Chuck, I think it’s worth a try. He has such deep knowledge of music that he can help you get wherever you want to go. It’s also a lot of fun to talk about the history of modern music and the impact different artists have had over the years.

Chuck and I are going on eight years. Not only is he a fantastic and accomplished musician and teacher, he’s also family. He’s well-versed in all the picking styles. His knowledge of the discipline is boundless . He’s encouraging, patient and best of all, a good time.

I've been taking lessons with Chuck for 4 years give or take. I started on the bass with him and after about a year and a half transitioned on to the guitar. I not only view Chuck as my teacher but my friend as well and he has been an integral part of my music education. With his experience in the industry as well as expansive musical knowledge, there is nobody better I could think of to teach guitar. His love for teaching music is as great as his love for creating it. Whether you're just getting started or you've been playing for years, he has something to teach you. I would HIGHLY recommend.

I appreciate Chuck's instruction style. I had such little confidence that I would ever be able to play the guitar. I thought my poor dexterity would be a major hinderance from me being able to perform basic chord changes. I'm still a bit shocked that I'm able to do what I can. I credit Chuck's style, demeanor, and passion to teach others how to play. Not only has Chuck been an amazing instructor he's also a pleasure to hangout with while learning a new skill.

My son has been taking bass and guitar lessons with Chuck Smith for the past four years. Chuck is an excellent teacher and mentor. My son started on bass and, with Chuck’s encouragement, took on guitar too. My son is now passionate about both instruments and that is largely due to Chuck’s influence. His personalized sessions - tailored to my son’s musical interests - has kept him engaged and committed to improving his skills. Chuck has opened up my son’s musical interests by introducing him to new music as well. My son looks forward to his weekly sessions with Chuck and considers him a friend as much as a teacher. I highly recommend Chuck!

If you’re looking for a guitar teacher who’s equal parts virtuoso, mentor, and motivator, look no further than Charles. His deep knowledge of guitar technique, music theory, and performance is only matched by his passion for sharing it with others.

Whether you’re a total beginner who’s never touched a fretboard or an experienced player looking to break through a plateau, Charles tailors each lesson to your goals, your pace, and your musical tastes. His ability to break down complex concepts into approachable, bite-sized pieces makes learning feel natural and rewarding.

What really sets Charles apart is his versatility—he’s equally at home teaching rock, blues, metal, jazz, fingerstyle, and more. But beyond the genres and the chops, it’s his genuine enthusiasm for music and teaching that resonates with every student. He doesn’t just teach you to play songs—he teaches you to understand the guitar, to express yourself with it, and to grow as a musician.

In short: if you want to get better, stay inspired, and have fun doing it, Charles is the guitar guru you’ve been looking for.

I took guitar lessons with Chuck for several years, and they were an absolute integral part of my music education. Chuck is a highly proficient musician and teacher, and his knowledge of the guitar and wisdom of music in general were a source of inspiration throughout the years. He always catered his lessons specifically to whatever got me excited and inspired, and he put me on a course of curiosity that has served my passion and career in music well. I highly recommend Chuck to anyone looking for a teacher that is highly qualified, relatable, and fun!