La Mesa
Lesson Hours
Monday
11:00am
-
9:00pm
Tuesday
11:00am
-
9:00pm
Wednesday
11:00am
-
9:00pm
Thursday
11:00am
-
9:00pm
Friday
11:00am
-
9:00pm
Saturday
10:00am
-
9:00pm
Sunday
11:00am
-
7:00pm
Store Services
- GC ProGC ProGuitar Center Professional is a network of account managers and engineers with direct access to top manufacturers. From personal studios to concert venues, we design and install custom audiovisual systems sure to exceed your expectations.
- Platinum RoomPlatinum RoomOur Platinum Collection features the greatest selection of the finest guitars, basses and amps. Come in-store to fully experience the superior craftsmanship and tone of these top-of-the-line and custom shop models.
- VintageVintageFrom rare finds to coveted classics, you never know what you’ll find in our vintage collection. Find that perfect instrument that was made decades ago and summon all the tone and vibe from that special moment in time.
- Pedal StationPedal StationWhether you’re looking for that missing sound in your arsenal or building out an entire signal chain, this fully interactive station is a pedal paradise where you can mix and match iconic stomps from legendary brands with the most modern effects from boutique builders.
- Taylor Experience StoresTaylor Experience StoresWith innovative manufacturing and a masterful attention to detail, Taylor acoustics are widely considered among the best sounding and easiest playing guitars in the world. Check out an enhanced inventory, including exclusive and special-edition models you can’t play anywhere else.
- Yamaha Experience StoresYamaha Experience StoresYamaha has been a transformative force in music for well over a century, crafting an unrivaled variety of innovative instruments. Check out an enhanced inventory of Yamaha gear, including exclusive and special-edition models you can’t play anywhere else.
- The Roland StoreThe Roland StoreThe Roland Store at Guitar Center is a custom-designed space staffed with a dedicated specialist, handpicked for their expertise in Roland products. Contact us to schedule a private demo with any product from BOSS, V-MODA or Roland.
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Music Lessons in La Mesa at Guitar Center
Located in Grossmont Center and easily accessible from El Cajon, Spring Valley, and Lemon Grove, Guitar Center La Mesa offers personalized music lessons for students of all ages and experience levels. Whether you’re picking up an instrument for the first time or returning after years away, our private classes help you build skill and confidence in a supportive, creative space.
From piano and guitar lessons to voice, drums, and violin, our La Mesa music school makes it easy to learn your favorite instrument close to home in San Diego’s East County.
Learn from La Mesa’s Professional Music Instructors
Our teachers are more than instructors—they’re real musicians with professional performance, studio, and teaching experience. Each class is tailored to your goals, your pace, and the way you learn best.
Perfect for students looking for:
- Beginner music lessons across instruments
- Trusted music instructors in La Mesa and East County
- Flexible scheduling for busy students and families
- One-on-one attention in a friendly, motivating environment
Debbie Stinson
Distance: mi
(4) 30 Min:
$132
(4) 60 Min:
$260
Guitar Center La Mesa
8825 Murray Drive
La Mesa, CA
Born and raised in Waco, Texas,
sang in church choirs with family,
particiapated in HS band competitions (played clarinet),
studied music theory/composition,
graduated college with honors, set scoring records in college basketball,
4 children (all collegiate athletes, finished college), 4 grandchildren,
Directed youth/teen choral group for 10 years, arranging and teaching harmony in A Capella gospel selections,
Coordinator of singing ministry,
Soprano singer with A Capella Ensemble "Unique", one project completion entitled "Chapter Two", Sang in weddings, church functions, funerals, rescue missions, rest homes, Hospice patients, and special events
Deeril Bautista
Distance: mi
(4) 30 Min:
$132
(4) 60 Min:
$260
Guitar Center La Mesa
8825 Murray Drive
La Mesa, CA
Ian Woodward
Distance: mi
(4) 30 Min:
$132
(4) 60 Min:
$260
Guitar Center La Mesa
8825 Murray Drive
La Mesa, CA
Patrick Burke
Distance: mi
(4) 30 Min:
$132
(4) 60 Min:
$260
Guitar Center La Mesa
8825 Murray Drive
La Mesa, CA
From being a guest artist for Stan Kenton at an early age to still recording and playing today, Patrick has always had a passion for playing and teaching. Having attended Berklee College of Music in Boston and studied with some greats, he has a great foundation for passing on the best and diverse knowledge possible in all styles to his students. Instruction available on drum set, mallets ( vibes, marimba), steel drum and improvisation for any instrument. Located in Las Vegas and providing lessons via Zoom …..
Shardie Flenoid
Distance: mi
(4) 30 Min:
$132
(4) 60 Min:
$260
Guitar Center La Mesa
8825 Murray Drive
La Mesa, CA
Shardie Flenoid currently resides in Spring Valley. She teaches piano and voice and specializes in Gospel, Pop, Neo-Soul and R&B. She has been performing professionally since the age of 16 and has performed with professional artists such as, CeCe Winans, John P. Kee, Ricky Dillard, and Jason Mraz to name a few. She is currently a featured background artists on Jason Mraz newest album “Look for the Good” and will be touring with him the summer of 2021.
Shardie attended College for music and has been teaching music since the age of 15. The first song she played was “Little drummer Boy” at the age of 3. Her favorite artists to listen to include but are not limited to H.E.R., India Arie, Ricky Dillard, Rascal Flatts, Jazmine Sullivan and more. She is very passionate about music and has loved it since her beginning.
Judy Flenoid
Distance: mi
(4) 30 Min:
$132
(4) 60 Min:
$260
Guitar Center La Mesa
8825 Murray Drive
La Mesa, CA
Judy teaches Piano, Vocal coaching, Hammond organ and specializes in Gospel, R&B, Pop and Broadway. Her music Education includes 10 years of private piano and organ lessons from Joseph Taylor, then I went on to graduate from Christian Heritage College (now called San Diego Christian College) with a Bachelors Degree in Music and Business.
As a performer, she is the Director of the Music Department at San Diego Young Artists Music Academy, Minister of music a Mesaview Baptist Church in Poway and directs two youth and children choirs, a male chorus and an adult choir. I also sing background vocals with Jason Mraz from time to time including his latest release “Look for the good”.
My Favorite music artist is Ricky Dillard.
The first songs I learned to play was variety of nursery rhymes
I love playing because I believe it is the best form of self expression.
I love teaching because helps me to be a better artist and I can leave a legacy behind that will help the world be a better place as my students express themselves through music that heals.
Matthew Arellano
Distance: mi
(4) 30 Min:
$132
(4) 60 Min:
$260
Guitar Center La Mesa
8825 Murray Drive
La Mesa, CA
Matthew is a natural born musician and teacher with 10+ years of DJ, recording and music production experience. He has given himself to the community, helping youth and adults of all ages to learn and discover the power of music through digital technology combined with his professional training.
Marc Pendleton
Distance: mi
(4) 30 Min:
$132
(4) 60 Min:
$260
Guitar Center La Mesa
8825 Murray Drive
La Mesa, CA
Bryce Hite
Distance: mi
(4) 30 Min:
$132
(4) 60 Min:
$260
Guitar Center La Mesa
8825 Murray Drive
La Mesa, CA
Bryce is a DJ and Producer with almost a decade of experience behind the decks. He specializes in House Music and Disco, though he feels most at home mixing all genres. Bryce attended university at SUNY Fredonia in New York where he pursued a degree in Music Industry. He utilized time at university to dive into Music Production softwares like Ableton Live, Logic Pro, FL Studio, and he also has great knowledge of both Analog and Digital Synthesizers. Bryce has taught students of all ages with great success and caters his lessons towards each students' specific goals and needs.
Sean Collins
Distance: mi
(4) 30 Min:
$132
(4) 60 Min:
$260
Guitar Center La Mesa
8825 Murray Drive
La Mesa, CA
Sean Collins has been a musician since he was 12 years old, playing in various original and cover bands throughout San Diego. He attended Grossmont College and Berklee College of Music where he played everything from rock and pop to jazz, funk and hip hop. Sean enjoys helping folks of all ages and musical backgrounds find their passion for playing music.
Summer O'Connor
Distance: mi
(4) 30 Min:
$132
(4) 60 Min:
$260
Guitar Center La Mesa
8825 Murray Drive
La Mesa, CA
Summer O’Connor has been playing guitar for more than a decade. She graduated from SDSU studying Music Education, with an emphasis on classical guitar. She has experience teaching multiple genres; such as classical, pop, rock, and more. Some of her favorite artists to listen to and play are The Strokes, Arctic Monkeys, Billie Eilish, and The Beatles.
Michael Tappero
Distance: mi
(4) 30 Min:
$132
(4) 60 Min:
$260
Guitar Center La Mesa
8825 Murray Drive
La Mesa, CA
With over 20 years as a drummer and audio engineer, I have developed a practical and comprehensive approach to music education.
My drum students develop a deep understanding of fundamental concepts like technique, groove, and music theory. We then apply those concepts by analyzing and then learning their favorite songs, which keeps learning fun and inspiring!
My music production students gain comprehensive technical knowledge and skills that can be applied to any hardware or software across the music industry. I focus on the fundamentals of recording, editing, and mixing music, and provide them with the tools they need to apply their knowledge in any setting, from the studio to the stage.
Cole Atencio
Distance: mi
(4) 30 Min:
$132
(4) 60 Min:
$260
Guitar Center La Mesa
8825 Murray Drive
La Mesa, CA
Cole Atencio is a local San Diego bass player and audio engineer. He started playing piano as a child, and has since shifted his focus to performing on bass and singing. He has also worked on and starred in a variety of local musical theater productions. Cole is passionate about finding joy in music, and aims to instill that love and appreciation for the playing and listening of music in his students.
Sophia Patella
Distance: mi
(4) 30 Min:
$132
(4) 60 Min:
$260
Guitar Center La Mesa
8825 Murray Drive
La Mesa, CA
Patrick Sweeney
Distance: mi
(4) 30 Min:
$132
(4) 60 Min:
$260
Guitar Center La Mesa
8825 Murray Drive
La Mesa, CA
Alex Lievanos
Distance: mi
(4) 30 Min:
$132
(4) 60 Min:
$260
Guitar Center La Mesa
8825 Murray Drive
La Mesa, CA
Born and raised in San Diego, CA, Alex has been playing guitar since he was ten and singing since he was four. He started learning by ear at a young age before taking lessons privately. He began his music studies at Berklee College of Music’s five-week program training under vocal instructor, Kristin Cifelli. He was selected to perform at their singer-songwriter showcase out of hundreds of students and returned to San Diego pursuing a degree in Music Industry studies at Cuyamaca College, which he obtained in 2019. He is also the bandleader of his own group Dusk Drama, and has performed at venues throughout California since 2017, opening for national acts like HUNNY, Hot Flash Heat Wave, Bombargo, and Foxtide. Alex specializes in classic rock, indie pop, heavy metal, and is currently studying jazz and R&B. Alex can also assist in songwriting and recording production.
Jamie Miller
Distance: mi
(4) 30 Min:
$132
(4) 60 Min:
$260
Guitar Center La Mesa
8825 Murray Drive
La Mesa, CA
From the beginning, music has been an important part of my life. My passion for music is something that allows me to connect with others and share different experiences in new ways. I love to help others learn the tools necessary to create their own stories to share with the world as well.
Garrett Eland
Distance: mi
(4) 30 Min:
$132
(4) 60 Min:
$260
Guitar Center La Mesa
8825 Murray Drive
La Mesa, CA
Has been with Guitar Center since 2023.
Mackenzie Stanton
Distance: mi
(4) 30 Min:
$132
(4) 60 Min:
$260
Guitar Center La Mesa
8825 Murray Drive
La Mesa, CA
I have 6 years experience performing in a variety of settings with specialization in Rock, Pop, and Jazz drumming. In this time, I've been a dedicated member of marching band and provided a rhythmic backbone to several jazz bands while obtaining my Bachelor of Science in Biology from San Diego State University. Now, I'm putting my focus into the study of Music Production at San Diego City College and teaching others how to play their favorite music in a fun, you-focused environment at Guitar Center Lessons Studio.
Bruce Mason
Distance: mi
(4) 30 Min:
$132
(4) 60 Min:
$260
Guitar Center La Mesa
8825 Murray Drive
La Mesa, CA
Bruce Mason is a Guitarist with 16+ years experience playing and 10+ years teaching. He is an experienced improviser who specializes in blues, rock and pop. Bruce is a great fit for students who want to learn music theory or who want to learn advanced techniques on guitar.
Jorge Roman Aponte
Distance: mi
(4) 30 Min:
$132
(4) 60 Min:
$260
Guitar Center La Mesa
8825 Murray Drive
La Mesa, CA
Jorge Roman has over 15 years of teaching experience. He started playing piano at the age of 7 and quickly became interested in guitar, bass and drums as well. He has been the lead guitarist and keyboard player in many rock and pop cover bands. He has also studied the speech level singing methods of Brett Manning and the Afro-Cuban/Latin bass techniques of Oscar Stagnaro. He was a professor of mathematics at Vanderbilt University for 3 years and a professor of statistics and data science at San Diego State University for 6 years. He has a PhD and a Master's Degree in Statistics from the University of Florida and a Bachelor's Degree in Mathematics (Summa Cum Laude) from Universidad de Puerto Rico. Jorge speaks multiple languages and can teach lessons fluently in English and Spanish.
Evan Diamond-Goldberg
Distance: mi
(4) 30 Min:
$132
(4) 60 Min:
$260
Guitar Center La Mesa
8825 Murray Drive
La Mesa, CA
Brett Manjarrez
Distance: mi
(4) 30 Min:
$132
(4) 60 Min:
$260
Guitar Center La Mesa
8825 Murray Drive
La Mesa, CA
Ethan Spraggon
Distance: mi
(4) 30 Min:
$132
(4) 60 Min:
$260
Guitar Center La Mesa
8825 Murray Drive
La Mesa, CA
Noah Faulkner
Distance: mi
(4) 30 Min:
$132
(4) 60 Min:
$260
Guitar Center La Mesa
8825 Murray Drive
La Mesa, CA
Noah Faulkner is a multi-instrumentalist, lesson instructor, composer, and arranger from San Diego, CA. He has a strong interest in video game and film music, hoping to eventually compose for the screen. This interest allows him to connect with younger students who also have an interest in media music, and has been known to transcribe and arrange songs for his students to play and learn. He enjoys listening and playing all styles of music, but he is particularly familiar with Jazz, Funk, R&B, and Classical. He is able to teach beginner to intermediate level students and he believes that everyone can benefit from learning an instrument.
Zachary Rockafellow
Distance: mi
(4) 30 Min:
$132
(4) 60 Min:
$260
Guitar Center La Mesa
8825 Murray Drive
La Mesa, CA
Born and raised in the Bay Area, I learned to play by watching people like Santana, Joe Satriani, and Kirk Hammett and honed my skills by meticulously deciphering the tablature written in my stacks of old, well-used guitar magazines. As a primarily Rock/Blues guitarist, I sharpened my music theory and sight-reading skills while pursuing a degree from Musician's Institute in Hollywood, CA. After graduating from MI, I rose from the trenches of Los Angeles, moved back to the Bay Area, and began providing freelance lessons, gigging and recording with my band "Dollar Short." With them, I performed hundreds of shows around the Bay, refining my musicianship along the way. In early 2022, I began teaching and providing music lessons full-time, teaching hundreds of students in both individual and group environments and helping them grow and progress through their musical journeys.
Chenelle McClain-Barrett
Distance: mi
(4) 30 Min:
$132
(4) 60 Min:
$260
Guitar Center La Mesa
8825 Murray Drive
La Mesa, CA
Since the age of five, Chenelle McClain has been deeply passionate about music and language. Her musical journey began with classical training in the violin, performing with both San Diego’s and East County’s Youth Symphony. As she advanced in her classical studies, she expanded her expertise to the viola and cello, dedicating over 20 years to mastering these instruments.
Chenelle is a recent UCSD graduate with an A.A. in Italian, a B.A. in Linguistics, and a minor in Education. She has trained, studied, and performed under esteemed instructors such as John Ramirez, Bob Magnusson, and David Borgo, developing a deep understanding of tone, feel, and adaptability. Well-versed in a variety of genres and playing styles, her personal favorites include classical, folk, and jazz.
With aspirations to earn her master’s in education from UCSD, Chenelle is committed to closing achievement gaps in public education. She hopes to merge her passions for language and music to create innovative and inclusive learning experiences for students.
Darrin Lee
Distance: mi
(4) 30 Min:
$132
(4) 60 Min:
$260
Guitar Center La Mesa
8825 Murray Drive
La Mesa, CA
Darrin has been playing drums for 35 years. He has a Bachelor’s Degree from SDSU and continues to play in rock and jazz ensembles in San Diego. He has shared the stage with notable acts such as The Melvins, Unsane, Red Fang and countless others.
Christopher McIntyre
Distance: mi
(4) 30 Min:
$132
(4) 60 Min:
$260
Guitar Center La Mesa
8825 Murray Drive
La Mesa, CA
Thomas Jeffrey
Distance: mi
(4) 30 Min:
$132
(4) 60 Min:
$260
Guitar Center La Mesa
8825 Murray Drive
La Mesa, CA
Tom began studying Classical Guitar and Audio Recording at Grossmont College through evening classes in 1999 while he was still in high school. Over the years Tom has studied with some of the greatest classical guitar instructors in San Diego and Italy, including Fred Benedetti, Antonio De Innocentis, and Celino Romero of the world famous Los Romero’s guitar quartet.
Since 2005, Tom has taught thousands of lessons in Guitar, Vocals, Bass, Ukulele, Banjo, Song Writing, Music Theory, Beat Making, Music Production and Recording.
Karina Tamayo
Distance: mi
Guitar Center La Mesa
8825 Murray Drive
La Mesa, CA
Karina Tamayo is a versatile multi-instrumentalist and performer with over 15 years of experience across genres including rock, jazz, pop, funk, reggae, and improvisation. A classically trained pianist and skilled trombonist, Karina brings a dynamic and soulful presence to every performance. She studied Music at the University of Florida and now calls San Diego home, where she plays regularly with several local bands. Whether on stage or around a campfire, Karina’s passion for music shines through in every note.
Michaela Dolansky
Distance: mi
Guitar Center La Mesa
8825 Murray Drive
La Mesa, CA
Miska Dolansky has been a musician for 9+ years. She specializes in upright bass and bass guitar, in genres such as jazz, funk, Latin, rock, metal, pop and many more! You can catch her around town gigging with multiple bands including her own band called Sticcy Rice (jazz fusion band), Grossmont College’s Afro Cuban ensemble and Cadence Vocal Jazz Group. Miska is currently finishing her Music degree at Grossmont College. She also has an immense amount of gear knowledge due to her previous experience working as a sales associate for 3+ years.
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Beginner Music Lessons for All Ages
Everyone starts somewhere—and our beginner-friendly lessons make sure you start strong. Whether you’re exploring a new hobby or building a lifelong skill, our teachers break it down step by step.
Our instructors help you learn the basics with patience, encouragement, and a focus on having fun from day one.
Music Lessons for Adults
Think it’s too late to learn music? Think again. Our adult music lessons in La Mesa are flexible, personalized, and designed around your goals—whether that’s playing your favorite songs, improving your voice, or exploring a new instrument for the first time.
Why adults love our lessons:
- Flexible scheduling on evenings and weekends
- Options in guitar, piano, vocals, drums, and more
- Learn the music you love—not just what’s in the book
- No prior experience needed
Private Music Lessons in La Mesa
At Guitar Center La Mesa, our private studios offer a focused, fully equipped space for music lessons just minutes from the heart of East County. Whether you're starting from scratch or leveling up your skills, our instructors tailor each session to fit your pace, goals, and musical taste.
Guitar & Bass Lessons
From acoustic strumming to electric solos, our La Mesa guitar teachers help you build confidence and technique across your favorite styles.
Piano Lessons
Take private piano lessons with experienced instructors who guide students of all ages through fundamentals, creativity, and performance.
Voice & Singing Lessons
Train with La Mesa vocal coaches to boost your tone, range, and stage presence—perfect for singers working on everything from pop to musical theatre.
Drum Lessons
Refine your timing, power, and coordination with drum classes that support beginners and advancing players alike.
Violin Lessons
Whether you’re learning for the first time or brushing up for school orchestra, our violin lessons help you strengthen tone, control, and musical expression.
Frequently Asked Questions
Other Locations Nearby
SAN YSIDRO
San Ysidro
16.2 mi
4548 Camino de la Plaza
San Ysidro, CA 92173-3104
- LessonsLessonsFrom guitar and bass to drums, DJ, piano and more, our expert instructors can get you playing. We work to understand your passions and tailor one-on-one lessons to your schedule, goals and skill level.
- RepairsRepairsFrom routine care and setups to custom mods and aesthetic upgrades, our skilled Guitar Repairs technicians can help you get the absolute most out of your gear—taking it from well-loved or factory-new to made just for you.
SAN MARCOS
San Marcos
25.6 mi
712 Center Drive
San Marcos, CA 92069-3536
- LessonsLessonsFrom guitar and bass to drums, DJ, piano and more, our expert instructors can get you playing. We work to understand your passions and tailor one-on-one lessons to your schedule, goals and skill level.
- RepairsRepairsFrom routine care and setups to custom mods and aesthetic upgrades, our skilled Guitar Repairs technicians can help you get the absolute most out of your gear—taking it from well-loved or factory-new to made just for you.
- RentalsRentalsNeed gear for a gig or tour? Guitar Center offers affordable rentals on a full range of equipment. Head to our Rentals department to grab quality speakers, DJ equipment, lighting, backline gear and more
- Platinum RoomPlatinum RoomOur Platinum Collection features the greatest selection of the finest guitars, basses and amps. Come in-store to fully experience the superior craftsmanship and tone of these top-of-the-line and custom shop models.
- Taylor Experience StoresTaylor Experience StoresWith innovative manufacturing and a masterful attention to detail, Taylor acoustics are widely considered among the best sounding and easiest playing guitars in the world. Check out an enhanced inventory, including exclusive and special-edition models you can’t play anywhere else.
MURRIETA
Murrieta
55.9 mi
24370 Village Walk
Murrieta, CA 92562-5235
- LessonsLessonsFrom guitar and bass to drums, DJ, piano and more, our expert instructors can get you playing. We work to understand your passions and tailor one-on-one lessons to your schedule, goals and skill level.
- RepairsRepairsFrom routine care and setups to custom mods and aesthetic upgrades, our skilled Guitar Repairs technicians can help you get the absolute most out of your gear—taking it from well-loved or factory-new to made just for you.
- RentalsRentalsNeed gear for a gig or tour? Guitar Center offers affordable rentals on a full range of equipment. Head to our Rentals department to grab quality speakers, DJ equipment, lighting, backline gear and more
- Platinum RoomPlatinum RoomOur Platinum Collection features the greatest selection of the finest guitars, basses and amps. Come in-store to fully experience the superior craftsmanship and tone of these top-of-the-line and custom shop models.
LAKE FOREST
Lake Forest
70.8 mi
23811 El Toro Road
Suite A
Lake Forest, CA 92630-4743
- LessonsLessonsFrom guitar and bass to drums, DJ, piano and more, our expert instructors can get you playing. We work to understand your passions and tailor one-on-one lessons to your schedule, goals and skill level.
- RepairsRepairsFrom routine care and setups to custom mods and aesthetic upgrades, our skilled Guitar Repairs technicians can help you get the absolute most out of your gear—taking it from well-loved or factory-new to made just for you.
- RentalsRentalsNeed gear for a gig or tour? Guitar Center offers affordable rentals on a full range of equipment. Head to our Rentals department to grab quality speakers, DJ equipment, lighting, backline gear and more
- Platinum RoomPlatinum RoomOur Platinum Collection features the greatest selection of the finest guitars, basses and amps. Come in-store to fully experience the superior craftsmanship and tone of these top-of-the-line and custom shop models.
