Learn Jazz Guitar in New York City - Teachers, Venues & More

Learning Jazz Guitar in New York City

New York City is widely regarded as one of the jazz capitals of the world. From historic venues like the Village Vanguard and Blue Note to Juilliard and the New School, NYC has a rich legacy of jazz music and education. For aspiring jazz guitarists, the Big Apple provides unmatched opportunities to learn from world-class musicians and teachers.

Finding a Great Jazz Guitar Instructor

With so many options, finding the right jazz guitar teacher in New York can feel overwhelming. Word-of-mouth is still one of the best ways to discover instructors. Talking to other guitarists and getting personal referrals can help narrow options. The instructor's experience and specialty are also key factors to consider when selecting a great fit.

For those new to jazz guitar, a teacher well-versed in music theory, chord melodies, comping, and improvisation is ideal. More advanced students may seek out teachers known for their expertise in more complex harmonic and rhythmic concepts. Focusing on an instructor's strengths and teaching style helps ensure students get personalized attention in areas they want to improve.

Top NYC Jazz Guitar Teachers

New York has no shortage of exceptional jazz guitar instructors. Here are just a few standout teachers offering lessons in New York City:

• Mark Whitfield - Acclaimed guitarist with experience teaching at top music schools.
• Peter Bernstein - Leading guitarist and educator with multiple acclaimed albums.
• Dave Stryker - Veteran performer and teacher focused on jazz improvisation.
• Sheryl Bailey - Technical expert that teaches at The New School.
• Randy Napolean - Juilliard graduate known for bebop and mainstream styles.

This list barely scratches the surface of the world-renowned teachers available in the New York area. From Julliard professors to independent instructors, there are options for all skill levels.

NYC's Iconic Jazz Venues & Hot Spots

In addition to working with an experienced teacher, attending live shows is one of the best ways for students to learn. New York's jazz scene happens on big stages like Jazz at Lincoln Center, in historic clubs like Iridium and the Village Vanguard, and at countless smaller sessions across the five boroughs. Getting out to shows exposes developing guitarists to new styles, inspires their own practice, and even creates opportunities to jam with professional musicians.

Jazz Institutions

For almost 35 years, Jazz at Lincoln Center has provided top-tier jazz performances and education. Beyond its world-famous home in the Time Warner Center, JALC produces events across the city, runs an innovative digital education platform, and works with schools to support emerging musicians. Attending shows in its hallowed halls allows jazz guitar newcomers to learn by watching the best.

Further downtown, the Village Vanguard has hosted jazz legends since the 1930s. Despite its modest appearance, nearly every major name in jazz has played on its tiny stage. Today rising talents often share billing with established veterans, providing plenty of inspiration for aspiring NYC guitarists.

Smaller Scenes & Sessions

In addition to NYC's most famous venues, jazz guitarists should explore iconic clubs like the Blue Note, Iridium, Smalls Jazz Club, and Smoke Jazz & Supper Club. For those ready to get hands-on experience, late night jam sessions happen all over the city - just ask around or keep an ear to the ground to find ones friendly to student musicians sitting in.

Washington Square Park also hosts a range of jazz performers, from street musicians to more established acts. Jazzmobile also frequently provides free outdoor community concerts featuring veterans of the NYC scene during warmer months.

Jazz Guitar Education Programs

From middle school through the university level, New York is filled with outstanding jazz guitar development programs. These provide structured ways to hone chops in supportive communities of like-minded musicians.

Noteworthy High School & College Programs

The Fiorello H. LaGuardia High School of Music & Art and Performing Arts is one of the country's best specialized arts high schools. With a respected jazz program, it gives teen guitarists access to high-level training, classes, and ensembles.

At the university level, jazz guitarists have incredible options in NYC including:

• The Juilliard School - Elite music college with a small but experienced jazz studies program.
• New York University - Both NYU and its degree-granting affiliate New School have excellent jazz departments.
• Manhattan School of Music - Top independent college with broad jazz studies.
• SUNY Purchase - Respected public arts college north of the city known for jazz.

These programs provide young jazz guitarists with mentors, ensemble experience, music theory and history training, and opportunities to be immersed in NYC's jazz scene.

Ongoing Jazz Education

Beyond school programs, many NYC jazz spaces offer their own instructional opportunities. Jazz at Lincoln Center has in-person and online classes, summer camps, workshops, and training programs. Smaller venues like the Blue Note or Smoke Jazz Club also provide jazz workshops for adults looking to continue growing their talents.

Resources for Exploring NYC Jazz Guitar

For newcomers seeking to break into jazz guitar in New York City, the amount of opportunities can get overwhelming quickly. But there are plenty of helpful resources that aggregate events, classes, jams, and more to help both visitors and residents keep up with everything happening around the five boroughs:

• JazzCorner - Massive live jazz event calendar updated daily.
• Jazz in Chronicle - NYC jazz blog covering news, reviews and the scene.
• Jazz Foundation - Nonprofit supporting jazz musicians in need.
• NY Jazz Lessons - Hub listing teachers, programs, jams and gigs.

Exploring these websites helps both new and experienced jazz guitarists see the sheer breadth of opportunities across NYC while allowing them to filter based on their interests, skill level, and location. Over time, regularly engaging with the NYC jazz scene breeds inspiration and community.

FAQs

Where can I find the best jazz guitar instructors in New York City?

Some of the top jazz guitar teachers in NYC include Mark Whitfield, Peter Bernstein, Dave Stryker, Sheryl Bailey, and Randy Napolean. The New School, NYU, Juilliard, and Manhattan School of Music also have exceptional jazz guitar faculty.

What are the most famous jazz clubs in New York City?

Iconic NYC jazz venues include Jazz at Lincoln Center, Village Vanguard, Blue Note, Iridium, Smalls Jazz Club, and Smoke Jazz & Supper Club. Historic clubs provide opportunities to see legends alongside the next generation of jazz talent.

Where can I find jazz guitar open jam sessions in New York?

Smaller jazz clubs around the city frequently host late night jam sessions, as do some bars and music schools. Ask other guitarists on the scene or check websites like NY Jazz Lessons to find ones welcoming aspiring student musicians.

What jazz guitar college programs exist near New York?

Nearby schools with excellent jazz guitar programs include Juilliard, New York University, Manhattan School of Music, SUNY Purchase, New Jersey City University, and New School Jazz.

Are there free outdoor jazz performances in NYC?

Washington Square Park routinely features street jazz performers as well as more formal concerts. During summer months, Jazzmobile produces a number of free community jazz shows across the five boroughs.