Classical Guitar Lessons Detroit – Professional Instruction Since 1992

Looking for classical guitar lessons in Detroit? Steven Dearing has been providing expert classical guitar instruction to Metro Detroit students since 1992. With a Masters degree in Guitar Performance, over 23 years as a university professor, and training in the Royal Conservatory of Music method, Steven offers the highest quality classical guitar education available in the Detroit area.

Detroit’s Premier Classical Guitar Instructor

Steven Dearing combines world-class credentials with patient, personalized teaching. Located in Farmington Hills – convenient to all of Metro Detroit – Steven helps students of all ages and skill levels discover the beauty and depth of classical guitar.

Why Detroit Students Choose Steven Dearing

Steven Dearing brings unmatched classical guitar credentials to every lesson:

Masters Degree – Wayne State University, Classical Guitar Performance
University Faculty – Adjunct Professor, University of Windsor (1995-2018)
Royal Conservatory Method – Trained at Academy St Cecile using RCM curriculum
30+ Years Teaching – Professional classical guitar instruction since 1992
Award-Winning Performer – Detroit Music Awards, international performances
Orchestra Soloist – Performed guitar concerti with orchestras in Metro Detroit and Windsor
Published Recordings – Multiple critically acclaimed classical guitar albums
Community College Faculty – 7 years teaching at both Macomb Community College campuses

Classical Guitar Lesson Options for Detroit Students

Classical Guitar – Royal Conservatory Method

Steven’s specialty is classical guitar instruction using the Royal Conservatory of Music method:

Progressive curriculum from beginner through advanced levels
Proper right and left hand technique from the first lesson
Music reading and theory integrated with playing
Repertoire spanning Renaissance to contemporary classical
Posture and ergonomics for healthy, injury-free playing
Tone production and fingernail care
Optional RCM examination preparation
College music program preparation

Electric Guitar Lessons

Rock, blues, jazz, and contemporary styles for Detroit guitarists:

Solid technique fundamentals that translate across all styles
Music theory for improvisation and composition
Chord progressions and rhythm guitar
Lead guitar, soloing, and ear training
Learn your favorite songs with proper technique

Acoustic Guitar Lessons

Fingerstyle and strumming techniques:

Fingerpicking patterns and Travis picking
Strumming patterns and rhythm development
Singer-songwriter accompaniment
Folk, country, and contemporary acoustic styles

Classical Guitar Lessons for All Ages

Children & Teens (Ages 7-17)

Classical guitar training provides exceptional benefits for young musicians:

Develops discipline, concentration, and confidence
Strengthens academic skills through music study
Creates scholarship opportunities for college
Past students have won concerto competitions and music scholarships
Performance opportunities at recitals
Lifelong appreciation for music and the arts

Adults (18+)

It’s never too late to learn classical guitar in Detroit:

Fulfill a lifelong dream of playing classical guitar
Cognitive benefits and mental stimulation
Stress relief and creative expression
Self-paced progress in a supportive environment
Many adults achieve impressive results with consistent practice
Retirement enrichment and personal fulfillment

Conveniently Located for All of Metro Detroit

Steven’s classical guitar studio in Farmington Hills is centrally located and easily accessible from Detroit and all Metro Detroit communities:

Easy Access from Detroit

Detroit – Convenient via I-96, M-10 (Lodge), or Southfield Freeway
Dearborn & Dearborn Heights – Quick access via Michigan Ave or I-96
Southfield – Adjacent to Farmington Hills
Redford – Short drive via Grand River
Royal Oak & Berkley – Easy access via I-696
Livonia – Minutes away via local roads or I-96
Novi & Northville – Nearby via Grand River or I-275
West Bloomfield & Bloomfield Hills – Adjacent communities

What Makes Steven’s Classical Guitar Instruction Different?

University-Level Expertise

Benefit from instruction by a professionally trained classical guitarist with a Masters degree and over two decades of university teaching experience. This level of expertise is rare in private instruction.

Proper Foundation from Day One

Steven teaches correct technique from your very first lesson, preventing bad habits that limit progress and cause injury. A proper foundation accelerates your development dramatically.

Customized Instruction

Every student receives a personalized curriculum tailored to their age, goals, learning style, and musical interests. No cookie-cutter approach.

Integrated Music Theory

Understanding music theory unlocks the fretboard and makes you a complete musician. Theory is taught alongside playing, making it practical and applicable.

Proven Track Record

Steven’s students have won scholarships, concerto competitions, and many have pursued advanced music degrees at top universities.

All Ages Welcome

From age 7 through adults of all ages, Steven adapts his teaching approach to each student. It’s never too early or too late to learn classical guitar.

Lesson Packages & Scheduling

Private Classical Guitar Lessons

One-on-One Instruction – Personalized attention every lesson
30 or 60-Minute Options – Choose the length that fits your needs
Weekly Lessons – Consistent instruction for steady progress
In-Person or Online – Studio lessons in Farmington Hills or via video
Flexible Scheduling – Available Monday-Sunday, 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM

Studio Location

Farmington Hills, MI – Centrally located for Detroit and all Metro Detroit communities. Just off Grand River Avenue. Exact address provided upon booking.

Frequently Asked Questions – Classical Guitar Lessons Detroit

How much do classical guitar lessons cost in the Detroit area?

Lesson rates vary based on lesson length and package options. Contact Steven directly at 248-866-0935 for current pricing. Professional instruction is an investment that accelerates your progress far beyond what self-teaching or YouTube can achieve.

How far is the studio from Detroit?

The Farmington Hills studio is approximately 20-30 minutes from most Detroit neighborhoods via I-96, the Lodge Freeway (M-10), or Southfield Freeway. Many Detroit students also take advantage of online lesson options for added convenience.

Do I need a classical guitar to start lessons?

Yes, a classical (nylon string) guitar is required for classical guitar lessons. Classical guitars have wider necks and nylon strings that produce the proper tone for classical repertoire. Steven can recommend appropriate instruments for your budget and needs. Steel-string acoustic or electric guitars are not suitable for classical technique.

What ages do you teach?

Steven teaches students ages 7 through adults of all ages. Young children (7-10) typically start with 30-minute lessons, while older students and adults usually take 60-minute lessons. It’s never too late to start classical guitar!

Do you offer online classical guitar lessons?

Yes! About half of Steven’s students take online lessons via video conferencing. Online lessons work especially well for adult students and motivated teens. For younger beginners (under 12), in-person lessons are recommended when possible.

What is the Royal Conservatory of Music method?

The Royal Conservatory of Music (RCM) is a world-renowned music education system from Canada. Their classical guitar curriculum provides structured, progressive levels with integrated technique, repertoire, theory, and ear training. Steven trained in this method at Academy St Cecile and has used it successfully with students for over 30 years.

Can classical guitar training help with other styles?

Absolutely! Classical guitar provides the strongest technical foundation for any style of guitar. Many electric and acoustic guitarists seek classical training to improve their technique, music reading, and overall musicianship. The skills transfer directly to every other style of playing.

How long does it take to learn classical guitar?

Students typically play simple classical pieces within a few months and more substantial repertoire within 1-2 years of consistent practice. Classical guitar is a lifelong journey, but the progress is rewarding at every stage. Students who practice 20-30 minutes daily see the best results.

What Detroit Students Say

“Steven is hands-down the best classical guitar teacher in the Detroit area. His university background and years of experience show in every lesson. I’ve improved more in six months with Steven than in years of trying to learn on my own.”
– James L., Detroit, MI

“The drive from Detroit to Farmington Hills is absolutely worth it for the quality of instruction. Steven’s knowledge of classical guitar technique and repertoire is incredible. My daughter is thriving under his teaching.”
– Angela W., Detroit, MI

“I started classical guitar lessons with Steven at age 45. He made it approachable and enjoyable while maintaining high standards. Now I’m playing Bach and loving every minute. Can’t recommend him enough!”
– Richard P., Dearborn, MI

Start Classical Guitar Lessons in Detroit Today

Schedule Your First Classical Guitar Lesson

Contact Steven Dearing to discuss your classical guitar goals and schedule your first lesson. Whether you’re a complete beginner, an experienced guitarist looking to study classical technique, or a parent seeking quality instruction for your child, Steven can help.

Steven Dearing
Classical Guitar Instructor
Masters Degree, Guitar Performance
Former Adjunct Professor, University of Windsor

Phone: 248-866-0935
Email: steven@stevendearing.com

Contact Steven to Schedule Your Lesson

About Steven Dearing – Detroit’s Classical Guitar Expert

Steven Dearing has been teaching classical guitar professionally since 1992. He began his teaching career at Academy St Cecile in Windsor, ON using the Royal Conservatory of Music method. In 1995, he joined the music faculty at the University of Windsor as an Adjunct Professor of Music, where he taught for over 23 years.

Over his career, members of Steven’s studio have won scholarships and annual concerto competitions, with most going on to pursue Masters degrees in music. Steven also spent seven years teaching at both campuses of Macomb Community College, giving him extensive experience with adult learners.

As a performer, Steven has played guitar concerti with orchestras in Metro Detroit and Windsor, won Detroit Music Awards, and released multiple critically acclaimed classical guitar recordings. His unique background as both a self-taught electric guitarist and formally trained classical musician gives him insight into the challenges guitarists face at every level.

Today, Steven maintains his teaching studio in Farmington Hills while continuing to perform classical guitar concerts throughout Metro Detroit. He serves students from Detroit, Dearborn, Southfield, Livonia, Novi, and communities across Oakland and Wayne counties.

Learn More

Professional classical guitar lessons serving Detroit and Metro Detroit since 1992. Royal Conservatory of Music method. University-trained instructor. All ages and skill levels welcome. Learn more about guitar lessons or contact Steven today.