Testimonials

Performing Students

"I've been working under John's instruction for almost 22 years. I think that in itself is a testament to his abilities. I've been all over the world as an artist, yet still seem to come back to where I started for the best instruction. I highly encourage others to seek his talents, on your quest to rock greatness you will find no better wizard of the riff!"
—Mike Schleibaum, Darkest Hour

"John is an incredibly talented player and teacher, and he really helped my playing get to the next level. His knowledge of theory, techniques, and styles is massive, and he can convey them in a way that is easy to grasp and not overbearing. Before I worked with John I was a little frustrated because I didn't know where to look for inspiration. John was able to open the door to a whole new world of ideas and unlock the type of player I wanted to be."
—Mike "Lonestar" Carrigan, Darkest Hour

"John Connolly is the premier private music teacher in the area and can absolutely teach you any style/technique you could ever want to know for your chosen musical instrument. He is a laid back, fun-loving dude, and I definitely wouldn't be where I am today without his expertise!"
—Dan Hauser, Veil of Maya

"I am, without a doubt, a better guitar player and musician because of my two years of studying with John. His ability as a player is inspiring. More importantly, as his student, is his uncanny ability to communicate and break down complicated concepts and techniques into their simplest terms. He met me at my skill level and pushed me to get better. I would recommend anyone at any age and skill level to study with John."
—Shane Hines, shanehines.com

"John's doesn't just teach a student how to move his fingers on the guitar. His regard for overall musicianship and sound is really what sets him apart from your average guitar teacher. His teaching is elemental and makes a lot of sense, and his ability to clearly demonstrate new concepts is fantastic. I am a better guitar player from having studied with him."
—Joel Hansen, Classical Guitarist, Performer and Instructor, Joel Hansen

"Being a mostly self-taught guitarist, I reached a plateau with my playing. John showed me some new techniques and helped refine some of my weak areas. John's lessons have developed my lead playing and broadened my guitar vernacular. Additionally, when it came time for my band Absolute Vengeance to track solos for our album, John helped us write and execute solos that were on another level compared to what we had done in the past."
—Jonathan Clay, Reston, VA, Absolute Vengeance

"I found out about John Connolly from his involvement with the band Darkest Hour. Their Human Romance CD credits him as 'Guitar Coach and Inspirational Shredder.' My musical background was mainly metal (Absolute Vengeance) and I always considered myself more of a rhythm player who did occasional leads. I decided to contact John for lessons because I needed help developing better lead guitar techniques to round out my style. John was able to help me develop unique solo ideas and include advanced techniques such as hybrid picking, sweeps, and super fast hammer-ons and pull-offs in a way that I never thought possible. The lessons were well worth the time and money!"
—Steven Clay, Absolute Vengeance

"Rarely do you meet someone that has a dramatic influence on the course of your life—John Connolly has been that person for me. I can honestly say I am pursuing music because of his guidance, support, and expertise. I have been taking lessons for seven years with John and he has helped me through good times and bad, from high school to to James Madison University where I earned my bachelor of music degree. He helped me gain the skills and confidence necessary to perform in a successful funk-rock band and to begin my professional teaching career. He will always be my teacher, mentor, and friend. I wholeheartedly recommend that anyone who is seriously or casually interested in learning music and guitar take lessons with John Connolly. He has always been able to address my needs and interests while honing my skills as a growing musician, and he can for you too. Did I mention he is seriously one of the most amazing guitar players ever?!"
—Clifford Blum, Private Guitar Instructor, Rhythm and Lead Guitarist with Philosophunk

"It’s because of guitar lessons and instruction from John that I was able to reach a lot of my goals and quickly set ones that are even higher. John worked with me to teach me to play songs and styles I love, make my school’s jazz combo, learn how to be a performer, and how to have a blast with the instrument. For anyone looking to follow their passion for guitar, my only answer is John Connolly."
—Taylor Silver, Alexandria, VA, The Distance Project

"I started lessons back in 2004 at age 13. Since then, I'm proud to say I've been melting faces in and around the the local music scene. And I owe it all to John. I have had the privilege of witnessing first hand his affect on local musicians. No matter what genre or style, John is an expert. He has helped turn dreams (including mine) into reality."
—Chris Teran, Springfield, VA, Mudslinger

"I started taking lessons with John to prepare for a high school ensemble because I could only read tab. Starting with very little skill, dedication, or knowledge of the instrument, John has gotten me to play everything from Bach to Zeppelin in the past eight years. John eventually prepared me for college auditions; I passed all of them thanks to him and had many options for where I wanted to receive my bachelor's degree. John is a well-rounded guitarist and person, a wise mentor, and a dear friend to my family. He has always been able to explain concepts effectively and thoroughly, all while having fun. Always encouraging and supportive, John blessed me with a strong base understanding of my instrument that has served me throughout my undergraduate career as a music major. He helped me become not only a guitarist but a musician. As my love for the guitar grows, so does my appreciation for John's flexible teaching, his numerous areas of expertise, and most importantly his patience."
—Niko Sward, Classical Guitarist, Virginia Commonwealth University

"I have taken guitar lessons with John Connolly for over 10 years, and can attest that he is an incredible teacher. He has taken me from being a beginner to studying classical guitar at the college level, as well as helping me attain technical and musical mastery in a number of other styles, such as rock and blues. He has a deep knowledge of the instrument and a rare talent for teaching. I would strongly recommend him to someone seeking to learn guitar or to improve his command of the instrument in any style."
—Matt Walsh, Classical Guitarist, North Western University

"John Con is my teacher, my friend, my life coach, and one bada** guitar player. His attention to detail is unparalleled. Seasoned guitarists may find their brains scattered over the floor as he blows their mind with his pristine technique, and beginners may find masses of adoring fans clamoring at their doorstep as they rise the ranks of rock. Or jazz. Or blues. Or classical. You name it, John does it best. Truly, John is a master of all genres.”
—David Ward, Classical Guitarist, James Madison University

"John Connolly is a great teacher. He helped me prepare for my college auditions within a two month deadline. He was able to quickly assess my skill level and provide exciting arrangements of jazz standards. With his help, I was accepted into all the schools I auditioned at. I will be going to VCU as a jazz studies major in the fall."
—Alec Sullivan, Jazz Guitarist, Virginia Commonwealth University

"We’ve been working with John for months now, piecing together an EP. His remarkable knowledge of the instruments and the theory behind song composition and production has been incomparably helpful. John is open to ideas, but full of his own. We’ve done a few covers with him as well, and with his guidance have made them our own and are steadily learning to identify our sound. His abilities are vast, and include a complete knowledge of programs such as ProTools. He’s been incredibly persistent in ensuring that each mic used will produce the best result for each vocalist, creating the optimal effect for each piece. We’re always pleased with his service, and we fully intend to continue to leverage John’s experience and expertise to complete this EP."
—Kestrel, LAOD

MUSIC EDUCATORS

"In my over 40 years of teaching, the truly superior students I've had can be counted on one hand. John was one of those students. His attention to detail I saw when he was a student continues in the way he approaches teaching. Anyone who studies with John will find their progress to be an extremely positive experience. Play on!"
—Glen McCarthy, Creator of the first full-year guitar program for Fairfax County Public Schools, Guitar Instructor at George Mason University, "Educator of the Year" Grammy Nominee

"My most memorable experience working with John was during a project funded by the Wolf Trap Foundation, involving the creation of a new work for electric guitar and symphony orchestra. John served as consultant, instructor and soloist, working with a group of very talented high school composers to produce and perform the new work. The students loved every minute of working with John. His creative guidance, ingenuity in working through all of the technical challenges, and dedication as soloist to the final performance made the collaboration a fantastic experience. John is a wonderful guitarist and teacher, a consummate artist in every way."
—Christopher E. Johnston, Music and Computer Technology Instructor, Fairfax Academy for Communications and the Arts

"John Connolly is not only a guitarist with amazing and varied musical talents, he is an educator and he knows how to connect with an audience of all ages. He has given numerous workshops over the years at our annual Mid-Atlantic Guitar Ensemble Festival and each time, Mr. Connolly’s professionalism and artistry shine through."
—John Graham, Lake Braddock Secondary School, Department Chair - Performing Arts Guitar Director

"John has been working with many of my students for years. I can count on them becoming solid Guitarists as well as musicians when they work with him. Keep making them awesome John!"
—Keith Owens, West Springfield High School, Director of Guitar Studies

"John is an amazing and versatile guitarist and teacher. He has a knack for engaging the students and keeps them interested. Students at our Mid-Atlantic Guitar Festival were riveted."
—Mike Ward, South County High School, Fine and Performing Arts Department Chair


"My students and I had the pleasure of attending the Fairfax County Mid-Atlantic Guitar Festival. John Connolly was one of the guest clinicians, and he was absolutely amazing. My students were mesmerized by his teaching style and his insane playing capabilities. He even provides online guitar instruction, which I think is super innovative. I look forward to consulting with him on future projects."
—Stacey Rubach, OHS Guitar Director, Manassas, Virginia, Washington Post’s Agnes Meyer Outstanding Teacher of the Year 2007, Grammy Foundation Signature Enterprise Award 2015


"Anyone wanting to up their guitar playing skills and musicianship should get in touch with John Connolly. His talent as a guitarist, communication as an instructor, and integrity are all second-to-none."
—Bryan Aspey, International competition-winning guitarist/composer, bryanaspey.com


"John’s patience and his ability to pinpoint and remedy pedagogical issues are traits that I strive to replicate as a teacher. His musical prowess is known throughout the guitar community and his name yields the utmost respect from all the fellow instructors I have spoken to. The impact John had on my musical development is truly immeasurable. He imparted on me a thirst for excellence and comfort in a rigorous practice routine. I directly associate my acceptance into, and graduation from James Madison University School of Music to the years I spent under John’s instruction."
—Kevin Pons, Private Guitar Instructor


"I’ve known John for a long time. His knowledge and ability to play the guitar is amazing. He’s also a super nice guy. He would be a good fit for a serious player or a casual player that wants to learn the guitar in a friendly environment. Take a listen to the recordings on his website then give him a call. You won’t regret it."
—Sam Wright, Musician, Private Music Instructor

students learning purely for fun

"Over nearly 10 years of lessons with John Connolly, I worked on everything from death metal to jazz, from rhythm to chicken pickin', from Johann Sebastian Bach to Eddie Van Halen. No matter what your goals are as a guitarist, John Connolly will give you every resource you need to achieve them. His knowledge is vast, his standard of instruction is excellence, and his pursuit of unleashing his students' six-string potential is nothing short of relentless."
—Joshua Lawson, Richmond, VA

"In the last six years I’ve gone back to taking guitar lessons to understand basic theory. I went through two other teachers in that time frame. In six months, John has brought me further in understanding basic guitar theory than the others combined. (To give those other teachers some credit, I am probably not an easy case to teach.) John found where I stumbled. He’s now regularly picking me up for “ah ha” moments in a very good way. If you're a person who has had difficulty in the past, I’d say give this teacher a whirl and see how you feel after a few lessons. What a difference he's made for me!"
—Steve Yasin, Flux71.com

"I have been taking guitar lessons from John for more than 20 years. I was a self taught guitar player who was not making any improvements. During my first lesson, John asked me what my goals were and assessed my current playing. John was able to marry my goals with a specific lesson plan to improve my overall playing. He is not only an amazing player but also an amazing teacher. Over the years my interests have changed and no matter what I threw at him, John was able to help me pursue my particular passion at that time. Music theory, finger style, jazz, heavy metal—you name it, John can cover it. Electric, check. Acoustic, check. Classical, done. A lot of times I was interested in just learning a song that I liked. John would transcribe it for me from scratch but also make sure that the particular right hand and left hand techniques that were being used were correct. You can't get that from a tab book! John is a patient and meticulous teacher. You will see incredible improvement in your playing if you take his teachings and you practice. I thought I was a good player before starting with John, but he helped me make enormous strides in my guitar playing. I can't see myself taking lessons from anyone else. Sign up. You will NOT be disappointed."
—Paul Gonzalez, Detroit, MI

"I've been trying to teach myself guitar for years. It's safe to say that I never would have thought of or Googled my way to the stuff I learned from John in just a few short months. There's no substitute for someone who knows what to look for and how to fix it." —Rich, Retired Lt. Colonel, Burke, VA

"For many years, I had wanted to learn to play classical guitar. I made a promise to myself to pursue this interest once I retired. John was recommended by my veterinarian, who also takes lessons. John is a wonderful teacher: He is patient, encouraging, and very good at breaking complicated passages down into component parts that make learning easier. Because of his background in different genres of music (jazz, rock, classical, to name a few), he is uniquely positioned to teach students at all levels. I highly recommend him as an instructor, both for the older rank beginner such as myself (I had taken piano for many years and foolishly thought that guitar would be easy, but it's not) and for advanced students. With John's patience and help, learning to play the guitar has definitely changed my life. Plus he's a nice guy and fun to work with!"
—Sara Lee, Burke, VA

"Ever since my brother and I started taking guitar lessons with him more than 10 years ago, John has been a great teacher and a tremendous friend. Whether it is by teaching us a new riff on the guitar or simply cracking a clever pun, he has always managed to make each lesson exciting and fun. If you are looking to pick up the guitar or refine your already advanced skills, I can say without a doubt that there is no better choice in teacher than John."
—Brian, New York

"John's teaching helped me immensely with my technique. He has a comprehensive knowledge - whether I aimed to learn music production, musical theory, steel-string fingerpicking, or my favorite - 80s shredding - John was able to steer me in the right direction, and work with my schedule and practice habits."
—Trajan, Fort Benning, Georgia

"There does not exist words in the English dictionary that adequately describe this man’s talent and impact in the teaching of his students. I have had the good fortune of meeting many, and not a single one has ever held him in anything less than the highest esteem, many who (even after years of ending their lessons) consider him both as a legend and a friend. A rare individual to be sure, one who never ceases to surprise me in his inherent ability to judge a students’ skill level and design a personalized study plan perfectly catered to that student’s interests, needs and abilities. He ignited in me a passion for music that has guided me through many years and enabled me to engage with others in ways I could never have imagined. A teacher who I always felt I could talk to about anything, who was always there for me when I needed him the most, a person who teaches with his heart and is the most inspiring and skilled guitarist I have ever had the privilege to meet, and the honor to learn from."
—Kevin Morris, Fairfax Station, VA

“I can express easily all the gratitude I have for my dear friend John Connolly, as a guitar teacher, as a musical production and recording engineer, and as a musical composer and arranger. John and I first connected back in 1996 at Pink Guitarz, a small guitar shop in Centreville, VA, where for several years John was my teacher and gave me far more than just the fundamentals of playing. He was generous with his time and insights, and he kept me motivated by letting me explore and learn anything I wanted. From rock, to classical Spanish, to cutting edge software for musical notation or sequencing, John’s attitude was, If you want to learn it, I’ll teach it to you, and this was so different from what I had experienced in the past with music instruction. Now, as a parent of a budding guitar player, singer, song writer, and performer, John is our 'go-to man' for all things musical, including anything performance related. John is worth every penny of the investment. Such is life: You get what you pay for. And with John you won’t be disappointed."
—Jay, Centreville, VA

"I have known John for almost 15 years. In that time he has gone from being a just my guitar teacher to being a good friend. He has always treated me with respect and kindness. I'm certain you won't find a better guitar teacher in all of the DC area. His knowledge and willingness to help with any problem or request, musically or otherwise, is unique only to John. I am proud to refer to John as my teacher and my friend."
—Haris, Burke, VA

"Starting the guitar late in high school has been an excellent experience with John. He really knows his stuff, gets into fine detail, and covers the little nuances that separates good playing from great. He has helped me grow as a player more quickly than I thought possible. If I ever have any questions about guitar stuff, he's my guy. It's also been really cool being able to continue lessons long distance through Skype."
—Justin Woo, Engineering Student, University of Florida

"John did not only teach me to read sheet music but he taught me how to improvise with songs and make my own music. This is a skill I still use today. John is not about, “You must learn this piece in order to progress." He will even research songs you like and develop the chord structure so you can play the songs. Oh, he also has really cool puzzles!"
—Maddie, Springfield, VA

"As someone who loves rock and roll, I was really happy to be learning REM on my first lesson instead of Hot Cross Buns."
—Christopher, Burke, VA

"Taking lessons with you really helped prepare me to be in the top classical guitar ensemble at WSHS. A school music teacher can only spend so much time helping someone, but private lessons really allow for good one-on-one interaction. I got to an ability level that I had never thought possible for me; I watched my brother learn songs that I thought sounded really hard, but you would teach them to me like it was nothing and I was able to learn literally anything I wanted to. Your lessons really helped my confidence, both as a player and a person. Furthermore, you're a great person to know and talking to you was often the highlight of my week. I was worried at the start that, as a beginner, you would get angry or lose your patience with me if I wasn't very good. But that was never the case in my five years of lessons. I can't think of a single bad thing to say about private lessons with you. I also really appreciate the range of genres and styles that you taught me. I became aware of a lot of great music because of you, and learned to appreciate some that I couldn't before. I recommend lessons with you to everyone who tells me they want to pick up guitar, and have been for the past five years."
—Alexandra, Springfield, VA

"I started taking lessons from John when I was 15 years old. Instantly the quality of the lessons and the extent of his knowledge and gift for teaching became evident. I learned to play songs and styles that I had loved for years, learning the techniques incorporated within those songs along the way. This style of learning helped greatly in motivation to attain higher and higher levels of technical skill. John has a gift for understanding and nurturing even the most intricate and minute details in a guitar player’s development and instilling the realization that the small things will make the most difference in the end. He has an uncanny knack for bringing to the surface a player’s individual unique style and sound, putting emphasis on strengthening their natural abilities and improving things that maybe don’t come so naturally. I overcame so many obstacles in my guitar playing under John’stutelage. I can honestly say that there can be no more thorough, well-directed, knowledgeable, talented teacher out there. Very few people possess the astounding level of playing ability that John has as well as the comprehensive tool set for teaching and making a great guitarist out of anyone willing to practice and learn. Above all, John has been a great mentor and friend and lessons with him have been a highlight for many years."
—Jack, Sterling, VA

Parents of students

"We have four kids and we have worked with many music teachers over the years. We love John for his immense talent, compassionate personality and open, confidence-boosting style in teaching. Our son Liam has gotten more out of playing guitar than we ever imagined!"
—Nora, Burke, VA

"Our daughter, Maddie, wanted to learn to play the guitar so we did our research in the Springfield/Burke area and John Connolly was highly recommended from a close family acquaintance. Maddie was thirteen at the time. The first thing that struck me from sitting in on the initial lessons was how comfortable Maddie was learning from John. Our daughter had played the cello through her elementary school but had no experience playing the guitar before the first lesson. John started out by asking Maddie the type of music she liked listening to and he quickly had her playing songs she truly enjoyed playing. As she progressed, John introduced more intricate and demanding pieces that had elaborate fingering and she picked it up astonishingly fast. I was so impressed with her advancement that I started taking lessons from John myself. Although, I probably have not advanced as quickly as my daughter (you know the adage about Old Dogs) I’ve been very pleased with my own progression. John is an amazingly talented guitarist (who is also classically trained) and can tailor his lessons to anybody who has an interest in playing the guitar in whatever way works best for them. John can relate to youth and he finds ways to excite their interest to keep them motivated. He holds the lessons out of his home recording studio which offers a safe, private environment for youths/adolescents and his rates are very reasonable for the high quality of training you will receive. I highly recommend him to anybody who has an interest in learning to play the guitar."
—Jeff Gadway, Springfield, VA

"John is a very versatile teacher and keeps his students engaged with whatever type of music they are drawn to. My kids have learned rock, classical and everything in between, and have even had vocal instruction. I highly recommend. Five star rating!"
—Diane, Springfield, VA

"I had the pleasure of working with John from 2007 to 2009 with my son who was 16 at the time. John taught my son classical and electric. Now John is teaching my daughter who's 11. John's fantastic at picking music the kids like and find fun and challenging, while focusing on technique. John's approach is simple and effective. Samantha has a great time going to her lessons. I always find her laughing and having fun while learning. She's made a lot of progress in the five months she's been playing. And she doesn’t whine about practicing because she likes the music she plays, and when she gets bored, John changes it up to keep her engaged. I highly recommend John Connolly."
—Melissa, Springfield, VA

"Definitely one of the most well taught series of guitar lessons my two sons will ever take. John is immensely knowledgeable and well organized. His classes are engaging, thorough and fun. Once, I asked John to teach my son a specific folk song from my country of origin that he needed to play at school even though it had very complex sections. John did his research, learned it, and taught it to my son who did wonderful rendition. John brings to the class not only his vast knowledge, but also his values as a person. Overall, a great teacher and fantastic role model."
—Patricia, Burke, VA

"Two of my kids took guitar lessons with John Connolly and they really enjoyed it and learned a lot. John is an excellent instructor and very professional. I was especially impressed with how he tailored the lessons to the kids' interests and capabilities while being flexible and willing to work with busy schedules. I highly recommend John Connolly!"
—Bob Silver, Springfield, VA