Philip Hartshorn's Dunedin School of Music

Phil is an EXCELLENT music teacher. I highly recommend him to anyone, of any age, who wants to learn the language of music.

Phil is an excellent guitar teacher; I tried for years to teach myself using YouTube tutorials and tabs, and never got past learning to play a single song - badly. With Phil's help, I've learned the proper foundations to be a proper guitarist: reading guitar sheet music, chords and chord progressions, scales, licks, strum patterns and more, in only 1 year of lessons! I would highly recommend Phil to anyone looking to make significant progress in guitar

We are very happy with Phil as our children's first piano teacher. He has created a positive and encouraging learning environment, and our children have built a genuine love for playing the piano. We appreciate his patience and dedication.

Less than a year ago, I couldn't play the drums at all. But, since I've been taking lessons with Phil, I have learned so much and improved greatly. I love and look forward to my weekly lessons, because I learn so much from Phil every time, and they are really fun, too! He is the best music teacher I have ever had, because he listens to what you are interested in learning and playing, and makes the lessons really valuable and fun. If you are not sure about taking lessons with Phil, I would encourage you to do so!

I highly recommend Phil as music teacher. He is patient, knowledgeable and an excellent teacher. I started lessons with him a year ago as an absolute beginner, knowing nothing except that I wanted to learn guitar, and now I can play multiple chords and songs. I love the backing tracks Phil supplies to practice with and being able to have lessons in person or via Skype, depending on what suits me, is an awesome option.

I have been having lessons with Phil for 18 months now after having being self-taught and playing for 15 years. My musicianship since having lessons with Phil has grown more than what I had learned in 15 years prior. His methods are tried and true and help with understanding beat and how to read music as well as learning cool songs, understanding patterns for lead, and mastering the blues. If you’re looking for a teacher who will take your guitar playing to places you’d never thought you could go ld recommend Phil without a doubt. Lessons can be done in person or remotely and both are effective. Ben

I am delighted to have an opportunity to provide a review of Phil Hartshorn's superior teaching skills and organized lessons. I have been playing guitar professionally for about a month, and have been taking guitar lessons with Phil Hartshorn at Phil Hartshorn's School of Music, via Zoom, for several months. As a guitar instructor, Phil offers a rare combination of traits, knowledge, and skills. He (1) is patient and fun to work with, (2) communicates clearly, (3) organizes the lessons and "homework" around my musical goals, (4) motivates me by giving me enough but not too much at a time to work on on my own, and (5) is not shy about sharing his knowledge of the realities of performing live. During lessons, I not only make progress, but I frequently learn something new that is unique and useful about playing, practicing, or performing. I especially appreciate what Phil has taught me about reading and interpreting music, including some wonderful tips about counting rhythms. He has also helped me develop my ability to play blues chords and solos. I highly recommend Phil's school of music without reservation. Whatever your current level, you are likely to dramatically enhance your guitar skills and overall music skills at the same time.

A fantastic music tutor , phil worked with my son for many years teaching him the guitar. He is patient , knowledgeable and knows how to work with and talk to teens. Would thoroughly recommend him as a teacher :)

Phil has been an excellent tutor and I have really enjoyed his lessons. I came in as a complete novice to music and playing the drums, and now I feel comfortable with reading sheet music and playing some amazing songs through a range of genres. The lessons have given me a much deeper appreciation for music and I now listen to music in a totally different way.

I would recommend Phil's guitar lessons to anyone who is wanting to improve their skills and have fun while playing! I received lessons for about 2 years and gained so much knowledge and the ability to improve my playing significantly. He is very knowledgable, patient, kind and overall a great teacher! His methods of teaching are very helpful and I began to play with a lot better understanding of timing and technique, which I was lacking previously. Also the other resources which Phil provides are great- such as a database of music and online recordings. Skype lessons are also offered, which makes it very flexible and convenient. These Skype lessons are just as helpful and great for if you can't go to your lesson. These lessons are good value for money, professional, and communication is also good. Phil is a great teacher, I have learnt a lot and couldn't recommend enough!