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Online jazz guitar lessons

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Top-rated jazz guitar lessons

These jazz guitar lessons are highly rated for guided learning to help you explore improvisation and jazz chords.

Intro to Jazz

Intro to Jazz

New

intermediate · Jazz
Molly Miller

In this course we will look at the fundamentals of jazz: comping, improvisation, ii V I's, arpeggios, scales, and more. We will learn how to approach comping in the jazz style and start playing changes. We will look at shell chords, as well as the Dorian, Mixolydian, and Ionian modes. You even have a transcription assignment! So get ready to start swinging!!!

$35 / lesson

Developing Jazz Vocabulary for Guitarists

Developing Jazz Vocabulary for Guitarists

New

intermediate · Jazz
Cecil Alexander

In this class you'll learn how to develop jazz vocabulary in a fun, organic way. We'll be focusing on solo transcription, the application of transcribed lines/licks, and how to shape your own voice as an improviser!

$30 / lesson

Jazz Guitar Chords and Harmony for Songs

Jazz Guitar Chords and Harmony for Songs

4.88 (8)

intermediate · Jazz
Joshua Starkman

Become a better rhythm guitar player by expanding your knowledge of chord voicings and rhythms. You will also receive the tools on guitar to adapt to different music setting.

$30 / lesson

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Guitar lessons for every skill level

Learn at a pace that is right for you.

Beginner
Beginner

Start playing your first songs for friends

Intermediate
Intermediate

Expand your range and find your style

Advanced
Advanced

Get ready to take your skills on tour

Our community says it best

10,000+ lessons taken by students in 67 countries around the world.

Brian B.

Brian B.

String Theory Part 1 - Triads

Molly is absolutely amazing. The way she breaks things down so you can understand how to play is incredible. She encourages questions to help you along in your journey. I would encourage everyone to take her class. You will be better no matter what.

Tayler K.

Tayler K.

Meaningful Chords, Meaningful Soloing

I left Jude's class feeling much more confident in knowing how to make meaningful musical decisions. This class was always the highlight of my week and it was a blast getting to learn alongside other musicians seeking growth! Highly recommend!

Ryan G.

Ryan G.

Chord Creation

Arianna's class is amazing. Every class was extremely well thought out, always engaging, and had great cohesion of concepts throughout every class. It’s more reminiscent of a Music Conservatory Masterclass than your typical basic online class!

Tom B.

Tom B.

Zero to Hero

Caitlin is an exceptional guitar teacher (top 1%) and this is an outstanding course. The live lessons are highly interactive and there isn't a question that doesn't go unanswered. Til is a pleasure to use.

Abbey F.

Abbey F.

4 Chords: The Best of Taylor Swift

Nena tailored the class to us and what we wanted to learn. She gave us tips and tricks on how to play songs we wanted at whatever level we are at, I always felt encouraged. This class has been an invaluable part of my guitar playing journey.

Jason A.

Jason A.

Chord Vocabulary for Guitarists

This class was a perfect fit for me. It was refreshing to find an intermediate class that focused on harmony and voice leading. It was nice to have the opportunity to chat live and ask questions to clarify things in real time.

Ellie G.

Ellie G.

Meaningful Chords, Meaningful Soloing

Everything about this class was just absolutely fantastic. If you are a passionate guitarist and you are up to a challenge or even just learn something new, than this is definitely the class for you! Don't think twice about it, take the class!

Tom G.

Tom G.

Blues Guitar Improvisation

Quist is excellent at providing motivation to practice. My family, friends, and bandmates commented that my guitar playing, timing, and phrasing all improved.

Jared K.

Jared K.

Workshop for the Developing Guitarist

This was a great class. I learned a lot from Dylan and Eugene and the lessons were very fun. They are both extremely knowledgeable and experienced teachers. I look forward to any future classes.

Nelly M.

Nelly M.

Level Up: Jazz & Contemporary Guitar

I've already learned so much my brain hurts! Tash has given me some simpler things to work on since I'm a beginner. I've taken several of the Til classes and they are such a great way to learn.

Marco M.

Marco M.

Secret Weapons

This is as great as it gets! Lessons are extremely informative, fun, at a fantastic pace, and I cannot say enough about Caitlin...so knowledgeable!

Marty W.

Marty W.

Expanding Blues Guitar

Jamey is a great musician and is sincere in his desire to thoroughly teach the subject at hand. He provided detailed handouts and playing examples, and really went above and beyond my expectations. Highly recommended!

Jazz guitar lessons on Til

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Popular skills to learn jazz guitar

  • Jazz chords and voicings ((ii-V-I progression)
  • Jazz scales (modes, bebop, whole tone)
  • Play famous jazz licks, phrases, and standards
  • Improvisation
  • Seventh chord arpeggios
  • Advanced jazz harmony

Specialize your guitar playing style

  • acoustic
  • electric
  • blues
  • jazz
  • rock
  • neo-soul
  • classical
  • music theory

Frequently Asked Questions

Your guide to jazz guitar

How to start playing jazz guitar

Jazz guitar greats like Wes Montgomery, Django Reinhardt, and Pat Metheny have inspired countless players. To start your jazz guitar journey:

  • Learn essential chords and scales, focusing on ii-V-I progressions and modes.
  • Study jazz standards, analyzing chord progressions and melodies.
  • Develop your ear by transcribing solos and playing along with records.
  • Practice comping rhythms and chord voicings to build a strong foundation. .
  • Explore improvisation techniques like targeting chord tones, enclosures, and chromaticism.

Rather than get lost in endless online rabbit holes, find a skilled teacher to provide structure, feedback, and a dedicated practice time to keep you progressing. They'll help you navigate challenges and refine jazz techniques quickly.


For personalized guidance from world-class jazz guitarists, consider jazz guitar classes on Til. Til's live group classes with expert instructors offer the best of both worlds - access to top-notch teachers from home at half the cost of private lessons. With Til's expert instruction and your dedication, you'll be well on your way to mastering jazz guitar.

How long does it take to learn jazz guitar?

Learning the basics of jazz guitar typically takes around 100-200 hours, which translates to 12 - 24 months if you practice for 2 hours each week or 6 - 12 months if you practice for 30 minutes daily. It usually takes people 3 to 5 years to develop the ear and technical skills to confidently improvise. While not impossibly difficult, jazz guitar presents unique challenges. For most people, the hardest part to learn jazz guitar is mastering the complex harmonic progressions and improvisational techniques. To effectively practice jazz guitar, finding a great teacher is crucial. A skilled instructor can provide personalized guidance, help you develop proper technique, and introduce you to essential jazz concepts and theory in a structured manner, which is far more efficient than self-guided learning.


Need help finding a great teacher for jazz guitar? Discover top-rated jazz guitar lessons on Til.

Best guitars for jazz

Our pick: Gibson ES-175

The Gibson ES-175 is our top recommendation for jazz players. This iconic hollow body guitar has been a staple in jazz music since its introduction in 1949. The warm, rich tone produced by its maple/poplar/maple body and PAF-style humbuckers is perfect for the nuanced and expressive playing style of jazz. The comfortable rounded neck profile and 12"-radius rosewood fingerboard facilitate complex chord voicings and smooth lead lines. Jazz greats like Wes Montgomery and Pat Metheny have made the ES-175 their guitar of choice. Expect to pay around $3,000 for this timeless instrument.


Budget pick: Ibanez Artcore AM93

For jazz players on a budget, the Ibanez Artcore AM93 is an excellent choice. Priced around $600, this semi-hollow guitar features a maple top, back, and sides, as well as a set-in mahogany neck with a bound rosewood fretboard. The Super 58 humbuckers deliver a warm, articulate tone that's well-suited for jazz. The AM93's slim neck profile and lightweight body make it comfortable to play for extended periods, whether you're practicing or performing.


Upgrade pick: Collings I-35 LC

If you're looking for a premium jazz guitar, the Collings I-35 LC is a top-tier choice. This hand-built instrument, priced around $5,000, features a carved maple top, mahogany back and sides, and a mahogany neck with an ebony fretboard. The custom Lollar humbuckers provide a balanced, responsive tone that's perfect for jazz. The attention to detail in craftsmanship and the use of premium materials make the I-35 LC a true players' guitar, ready to inspire and facilitate the most demanding jazz performances.

Featured photo by Dolo Iglesias on Unsplash