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About
I teach guitar, bass, and ukulele. I teach all ages and styles. I've been teaching in Northwest Arkansas since 2009. I teach in peoples homes and some students come for lessons in my home. This leads to long term relationships. Many of my students have been taking lessons with me for years.
My method is based on a healthy balance of learning and fun. I teach a lot of kids, so it has to be fun. I have developed a practical and intuitive method that mirrors my formal education (I have a music degree), performing experience, and a lifetime of playing guitar. I have seen the method work. Many of my young students have done well performing at school talent shows. Some of my more advanced students are working toward professional careers and have begun performing at local venues.
I simply love teaching. I have many long term students. It's rewarding to see students develop solid skills and knowledge over time.
Overview
Hired 83 times
Background checked
1 employee
17 years in business
Business hours
This pro hasn't listed their business hours.
Payment methods
This pro accepts payments via Cash, Check, and Zelle.
Top Pro status
Top Pros are among the highest-rated, most popular professionals on Thumbtack.
2019
2018
Services offered
Music types
Band
Vocals
Guitar
Piano
Event type
Wedding reception
Wedding ceremony
Birthday party
Cocktail hour
Music genres
Pop / top 40
Rock / classic rock
Jazz / Blues
Mariachi
Projects and media
Projects and media
Reviews
Customers rated this pro highly for work quality, professionalism, and responsiveness.
Exceptional 5.0
40 reviews
5
98%
4
2%
3
0%
2
0%
1
0%
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Read reviews that mention:
Lauren l.
Oct 22, 2025
•
Hired on Thumbtack
I cannot say enough amazing things. I look forward to my lesson with him every week, and we have a blast. I’m learning so much, and he genuinely cares and motivates me to grow in my skills. So many cool stories and tricks to help anyone at any level!
Details: 18 - 25 years old • No formal training; some self-taught experience • No, cannot read music • Acoustic • Rock • Blues • Country • Folk • Jazz • Classical • What the teacher recommends • Yes, the student has an instrument • 60 minutes • At the pro’s location
Guitar Lessons
Angela L.
Jun 11, 2019
•
Hired on Thumbtack
Kurt is not only knowledgeable about a broad range of musical genres, but is a talented instructor. I appreciated that he arrived with a plan that was designed to meet my specific needs and goals. I highly recommend Kurt to all ages and ability levels!
Details: 45 - 64 years old • No formal training; some self-taught experience • Yes, can read music staff • Electric • Blues • Yes, the student has an instrument • 45 minutes • My home, venue, etc.
Guitar Lessons
Christian B.
Nov 21, 2023
•
Hired on Thumbtack
I have been taking lessons with Kurt for a month now and I have already grown as a guitarist exponentially. He breaks everything down in an a way that is easy to understand and makes it fun at the same time. I could not have found a better teacher. He has so much experience and so much to teach. Not to mention that he also is jam packed with stories from working in the industry so long.
Arrives on time and will work with you until the lesson is done and then some. All of this under a completely reasonable price tag. I cannot recommend him enough if you are looking to get into guitar. Thank you Kurt!!
Details: 18 - 25 years old • No formal training; some self-taught experience • Yes, can read music staff • Electric • Rock • Blues • Jazz • Classical • What the teacher recommends • Yes, the student has an instrument • 60 minutes • At the pro’s location • My home, venue, etc.
Guitar Lessons
Kyle D.
Jul 7, 2025
•
Hired on Thumbtack
Kurt was very quick to reply. Polite and professional. After our conversation I felt that he was very knowledgeable and would be a great teacher.
I have chosen not to pursue lessons with Kurt at this time only because of the structure, scheduling and cost of his lessons. I didnt feel that his fees were expensive, however I didnt care for the subscription based service that was a monthly amount. Im looking to take a lesson and then pay for that lesson as I can schedule them due to my erratic schedule.
Details: 26 - 44 years old • 0 - 2 yrs of formal training • Yes, can read music staff • Acoustic • Rock • No, but the student is planning to purchase an instrument • 30 minutes • At the pro’s location
Guitar Lessons
Darla B.
Feb 20, 2018
•
Hired on Thumbtack
Kurt is passionate about what he does and is also very proficient in his methods of teaching as well as his musical knowledge and playing skill. We love that he comes to our home.
Details: 45 - 64 years old • No, cannot read music • No formal training • Acoustic • What the teacher recommends • Yes, the student has an instrument • 45 minutes • As soon as possible • Ready to hire the right teacher now • The guitar teacher travels to me
Guitar Lessons
Credentials
Background Check
Kurt Johnsen
FAQs
What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?
My rates are standard for the area that I work and are comparable with lessons at music stores and other places that offer music and instrument lessons.
What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
I apply my method for teaching based on the individual. The challenge is to find a way to apply the method based on their individual interests and abilities. Finding a balance of learning and fun is the key for it to work in the long term.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have a bachelors degree in music. I have worn many hats in the music industry. I have worked as a performer, sound engineer, stage manager, tour manager, and guitar tech.
