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If you hire this pro, you’re covered by a money-back guarantee. Learn more
About
I am a multi-instrumentalist, which gives me a different perspective with regards to how each instrument functions in the context of a song or a band. I also customize every lesson to fit the needs of each student. I feel that this creates a learning environment that inspires a disciplined practice routine.
In addition to my love for music, I enjoy the opportunity to share ideas and concepts that pertain to music, but can be applied to every facet of life.
Overview
Hired 26 times
Serves Long Beach, CA
Background checked
24 years in business
Business hours
This pro hasn't listed their business hours.
Payment methods
This pro accepts payments via Apple Pay, Cash, Check, PayPal, Venmo, and Zelle.
Services offered
Interested musical styles
Guitar type
Acoustic
Electric
Work location
My customers travel to me
Projects and media
Projects and media
Reviews
Customers rated this pro highly for responsiveness, professionalism, and punctuality.
Exceptional 5.0
27 reviews
5
96%
4
4%
3
0%
2
0%
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Read reviews that mention:
Sam L.
Aug 4, 2025
•
Hired on Thumbtack
Damien is the man! I've been learning the drums from him for over a year and he's an incredible teacher. He is great at just about every instrument you can think of, I highly recommend Damien to anyone looking to learn an instrument at any skill level.
Details: 26 - 44 years old • No formal training; some self-taught experience • Understands note durations and rests • Traditional drum kit • What the teacher recommends • Rock • No, but the student is planning to purchase drums and would like the teacher's advice on it • 45 minutes • At the pro’s location
Drum Lessons
Les G.
Jan 30, 2015
•
Hired on Thumbtack
I was looking for a guitar teacher and after years of trying to play my guitar I bought in the early 80s I tried so hard to teach myself, and after months of looking at all kinds of self-help books, and the internet I got stuck, just like all the countless millions out there and gave up! I wasnt getting any younger, so I dusted off my guitar again in 2014 and sent out to find a teacher
I started searching a few web sites for teachers, I even had a chance to interviewed a few over the phone. The last person I called was Damien. As we talked I knew right then after our long conversation he was the right person to teach me guitar. He took on this 59 year old who has a passion to learn, without very little prior knowledge of a guitar. Now 60 Ive learned so much after my 5th month and Im so grateful Damien took me on! He has a ton of patiences, hes a wonderful person and one heck of a guitar player!!!
For all of you who want to learn how to play a guitar, or you know of someone whos interested, I highly recommend Damien, a guy who knows his way around a guitar, a bass, a piano and even the drums. So what do you have to loose, stop wishing about playing that guitar, and start learning how to play a guitar!
Damien Smith, great guy, great teacher
Rock On!
Les G
Guitar Lessons
Ye X.
Feb 2, 2016
•
Hired on Thumbtack
Very good teacher he will teach you from the music theory, not only make
You understand how to play guitar and know how to understand music, how music is make, what you learn from him is not going to limit you at the class, but also give You a guidance how you can do research on music by yourself after class. He can provide very academic course for you.
Guitar Lessons
Melissa B.
Aug 1, 2024
•
Hired on Thumbtack
Damien is very knowledgeable in music theory and techniques with various instruments. We have just started lessons together and look forward to learning how to play the bass guitar.
Details: 45 - 64 years old • No formal training • No, the student cannot read music • Rock • Blues • Jazz • What the teacher recommends • Yes, the student has an instrument • 60 minutes • At the pro’s location • My home, venue, etc.
Bass Guitar Lessons
Noel M.
Jan 3, 2019
•
Hired on Thumbtack
I’ve only spoken to Damian on the phone and conversed via thumbtack about guitarlessons but I wanted to express just how knowledgeable and professional he was with me. He always responded promptly to all my calls and messages. I can’t wait to start working with him.
Details: 45 - 64 years old • 0 - 2 yrs of formal training • Yes, can read guitar tabs • Acoustic • What the teacher recommends • Yes, the student has an instrument • 60 minutes • I travel to the guitar teacher
Guitar Lessons
Credentials
Background Check
Damien Smith
FAQs
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I am always trying to expand my pallet. I am keenly aware that there is always someone out there who plays better than I do, so I am still taking lessons from great musicians. I also try to find new and challenging situations either in the recording studio or live performances.
How did you get started doing this type of work?
I have been playing music since childhood and can not imagine a more fulfilling profession.
What types of customers have you worked with?
I take examples of songs that my students love and transcribe them. As I do this, I explain all of the theory that is required in order to play that song (scales, chords, rudiments, reading, beats, etc.).
