Sorry this pro can’t do your job, but we know other pros who can. Check them out
About
I’m a trained classical guitarist with over 40 years of experience performing and teaching. I play by ear and read music, with a strong foundation in guitar history and music theory. Over the years I’ve performed at weddings, for dignitaries, in country clubs, concerts, and at jazz and classical festivals.
I love sharing music and helping students learn guitar the right way. Instead of jumping straight into chords and riffs and getting frustrated, we focus first on solid technique and simple finger exercises. This builds strength, ease, and confidence so you can enjoy playing for a lifetime.
Whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to refine your skills, I’ll guide you step by step so you can play with ease, confidence, and true enjoyment. Reach out and let’s get started with your first lesson.
Overview
Current Top Pro
Hired 140 times
Background checked
1 employee
43 years in business
Business hours
Sun7:00 am - 10:00 pmMon7:00 am - 10:00 pm
Payment methods
This pro accepts payments via PayPal, Venmo, and Zelle.
Top Pros are among the highest-rated, most popular professionals on Thumbtack.
2025
2023
2022
2021
2020
2018
Services offered
Interested musical styles
Rock
Blues
Country
Folk
Guitar type
Acoustic
Electric
Work location
I work remotely (phone or internet)
Projects and media
Projects and media
Reviews
Customers rated this pro highly for professionalism, work quality, and responsiveness.
Exceptional 5.0
74 reviews
5
99%
4
1%
3
0%
2
0%
1
0%
Your trust means everything to us. Learn about our review guidelines.
Read reviews that mention:
Lolita E.
4 weeks ago
•
Hired on Thumbtack
We hired Mr. Cook to play at our wine bar ENOTECA in Waycross GA. John showed up early ready to go. He was professional and prepared - even brought his own chair. He played beautifully, my guests were impressed with the variety of music and his talent. We look forward to his next performance at ENOTECA.
Details: General event / party • 25 guests or fewer • 31 - 50 years old • Other strings • Jazz / Blues • Other
Music Entertainment
George T.
May 2, 2026
•
Hired on Thumbtack
I was looking for a musician to play at our anniversary and John was just what I was looking for! Punctual and a magnificent guitarist! Me and my wife really enjoyed his music. I would highly recommend him.
Details: General event / party • 25 guests or fewer • 51 or older • Guitar • Covers • Outdoors
Music Entertainment
Brett M.
May 12, 2026
I can’t recommend John enough. He has helped take my playing to a whole new level. What really stands out is his ability to break things down in a way that actually clicks—whether it’s technique, music theory, or just getting out of a creative rut.
Lessons are always engaging, patient, and tailored to what I want to improve, instead of a one-size-fits-all approach.
If you’re serious about improving your guitar skills (or even just getting started the right way), John is absolutely the person you want to work with.
Alicia C.
Sep 17, 2025
•
Hired on Thumbtack
John is simply the best! Extremely kind, professional and his music added a lovely warm element to our special event. We’ve hired John twice and look forward to seeing him again soon!
Details: Corporate event • 101 - 150 guests • 31 - 50 years old • 51 or older • 18 - 30 years old • Guitar • Variety • Outdoors
Music Entertainment
Monique Z.
Jun 14, 2021
•
Hired on Thumbtack
My son was struggling in his HS Guitar class and by the 4th quarter he was failing the class, had no interest in playing the guitar and was very frustrated. I scheduled a lesson with John (my son reluctantly agreed but didn't think it would be helpful) because he emphasized the importance of the fundamentals and seemed to really enjoy teaching his students. Well now a few months later my son has an A for the semester in his guitar class and he wants to continue to take lessons outside of school. This would not have happened but for John and his patience, kindness and teaching abilities. We are very thankful and grateful for all that John has done in a short period of time for my son and highly recommend him to anyone wanting to learn the guitar or advance in their guitar studies.
Details: 14 - 17 years old • No formal training; some self-taught experience • No, cannot read music • Acoustic • What the teacher recommends • Yes, the student has an instrument • 30 minutes • Remotely (phone or internet) • My home, venue, etc.
Guitar Lessons
Credentials
Background Check
John Cook
FAQs
What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?
Discount for disabled
What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
I prefer to meet and learn about my student during our first session. Every student learn differently, so the method for each student has to be meant specifically to their understanding and ability.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?