"I had been playing guitar for a number of years before finding Mark and had grasped the basics of chord shapes, progressions and how to play along to some of my favourite songs but I was missing the overall skills needed to become a rounded guitar player. Seeing Mark’s advertisement on the Internet, and a brief chat over the phone was enough to convince me that lessons were worth the investment.

After a few discussions of what I wanted to get out of these lessons and where I wanted to go, Mark quickly set out a plan for me – which we both review on a regular basis – and tracked my progression as to what I expected to learn and how well we both thought I was doing. I am happy to state that in the 8 months I have been having lessons from Mark, my playing has improved exponentially and I am a far better player than I was last year – or would have been had I not taken lessons. This is all down to the tutorage that I have received from Mark.

Mark Holland is not only an amazing and gifted guitar player but also a fantastic musician. He has taught me the fundamentals of music theory (now bordering on the intermediate and advanced level) and he has also taught me many tricks and tips on how to become a better player both for myself and also whilst playing in a band. I find myself playing my guitar for at least an hour every day now, not because I need to practice, but because I have sheer enthusiasm for this instrument and a lot of this is because of my lessons with Mark."

- Stephen

"Mark has shown both tremendous skill and patience with our 7-year-old daughter, managing to teach her essential musical and instrumental skills while making it fun for her. As a result, we don't need to nag her to practice or play: she does so on her own, because she loves it.

I have played guitar for many years, but thanks to Mark's instruction I now understand the instrument far better than I ever have. Mark has been great at finding my current skill level and teasing out where I could productively and enjoyably progress as a player. It's been both fun and enriching."

- Greg

"For me, Mark Holland is the perfect guitar teacher – he is patient, inspiring, well organised and above all incredibly talented.

Oh and he’s a jolly nice chap too!

After 20 years away from playing the guitar I decided to get lessons and have never looked back. I have thrown all manner of tricky questions and challenges his way and he has always risen to the occasion. African funk rhythms? No problem! Blues phrasing? No problem! Country Rock Fingerpicking? Sorted! And not only is he adept at the practical side, he is able to communicate complex music theory in terms anyone can understand.

I rate Mark so highly as a teacher I decided to send my 7-year old son to him each week for 30 minute sessions. He loves it. While I remember dreading music lessons and practicing as a child, my son enjoys trying out his weekly ‘homework’ with great enthusiasm. I think this is entirely down to how Mark structures the teaching curriculum to stretch his students and have fun.

I would unreservedly recommend Mark to anyone young (or old) who wishes to learn the guitar at any level."

- Nic