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Bespoke, one-to-one lessons in Desborough, Northamptonshire

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Without a doubt, this guy came in and he actually played it better than I could have done.

— Jimmy Page, Riffathon Live 2005

Meet Your Tutor

Hi, I'm Martin Tomkins, a professional guitarist and guitar teacher based in Desborough, Northamptonshire.

Martin Tomkins, guitar tutor in Desborough Northamptonshire

Photo by Stephen Chandler

Martin Tomkins as a young guitarist with an acoustic guitar

My guitar journey began over 30 years ago as a shy 12-year-old after being shown a few basic chords and I was soon hooked. I would spend countless hours listening to vinyl records in my bedroom with a cheap guitar trying to figure out how to play the music I enjoyed, it was a slow process but I eventually had enough songs to join a local band and start gigging.

I went on to study contemporary music performance at The Guitar Institute in London in 2003/4 under some of the best teachers in the business including Shaun Baxter, Lee Hodgson, Pete Whittard & Justin Sandercoe. Whilst there I won the prize for 'Top Guitar Performer 2004'.

Martin Tomkins with Jimmy Page, Brian May and Dan Hawkins at Riffathon Live 2005

The following year I won 1st prize at a national guitar competition called 'Riffathon Live 2005' where I was one of 10 finalists performing live to judges Brian May (Queen), Jimmy Page (Led Zeppelin) and Dan Hawkins (The Darkness). Jimmy Page presented me with the prize, a 1957 reissue Gibson Les Paul from Gibson's custom shop.

Over the years I have been busy performing live with a number of original and covers bands and have recorded songs for Universal Records with Etham's 'Before I Lose My Mind' reaching over 39 million streams on Spotify.

I have been teaching the guitar for 22 years now and I still get a buzz from helping guide students on their own playing journey and seeing how learning an instrument can improve their wellbeing and confidence. Whether you're a complete beginner or feeling stuck in a rut, get in touch to start your own guitar playing journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

Not at all – I have a selection of guitars you’re welcome to use for your first few lessons if needed so you can get a feel for things before committing to buying one. It is best to get used to your own instrument so when you’re ready, I can help you choose the right guitar for your style and budget.
Absolutely, Most of my students start with no experience whatsoever. We begin at whatever level you’re at and build from there at a pace that suits you – there’s no judgement, we all have to start somewhere.
I teach a wide range of contemporary styles such as country, rock, blues, metal, pop, funk and music theory. Whether you want a graded approach or to play the music you enjoy, once the basics are down, we can tailor your lessons entirely around your goals. Classical music for guitar isn’t my bag so if this is what you’re into, I would really recommend finding a teacher who specialises in that field.
Lessons are available in 30, 45 or 60 minute slots and pricing is listed in the Lessons section below. Most students settle into a regular weekly or fortnightly slot to ensure steady progress but I’m also happy to teach on an ad-hoc basis should you want to work on something more specific or if you have a hectic schedule.
Yes – I teach students from 8 years upwards and for younger children I adapt the approach to keep things fun and engaging. Parents are welcome to sit in on lessons – some even take up the guitar themselves!
Absolutely – as a member of the Independent Society of Musicians I have comprehensive public liability insurance. I also have a clean enhanced DBS certificate which is kept up to date via The Disclosure and Barring Update Service. Proof of these can be provided on request.
Most students notice real improvement within just a couple of lessons. Remember that consistent practice between lessons makes the biggest difference – even 15 minutes a day of targeted practice can be enough to make good progress. Whilst progress on the guitar can never be guaranteed, rest assured I will do everything I can to ensure you make steady progress towards your goals.
Life happens – just let me know as early as possible and we’ll rearrange. If it keeps happening without 24hrs notice, we may need a chat about it.

Lesson Pricing

30 Minutes

£20

Ideal for younger learners and busy adult beginners, these shorter, focused lessons can easily fit into any schedule. They allow us to dive straight into achieving bite-sized wins on the guitar, helping students of all ages build confidence, coordination, and a genuine, lifelong love for music.

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Most Popular

45 Minutes

£30

The extra time in this popular option allows us to move beyond the basics and dive deeper into the music you love. Whether we're exploring new techniques, learning songs, or fine-tuning your performance, these sessions ensure you leave every lesson feeling confident and truly inspired to pick up your guitar between lessons.

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1 Hour

£40

These comprehensive sessions provide the time needed to really accelerate your guitar playing journey covering a lot of material at a comfortable pace - especially popular with students who want lessons on a fortnightly basis.

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Get in Touch

Ready to start? Fill out the form or reach out directly to discuss your goals and schedule your first lesson.

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