Guitar Lessons by Kelly Richey
What People Are Saying
Darwin Whitten
“I have been taking lessons with Kelly through the truefire site. I highly recommend her. I have a long way to go but I am on a great learning path with a great teacher. If you have a crazy work schedule like me, I recommend the truefire site with Kelly. Instead of just teaching you songs she teaches you the guitar which makes a big difference in your learning curve. I have tried local guitar teachers here where I live but they really don’t care for you as a person but Kelly not only cares about you as a person but as one of her students she helps you to learn and to get on the right path. Since I have been taking lessons from Kelly, I cannot wait to get home and pick up my guitar now she really helps you understand the guitar.”
Diana Rein
“During my first video lesson with Kelly, she told me that one of the most important things about learning guitar was to stay inspired. Before taking lessons with her I was very scattered in my daily practice sessions. I would find something to work on but then get deflated because I had no idea what I was working towards. Kelly has given me focus and clear-cut exercises and songs to work on that are building my finger strength, speed, dexterity, rhythm, fretboard knowledge, and musical feeling. I finally feel like there is a means to an end and my confidence with lead guitar is soaring since collaborating with her on my playing. Having a pro like her watch how I am playing and letting me know what I can do to improve is invaluable. Kelly is really great at helping me with my weaknesses and encouraging my strengths. She also knows how to challenge me just the right amount so that when I do achieve my goal for the lesson I feel extra inspired and great about my progress. I feel like I have found a mentor and a strong role model in Kelly, especially as a female guitar player. She is always open to sharing her experiences and her vast knowledge of the guitar and she is a talented musician and teacher. I feel very grateful to be her student.”
Jim Ecker
I’ve taking lessons from Kelly for several years now and it has been a great experience. After trying for many months to teach myself the guitar, I started taking lessons from Kelly. A smart move. She is an enthusiastic and supportive teacher. As a beginner on the guitar she took me through the fundamentals –scales, chords, and reading the fretboard. Along the way she would include songs that complemented the exercises keeping the process fun and entertaining. Her lessons also covered theory and history of the blues. As a teacher Kelly has the wonderful ability to listen and observe and then customize a lesson to help you. Kelly is a great teacher who will make you love the guitar.
Steve N.
Thanks Kelly!I would not be the guitar player that I am today without the insightful and disciplined background I gained from Kelly’s lessons when I first started playing …. I am so happy to see her on TrueFire, which has long since become my go to source for lessons!
Deborah De Steno / Guitar Student / Teacher
“Kelly’s approach to her teaching is simple and straightforward. She is patient but tough, she keeps you on track. The Skype lessons I have with her enable me to make a connection with her so I am able better to understand what it is I need to do. I am a very visual learner and Skype is the way to go. She certainly has helped me not only to be a better guitar player but has helped me become a better guitar teacher to my students as well. Thank you, Kelly!”
James Klyza, Jr., MSPH, Ph.D. / Guitar Student
“Kelly is a gifted teacher and performer. She has a talent for making the complex passages look easy and pass the essential knowledge on to others.”
Dave G.
I watched every example videoI watched every example video in “Building a strong blues foundation “, and it is definattly what I need. It starts at a basic level , with a schedule plus a defined amount of times to practice a sequence, just a great structure. which is my weakness in learning.
Roadrogue/Tom
Kelly rocks! And she plays great too.I heartily agree with the other reviews. I could have written some of them. I have found her channel to be a wealth of info and instruction that she has worked hard to organize and continues to refine and develop. She includes lessons she has presented in the past and segues them with relevant newer ones and adds related lessons with newer aspectsRead more about review stating Kelly rocks! And she plays great too.like GoPro views down the guitar neck. The channel includes insight into her home recording set up and pedal board development. She continues to work on improving the channel. All of that is more than enough to endorse her. But I also take TrueFire and personal lessons from her, and this is where she really shines. She goes to great effort and time to explain and connect me with the music, and is genuinely open about her life journey. She is kind, funny and patient, and even innovative in her efforts to describe and impart the art of guitar and music. Most importantly I trust her and have done the the process she prescribed even when I didn’t really want to. And, damn, if she wasn’t right. As usual, the usual.
Kaitlyn Mikalaskas
I’m very pleased to give this testimonial to Kelly Richey. I’ve worked with many guitar teachers and I’m very thankful to have found Kelly Richey. I found a course of hers online and decided to sign up for a personal guitar lesson. Just focusing on the guitar, she really changed the way I play. Kelly’s unique approach to my tried and true pentatonic scales really changed the way I played my guitar. She uses some really simple and powerful ideas and showed me how to practice them in a new way. She really opened up the fretboard for me.
If you are a rock/blues/country player, I highly recommend learning this approach if you want to take your pentatonics to the next level. I’ve been working with her about 4 years now, and over that time I’ve gone from playing at home on a looper to singing and performing at open mics and gigs. I wanted an intermediate guitar course, but over time, it became more a music coach thing as she helped me develop my own style, she empowered me to create music, and taught me the confidence to go out and perform as best I can. I guess the best way to say it is, she helped me decide for myself what I wanted to do with my music. Very cool.
In addition she advised me on putting together my pedalboard, songwriting, how to use MIDI with my projects and even how to record my music.. I am really doing things I never thought I’d be able to do..
Paul P.
It works!Hey Kelly, I just want to take the time to thank you for your method of instruction. It works! I started seriously playing about four years ago…I took lessons for about 18 months…I learned a little about a lot, and it made no sense to me… I quit the lessons, then purchased several different DVD…and it was basically the same as my lesson…Read more about review stating It works!a little about a lot. I then tried to learn on my own…I picked up a few scales, and some chords, but I was never able to get into a consistent practice routine because I didn’t know what to practice.
Surfing the internet one Sunday I came across your website and followed it to the true fire web page…Watched your introductory video, and thought, “I’ve tried most everything else, and I have nothing to lose…” So I took a shot at your lessons…
Upon receiving my self assessment and video’s, you immediately assessed my abilities and frustration…provided thoughtful insight into my needs, and put me on a regimen that focused my practice efforts and provided me (for the first time) joy in playing… Concentrating on a strong foundation, you got me on the correct path of picking, strumming, and changing chords…In fact, the exercises you provided me are phenomenal…I can actuall feel and see the strings with my fingers…I can easily change chord and the sound is as clean as you would want…And equally important, I’ve learned the basics of three songs…all in only six weeks…But most importantly, I’m smiling about guitar practive for the first time in four years because I am learning about the instrument and how it works.
I know I have a ways to go to reach my goal of “guitar nirvana,” but I am confident I will get there with your help. Thank you for taking the time to teach me. All the best, Paul
Mike R.
Mike Reeder Owner of Mike’s Music Inc. – Having worked with Kelly on mutable projects I can she is the consummate professional. Her guitar ability is among the best in the Biz. and her easy going and caring manner gives her the complete package. She will inspire you, increase your skill and help you find your muse. If you want to grow in a comfortable setting with a true connoisseur of tRead more about review stating Mike Reeder Owner of Mike’s Music Inc.one and technique, she’s the one to see! Truly the only teacher I ever recommend
Evan M.
Outstanding Blues Rock Guitar Course – I am 53 years old and have been trying to learn guitar with and without instructors on and off since I was a kid, but always got frustrated and quit.
have been taking lessons with Kelly Richey while utilizing her Cutting-Edge Channel for the last 2 years, and have never looked back. She is an amazing player and teacher that is patient, knowRead more about review stating Outstanding Blues Rock Guitar Course legible and is willing to challenge you so you get to the next level.
Her guitar method is very organized and totally unique in its approach. I look forward to playing and practicing every day and have made more progress in the first 4 months than I did in all the prior years combined trying to learn guitar.
Kelly is also very approachable and has helped me greatly in choosing the best gear.
I highly recommend Kelly Richey and Kelly Richey’s Cutting-Edge channel to anyone at any age who has a passion for music and wants to really learn how to play guitar the right way.
jalcfp
Kelly is Incredible.I have been a part-time musician for a very long time. I have played in many bands from rock to blue to jazz but have always played with other rhythm instruments. From time to time musicians reach a plateau and seek teachers to get them past that plateau. But my reason for associating with Kelly Richey was to learn how to effectively front a bluesRead more about review stating Kelly is Incredible.power trio.
Yes, I heard all the SRV and Janis Joplin analogies, and while it may be true, I chose to take lessons with Kelly because of the dynamo with a Strat I saw and heard commanding a stage behind a tight, pounding rhythm section. She fills every inch of a song with three single-coils. There are no bare spots. It was just what I was looking for to help me get to where I want to go. Whereas many teachers cover scales, Hendrix style, tapping, and blues licks, Kelly makes exceptional use of her right hand in her playing and is a master at teaching the technique.
I have only been studying with Kelly for three months, but in that period of time, I can see a constant increase in my right hand techniques and it is producing a dramatic result in not only what I play, but how I play.
In this short time, I already have enough confidence to do trio work. From studying Kelly’s percussive style, I understand the things to do to fill out songs and make them feel full. I still have a long way to go because as you dig deeper in to Kelly’s recordings, you find out the nuances in these simplistic arrangements are quite complex. A simple rake before a chord or a quick bend and pull off overlooked by the student can actually make quite a difference. And Kelly’s flat-tire exercise can move you on to a new plateau faster than you can say Stevie Ray Vaughn.
Any research in to Kelly’s career will divulge a more formal musical background and knowledge that extends a lot further than the guitar. Sometimes this theoretical knowledge can prevent a teacher from actually getting to the meat of what you want to learn. I have taken lessons on and off for years, but this is the first time that I feel that there has been no wasted time. Every lesson is not only instructive but also contextual and practical. No theory here, just here is how it is done, let’s play.
I envy her beginning students because I feel a couple of years of lessons with Kelly will turn them in to great players far sooner than their contemporaries. However, I also feel that her teaching style lends itself to a student of any level and can’t help but propel you farther and faster.
Greg
Cutting Edge ReviewI have been playing for several years, had several teachers in that time and they all taught me something. However, in the short time I have been learning under Kelly that rate of progress greatly increased. She took my practice “back to the basics” (disciplined) while still encouraging me to explore different areas (enjoyment). Her teaching technRead more about review stating Cutting Edge Reviewiques in Cutting Edge is making a difference and is reinforcing the foundational skills I needed to work on. I am also impressed by her responsiveness to my submitted (Private Instruction) videos, normally responding in less than 24 hours. Her instruction is pointed and she is clear about what I need to work on the following week. I am a non-traditional student (aka ‘old guy’) and I am enjoying myself again–Kelly has helped me bring back the joy of playing and I feel as if I am making sustainable & measurable progress. I highly recommend you give Kelly’s course a try, I think you will be happy you did!
LollyNET247
Kelly is AWESOMEI have been stuck trying to join up pentatonics, and why there are so many different patterns, and how they all work.
After completing one lesson in Kelly’s Blues Grit course, I finally got the difference between root 5 and 6 patterns, and how to join up the boxes effortlessly.
What was so clever of Kelly was how she showed her mind sRead more about review stating Kelly is AWESOMEet for joining up the patterns, and then she showed a couple of techniques to get your fingers to automatically recognise the patterns.
What I liked most about Kelly was that even though her courses have some advanced concepts, she makes them reachable by all.
She is now my best tutor!
Claire
Great rocker and teacherI loved Kelly’s Blues Grit course. Kelly’s approach is easy to follow so that my speed up and down the neck improved in just one sitting. Not only is she an awesome player, but she’s an awesome teacher who really wants to help you improve.
Ehran S.
For anyone interested in blues rock guitar: problem solved!Millions already know what an amazing and powerful guitar player Kelly is. But it’s – still – a relative secret that this fast driving mama is a most dedicated, methodical and inspiring teacher that will spare nothing from making any hard working dude (or dudette) a master blues player. For anyone interested in blues rock guitar: problem solved!
Brett in FL
“It’s amazing how the internet can connect a small town guitar player to a down to earth seasoned pro and bring them together in a personal student/teacher environment online. I love the guitar even more now that I have direction rather than a boatload of DVD’s and videos with varied techniques and teaching styles offered. Kelly has a way of knowing “exactly” where I want to go and the fastest way to get there. I have grown leaps and bounds in the last months compared to years of floundering and frustration and thoughts of actually giving up the best instrument on planet earth. What am I nuts?” Kelly, Thanks for Everything!
Victor B.
Mind Blowing training techniquesThis woman is a musical monster. She’s like the Lebron James of guitar playing, so you have no choice but to get better. Her instruction to the point, top-level, and filled with so much micro detail, you get to understand how SRV, Santana and Jimmy Page are playing so clean and so fast, yet with such great melody and rhythm. She is the best bar noRead more about review stating Mind Blowing training techniques.
Gord M.
My Go-To!Kelly is my “GO TO” lady for online blues, blues/rock instruction. She probably doesn’t know this but, I kind of feel like I’m being taught by one of my guitar hero’s. Her lessons are personalized, very well explained and target the areas that I need to work on to be a good blues player. Kelly gives me the tools to grow but she doesn’t do my push-Read more about review stating My Go-To!ups for me. I put in the practice time and follow her lead. Am I a better guitar player? Yes, I am and I’m excited to see how I’ll be in the months to follow. Super excited!!!
Thanks, Kelly.
Robert Rittiger
“So what is Kelly Richey like as a guitar instructor? Well, she is fun, supportive, and enthusiastic, sprinkled with just the right amount of “tough love” needed to take your playing to where you want it to be. Her passion for guitar playing is exceeded only by her passion for teaching and making you a better guitarist. I’ve had some bad, some good and some great guitar teachers over the years and Kelly definitely belongs in the “Great” category. No matter if you’re a beginner, intermediate or advanced player, Kelly will help you build a solid foundation, quickly identify your trouble areas and then give you a solid plan that will help you break through to the next level.
If you are serious about learning the guitar or improving your playing ability, do yourself a favor and let Kelly guide you on your musical journey. It will be the best decision you’ve ever made – guaranteed!”
Vani Vozos
When I was 16 years old Kelly Richey gave me the tools that enabled me to be the guitar player that I always wanted to be. Now, twenty years later, I am a professional musician and she is giving me the tools and framework that are helping me to access and awaken my true power to realize my dreams. I love her style; she is loving and firm, funny and straightforward, supportive and encouraging, and optimistic and realistic. With Kelly’s guidance and support, I have been able to make serious progress and gain strong confidence in a short period of time. She is the most effective teacher I have ever had. She is the teacher that gives the most useful information, what you need to know and I would recommend her to anyone without reservation
Paul Pisano
“Hey Kelly, I just want to take the time to thank you for your method of instruction. It works! I started seriously playing about four years ago…I took lessons for about 18 months…I learned a little about a lot, and it made no sense to me… I quit the lessons, then purchased several different DVD…and it was basically the same as my lesson…a little about a lot. I then tried to learn on my own…I picked up a few scales, and some chords, but I was never able to get into a consistent practice routine because I didn’t know what to practice. Surfing the internet one Sunday I came across your website and followed it to the true fire web page…Watched your introductory video, and thought, “I’ve tried most everything else, and I have nothing to lose…” So I took a shot at your lessons…
Upon receiving my self-assessment and video’s, you immediately assessed my abilities and frustration…provided thoughtful insight into my needs, and put me on a regimen that focused my practice efforts and provided me (for the first time) joy in playing… Concentrating on a strong foundation, you got me on the correct path of picking, strumming, and changing chords…In fact, the exercises you provided me are phenomenal…I can actually feel and see the strings with my fingers…I can easily change chord and the sound is as clean as you would want…And equally important, I’ve learned the basics of three songs…all in only six weeks…But most importantly, I’m smiling about guitar practice for the first time in four years because I am learning about the instrument and how it works.
I know I have a ways to go to reach my goal of “guitar nirvana,” but I am confident I will get there with your help. Thank you for taking the time to teach me. All the best, Paul”
Steve Evans
Kelly has worked with me on guitar for over a year and is an excellent instructor, and became a good friend also. She taught me scales, chords, progressions and worked with me on fundamentals and techniques that work with all kinds of music. Kelly is the kind of instructor and person that will stick with you through the tough spots and is a very patient teacher. Kelly is a great guitarist and can show you lots of playing techniques to improve your skills. Lessons from Kelly are always fun, informative and hard work so be prepared and hold on for a great experience.
Wendilyn Beltran
“Kelly Richey’s objective is to provide the highest quality of service to all seeking it. Her passion, determination, and a strive for excellence cannot be challenged. Her knowledge and skills will separate her from most, if not all, competitors. She will far exceed anyone’s expectations. She is truly an artist who is widely known as a master of her craft. If you are seeking mediocrity, then you will not find it here. If you are truly seeking a master at work, then you will not go wrong with Kelly Richey.”
Greg Southerland
“Kelly’s drive and passion are evident the moment you meet her. Whether it is entertaining or educating others through music, Kelly gives it her all and then some.”
J.
Kelly is Incredible. I have been a part-time musician for a very long time. I have played in many bands from rock to blue to jazz but have always played with other rhythm instruments. From time to time musicians reach a plateau and seek teachers to get them past that plateau. But my reason for associating with Kelly Richey was to learn how to effectively front a blues power trio.
Yes, I heard all the SRV and Janis Joplin analogies, and while it may be true, I chose to take lessons with Kelly because of the dynamo with a Strat I saw and heard commanding a stage behind a tight, pounding rhythm section. She fills every inch of a song with three single-coils. There are no bare spots. It was just what I was looking for to help me get to where I want to go. Whereas many teachers cover scales, Hendrix style, tapping, and blues licks, Kelly makes exceptional use of her right hand in her playing and is a master at teaching the technique.
I have only been studying with Kelly for three months, but in that period of time, I can see a constant increase in my right hand techniques and it is producing a dramatic result in not only what I play, but how I play.
In this short time, I already have enough confidence to do trio work. From studying Kelly’s percussive style, I understand the things to do to fill out songs and make them feel full. I still have a long way to go because as you dig deeper in to Kelly’s recordings, you find out the nuances in these simplistic arrangements are quite complex. A simple rake before a chord or a quick bend and pull off overlooked by the student can actually make quite a difference. And Kelly’s flat-tire exercise can move you on to a new plateau faster than you can say Stevie Ray Vaughn.
Any research in to Kelly’s career will divulge a more formal musical background and knowledge that extends a lot further than the guitar. Sometimes this theoretical knowledge can prevent a teacher from actually getting to the meat of what you want to learn. I have taken lessons on and off for years, but this is the first time that I feel that there has been no wasted time. Every lesson is not only instructive but also contextual and practical. No theory here, just here is how it is done, let’s play.
I envy her beginning students because I feel a couple of years of lessons with Kelly will turn them in to great players far sooner than their contemporaries. However, I also feel that her teaching style lends itself to a student of any level and can’t help but propel you farther and faster.
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