Our instructors aren't career academics — they're working musicians who play on stages around Middle Tennessee every weekend. They teach what they live.
Meet Forrest
Forrest York opened the shop in 2012 with a simple idea: Murfreesboro deserved a guitar store run by someone who actually plays — and actually fixes — the instruments on the wall.
Two decades of luthier experience and a lifetime of gigging across Middle Tennessee shape every lesson he teaches. He's as comfortable dressing a fret as he is sketching out a chord chart, and he brings that hands-on perspective to every student who walks through the door.
When he's not on the bench, you'll find him refinishing a beat-up Strat, coaching the Saturday Rock School ensemble, or playing out somewhere in town.
14
Years in business
20+
Years on the bench
4.6★
Google rating
Owner & Lead Instructor
Founder of Forrest York Guitars since 2012. 20+ years of luthier work and a lifetime of playing across Middle Tennessee. Forrest teaches guitar and bass with a focus on practical, gig-ready technique — the stuff that actually matters when the lights come on.
Teaches
Guitar, Bass, Repair
Classical & Contemporary Piano
Our piano instructor brings formal training and real-world gigging experience. From Bach to Billy Joel, students learn reading, theory, and how to comp in a band setting.
Teaches
Piano, Keyboard
Rhythm & Percussion
Active session drummer in the Nashville area. Teaches rock, jazz, and funk foundations with an emphasis on locking in with a bassist and driving a band forward.
Teaches
Drums, Cajón
Voice & Performance
Singer-songwriter with regional touring experience. Teaches breath control, stage presence, mic technique, and how to front a band with confidence.
Teaches
Voice
Our Approach
We don't teach out of method books alone. Our instructors bring what they've learned on actual gigs — the shortcuts, the recovery tricks, the mental game of playing under pressure. Whether you're 8 or 80, you'll learn skills that translate to real musical situations.
We're always looking for working musicians who love teaching. If you gig regularly and want to share your craft, reach out — we'd love to talk.
Call (615) 556-1525