From First Chord to Real Songs.

Private guitar lessons for adult beginners.

Taught by Mark Mannering Barton.

about me

mark mannering barton

I help adults in Teddington, Richmond and across South West London learn or reconnect with the guitar in a relaxed, practical way, without pressure or complicated theory.

I’ve played in pubs, hosted open mics, and recorded guitar for over two decades, and I understand what it takes to go from “beginner” to “confident” without overcomplicating things.

Lessons are delivered in a calm, respectful, and supportive environment, where you can learn at your own pace and feel comfortable asking questions.

I hold a current DBS check and have experience working with adults from a wide range of backgrounds.

My focus is simple: helping you feel confident, relaxed, and genuinely enjoy playing your guitar from the very first session.

why choose pick to play guitar?

In-home guitar lessons in SW London and nearby areas

1

Learn in the comfort of your own home. I can come to you.

2

Online lessons via Zoom for convenience

Giving you greater flexibility.

Daytime and evening availability

3

I can fit into your busy schedule.

Specialist in adult beginners and late starters

4

I genuinely thrive on teaching people the guitar who have always wanted to learn.

Friendly, patient teaching style

5

These are your lessons and everyone is different. We go at your pace.

Focus on real songs, not exams

6

Real songs mean you are more likely to stick to practicing. You choose those songs, not me.

DBS checked and fully insured

7

For your peace of mind I hold a yearly reviewed DBS check and the relevant insurance policies.

Local, independent tutor

8

Based locally and teaching across Richmond and surrounding areas.

Most students begin with my structured 8-week programme.

A typical programme includes the below but I structure this to fit to you.

The Pick To Play Starter Programme.

Weeks 1–2

GETTING TO KNOW THE GUITAR

  • How to hold and tune your guitar

  • Understanding the parts of the instrument

  • Basic hand positioning

  • First simple chords

  • Playing your first song

Beginners Welcome. No experience needed.

We start where you are.

Weeks 3-4

BUILDING THE BASICS

  • Expanding your chord vocabulary

  • Smooth chord changes

  • Simple strumming patterns

  • Playing along to backing tracks

  • Growing your song list

This is where things really click.

Weeks 5–6

FLOW, RHYTHM & CONFIDENCE

  • Keeping steady time

  • Improving rhythm and feel

  • Playing with dynamics

  • Simple fills and variations

  • Developing your own style

You’ll start sounding like a guitarist!

Weeks 7-8

PLAYING INDEPENDENTLY

  • Playing through mistakes

  • Performing full songs

  • Building a personal setlist

  • Learning how to practise effectively

  • Planning your next steps

You’ve created the habit.

You’ll now be confident to play and above all enjoy guitar!

The Pick To Play Starter Programme includes*

8 x 45 Minute Private Sessions
•
In-Person At Your Home Lessons

(Kingston Upon Thames & SW London) or Online
•
Personal Practice Roadmap
•
Song Suggestions Tailored To Your Taste
•
Ongoing Support Between Lessons

£360

March Offer: £320 (limited places)

Check Availability

Lessons are also available online via Zoom for students anywhere in the UK | Also available session by session at £45 | This means you can learn in the way that suits your lifestyle.

*What to expect

  • Depending on where you are in your guitar journey, your first session may include a relaxed assessment of your experience, goals, and learning style so we can build the right plan for you.

  • Lessons typically last 45 minutes and are delivered weekly over consecutive weeks for best progress.

  • In-person lessons are available in Kingston Upon Thames and surrounding areas. A small travel supplement may apply for some locations.

  • Additional individual or refresher sessions are available after completing the programme (if taken) at £45.

  • Progress depends on regular practice between sessions. I’ll guide you clearly every step of the way, but time spent playing outside lessons is essential.

  • Programme details and pricing may be updated from time to time as services develop.

  • Full terms and conditions are available here.

  • Please note: This programme is designed for adults who are willing to practise regularly and engage with the learning process. It may not be suitable for those looking for very occasional or casual tuition.

book your free intro call

ready to start playing?

If you’re ready to start learning guitar , the first step is a free, no-pressure intro call.

We’ll talk through your goals, experience, and the best way forward.

Fill in the form and I’ll be back within 24 hours.

Look forward to it!