Meta description: As a tutor and music shop owner, I recommend these YouTube channels for beginners. A solid way to learn guitar, piano, violin, or even drums.
I often tell my students at EverestMusic school that lessons with a teacher are the best way to build a strong foundation, but that doesn’t mean you should stop there. When you’re at home between lessons, or too tired to leave the house after work or school, you still need guidance. That’s where YouTube channels can help. Over the years, I’ve seen students make real progress by using these resources carefully, as long as they don’t fall into the trap of clicking through dozens of random videos.
YouTube Channels about Playing Guitar
JustinGuitar
If you’ve ever searched for beginner guitar lessons online, you’ve probably come across Justin Sandercow. I’ve pointed many beginners to his channel because it really does cover almost everything. You’ll find step-by-step guides on chords, simple songs, and even techniques like fingerpicking or arpeggios. What I like is that he teaches songs you actually want to play, not just dry exercises. Many of my students have started with his “easy chord changes” videos, and it gave them the confidence to keep going.
RockOnGoodPeople
This one is linked with the Next Level Guitar website. The style is a bit different, but you’ll find a huge variety of lessons here, from blues fingerpicking to slide guitar. I often recommend it to students who want to go a bit beyond the basics. They also do gear comparisons (like Epiphone vs Gibson), which can be useful if you’re thinking about upgrading your instrument.
Guitareo
Guitareo is a very structured channel, and I appreciate that as a teacher. Lessons are clear, organized, and easy to follow. You’ll see videos like “8 guitar chords you should know” or “play 10 songs with 4 chords”, things that help beginners make quick progress. There are also rhythm exercises and equipment tips. Several of my teenage students enjoy this channel because it feels modern and straight to the point.
Other Worthwhile Channels
Marty Music (Marty Schwartz): Great if you want to learn riffs from popular songs. He keeps it fun and practical.
Andy Guitar (Andy Crowley): Excellent for complete beginners who just picked up the guitar. His explanations are simple and friendly.
Texas Blues Alley (Anthony Stauffer): Perfect if you dream of playing blues guitar, he really breaks down riffs step by step.
GuitarJamz: Another solid resource, with both acoustic and electric guitars basics.
YGS Guitar Lessons: A teacher with years of experience, offering lessons across many styles, from classical to rock.
As I often tell my students: use YouTube as a guide, but don’t just jump from one random video to another. Pick one or two channels that make sense for you, and stick with them for a while. Consistency is what will actually build your playing, not collecting dozens of half-watched tutorials.
Piano and Keyboard
I often remind students that the piano isn’t just about pressing the right keys, it’s about building habits that stay with you for life. Online resources can help if you use them carefully.
HDPiano
If you already know the basics and want to play your favorite songs, this channel is a good step forward. The lessons break pieces down clearly. I’ve seen many students get motivated just by being able to play one song they love.
Hoffman Academy
Joseph Hoffman explains the fundamentals very simply. His lessons on finding notes on the keyboard are especially helpful for beginners. I’ve recommended him to many young students who need patient, clear explanations.
Lypur
This is more than just piano tutorials. Andrew Furmanczyk combines piano playing with solid music theory. His 49-lesson theory course is one I often point out to older students who want to understand why the notes fit together, not just how to play them.
Violin
The violin demands patience. I’ve taught students who nearly gave up in the first months because they thought they’d never get a clean sound. These channels can make that journey easier.
ProfessorV
Practical step-by-step lessons from a teacher who knows the struggles beginners face. He proves it’s never too late to start.
The String Club
Not just violin: viola, cello, and bass are covered too. I recommend this to families where kids are exploring different string instruments.
The Online Piano and Violin Tutor
A useful blend for those interested in both piano and violin. The lessons are simple, clear, and well-paced.
Drums
With drums, you feel progress quickly, but only if your rhythm is solid. I’ve had students jump ahead too fast and end up frustrated. These resources can keep your foundation steady.
Drumeo
Probably the most complete drum channel online. I know advanced drummers who still watch Drumeo for ideas and inspiration.
DrumsTheWord
Great if you want to play along with popular songs. More than 100 lessons and many breakdowns of classic drum parts.
Vocals and Music Theory
I’ve always said that learning to sing improves your ear for any instrument. And theory, even in small doses, gives you tools to understand what you’re playing.
EricArceneaux
A professional vocalist who shares warm-ups, breathing techniques, and tips for improving your voice. I recommend him to students who want to add singing to their playing.
UrokiMusic
A mixed channel with lessons in solfège, vocals, and several instruments (guitar, flute, saxophone, even accordion). It’s a bit of everything, but I find it helpful for students who want to explore.
Final Thoughts
You might not find the perfect channel or teacher on your first try, and that’s perfectly normal. I’ve had students walk into my lessons frustrated because they “just didn’t get it” from videos online. Once we slowed down together, the same things suddenly made sense. Learning music is like that, you find your own rhythm.
If YouTube or apps leave you confused, reach out to a tutor. Sometimes one clear explanation is all it takes to move past the barrier. Don’t be afraid to ask for help, and don’t let one roadblock take the joy out of playing.