Fretted Instruments School, established by Jack R. Baker, offers in-depth in-person and online guitar and banjo lessons. With a rich history dating back to 1970, the school provides expert instruction in Bluegrass Banjo, Clawhammer Banjo, and Acoustic Folk Guitar in NYC and beyond.

With a career spanning over five decades, I've been teaching in NYC and online, contributing to the folk and banjo communities through articles, banjo tabs, and music tracks. I hold a BA and MA in Music Composition and am a seasoned Music Theory instructor at NYU.

I specialize in Fingerstyle Folk and Blues Guitar, Bluegrass Banjo, and Clawhammer Banjo. My lessons draw from a wide range of acoustic folk music styles.

Each lesson is a blend of tradition and personalization, drawing from my extensive history in folk music and tailored to fit each student's individual needs and interests, whether they're attending in-person in NYC or online.

The school has transitioned from a vibrant part of the Greenwich Village music scene to a focused educational institution, now embracing a wide array of guitar and banjo music and offering both in-person and online lessons to accommodate more students.

Visit the Contact Page on my website for information on signing up for in-person or online lessons.

Online lessons are conducted live via Zoom, providing real-time, interactive learning experiences. They're a convenient option for students outside NYC or those preferring the comfort of learning from home.

Absolutely. With high-quality video, sound, and a personalized approach, my online lessons are as effective and engaging as in-person sessions.

You’ll need a reliable internet connection, a device with a built in webcam and microphone.

Online lessons offer convenience, flexibility, and the opportunity to learn from anywhere, making it ideal for those with busy schedules or living outside NYC.