Piano, Guitar, Bass & Drum Lessons in Tempe, AZ – Music Lessons Arizona
Many adults try to improve their skills through YouTube, books, or the occasional lesson. But they still feel stuck when it comes to actually playing with others.
We offer something different: structured coaching inside a collaborative band setting. This is for players who want to jam regularly, get better, and be part of a musical community.
"Matt is a multi-talented musician proficient in Drums, Bass, and Guitar. He is a very patient person. My wife takes lessons from him and prior to starting at MLA she hadn’t picked up a new instrument in over 20 years. He has given her confidence and skills she never had before. There are monthly jam sessions where students of all ages get to collaborate and enjoy popular songs together from multiple genres. Don’t be afraid to try something new!"
- James C.
"I've taken guitar lessons from Matt for about 1.5 years and I highly recommend him. His lessons cover different aspects of guitar playing including covering songs, music theory and creative songwriting. He also offers various programs such as group classes, seminars and jam sessions with other students. His thorough knowledge of music theory and vast experience with different styles of music should be able to help individual needs of students at any playing level. I cannot thank him enough for all the songs I've learned how to play as well as dozens of original songs I've wrote with his help."
- June P.
"I am lucky to have found Matt and to be able to take guitar lessons from him. Matt is a phenomenal and highly skilled instructor with super in-depth knowledge in many genres of music. Since I started guitar lessons here, my playing has improved significantly. I have a new sense of understanding of the information that the music was built on. Matt breaks down the music into bite sized pieces thus making it easier to see how the pieces fit and play together. Matt supports his instruction with very organized materials like chord charts, flow and form of the song , music sheets , tablature and how to read the music. This information is invaluable in the learning process regardless of individual skill level. I personally enjoyed the group sessions a lot. Interacting with other musicians is very rewarding. Since my lessons here, I have added quite a few songs to my library of songs that I can play. The journey has been gratifying and very satisfying. Thank you Matt for your support and guidance in helping me become a better Guitarist and being able to enjoy the journey."
- Roger M.
The Performing Artist Program, designed by Matt Friedland, is a special and unique offering that goes beyond traditional music lessons. In this exclusive program, Matt formed a band with four of his students, and together they crafted a setlist of both cover songs and original music. The goal was to give students the experience of performing on a real stage at a professional concert venue.
As part of this unique journey, the band traveled to San Diego for a musical retreat, where they rehearsed, bonded, and immersed themselves in a positive, creative environment. The program culminated in a live performance at The Venue in Mesa, Arizona, showcasing their hard work and talent in front of a live audience.
While not part of our regular offerings, this program highlights the extraordinary opportunities and experiences Matt has created for his students, helping them grow both musically and personally.
With a rich background in performing, teaching, and mentoring, Matt brings a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of music to his coaching sessions. His unique approach combines structured learning with practical experience, ensuring that each student not only learns but thrives in their musical journey.
Extensive experience performing as a guitarist, bass player, and drummer at restaurants, weddings, corporate events, private parties, resorts, music venues, churches, and festivals.
– Classical and Jazz Music Theory
– Arranging for Jazz and Contemporary Music Ensembles
– Jazz Composition
– Fretboard Harmony
– Jazz Drum Set
– Jazz Improvisation
– Jazz Combo Performing Ensembles
– Big Band Performing Ensembles
– Recital Performances
– Transcribing and Ear Training
– Album “Revelation” (2019): Composed, recorded, produced, and published, available on all major music platforms.
– Band Formation and Mentorship: Formed a band with 4 students, curated a set list of covers and originals, and organized a real concert performance in front of 120 audience members.
– Student Success: Guided each student in composing, recording, producing, and publishing an original song available on all major music streaming platform. Listen to their tracks below.
Matt and Sherin Play “Imagine” by John Lennon
“Crushed Ice” original composition by Matt Friedland
Matt performs “Affirmation” by Jose Feliciano
Discover how group sessions helped our students gain confidence and elevate their musical skills.
In the free consultation you’ll get:
Open to adult guitarists, bassists, and drummers
Students must have basic proficiency on their instrument
We group students based on compatibility and level
If you’re ready to start jamming and improving with other musicians, let’s talk about what that could look like for you