Austin Guitar & Mandolin Lessons

Bluegrass, Country & Americana

With a degree in guitar and mandolin performance from Berklee College of Music, Max Zimmet brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to his teaching.

Choose between online or in-person sessions at Max's studio in Southwest Austin.

Max is not only a dedicated instructor but also a seasoned performer. He is the founding member of the popular Hot Pickin 57s and has had the privilege of sharing the stage with artists such as Sierra Hull, Mark Cosgrove (David Bromberg band), Beppe Gambetta, Howard Kalish (Texas Swing Music Hall of Fame), Jon Kemppainen (Squirrel Nut Zippers), and many others.

Whether you're a beginner looking to develop a solid foundation, or an intermediate or advanced player seeking to expand your repertoire and technique, Max’s teaching style is engaging, supportive, and focused on helping you achieve your musical goals.

“Max is very positive and encouraging. He doesn’t put pressure on his students but lets them proceed at the appropriate pace. And he’s just a great player, but doesn’t let his ego get in the way of sharing what he knows.”

— Brad Wolbert

“Max has an ability to focus and concentrate that is unique in the Berklee environment. Musically, Max presents a very compelling energy that emerges as he plays; he holds a class like a laser beam. To me, Max is the individual that makes Berklee such a special place.”

— Livingston Taylor // Berklee College of Music

Contact Max

Pricing

30 minutes: $30 // 45 minutes: $45

Learn to Play Lead, Rhythm, & Jam

Bluegrass, Americana, Classic Country
Beginner to advanced, ages 12 and up
Lessons tailored to your level and goals
Learn by tab, standard notation, or by ear

If You’re Just Starting, We’ll Begin with

Basic technique
Playing simple melodies
Playing chords and basic rhythm technique

As You Advance, We’ll Be Working on

Keeping solid time
Increasing repertoire
Good tone production
Improvisation techniques
More advanced rhythm playing
Developing clean, faster picking

Mandolin Pickin’

Guitar Pickin’

Reviews

Acoustic guitar lessons Austin Texas

Max is a great instructor! Made my 14 y/o daughter feel at ease and made great use of each lesson. Great knowledge, patience and all around cool teacher!

Online bluegrass guitar lessons

Max is very positive and encouraging. He doesn’t put pressure on his students but lets them proceed at the appropriate pace. And he’s just a great player, but doesn’t let his ego get n the way of sharing what he nows.

Acoustic Guitar and Mandolin Lessons

Max is always prepared and flexible in teaching both guitar and mandolin. He is very patient and knowledgeable.

Online bluegrass guitar lessons

Max is a great instructor and works really well with our 12 year old son. He looks forward to guitar lessons every week!

Bluegrass guitar lessons Austin Texas

Max is a superb guitar instructor! His lessons are tailored to the individual needs of his students. Tabs are prepared in advance. Strong emphasis is placed on playing technique, and Max is always willing to take the time needed for the student.

Online bluegrass mandolin lessons

Great instructor. Very knowledgeable

Online bluegrass guitar lessons

Max is a great teacher. I walked I wanting to learn better soloing techniques. I was able to get over several humps in my playing and solo skills. If you’re looking for a solid teacher that listens to what you have to say, Max is your teacher.

Online Acoustic Guitar Lessons

When I started lessons with Max I knew three chords and very little about music theory. Max's patience and structured lessons helped me become a better player. He is very encouraging, and I have more confidence thanks to him. I even understand the circle of fifths!

**Member Austin Texas Professional Musicians**