A Lee Summit guitarist is shaping the next generation of guitarists and bass players while cultivating a thriving community of musicians-in-training. Meet Brett Blakemore, the proud owner of Summit Guitar School who is gaining notoriety for helping aspiring musicians get unstuck for good.
“You may not get to the advanced level, but I can guarantee you with a little bit of effort, I can teach anyone to play something,” explained Blakemore.
The guitar pro’s passion started after finding his mother’s old guitar at the age of twelve. After learning how to play his first grunge rock song, thanks to a neighborhood friend, it was love at first strum. HIs lifelong passion led him to open Summit Guitar School; a school designed to help guitar players fine-tune their skills. Blakemore leads a variety of courses at all levels, bringing more than 20 years of experience working as a performer and instructor.
He is known in the music community for designing courses that ensure musical growth. He says many musicians get stuck in a rut after reaching an intermediate level in guitar playing, and his school helps fill that need.If you're willing to be patient, Blakemore’s school has a structured pathway to help you reach your musical potential.
“I’m trying to help intermediates break through to the next level. There’s a plateau that guitar players get to once they hit this gray area, and it’s where they just feel stuck,” said Blakemore. "I know how it feels to get stuck at that level, and you just need someone to open your eyes to something new and to different possibilities on the guitar.”
Blakemore currently offers solo and group lessons both in-person and online. HIs students come from all over the world and have taken advantage of his expertise, no matter their age or playing level. Blakemore estimates he has taught at least 20,000 music lessons throughout his career and notes his online group lessons have drawn students from Dubai, Ireland and all throughout the U.S; evolving into a supportive community for all musicians.
“I would say I have hundreds of people that are part of my online community, and I go live with them, have online courses and can answer questions on a topic I am teaching,” said Blakemore. “I like the community aspect and think other people enjoy it, too. They participate because they also get to know people in other states and other countries online.”
As demand for his school continues to grow, the classroom isn’t the only place where you can find Blakemore jamming out. Over the next few months, people from all throughout Kansas City can listen to him play a wide-range of genres from Reggae, Classic Rock and even Blues as a solo performer and member of some of KC’s best bands. His reputation has also garnered a strong social media presence, where he is able to spread his love for rocking out.
“I have an absolute love and passion for guitar and teaching guitar,” said Blakemore, “I’m constantly encouraging students to find jam sessions in their towns and communities and find people to play with."
For more information visit summitguitarschool.com/local-lessons