Find a Grade 2 Guitar tutor

ABRSM Guitar Practical Grade 2 includes a one-octave D-major scale, played from memory with the plucking-hand fingers, and a long tonic. The tonic is the home note, D; follow the syllabus pattern for its longer duration. This is one part of the technical work.

For a practice example, start with D–E–F♯–G–A–B–C♯–D, then return D–C♯–B–A–G–F♯–E–D. The ♯ sign means sharp: F sharp and C sharp belong in D major. Playing F or C natural changes the scale.

Suppose the notes are right but the player hesitates when moving to another string. Practise just the notes on either side of that change, slowly enough to prepare the next plucking finger. Rejoin the short pattern, then the whole scale. Keep the intermediate notes evenly spaced and retain the longer tonic. The improvement to listen for is a smooth crossing at the same pulse, without the tutor prompting each note.

Rockschool Acoustic Grade 2 includes the three-note power-chord sequence E5–G5–A5–C5. A power chord is built from a starting note and its fifth; the three-note shape repeats the starting note an octave higher. For example, E5 contains E–B–E. RSL’s 2026 acoustic update changes the repertoire while retaining the technical work.

A clean chord can still arrive late. Try this simplified practice version using the shapes in your book: sound E5 on beat 1 of a slow 1–2–3–4 count, then G5 on the next beat 1. Use beats 2–4 to prepare the move while the count continues. Once that works, add A5 and C5. If a change needs an extra beat, slow the whole count and try again. Success means each new chord lands with the click and the intended notes sound clearly. Then return to the printed rhythm and work towards its specified tempo.

For Rockschool Electric Guitar’s recorded Graded Certificate, Grade 2 technical work includes scales, power chords, major and seventh chords, and a riff to a backing track. Apply the same listening test to a change in that material: does the new shape arrive on time, with the intended strings sounding?

For an ABRSM Performance Grade, rehearse all four pieces in programme order. ABRSM’s guidance draws attention to stamina and control across the sequence.

For example, a learner may play each opening confidently but lose concentration in the final piece. Record a practice run including the transitions. If a note goes wrong, practise continuing with the next beat instead of restarting the piece. Afterwards, isolate the passage that caused the slip, correct it slowly, then try another complete run. Listen for steadier pacing and a final piece that feels as controlled as the first. This is a rehearsal task, not a separate marking rule.

For a Rockschool recorded Performance Certificate, build that routine around its five-piece programme and follow RSL’s own recording instructions.

Latimer is built around online one-to-one tuition. Microsoft Teams is the default platform, and you and the tutor can agree another. For guitar, test a camera position that shows both hands and check that the tutor can hear the notes clearly. If you use backing tracks, agree how to play them so they are audible during the lesson. Have your guitar, current music, tuner and any needed leads ready.

Each tutor sets the hourly rate shown on their profile; standard lessons are billed pay as you go. Compare the cost for the lesson length you agree, and establish any costs for books, backing tracks or exam entry separately. A matching request is free.

If you want in-person lessons, discuss the location and arrangements with the individual tutor.