Fingerstyle 101
Clear guitar lessons for adults 50+ who want playing to feel comfortable and enjoyable
"I needed this 60 years ago. Following Dan’s teaching has become a daily pleasure. Any guitarist young or 80 like me can use this with confidence."
Ian Laing - student
If You’re Looking for a Calm, Enjoyable Way to Learn Guitar, Read On...
Hi, I’m Dan Thorpe
I teach guitar to adults who are learning a little later on in life and want playing music to be part of their everyday routine.
Most of the people I teach are over 50. Many are retired. Some are in their 70s and 80s. We have a community of people who enjoy learning, value their time, and want something rewarding to focus on.
If you're like them, you're not interested in being a “rockstar”.
You probably just want to enjoy playing the music that you've always loved, and the songs that bring back special memories with family growing up, or to make new memories with your kids or grandkids. I have no doubt you want the guitar to feel comfortable and pain-free, to enjoy the brain-boosting benefits of playing an instrument, and to have a hobby that puts a smile on your face.
If you've found it harder than you thought it would be, it's time to take that dusty guitar out of the attic, pick it up, and enjoy playing again. If you already love your playing, I'll show you how to take your skills and enjoyment to the next level with more focus and even more joy! My lessons and community are here to support you.
— Dan Thorpe
What You're Probably Really Looking For
Since my early days of teaching dating back to 2012, I quickly realised there are specific things my students not only need but desperately desire when it comes to learning the guitar, including a big focus on these:
A Community, Better Wellbeing, and a Method That Works for You
I've been teaching guitar full-time since 2012 and have taught thousands of hours of lessons to adults just like you.
If you've tried guitar before and found it hard, or you're returning after years away, you are not alone. Many of my students felt the same way before they found a clearer, more comfortable way to learn. This is what the lessons and community are built around:
Many students enjoy the social side of learning alongside others, while also appreciating the personal satisfaction that comes from having a meaningful hobby.
Research into music and the brain, including work by Dr Daniel Levitin in This Is Your Brain on Music, shows just how powerful learning and playing music can be over time.
That is the kind of rewarding, long-term experience these lessons are built to support.
Start Making Real Progress Today
For students who want continued guidance, a clear monthly path, and long-term progress across fingerstyle, strumming, and musicianship, I also run a private program.
The Six String Life Academy
A guided twelve-month learning experience
Inside the Academy, you will follow a clear learning 5-Star Path. You get the structure, support, the community, accountability, and 'Five-Song Club' to help you stay consistent and keep improving. It works if you're a brand-new beginner or experienced player looking to reach the next level.
Not Ready For The Academy?
If you can already play and want a light way to kickstart your playing again, you can check these out:
Fingerstyle 101
My book, course, and system giving you all the tools you need to play beautiful guitar
The Free 7-Day Reset
Already play but feel stuck? This free reset will get you up and running again with joy
Both of the above are for guitarists who can already play a little.
What My Students Say
"Exactly what I need to boost my motivation"
"This is G.R.E.A.T. Exactly what I, an old fart, need to boost my fingerstyle technique and motivation to practice." — Jim Marshall (California)
"For the first time I played a song for my wife"
“Brother Dan! I finally got it. I stood up, no sheet music… and played a song for my wife. I’ve never done that before.” - Matt Woodrow (Arkansas)
"More breakthroughs in 7 weeks than in 7 years”
“It’s deceptively simple but full of the basics needed to play fingerstyle. I’ve had more breakthroughs in 7 weeks than in the last 7 years.” — Judy Blackburn
"I love, love these fingerpicking songs."
"I love, love these fingerpicking songs that use simple patterns and slight variations to create soulful music! Beautiful!" — Larry Fleeman
"I finally feel like a real guitar player"
"Been practicing daily for six years. If I had only had this in the very beginning, I’d be much further along... But now I can say I finally feel like a real guitar player." — G. Lynch
"In over 50 years, no one ever showed me this"
“What an eye-opener after 50 years! I was always told to press harder. This lesson changed everything.” — Michael Clarke
Need Help or Have a Question?
You can contact me directly at: help@fingerstyle101.com
Helping guitarists age 50+ learn in a clear, easy-to-follow, and simple way
"Your course changed everything for me! I want to learn for my enjoyment and be confident enough to play for my kids and grandkids...
For me, you are the perfect instructor and this month has been my best month of learning – I have learned 4 songs – my first actual songs, so I am really stoked!!!"
- Logan Hager
© 2026 Dan Thorpe Guitar Ltd.