Hi, I’m Allen Mathews.
I started as a folk guitarist, then fell in love with classical guitar in my 20’s. Despite a lot of practice and schooling, I still couldn’t get my music to flow well. I struggled with excess tension. My music sounded forced. And my hands and body were often sore. I got frustrated, and couldn’t see the way forward. Then, over the next decade, I studied with two stellar teachers – one focused on the technical, and one on the musical (he was a concert pianist). In time, I came to discover a new set of formulas and movements. These brought new life and vitality to my practice. Now I help guitarists find more comfort and flow in their music, so they play more beautifully. Click here for a sample formula.
Thanks to you (you are my only teacher) in only a few months I've gone from very basic beginner pieces to having just completed learning Bach's Gavottes 1&2 in good form and execution. As a non-classical electric guitarist who has always used a pick and never his fingers, this has been no small feat!
-Gregg Olson
I am truly enjoying the growth and challenge that the Woodshed material provides. I look forward to working hard and learning much in the years ahead. Thanks for all the effort and care that you have taken in providing these lessons and resources!
-Mark Whitsett
Become a Member and Play More, Beautifully!
“The basics are the basics, and you can’t beat the basics.”
Charles Poliquin
Join the program that takes you from the beginning fundamentals to advanced mastery, so you…
Move your hands safely and fluidly
Enjoy fulfilling practices and meaningful work
Play beautifully with expression and flow
Click the button to take a step towards an organized, effective guitar practice. >>>
Featured Courses
Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring – Bach
One of the best loved of all classical pieces.
Play and Read Music in the Higher Positions
Learn to read music and identify notes on the entire neck.
Better Technique, with “Segovia’s Favorite Scales”
Detailed explorations of this popular technical tool.
Pachelbel’s Canon in D
Great for beginners to intermediate players.
How to Read Music for Guitar
A full course to get you started reading music
Malagueña, by Ernesto Lecuona
One of the most fun and recognizable guitar songs in the world!
See more…
