At Rock U Canada, we believe every chord tells a story, and every student has their own headlining role to play. Enter Andrew Rutherford, our versatile rock music instructor in Calgary, who knows that learning music isn’t just about playing notes; it’s about building confidence, finding your groove, and rocking your own unique style.
With over 15 years of guitar experience, a bachelor’s degree in Pop and Jazz Music Studies from Bishop’s University in Quebec, and years of live performances under his belt, Andrew brings a rock-solid mix of technique, creativity, and stage-ready experience to every lesson. Whether you’re a first-time strummer or a bass-shredding veteran, he’ll help you turn practice into performance.
Andrew’s approach combines structure and creativity like a perfectly arranged power chord from your favourite song. Drawing from his years as a substitute and resource teacher, he knows how to adapt lessons for every learner – kids, teens, and adults alike.
Each session with Andrew is a hands-on and customized approach. Students learn core skills like rhythm, key, and timing, while exploring their own personal flair. Andrew believes that music should feel fun, challenging, and rewarding – a space where failure doesn't exist, and where mistakes are just riffs waiting to be refined.
As a multi-instrumentalist, Andrew makes every lesson count. His focus? Helping students play with confidence and musicality. Lessons include:
Guitar: From rhythm riffs to shredding solos, building skills one note at a time.
Bass: Groove, timing, and foundational support that make any band shine.
Drums, Mandolin & Vocals: Explore multiple instruments under one roof, amplifying your inner creativity.
Performance Skills: Stage presence, solo confidence, and playing with a band.
Whether you’re laying down a tight bassline or soloing like a rock star, Andrew’s lessons are practical, performance-focused, and packed with real-world musical insight.
Andrew’s lessons are tailored to each age group, ensuring everyone has the best chance at growth and co-creativity:
Kids – Fun, interactive exercises that build confidence and a love for music.
Teens – Advanced techniques, creative challenges, and the thrill of group performance.
Adults – Practical, goal-oriented lessons designed for busy schedules, personal goals, and enjoyment.
No matter the age, Andrew helps students grow at their own pace while staying motivated and inspired.
As an instructor in Rock U Canada’s Teen Spirit Program, Andrew helps students apply their skills in a live-band setting. From band rehearsals to stage prep, he guides students as they lock in with their fellow musicians, developing timing and commanding the stage like the pros.
With Andrew guiding the way, students transform from practice-room players into confident bandmates ready to rock any audience, anywhere.
Andrew is not just a teacher, he’s an active musician in the music industry who brings the real-world experience of the stage and studio into every lesson: Contributing to recordings for emerging artists, including Felix Leroux’s debut album “On s’en rejase”.
Each lesson reflects his performance experience, turning everyday practice into stage-ready confidence.
Andrew blends structure with creativity, education with experience, and guidance with encouragement. He doesn’t just teach, he helps students understand the “why” behind what they play, connect with their instrument, and find their own voice in the process.
Whether it’s shredding a guitar solo, locking in a bass groove, or mastering multiple instruments, Andrew equips students with the tools, confidence, and creativity to rock any performance.
Discover Andrew’s full bio, performance highlights, and teaching philosophy on his Rock U Canada page.
Ready to turn your practice room into a stage? Start lessons with one of the best rock music instructors in Calgary today – book your free lesson with Andrew now!
SUMMER HOURS
Monday CLOSED
Tuesday 3:00PM - 9:00PM
Wednesday 3:00PM - 9:00PM
Thursday 3:00PM - 9:00PM
Friday CLOSED
Saturday CLOSED
Sunday CLOSED
