Home - Chelsea Guitar School

Welcome to Chelsea Guitar School

Located in the Perth suburb of Nedlands, Chelsea Guitar School was established in 1989 by principal Mike Babenko who has over 30 years’ experience in classical guitar and for the past 20 years has been a guitar teacher at Wesley College. Prior to that he was a guitar tutor at Belmont TAFE for 10 years. Mike has also spent 10 years in the audio industry, mixing live shows in various clubs, dealing with local and high profile bands. The studio specialises in classical, rock, and bass tuition to AMEB STANDARD

100% success rate with students undertaking AMEB exams
Lessons for all ages – starting from 7 years to 80 + (never too late to learn)

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I have been a student at Chelsea Guitar School for 8 years and have not only learnt about classical guitar, but also so much about music in general. I have taken two classical guitar AMEB exams and passed with honours. Mike is a great teacher and is always kind, patient and encouraging.

Joely, 16

Mike is such a wonderful teacher and he is so patient. My 8 year old enjoys coming to the lessons and his confidence grows each week. I have no hesitation in recommending Mike.

Stephanie

Mike Babenko at Chelsea Guitar School is an excellent teacher who has helped me significantly improve my proficiency in guitar playing. He has also taught me a much deeper understanding of all aspects of music including musical composition and theory. As result, my enjoyment in playing and appreciation in listening to music has continued to progress to whole new levels over the many years I have been with Mike

John

When I first contacted Chelsea Guitar School I told Mike Babenko that I was a bit hesitant to take up the guitar as a 52 year old. He reassured me that it was never too late to learn guitar. He was right. Although I'm still a beginner, Mike is successfully (and patiently) navigating me through music theory, learning chords, songs and how to read music. I’ve been pleasantly surprised at how my mind is adapting to each new exercise. I have found it has increased my discipline and focus at work as well.

Dawn

I have been a student of Mike Babenko at Chelsea Guitar School since 2003. Mike is a patient and highly effective teacher, always happy to explain different techniques, but just as keen to keep his students' skills developing and moving forward. He is a great guitarist himself, and his demonstration of styles has been very useful in helping me improve. I enjoy my lessons with Mike, and look forward to continuing as a Chelsea Guitar student.

Brian

I decided to learn guitar in my 60’s, after retiring from full-time work. Mike was recommended by my daughter and it has been a great experience. In my view, Mike is the ideal teacher for me. He is very patient but keeps moving forward so that I always feel like I’m making progress. His lessons provide me with a good mix of music theory and practical guitar skills. With his skilled accompaniment, he can make anything I play sound great. My only regret is that I didn’t start when I was 15.

David