Josh Hammond Josh Hammond

Rediscovering Guitar: How an Online Community Revived My Passion After 20 Years

It all begins with an idea.

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TLDR: After a 20-year hiatus from guitar lessons, I found inspiration and community at mcrocklin.com. This blog explores how Thomas McRocklin's platform reignited my passion for music through engaging lessons and a supportive community.

Today I want to share my experience with an online guitar community that has truly transformed my approach to playing guitar. If you’ve ever felt disconnected from your musical journey, this might just be the spark you need.

The Challenge of Finding the Right Community

For many musicians, the online guitar community can be a mixed bag. It can be inspiring, but it can also be chaotic and, at times, toxic. However, I found a community that stands out for its positivity, support, and world-class education. This community is centered around mcrocklin.com, the official website of guitarist Thomas McRocklin.

Who is Thomas McRocklin?

Thomas McRocklin is not just any guitarist; he has played alongside legendary musicians like Steve Vai. He is a powerhouse performer and a world-class instructor. His video production skills enhance the learning experience, making it engaging and enjoyable. Additionally, he co-founded Polychrome DSP, a company known for its innovative audio plugins. With such a rich background, it’s no wonder that this community is thriving.

My Musical Journey: A 20-Year Hiatus From Lessons

Before last year, I hadn’t taken a guitar lesson—online or in-person—for about 20 years. I remember taking bass lessons in Lakeport, California, from a mentor named Craig. He opened my eyes to the world of music and inspired me to explore my creativity. After those lessons ended, I struggled to find the same motivation and excitement in my playing.

The Search for Inspiration

For years, I tried various online lessons, but nothing resonated with me. I missed the spark that made me excited about playing guitar. That was until I discovered School of McRock, which has since transitioned to mcrocklin.com. After taking just a couple of lessons, I felt that familiar excitement return—something I hadn’t experienced in over a decade.

The McRocklin Experience

The lessons on mcrocklin.com are not just about learning notes and techniques; they are designed to inspire. Thomas’s teaching style is inviting and engaging, making you feel like you are part of a community rather than just a student. The accessibility of the lessons, combined with the supportive atmosphere, creates an environment where learning feels natural and enjoyable.


Joining the Discord Community

Initially, I was hesitant to join the Discord server associated with mcrocklin.com. As someone who tends to be a bit of a hermit, I wasn’t sure how I would fit in. However, once I joined, it opened up a whole new world for me. I met incredible people, shared my music, and received support from fellow musicians. The community is vibrant, with channels dedicated to various topics beyond just guitar, making it a fun and engaging space.

A Welcoming Environment

What sets this community apart is Thomas’s active involvement. He and the mods engage with members, making everyone feel valued and included. His passion for music and the guitar shines through, creating a culture where everyone can learn and grow together. Whether you’re interested in advanced techniques or just starting out, there’s something for everyone.

Special Offers and Fun Times

Currently, mcrocklin.com is offering a special promotion with 40% off the membership price. This is a fantastic opportunity to dive into the community and experience the lessons for yourself. One of my favorite memories from the Discord was during a live stream event where Thomas collaborated with us to create presets for a new plugin, Nutcracker. It was a unique experience that showcased the community spirit and creativity.

Conclusion: An Invitation to Join

I want to emphasize that I am not affiliated with mcrocklin.com in any way; I am simply a fan who has benefited from this community. If you’re looking to reignite your passion for guitar, find engaging lessons, and connect with a supportive group of musicians, I highly recommend checking out mcrocklin.com. Your account syncs seamlessly with Discord, making it easy to navigate even for those who may not be tech-savvy. If you want to feel excited about playing guitar again and be part of a community that shares your passion, this is the place for you.


Thank you for reading, and I hope you consider joining this incredible community.



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