AritstWorks was founded in 2008 with a vision of providing anyone, anywhere in the world with affordable, interactive access to some of the greatest music teachers on the planet. Our mission is to "Teach the World Music," and through our comprehensive online music lessons, patented Video Exchange Learning® platform, and faculty of master musicians, we believe we’re succeeding.

Award-winning master guitarist, co-founder of bands Racer X and Mr. Big, and internationally-renowned shred guitar icon, Paul Gilbert has been an instructor at ArtistWorks since 2012 and has played an integral role in helping us achieve, and continue to live up to, our mission, vision, and values.

We’re excited and proud to announce that, on January 4, 2022, Paul completed his 12,000th Video Exchange. Congratulations Paul! What an amazing milestone, and a true testament to your dedication to your students and commitment to sharing your knowledge. Thank you to all of Paul’s wonderful rock guitar pupils for consistently submitting videos!

LEARN MORE: Want to learn how to play rock guitar from a master musician like Paul Gilbert? Try some free online rock guitar lessons now!

“In my ten years teaching at ArtistWorks, recording Video Exchanges has taught me to focus on short pieces of music,” Paul explains. “I often think, ‘If this student was in my band, what could I expect them to have ready for the gig tomorrow.’ I always try to get them to tackle goals that are within reach. Small successful steps really work.”

Judging by this fantastic Video Exchange milestone, Paul’s teaching techniques have clearly made an impact, as he’s had the opportunity to meet, mentor, and guide a vast array of rock guitar players worldwide.

Check out this message from Paul about reaching this outstanding achievement:

When asked how students can get the most out of their Video Exchanges, Paul replied, “Enjoy the guitar and music! Some teachers give massive homework assignments. ‘Learn these scales in every key, in every position,’ is something that I've never said to anyone ever. I much prefer that my students find ways to connect to the music, connect with each other, and choose phrases to work on as if the gig were tomorrow night. Because it often is!”

We’ll be celebrating this impressive achievement by giving away an exclusive prize package, which includes a PG-14 Distortion Pedal from JHS Pedals signed by Paul, a handful of Paul’s signature picks, and more, to the student who submitted Paul’s 12000th Video Exchange.

“I just want to keep connecting with musicians,” Paul says. “I'm happy that people are interested in rock, and all the styles that overlap with it. At my school, we often delve into blues, fusion, jazz, pop, funk, classical, and of course, metal! I’ve always felt a kinship with musicians. And I'm happy to have such an amazing way to hang out with players all over the world and try to make learning guitar a little bit easier for them.”