Simon Morel — Guitarist, Guitar Teacher & Session Musician, Sydney
"I'm thinking guitars might catch on..."
I'm a guitarist, songwriter, and guitar teacher based in Sydney's Inner West. Most days you'll find me in my teaching studio in Petersham — and most nights, somewhere on stage.
to the Inner West
A career built on six strings
My story starts a long way from Sydney. I grew up in Jersey (the Channel Islands, not New Jersey), picked up the guitar at seven, was playing semi-professionally by 13, and started teaching by 16. At 17, I landed a spot on BBC Radio One's Sound City songwriting competition — and that was it. I spent the next decade playing shows across the UK, Europe, and Asia, playing festivals along the way.
I've been based in Sydney ever since, and the output hasn't slowed down. Two solo albums — Songs from the City and Record #2 — four albums with Soul Messengers, and a packed calendar of gigs with various Soul, R&B, and Ska bands around the Inner West. Guitar has always been at the centre of everything.
Petersham & Beyond
25 years of teaching, still going
I've always believed that being a great player and being a great guitar teacher are two completely different skills — and I've spent over 25 years working hard at both.
My studio in Petersham is home to students of all ages and levels, from first-time beginners to working musicians looking to sharpen specific skills. Beyond the studio, I run a YouTube channel with over 27,000 subscribers and 1,000+ free guitar lessons — tutorials that have been watched more than 5.5 million times. If you want tabs and charts to go with them, that's what my Patreon is for.
Collaborations
Session guitarist, Sydney
Need a session guitarist in Sydney? I bring 30+ years of live and studio experience across rock, pop, soul, and R&B — along with a lifetime's collection of guitars and gear to match the session. I'm easy to work with, I read the room quickly, and I show up with the right tone.
Let's make some music.
Whether you're after guitar lessons in the Inner West, online lessons from anywhere in the world, or a professional guitarist for your next recording or show — I'd love to hear from you.