Harry Jacobson joined the faculty of the National Guitar Workshop in 1987 and has since taught seminars at campuses across North America, including San Rafael, CA; Nashville, TN; Seattle, WA; Toronto, Canada; Austin, TX; and Chicago. In 1990 and 1992, he was invited to Reykjavik, Iceland as a guest clinician by Fridrik Karlsson.

Since moving to Philadelphia in 1994, he has continued private instruction alongside his work at Drexel University. His approach is grounded in real-world experience — from the Coconut Grove music scene of Miami in the 1970s to recording jingles and soundtracks in New York City, and touring internationally with Malaco recording artist Keisa Brown.

Harry Jacobson brings decades of performing and teaching experience to every lesson, drawing on a career that has taken him from intimate club stages to national seminar halls. His approach focuses on building a strong technical foundation while encouraging each student's individual musical voice. Whether you are picking up the guitar for the first time or looking to refine advanced techniques, lessons are tailored to your goals. The emphasis is on practical musicianship, music theory applied to real songs, and developing the confidence to play with others. Students come away not just with improved skills but with a deeper appreciation for the instrument and its expressive possibilities.

As a senior faculty member of the National Guitar Workshop for many years, Harry has taught guitarists from all over North America and beyond. This experience has shaped a teaching philosophy that values patience, clarity, and genuine enthusiasm for the instrument. Lessons cover a wide range of styles and genres, reflecting the diverse musical landscape of the workshop circuit. Students benefit from a structured yet flexible curriculum that can adapt to changing interests and skill levels. The goal is to make each session engaging and productive, ensuring steady progress while keeping the joy of playing guitar at the center of the experience.

The Philadelphia area has long been home to a vibrant music scene, and Harry's local lessons offer students direct access to that tradition. In-person instruction allows for real-time feedback, personalized exercises, and the kind of immediate correction that accelerates learning. Beyond technical drills, lessons explore songwriting, improvisation, and the nuances of live performance. Students are encouraged to bring in their own musical interests, whether that means working on original material, covering favorite songs, or preparing for a gig. The studio environment is focused and supportive, designed to help each player reach their next milestone.

Video content featuring Harry Jacobson's teaching has been featured at workshoplive.com, extending the reach of his instruction beyond the classroom.