What if I am the worst in the room?

NoYou won’t be. You’ll be with others at your skill level, so you’ll feel comfortable and supported from the start.

Do I need to read music?

Nope. We’ll learn by playing songs — not by reading notes or getting bogged down in theory.

What if I have arthritis or sore hands?

Totally fine. I’ll adapt chords and pacing so you can play comfortably and still make progress.

What do I need to bring?

Just a guitar, a pick, and an open mind.

Is there parking? Is it easy to get to?

Yes — there’s free street parking out front or just around the corner. Easy second-floor studio access. (Note: no wheelchair access, sorry.)

What happens in the free intro session?

You’ll play a full song, get clear next steps, and experience the vibe — no pressure, no hard sell.

Free Session

Adult Guitar Lessons in Gold Coast | Group Guitar Classes for Adults

You've Always Wanted to Learn Guitar.

What if this was finally the one time you did?

Come See What It's Like

No experience needed. No pressure. Your first session is free.

Guitar class in Carrara - Gold Coast School of Guitar

Welcome to The Campfire Club?

If you've always wanted to learn guitar but never found the right time, you're not alone.

Many of the people who join me have spent years saying things like:

"Maybe one day"
"I've always done things for others, never myself"
"I think I'm too old"
"I'm worried I won't be good enough"
"I wish I'd started years ago"

That's exactly why I created The Campfire Club.

Every week, adults from across the Gold Coast come together to learn songs in a group where nobody’s expected to be perfect - and nobody’s judging.

What I want most is to help you become someone who picks up a guitar and enjoys playing—whether that's around a campfire, at a family barbecue, or just quietly on your own.

From "I've always wanted to play" to "I can join in"

🌱

I've always wanted to play

Life got busy. My confidence got in the way. Years slipped by.

🔥

I showed up anyway

Each week, surrounded by other adults who felt exactly the same way, I picked up my guitar and nobody judged me. Everyone else was too busy learning too.

🎸

I can join in

Someone says, “Let’s play this song.” This time, I smile and say… “Yeah… I know this one.”

Come and see if it feels right

You don't have to be good enough.

You don't have to know anything before you arrive.

You don't have to decide today.

Just come along, meet the group, and experience The Campfire Club for yourself.

Your first session is completely free - no pressure and no obligation.

Book Your Free Intro Session

Meet Your Guide

Hi, I'm Allen.

For the past 14 years I’ve helped adults who thought they'd missed their chance to learn guitar.

That's why I created The Campfire Club—a relaxed, welcoming place where you can learn songs, build confidence, and enjoy playing alongside other adults.

I want to help you become someone who happily picks up a guitar and plays.

Allen Hopgood, smiling and holding an acoustic guitar, giving a thumbs up — representing the friendly, supportive approach at Gold Coast School of Guitar for adults over 40.

Allen Hopgood - Founder of The Campfire Club — helping adults to finally play songs they love.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if I'm the worst one there?

You're not the first person to think that—and you certainly won't be the last. Everyone starts somewhere, and I make sure every session is welcoming, supportive and pressure-free.

Do I need experience?

Not at all. I'll meet you wherever you're starting.

Do I need my own guitar?

Yes, you'll need your own guitar, but if you don't have one yet, most people start with something simple and affordable. I’m happy to recommend a good beginner option before you buy.

What happens at the free intro session?

YeIt's simply a chance for us to meet, have a chat about where you're at, and for you to experience The Campfire Club for yourself. There's no pressure and no obligation—it's just an opportunity to see if it feels like the right fit.

What if I miss a class?

Life happens. That's why I run multiple sessions each week covering the same material, so it's easy to catch up.

Can I cancel at anytime?

Yes. Membership is a month in advance at all times. No lock-in contracts. So if your circumstances change, just let me know before your next billing cycle.

From "Maybe One Day" to "I'm So Glad I Started"

Kerry, member for 4 years

"I liked the idea of a group class because it felt like less pressure. It's a very supportive environment, and most people felt exactly the way I did—nervous and a little intimidated at first. But now... I can play guitar!"

Ray, member for 6 months

“At 79 years old, I had absolutely no fear about trying The Campfire Club. I've faced plenty of life's challenges already. After my free intro session, I knew it was for me. As soon as everyone arrived, I felt at home because we were all there for the same reason. They're just a great group of friendly people, both men and women."