Meet The Team
Studio Manager
James Kuhnel
James has taught Guitar in the Huddersfield area for over 16 years! He started Kirklees Guitar School with the vision of creating a community of musicians that didn't exist when he was learning to play.
Aside from his work in the school, James is regularly contracted to perform for various groups in theatres and private functions nationally for a variety of bands and productions.
Guitar Tutor
George Loveridge
George has been teaching at KGS for 3 years, covering guitar, bass, ukulele and band group sessions. With 15 years of playing experience, George has been a gigging musician since 2018 playing bars, pubs and events across the UK.
When not playing the guitar, you'll find George writing road tests and reviews for brand new and classic cars. Or, writing music technique articles for gearnews.com.
Drum Tutor
Tom Pattinson
Tom teaches Drums for the school, With over a decade of experience teaching and playing internationally Tom has the skills to get you or your little rockstar where they need to be!
When not teaching at the school Tom is an in demand session drummer for a wide variety of acts in the UK.
Piano / Woodwind Tutor
Lauren Stafford
Lauren teaches Piano and Woodwind for us on Wednesday, Thursdays and Fridays during the daytime.
When not with us at KGS Lauren plays regularly for music theater productions all over the UK.
Guitar / Bands Tutor
Andrew Beal
Andrew teaches Guitar, Bass & Ukulele for the school. He also hosts all recording and songwriting masterclasses from our live room. Whether it's getting you through grades or starting you with a solid foundation on your instrument from scratch Andrew will get you there!
​
As a guitarist with emerging artist Sam Scherdel, Andrew has supported notable acts such as Two Door Cinema Club, Ocean Colour Scene, and Cast. With nearly 10 years of teaching experience, Andrew has been instrumental in nurturing the next generation of guitarists in the area
Guitar / Piano Tutor
Reuben Swallow
Reuben teaches Guitar and Piano at the school. Alongside teaching at KGS Reuben teaches Guitar in other schools across the Kirklees area.
In Between Lessons Reuben plays lead guitar for local band “Stellaris”
Drum Tutor
Joseph Zbos
Joseph teaches Drums on Tuesdays at KGS. When not teaching for us Joseph is studying for his PHD at Huddersfield University and plays drums for local originals band Alfie and the Avalon.
Bands / Workshop Tutor
Alfie Woods
Alfie hosts our half term band workshops at the school.
When not with us at KGS Alfie writes, records and tours with his originals band “Alfie and the avalon”