Greg Henkin - Greg's Guitar Lessons

Discovering Grayslake: Unveiling the Stories and People That Make Our Town Unique

Meet Greg Henkin, long time Grayslake resident with a fun story about music and community. He does so much more than guitars. Listen and learn!

https://gregsguitarlessons.com/

What originally started as a desire to play ‘Hot for Teacher’ by Van Halen sprouted into a love of all things music. During my 8+ years in music retail, I became captivated by everything guitar & music related. Repairs, recording, vintage gear research & collecting, as well as keeping up with the latest trends in the gear world.

Throughout that time, I met some great musicians and began networking with numerous bands in the Chicagoland area. In 2001, I joined Overtone, the oft revered Lake County rock band; which in turn, enabled me to perform at some of Chicago’s most prestigious venues as well as notable showcases across the country. I spent 7 years with Overtone and have also played an active role in a variety of other local bands.

I began giving guitar lessons during that time, and eventually shifted from a casual afternoon gig to a substitute position at the request of my former teacher, Ben Jinapatha. When he unfortunately passed away, my substitute gig turned full time, and since that day, I have tried my best to make him proud, and pass on the great technique & discipline (and riffs!) he taught me.

After Overtone ended, I spent playing in any band that needed me. From folk to hard rock, I was often the hired guitarist to fill a need. Even the local high school brought me in for a rockin’ rendition of Carmina Burana.

Because of my musical upbringing, I’ve always tried to venture well beyond the role of simply “guitar teacher.” In addition to teaching a wide variety of styles, I attempt to offer my students unique opportunities to enhance their musical lives. From recording/producing students’ bands, to training them in the field of live sound… from acting as manager (with my lovely degree), to helping students book live performances, I am happy to offer my advice both in and out of the practice room.

In 2004, I became involved in the nfp group, The Grayslake Youth Center. As a member of the board of directors, I am involved in the majority of decision making; specifically all things music-related. We opened a music-centric teen / community center called The Oasis, which was opened in 2008. I wanted to be able to give my students (and every young musician) a safe, professional environment to play their music. It was one of the most fulfilling times of my life, and I was thrilled to be a part of it. Sadly, keeping a 100% donation-funded non-profit open became an increasingly difficult task as times changed, so our board decided to close up shop in 2019.

The majority of my free time is spent between writing/performing/recording/in my studio, jamming with friends, or simply expanding my knowledge in music.