Walt Pitts

Live solo musician 🎸
Guitar & vocals for events & venues
Lessons available (beginner → intermediate)
Phoenix + online
DM “GIGS” or “LESSONS”

[Walt Pitts @WaltPitts]

I turned 65 last October, and honestly, I’ve had to adjust my guitar playing more than I ever thought I would.

I’m still out playing gigs regularly, but I definitely notice I have to think more about my playing now than I used to.

Things like changing string gauges, warming up more, doing hand stretches, managing arthritis, managing trigger thumb, learning to play lighter, and even changing how I hold the guitar.

One of the biggest breakthroughs for me was switching to lighter gauge strings. I fought that for years because I loved heavier strings and their sound, especially on acoustic guitar.

But eventually, I realized sometimes you have to compromise a little to keep doing what you love long term.

I also talk about something I think many musicians forget.

Practicing is not the same as performing.

When you’re playing multiple nights a week, staying healthy and keeping your hands working becomes part of the job.

One thing I’ve learned is that what we think is a bad night as musicians is often still a great night for the people listening.

I know there are a lot of players out there wondering if they’ll be able to keep playing as they get older. I’ve had those thoughts too.

My encouragement is don’t stop playing.

Keep adjusting. Keep learning. Keep taking care of yourself. Keep making music.

I shot this video while changing strings before a gig and just decided to speak honestly about where I’m at right now as a player.

Hope it helps somebody.

#PlayingGuitar #WorkingMusician #GuitarPlayer #AcousticGuitar #FingerstyleGuitar #OlderMusicians #GiggingMusician #MusicianLife #StillPlaying

[Walt Pitts @WaltPitts]

Putting my own reggae spin on 'What a Wonderful World'! It's amazing how music can capture the beauty of rainbows and the people we share them with. #ReggaeVibes #CoverSong

[Walt Pitts @WaltPitts]

Acoustic guitar strings? This musician can't imagine a better sound. After years of gigging 5 nights a week, the right strings make all the difference. #Guitar #MusicGear

[Walt Pitts @WaltPitts]

Exploring a reggae cover of "What a Wonderful World"! This track, crafted with Band-in-a-Box, brings a fresh vibe to a classic. It's a reminder of simple human connections and the hopeful journey of growth. #Reggae #MusicCover #WonderfulWorld

[Walt Pitts @WaltPitts]

Classical guitar technique emphasizes keeping the thumb behind the neck for optimal control. While inspired by players like Tommy Emmanuel and Chet Atkins, this position is key for sustained comfort and precision. #GuitarTips #ClassicalGuitar

[Walt Pitts @WaltPitts]

A 'Wonderful World' reimagined with a reggae vibe! This version was arranged using the versatile Band-in-a-Box. Hope you enjoy this take on a timeless classic. #Reggae #MusicCover #WonderfulWorld

[Walt Pitts @WaltPitts]

Hitting 60 meant a major adjustment to my playing and practice. The last few years, I've had to consciously think about techniques, actions, and guitar positioning more than ever. #MusicianLife #AgingGracefully #Guitarist

[Walt Pitts @WaltPitts]

I used to keep my thumb behind the neck like a classical guitar player; that's how I was trained. But I found it was making things stiff. Now I move it around, mix in some thumb technique, and change the fingerings. Sounds like a small thing, but it keeps things fresh and keeps the stiffness away. Don't be afraid to evolve your technique.

[Walt Pitts @WaltPitts]

Sometimes slow moments at gigs turn into cool memories.
At the Italian Festival, artist Dianne asked if I wanted a caricature of “me or a character.”
I said… probably both 😄🎸

Also testing some new solo musician gear lately — battery-powered setup and new wireless guitar system. No outlet needed. Full mobile rig.
I’ll post a gear rundown video next week.

#LiveSoloMusician #GuitarPlayer #SoloMusician #guitarist

[Walt Pitts @WaltPitts]

Getting ready to play for the Italian festival, the Constantino's

[Walt Pitts @WaltPitts]

Experimenting with guitar holding positions? Subtle shifts can unlock your playing. Adjusting your guitar's position is key to avoiding getting stuck and reaching those notes. #GuitarTips #MusicPractice

[Walt Pitts @WaltPitts]

The biggest guitar breakthrough? Changing string gauge. Using 10-47 D'Addario XS strings makes playing easier with a lighter touch. It's a game-changer for feel and sound. #GuitarTips #DAddario

[Walt Pitts @WaltPitts]

🎸Want your strumming to sound more musical?

We’ll build rhythm and strumming step-by-step so it feels natural.

Message me for guitar lesson details.

[Walt Pitts @WaltPitts]

Through the years, I've tried countless guitar picks. From thin jazz picks to heavy Fender picks, but this Fred Kelly Bumblebee thumb pick is my all-time favorite. It offers the best sound and playability. #GuitarTips #MusicGear

[Walt Pitts @WaltPitts]

Mastering hybrid picking means blending finger and pick techniques. It opens up new rhythmic possibilities for guitarists. #GuitarTips #HybridPicking

[Walt Pitts @WaltPitts]

Got questions about guitar picks or technique? Drop them in the comments! Want to improve your playing? Book a lesson on my website, https://t.co/vVhGLmNb4f. Let's make some music! #GuitarTips #MusicLessons

[Walt Pitts @WaltPitts]

Imagine a stunning wine tower, a unique feature in a desert mountain home. This architectural marvel meets function. Interested in making your space extraordinary? #UniqueHomes #Architecture

[Walt Pitts @WaltPitts]

Discover incredible, approachable guitarists at https://t.co/xXMvvF4PD3! This annual July event is where I found Tommy Emmanuel and others I love. Highly recommended! #Guitar #MusicConvention

[Walt Pitts @WaltPitts]

😊 Lessons should feel fun and encouraging.

I’ll keep it simple, help you stay consistent, and make sure you’re actually enjoying playing.

Online lessons + limited in-person in Phoenix.

Message me for guitar lesson details.

[Walt Pitts @WaltPitts]

Playing for years builds calluses, adjusting your technique for a better sound. Once reliant on fake nails for a uniform tone, a compromise was made for convenience over perceived better technique. No more hassle with fake nails! #GuitarLife #Musician