Black Pick Student Spotlight: John LaForme

It's Never Too Late to Rock

Congratulations to John LaForme on earning his Black Pick!

John's musical journey began with a lifelong love of AC/DC. A fan since 1979, he spent years playing air guitar to his favorite songs before deciding it was finally time to learn the real thing.

"I wanted to learn how to play AC/DC songs," John says. "I'd been playing air guitar for far too long."

He began taking lessons at Guitar Ninjas eight years ago in his early 50s, focusing on rhythm guitar, or "The Beast” as he likes to call it. Although he had taken a few guitar lessons as a child, this was the first time he truly committed to learning the instrument.

Since then, his playing has transformed.

"I started out fresh," John says. "Now, 48 years later, I'm finally rocking out to my favorite band."

For John, earning his Black Pick was the realization of a long-term goal.

"I have arrived! I can now play several of my favorite songs."

One of his favorite memories from Guitar Ninjas was learning the rhythm guitar part for "Shoot to Thrill." After years of dreaming about playing AC/DC music, mastering one of his favorite songs became a milestone he'll never forget.

John hopes his journey encourages other adults who have always wanted to learn an instrument but think they've missed their chance.

"I started my journey with Guitar Ninjas in my early 50s. You're never too old to start. Don't just pick one song—set your goals higher and learn how to play your favorite album."

His advice perfectly captures the spirit of his own musical journey:

Play what moves you.

Congratulations, John, on earning your Black Pick and proving that passion, persistence, and a love of music can make any dream possible—no matter when you begin.