About

Home » About

I have been playing guitar nearly 15 years.

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.

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.

I have also been involved with the Grayslake Youth Center since 2004. As a member of the board of directors, I am involved in the majority of decision making; specifically all things music-related. Throughout my time there, The GYC has put on numerous fundraisers, large outdoor music festivals, and as of April 2009, opened The Oasis… Lake County’s premiere youth center; which features a computer lab, big screen TVs, the latest and greatest video game systems, and a RIDICULOUS stage/sound system (hey… I do what I can!)

The majority of my free time is spent between writing/performing/recording/learning in my studio, jamming with friends, or simply expanding my knowledge and abilities on the guitar.

 

My Education:

Columbia College Chicago – Chicago, IL
Graduated: 2005
Degree: Bachelor’s Degree
Major: Arts & Entertainment Management / Marketing

College of Lake County – Grayslake, IL
Graduated: 2003
Degree: Associate’s of Arts

Grayslake Community High School – Grayslake, IL
Graduated: 2000
Degree: High School Diploma

Check out the commercial for my guitar lessons & recording studio.