Personal Statement/Bio:

Andy has been studying guitar since 1987. At age thirteen, he began songwriting and was performing his songs professionally by age sixteen. After attending a performing arts high school, he attended Southeastern Louisiana University and earned a Bachelor of Arts in Music from The University of Alabama in Huntsville. He traces the lineage of his guitar instruction back five generations through Patrick Kerber, Pepe Romero, Celedonio Romero (1913-1996) and Daniel Fortea (1878-1953) to Francisco Tarrega (1852-1909), a virtuoso and a prolific composer and arranger for the guitar. In addition, Andy studied with Phil Weaver of Consonare and Zapatos Perdidos. Andy has composed and arranged many pieces for solo guitar, guitar and cello, and guitar and flute. He focuses largely on composing new music. While formal training influenced his compositions and technique, Andy skillfully weaves in and out of genres while composing, and offers a non-traditional presentation of the nylon string guitar during performances. In 2004, Andy began a private studio, and under his instruction, students learn to read music, perform and compose. His instruction extends to the World Wide Web via Skype and he teaches as part of the volunteer faculty at the Joy of Music School in Knoxville.

Education/Training:

I have been performing since 1990 and earned a Bachelor of Arts in Music from the University of Alabama in Huntsville. As my biography mentions, my guitar instructors were well trained and passed along good technique and musicianship. I am glad to have trained with such masters.

Teaching Philosophy:

My weekly guitar lessons are very methodical. Students learn how to read music and play the guitar. The study of music theory is also offered. My primary guitar methods are finger-style classical and solo guitar. I attempt to create an environment that presents an opportunity for all of my students to advance as musicians, not only as guitarist.

Cancellation Policy:

24 hour cancellation policy.