Jonathan’s musical journey began at age 12 when he borrowed his Dad’s guitar and didn’t give
it back until his parents got him his first guitar four months later. He hasn’t put the guitar down
since, and to this day seeks to improve his skill set, and learn more about music every day.
Over the years he has developed a teaching philosophy centered around having fun, while also
providing a positive outlet, developing character, confidence, and teamwork with music as the
vehicle.
Growing up in Chicago, Jonathan was exposed to many cultures and musical styles, which
served him well for many years as a fixture on both the Chicago and Northwest Indiana music
scenes, performing in a wide variety of working bands. He has taught in many settings,
including private lessons, group classes, University-level courses, as well as band coaching.
He was also a guest lecturer in 2018 at the East Coast Music Conference where he gave a
lecture on “How to Get Gigs (And How to Keep Them)”. He earned his Bachelor’s Degree in
Jazz Studies from Columbia College Chicago, as well as his Master’s Degree in Jazz Studies
from the University of Toledo (Toledo, OH), where he simultaneously worked as a Graduate
Assistant, teaching full semesters of Jazz History/African American Studies, Group Guitar for
Non-Music Majors, and Undergraduate Jazz Improv, all while on a full scholarship. He also
adjudicated Undergraduate guitar juries, as well as high school Jazz band competitions.
Since 2018, he has been a regular contributor/columnist for Jazz Guitar Today, an online music
magazine.
Jonathan is also an active composer. His two most recent releases include “A Road Less
Traveled” by his guitar duo group “i 2 i”, and his first solo effort titled “Octavia”, for which he
was the sole performer and co-engineer.
When he isn’t teaching, he likes to read, hike, play ice hockey, and ice skate.
Jonathan is brand new to Pittsburgh and the greater Pittsburgh area and is excited for this
new chapter of his life and career with the team at The Pittsburgh Music Academy where he teaches private guitar lessons.
