Biography
“Excellent guitarist… a highly organized, creative, and motivating teacher”David Brandon
Jake began playing the guitar at the age of 10. The first five years of Jake’s studies were spent playing rock, blues, and folk music. At age 16, he began teaching private students and performing at local venues.A year later, Jake began studying classical music with the world-renowned guitarist, composer, and teacher David Brandon (Texas Tech University). After mentoring and working along side Jake for several years, Brandon wrote praise of his colleague, calling him an “Excellent guitarist” and a “highly organized, creative,and motivating teacher.” Jake also studied privately with Spanish guitar virtuoso Pepe Romero (University of Southern California) in 2009 and received his bachelor’s degree in music education from Texas Tech University in 2012.
Jake enjoys reading, writing, excellent coffee, and spending time with his family and friends. He has a passion for creativity and sharing the gift of music with his students.
“Jake’s talents as an artist and a teacher have inspired and enriched our community.”
K.Wiley , Executive Director, The Louise Hopkins Underwood Center for the Arts
“Jake has an exceptional talent, but doesn’t take it for granted. He works hard, seeks out constructive criticism, and then acts on that criticism to improve his gifts.”
A. Wilkinson, Artist-In-Residence, Southwest Collections