Guitar Center Houston21503 State Hwy. 249 Houston, TX
Joseph Foreman is from Spring, TX, and has been a multi-instrumentalist for over 15 years. Music runs in his family as his mother is a singer, and he stated that he knew he wanted to play guitar as soon as he heard and saw Carlos Santana playing. His formal musical training started at Carver Magnet High School, a Performing Arts High School here in Houston, TX. He then attended Lonestar College at the North Harris Campus, and then finalized his studies at Texas Southern University. At TSU, Joseph concentrated heavily on Jazz Guitar Performance. There he studied under Professor Horace Alexander Young in compositional techniques. Before Joseph came to Guitar Center in early 2018, he was a multi-instrument instructor and band coach for School of Rock. He loves helping his students create their own music and is a very adept songwriter. He has toured nationally, and plays bass, guitar and drums in several different musical projects over the years. Joseph has been a performing and recording musician for over 10 years.
Guitar Center Houston8390 Westheimer Road Houston, TX
My musical journey started when I was 7 years old.
I fell in love with music when I saw my uncle play marimba with his Latin band in El Salvador.
I always knew I wanted to become a professional musician. I have worked hard and studied for so many years to establish a method to work in the industry.
My passion for teaching started in middle school. My music teachers were important and influential. I wanted to inspire the future generations just like them.
I believe in teaching music as a language.
Music develops important life virtues such as patience, determination, and true expression.
Guitar Center Houston195 Yale Street Suite 200Houston, TX
Inspired by his father and a close friend, Preston picked up the guitar at the age of 13 and quickly fell in love with music. What started as a passion for Rock n' Roll soon grew into a lifelong dedication to learning and performing. Over the years, he expanded his musical abilities by learning multiple instruments and exploring a wide variety of styles, from classical and pop to funk and avant-garde. Through countless hours of practice and experience, Preston has developed a deep understanding of music and guitar playing. As a teacher, he is passionate about helping students build confidence, develop their skills, and reach their goals—whether they want to play for fun, perform on stage, or simply become the best musician they can be!
Guitar Center Houston8390 Westheimer Road Houston, TX
Born in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Martin is our go-to Audio Engineering master. Not only does he teach here for DJing and Recording software and hardware, he's also a professor at Houston Community College. Professor Martin knows how to get the party rolling
Guitar Center Houston195 Yale Street Suite 200Houston, TX
Shannon is a multi-instrumentalist whose talent overflows into the students that he teached. With over 15 years of experience in teaching, and even more in performing/ playing, Shannon is able to shape students into amazing musicians, with an extensive knowledge of music.
Shannon is a local music teacher in the Central Houston area, with knowledge of a wide variety of instruments and genres. During the years of 2011-2017, Shannon spent a large amount of time in the Electronic Music world spinning two top 10 DJ mixes on Beatport and producing artists who broke Top 100 on the EDM charts on many platforms including iTunes.
Guitar Center Houston8390 Westheimer Road Houston, TX
Blake Martin is a dedicated multi-instrumentalist with over 16 years of piano
experience and 14 years of drumming experience. Specializing in the styles of rock
and gospel, Blake has developed his musicianship through years of live performance
and active involvement as a gospel musician, regularly playing both piano and drums
at his local church.
Passionate about collaboration and creativity, Blake has formed a music group with
friends and is currently working on both a group album and a solo project set to
debut later this year. In addition to his instrumental background, he has experience
as a vocalist, having participated in a live recording and performed at several
churches.
Blake brings a strong foundation in rhythm, musical expression, and live
performance to his teaching approach. His goal as an instructor is to help students
build confidence, develop their skills, and grow into versatile musicians while
fostering a genuine passion for music.
Guitar Center Houston8390 Westheimer Road Houston, TX
Born in Maracaibo, Venezuela, Xavier is our string expert, with knowledge of not only guitar and bass, but also the lesser known mandolin. Xavier is able to deep dive any piece of music to give all students the bigger picture towards what they play
Guitar Center Houston8390 Westheimer Road Houston, TX
Ericka is a classically trained guitarist and pianist with a passion for teaching. She has been teaching for over 6 years and is great with beginners or experienced musicians looking to enhance their musical journey.
Guitar Center Houston195 Yale Street Suite 200Houston, TX
Roberto is a multi-instrumentalist with a passion for teaching music. With over 17 years of experience in teaching and performance, Roberto has a great insight and perspective to shape his students into amazing musicians. A native Houstonian, Roberto has played around the local scene in a variety of genres such as RnB, Jazz, Rock, Etc. He has also performed with multiple local artists at events such as SXSW. Roberto works to inspire his students to express themselves through music with their own projects. If you’re looking to become a great musician, Roberto will definitely help you get there.
Guitar Center Houston8390 Westheimer Road Houston, TX
Mr. Cary Michael Fink is a lyric tenor with over 40 years of experience teaching voice at the university level and in private studio. Proven record in striving to raise the quality of vocal performance and promoting healthy singing. He is proficient in Classical, Broadway and Contemporary styles in English, Italian, German and French.
Techniques taught include posture, efficient breathing, articulation, resonance, pitch placement, intonation, practice methods and consistency to achieve flexibility, power and expression.
Guitar Center Houston21503 State Hwy. 249 Houston, TX
Dane has over 13 years of experience as a performing musician and instructor. Classically trained on violin, he later taught himself bass, guitar, and keys, developing a versatile musical background.
He performed with Lone Star College’s Jazz Ensemble on bass and the college orchestra on violin. With nearly three years of teaching experience, Dane works with students of all skill levels and genres, specializing in rock and jazz. His teaching philosophy emphasizes musical understanding through technical, visual, and emotional expression.
Guitar Center Houston8390 Westheimer Road Houston, TX
Chad has been playing the drums for approximately 45 years and has taught the drums for over twenty of them. He is originally from right outside of New Orleans, Louisiana, where he played concert and marching snare throughout middle and high school. Chad moved to Houston, Texas in his twenties where he received multiple degrees from various schools and universities including The Art Institute of Houston, Houston Community College, The University of Houston and its Honors College. He has played in many different situations with a variety of styles including Rock, Jazz, Latin and Metal among others. Chad enjoys spending time with his son and hitting golf balls.
Guitar Center Houston195 Yale Street Suite 200Houston, TX
Jonathan is a percussionist and pianist hailing from Burleson, Texas. He holds a Bachelors of Music in performance from University of North Texas.
Jonathan has been playing piano for 27 years and has completed certification with the National Piano Guild, which includes extensive study in various performance styles, technique programs and music theory.
While at UNT, he participated in the Wind Symphony under Professor Eugene Corporon, the Percussion Ensemble under Professor Mark Ford, the 2 O'Clock Steel Band and the UNT Indoor Drumline under Paul Rennick. Jonathan was a winner of the 2013 UNT Concerto Competition.
Jonathan is an alumnus of the Phantom Regiment Drum and Bugle Corps, and the Music City Mystique performing ensemble as a percussionist and a pianist, with 7 world finalist appearances, 3 of which were medalists. Since aging out of those programs, he has been involved with the larger circuit as an instructor, creative designer and audio specialist. He also is an experienced composer and arranger, writing for marching band programs across the country, as well as his own personal music.
In his free time, Jonathan enjoys video games, board games, and playing with his two cats Puffin and Atreus.
Guitar Center Houston195 Yale Street Suite 200Houston, TX
Janu began playing guitar at age 10 as a self-taught musician before attending the University of the Philippines College of Music, where he studied as a Classical Guitar major and completed coursework in Performing Musical Arts. After his time at the university, he expanded into session work, performing with a variety of artists across multiple genres.Over a career spanning more than 20 years, Janu has performed in concerts, appeared on television shows, recorded in the studio, and toured extensively. His diverse professional experience gives him a well-rounded perspective on both performance and musicianship.Janu joined Guitar Center in 2013 at the Katy location and later taught at the Willowbrook location, where he spent more than seven years working with students of all ages. During his time in the program, he helped students develop their instrumental skills, musical understanding, and performance abilities. After a brief hiatus, we are excited to welcome him back to Guitar Center and our Central Houston location, where he continues to share his passion for music and education!
Guitar Center Houston195 Yale Street Suite 200Houston, TX
Wren began their musical journey at age 16 in Lufkin, Texas, performing in local metal and punk bands while developing their skills on bass and guitar. They continued their studies at Angelina College, where they trained in classical and jazz guitar, performed in solo and ensemble settings, and played with the jazz band. During this time, they also began teaching private lessons and working with students through local music stores. After serving in the Air Force, Wren furthered their musical education at Stephen F. Austin University, earning an Associate of Fine Arts in Music Performance. As a performer, they have extensive experience across metal, punk, rock, country, bluegrass, folk, Americana, classical, and jazz styles, giving them a versatile approach to both playing and teaching. Wren is passionate about helping students explore the music they love, develop strong technical skills, and express themselves through music and songwriting!
Guitar Center Houston8390 Westheimer Road Houston, TX
12+ years of experience and study; performing with bands and collaborating with artistsand musicians, composing, and recording original music. Teaching approach utilizes colaborative integration of conceptal knowledge, critical analysis, improvisation and creative exploration to help cultivate confidence and skill. An is especially gifted with early learners.
Guitar Center Houston21503 State Hwy. 249 Houston, TX
Andrew is a drum instructor with a strong musical foundation, having played piano since the age of four. He brings over a year of teaching experience and is certified to teach piano through the Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music (ABRSM). His classical training has helped shape his sense of timing, technique, and musicality.
In addition to piano, Andrew has been playing drums for five years, allowing him to approach rhythm and percussion with a well-rounded, musical perspective. As an instructor, he focuses on building solid fundamentals, coordination, and confidence while helping students develop a strong sense of groove and musicianship.
Guitar Center Houston21503 State Hwy. 249 Houston, TX
Anthony has been playing piano since the age of five, beginning with basic theory, rhythm, and simple songs introduced by his father. He developed his skills through formal instruction, personal study, and courses at Nin/Tin Production, learning pieces from church choirs and popular music.
He began performing in church as a youth choir accompanist and later became the full-time keyboardist and organist in high school. Anthony has performed with churches, local artists, and major performers, and furthered his education at Berklee College of Music. As an instructor, he is dedicated to helping students grow musically, creatively, and personally.
Guitar Center Houston8390 Westheimer Road Houston, TX
Samson is a Houston native with over 15 years of guitar experience and an education in Jazz Studies from the University of North Texas. Samson was a 2019 Texas All-State Jazz Guitarist and performed at the Disney Motif Awards with Derrick Hodge. Samsons has a passion for R&B, Jazz, Reggae, and Hip-Hop but teaches across all genres. Whether you're starting out or looking to take your playing to the next level, Samson is here to help you grow as a musician.
Guitar Center Houston21503 State Hwy. 249 Houston, TX
A Houston, Texas native, Jay has over 20 years of playing experience and a lifelong passion for music. Largely self-taught, he began by watching a drummer perform week after week, tapping along until drumsticks were eventually in his hands.
Jay studied music at Wunderlich Intermediate School, participating in Concert, Jazz, and Marching Bands, and draws inspiration from drumming greats such as Eric Moore, Dennis Chambers, Buddy Rich, Questlove, and others.
With over eight years of teaching experience, he has worked with children from his church and the local community, focusing on building strong fundamentals, confidence, and a love for drumming.
Guitar Center Houston21503 State Hwy. 249 Houston, TX
Roman is a guitar instructor from Houston, Texas with over four years of playing experience. Inspired by artists such as Synyster Gates and the band Three Days Grace, he developed a strong passion for guitar driven by modern rock and metal influences.
He studied guitar at Guitar Center, where he built a solid technical foundation and refined his skills. Roman credits his first instructor, Tom, for keeping him motivated and committed to the instrument, and his second instructor, Joseph, for helping him rapidly advance his playing ability.
As an instructor, Roman focuses on motivation, steady progress, and helping students build confidence while developing their own musical style.
Guitar Center Houston21503 State Hwy. 249 Houston, TX
Dean is a Houston-based guitar teacher and performing musician with over 21 years of experience. He got his first guitar at age eight from his grandfather, who worked at Ed Roman Guitars, sparking a lifelong passion for music. Influenced early by bands like Guns N’ Roses, Mötley Crüe, and Van Halen, he later drew inspiration from Stevie Ray Vaughan, Jimi Hendrix, Pantera, and Megadeth.
Dean has studied with several respected teachers, including Josh and Rusty Cooley, and continues to practice and learn daily. He has played in numerous rock and metal bands, gained recognition with A New Level – A Tribute to Pantera, and is currently performing original music with Falsify while also working on a solo project.
Guitar Center Houston8390 Westheimer Road Houston, TX
With over 20 years of guitar playing experience, he brings a deep-rooted passion and technical mastery to every lesson. After completing the AP Music Theory Exam in 2011, he developed a strong foundation in music theory, which he seamlessly integrates into his teaching—helping students not only play, but truly understand the “why” behind the music at every stage of their development.
He has nearly a decade of teaching experience, working with beginner and intermediate players to build confidence, technique, and musicality. His instruction covers both electric and acoustic guitar, as well as beginner bass guitar, making him a versatile and well-rounded educator. He specializes in electric lead guitar, particularly within rock and metal, while also offering a strong entry point into blues guitar for newer players.
As an active musician, he has achieved radio airplay on 94.5 The Buzz in Houston and on iHeartRadio worldwide for his original music. His performance experience includes playing major festivals across Houston, Dallas, and San Antonio, as well as in Europe, where he has opened for major label artists. He also brings national touring experience with his band, giving students real-world insight into live performance and the music industry.
In addition to performing, he has spent the past seven years recording original music, further expanding his expertise in songwriting and studio work. His playing style and teaching approach are influenced by legendary artists such as Eddie Van Halen, Eric Johnson, Stevie Ray Vaughan, John Mayer, Metallica, Megadeth, Black Sabbath, Joe Satriani, Eric Clapton, and Jimi Hendrix.
Blending real-world experience with structured instruction, he is committed to helping students develop their skills, find their sound, and grow as musicians at every level.
Guitar Center Houston195 Yale Street Suite 200Houston, TX
Mark is a multi-instrumentalist and educator whose musical journey began with a rich exposure to Latin music, including salsa, cumbia, and merengue. Originally trained as a percussionist, his passion for rhythm and musical exploration led him to study guitar, piano, bass, and flute while developing a strong foundation in improvisation. He earned a degree in Percussion Performance from the University of Houston, where he focused on classical music studies. As an instructor, Mark emphasizes creativity, improvisation, and music theory, helping students develop a deeper understanding of music while building confidence and expression on their instrument.
Guitar Center Houston21503 State Hwy. 249 Houston, TX
Brittany Eusery was born in Shreveport, LA, but moved around in lived in 5 different states growing up. She has been involved in music since she was 7 years old, singing, songwriting & playing guitar and piano. Brittany was inspired to start playing music when, early in her life, she realized that music tells a story. She found that music just became a way of expressing herself, and also found that she loved writing poems about life. Brittany considers Mr. Leon Turner, her Voice teacher at Prairie View A&M, as a special influence, stating that “although he was a tough teacher, he pushed me to be the best I can be, and taught me not to limit myself”.
Guitar Center Houston195 Yale Street Suite 200Houston, TX
Reef is an emerging, multi-instrumentalist hailing from Houston, Texas. They have developed their skills in performance, composition, recording and audio engineering through the program Logic. Their musical journey began at age 8 with string bass in middle school and continued with an emphasis on Jazz throughout high school and college. Throughout their learning journey they have open their repertoire to funk, R&B, rock and pop. Upon completion of their Bachelor of Arts degree in music, they perform live regularly throughout Houston and as well as being a bassist at Cityrise church. They share a passion for music theory, ear training and love to encourage students to improvise and embrace their own unique voice.
Guitar Center Houston8390 Westheimer Road Houston, TX
Ajalon (or "AJ" for short) is a Houston born musician who's entire life has been intertwined with music. Starting from age 5, He's been doing live music all over East Texas.
Proficient in piano, guitar, and bass guitar, he has a passion for all things music! Has the most experience in Gospel and Blues, but is into all other genres including Rock, Metal, Reggae, Classical, and everything in between!
He also has experience teaching music with Houston ISD and has a knack for learning by ear (yes perfect pitch). His goal is to spread his knowledge and passion for music to as many as possible!
"Music is a language everyone is born understanding, it just takes the right person to teach how to speak it too"
Guitar Center Houston21503 State Hwy. 249 Houston, TX
Russ Rickman is originally from the south side of Chicago, IL. He has been playing multiple instruments for more than 40 years. He has multiple influences from Country music, Motown, & Bluegrass, including Jamie Jamerson, Buddy Emmons, Cary Coleman & Bill Emerson. He credits these influences with teaching him that with dedication & discipline, goals can be accomplished. When he is not teaching at Guitar Center, he is worship leader at church, volunteers with Champions Prison Ministry, has done mission work in South Africa and has been a part of services at Church Under the Bridge, for the homeless population of Houston.
Discover the joy of music with personalized lessons from experienced instructors at Guitar Center. Whether you're a beginner or looking to refine your skills, we offer lessons for all ages and skill levels in guitar, bass, drums, piano, and more. Our Houston, Texas network of professional musicians is ready to help you achieve your musical goals. Start your musical journey today and find your perfect instructor at Guitar Center!
