ABOUT KATHLYN

Hi! I'm Kathy.

It turns out there are a lot of musicians named Kathy, so when creating my website, I decided to go with my full name, Kathlyn. You can call me Kathy or Kathlyn—I like them both!

My Teaching Style

I love teaching music, watching students grow as musicians, and seeing the joy on their faces when they achieve something new. My aim as a teacher is to provide a solid music education in a fun and supportive environment while focusing on the style of music each student wants to learn. I’ve taught students from ages 5 through adult in a variety of styles, including rock, classical, fingerstyle guitar, funk, improvisation, blues, and hard rock. Lessons generally follow this structure:

• A warm/up technique exercise.

• A review of material from the previous week.

• If there is new material, it is introduced at the end of the lesson.

• I provide each student with notes on what to practice for that week.

Songs are selected based on the student's primary style, goals, and ability level. All students gain a solid music education, and each student's lessons are tailored to meet their individual goals and interests. Students are always working on at least one song that they have requested or that aligns with their genre and skill level.

Through tailored lessons that are fun and engaging for all ages, students not only become better musicians, but also gain valuable life skills such as improved self-confidence and the ability to overcome challenges. It is a privilege to help guide others to express themselves creatively through music, and it's a skill anyone can enjoy throughout their lifetime, whether they are 5 or 95.

My Musical Journey and Education

Music has been part of my journey from the very beginning. I grew up with two classical pianists as parents and was surrounded by music every day. I started piano lessons at age five. In fifth grade, I began playing the clarinet and at age 12, I discovered what would become my lifelong passion—the guitar. I first began teaching when I was seventeen and even earned high school credit for it my senior year.

I am a graduate of Musicians Institute/Guitar Institute of Technology (GIT) in Hollywood, CA. Before graduating from GIT, I studied music at the University of New Mexico my freshman year and spent summers studying guitar at the National Guitar Workshop in Claremont, CA. I also write music and have  played in local bands and performed in various settings including concerts, parties, and weddings.

Through ongoing private instruction, intensive workshops, and masterclasses, I’ve been fortunate to study with some highly accomplished and truly inspiring musicians, including.

To learn more about lessons, scheduling, or getting started, contact me or visit the Kathlyn Music homepage for more information.

Outside of Music

Outside of writing, playing, and teaching music, I am a mom and run a digital services business. In addition to being a graduate of GIT, I hold a BA from the Santa Fe University of Art and Design and an MS from the University of Denver.