ABOUT KATHLYN

Hi! I'm Kathlyn.

You can call me Kathy or Kathlyn—I like them both!

My Teaching Style & Philosophy

I love teaching music, watching students grow as musicians, and seeing the joy on their faces when they achieve something new. Over the years, I've worked with students from age five through adult in a variety of styles, including classical, fingerstyle, rock, funk, improvisation, blues, and more. 

I tailor lessons to each student's interests, goals, and ability level while providing a solid music education in a fun and encouraging environment. I typically use method books that I’ve found especially effective for building foundational skills with beginning and intermediate students. From there, I adapt lessons to each student’s interests and goals by supplementing with additional pieces and exercises. Advanced students focus on repertoire, targeted exercises, and stylistic development tailored to their interests.

Along the way, students also build valuable life skills such as 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're 5 or 95!

My Musical Journey and Education

Music has been part of my life from the very beginning. I grew up with two classical pianists as parents and was surrounded by music every day.  Their influence continues to shape how I teach, with a focus on musicianship, connection, and lifelong learning. I started piano lessons at age five. In fifth grade, I began playing the clarinet, and at age twelve, I discovered what would become my lifelong passion—the guitar. I first started teaching when I was seventeen and earned high school credit for it my senior year.

I am formally trained through both private lessons and comprehensive music programs. I a graduate of Musicians Institute/GIT in Hollywood, CA, and also studied music at the University of New Mexico and the National Guitar Workshop.

Through ongoing private instruction, intensive workshops, and masterclasses, I’ve been fortunate to learn from many world-class musicians and educators, each of whom have helped shaped my playing and teaching approach. Musicians who I've had the privilege of studying with include Steve Vai (rock), Eric Johnson (rock), Alex Skolnick (rock/jazz), Scott Henderson (jazz), Jody Fisher (jazz), Keith Wyatt (blues/rock), Sonny Landreth (blues), Luis Campos (classical/flamenco), and many others.

Their combined influence helped me build a teaching style that blends strong musical foundations with creativity, positivity, and personal expression - elements I bring into every lesson.

Beyond the Studio
In addition to teaching, I play and write music in styles ranging from classical to rock.

Outside of music, I’m a mom and hold a BA from the Santa Fe University of Art and Design as well as an MS from the University of Denver.

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