Khristopher Michael Miller

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about Khristopher

Khristopher Michael Miller has been playing the guitar since he was 15 years old. Influenced by rock bands like Soundgarden, Alice and Chains, Stone Temple Pilots and many others, Khris was determined to learn everything the guitar could teach him and be an excellent, well-rounded musician.

Khris is well versed in Jazz, Rock, Blues, Funk, and Gospel, and has enjoyed the privilege of playing in several bands spanning these genres. He first studied with excellent Rock and Jazz guitar instructors in California’s diverse San Francisco Bay Area, and went on to graduate from Berklee College of Music (Boston, MA) where he studied under Jazz great, Richie Hart (protégé George Benson), and Funk/Rock Guitarist, Jim Peterson (who has toured and played with Najee, Lala Hathaway and many others).

Khris’ passion for music brought him and his family here to “Music City” where he has collaborated and played with world-renowned and local musicians, producers, bands, and artists, including Brett Manning, Noah Hanson, and Skid Mills, to name a few. Here in Nashville, Khris has expanded his versatile musicianship into singing, songwriting, production, and studio engineering. Most recently, Khris attained a Mentor Certification in production, mixing, and mastering with the internationally acclaimed and prestigious Mastering.com. Khris also leads his own musical project, Khris Glaring.

Teaching Philosophy

Khris’ Teaching Philosophy: “Every student is unique, so I work intentionally to discover to which genre and specific style of music each of my student’s enjoy, then cater my instruction—guiding with the songs, melodies, and solos they already love—and use their individual preferences to dive into technique, theory, and other progressing musical concepts. I teach novice beginners through professional musicians, and pride myself on meeting my students where they are and patiently leading them to true musical “aha” moments. I encourage my students to think long term;no one masters the guitar overnight, but with consistency and time, you will make remarkable progress!”

What’s been the highlight of your professional career — like your biggest spotlight moment to date?
“Playing with a Corporate cover band for 9 years. We toured everywhere in and outside the United States. I learned so much about the business while playing with them.”

What type of student will excel under your mentorship?
“I believe anyone can play the guitar, so those who are willing to commit to the instrument are the ones I believe will excel.”

What does being a “Mentor” mean to you and why are you excited to step into this role?
“Being a mentor to me is more than teaching music. My musical journey is really a life journey. I have been able to translate so much of what I’ve learned in music into my personal life. So I take seriously what I teach because I know I have the responsibility to changed someone’s life through the discipline of music.”

What type of music did you grow up listening to? How did it influence your artistry?
“I started listening to all the grunge bands of the 90’s; Soundgarden, Bush, Stone Temple Pilots, Pearl Jam, etc. I came to a point that I didn’t want to just listen to these artists, I wanted to learn how to play what I was hearing. That rock sound has always stayed with me as I’ve got into writing my own music.”

Where is your favorite local spot? 
“White Shepard Coffee in Spring Hill. They have to best white mocha you’ll ever taste!”

meet our
other music mentors
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Teaching isn't just about learning techniques. Our students are led by passionate and well-trained professionals who recognize their greater role in students' lives. To refine your search for a music mentor, select your desired instrument from the options below. 

THE ROOTS MENTOR PHILOSOPHY

Our mentors play a crucial role in shaping not just artists but well-rounded individuals equipped with a growth mindset, character, determination, confidence, and grit — skills that will serve them for a lifetime.

Beyond the Notes: Our Teaching Philosophy

Our approach to music education goes beyond the traditional. While we undoubtedly focus on developing your musical talent, we understand that life's most valuable lessons extend far beyond the notes on a staff.

Our music mentors are passionate about nurturing your artistic abilities and your personal growth.

At ROOTS, we recognize that music is a powerful vehicle for character development. Our mentors instill qualities like discipline, responsibility, and respect through the art of music. Whether you're mastering the piano or perfecting your vocals, you'll also be enhancing essential life skills.

Learning an instrument or refining your singing takes patience and perseverance. Our mentors are there to guide you through the challenging moments, teaching you the importance of determination and grit – qualities that transcend music and apply to all areas of your life.

Self-confidence is a cornerstone of success. Our mentors help you build it through music by celebrating your achievements and nurturing your self-belief. As you hit those high notes or conquer a complex piece, you'll feel your confidence soar.

When you embark on a musical journey with ROOTS, you're not just gaining proficiency in your chosen instrument. You're also acquiring essential life skills that will serve you well in your academic, professional, and personal endeavors.

At ROOTS, it's not just about the music lessons. It's about the profound impact our music mentors have on your life.

At ROOTS, we are proud to have mentors who are actively engaged in the music industry. They're not just teachers; they're performers, composers, and artists who live and breathe music. This unique perspective enriches your learning experience, providing insights that go beyond the lessons.

In the heart of Music City's vibrant music scene, ROOTS Academy mentors often balance roles as musicians and educators. While their occasional commitments on the road or in the studio may lead to mentor substitutions, we're dedicated to keeping you informed about any lesson changes. In the rare event of an unmissable touring opportunity, rest assured that our team will facilitate a seamless transition to a new mentor.

Join us today to embark on an artistic and personal journey that will shape you into the best version of yourself. Experience the difference of mentorship at ROOTS Academy — where performing arts education becomes a transformative life experience.

THE ROOTS WAY

Our mission is to develop extraordinary artists and exceptional humans through transformative performing arts education. Through music, dance, and theatre, we inspire creativity, nurture character, and empower our students to positively impact their community and the world.

mindset
matters

(How we Think)

We believe mindset shapes not just who we are in the studio, but who we become in the world.

excellence
matters

(What we Do)

We believe excellence flourishes when preparation and vision align with discipline and passion.

people
matter

(How we Act)

We believe in creating spaces where everyone feels safe to create, supported to grow, and inspired to excel.

questions?

If you have any questions about our program, please don’t hesitate to call, text or email us. We’re here to help you Monday through Friday, 10am-6pm CST.

EMILY LINDSEY – Music Director
JOSH ASHLEY – Music Operations Manager
ALEXYS HALSTENSGARD – Music Operations Coordinator
LORI KAIRDOLF – Schedule & Billing Coordinator

EMILY LINDSEY
Music Director
JOSH ASHLEY
Music Operations Manager
ALEXYS HALSTENSGARD
Music Operations Coordinator
LORI KAIRDOLF
Schedule & Billing Coordinator