Miguel grew up in North Bergen, NJ and moved to Nashville after receiving his Masters in Music Education from New Jersey City University. He has been playing music the majority of his life and teaching music for over 10 years at studios and public schools.

Miguel is passionate about education and making the road to becoming a musician fun. He says, “Since the first time I saw my first student play his first song I was excited about teaching. Teaching is being a guide, a mentor, the catalyst for a positive music experience. To see how a student grows and evolves from one note, to one song, to their first performance is awesome. Being a positive driving influence for a student’s journey is extremely rewarding, and that is why I am passionate about teaching.”

In lessons, Miguel combines excellent technique with each student’s individual wants and needs to make learning fun and productive. He is excited to join our team of mentors here at ROOTS so that he “can pass on the greatest gift I have ever received. The gift of music.”

Miguel’s Teaching Philosophy: “To teach to the student’s specific interests and needs and make learning music a joyful experience.”

What is your favorite down-time activity to reduce stress?
“I love to exercise, I am a fan of power lifting.”

What’s your favorite local spot to spend time at when you’re not working & what do you do there?
“Starbucks, I like writing song lyrics and researching music or music education related things. I also really love coffee, the nitro is my new favorite.”

What type of music did you grow up listening to?
“I essentially liked any music with good guitars in it; particularly rock, hardcore, and metal. I do like indie and softer acoustic music like Jason Mraz and Jack Johnson. Most recently I have been into slightly more alternative music like Artic Monkeys, Shakey Graves, and the Black Keys. I also highly value and appreciate the beauty and education of studying classical and jazz music.”

What is your favorite all time movie?
“I love Scott Pilgrim vs World because it has action, video games, and rock bands. Scott Pilgrim vs the World also has excellent quotable lines and an array of awesome actors that show up in the cinematic marvel universe. I am also a HUGE fan of all things marvel.”

What is your favorite quote?
“Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.” — Martin Luther King, Jr.

Salty Treat: Flamin hot Cheetos/Takis

Sweet Treat: Justin’s Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups

Fast Food Restaurant: Chicfila

Sit Down Restaurant: Outback Steakhouse

Coffee Drink: Starbucks

Movie/Show: Talladega Nights /How I Met Your Mother

Place to Shop: Amazon

Candle: Yankee Candle Lavender

Musician/Band: Shakey Graves

Travel Destination: Mexico

Gift cards I like to receive: Starbucks, Publix, Amazon