Miguel Morales

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about Miguel

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.”

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

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