Our Instructors

Bo is a local musician with over 5 decades of experience playing and performing. He currently plays locally and regionally with his poplar group, Roadhouse.

Buddy Miles, New Birth, and the sultry Tina Marie. The Commodores’ groove? He’s woven it. And when Graham Central Station hit the stage, James was there, keys blazing. McKinney’s musical palette spans genres. He’s danced with Prince, serenaded alongside Lenny Williams, and funked it up with Bootsy Collins. From James Brown’s iconic screams to the sassy harmonies of the Pointer Sisters, he’s the maestro behind the scenes. Motown magic? Norman Whitfield’s genius? McKinney’s breathed it. The soulful saga of McFadden & Whitehead He’s penned it. Frank Wilson’s melodies? James has sung them. He’s grooved with Freddie Jackson, ignited stages with Chaka Khan, and harmonized with SWV. From Bobby Womack’s gravelly tales to the velvet voice of Vesta Williams, McKinney’s imprint is everywhere. And now? He’s the heartbeat behind Marvin Gaye’s timeless tunes. The force behind Force MD’s. The rhythm that fuels Sherelle and Janice Dempsey. And when the music calls, James McKinney answers—a symphony waiting to unfold.

David is a high school musician and percussion instructor with experience performing across a wide range of musical styles, including jazz, funk, classical music, and drum corps. With a strong foundation in both performance and percussion technique, David is passionate about helping students develop their skills and confidence behind the drum set. Lessons focus on building solid fundamentals, developing proper technique, learning grooves and rhythms, and playing along with songs. Whether you are just starting out or looking to strengthen your existing skills, David’s goal is to make learning drums both rewarding and enjoyable while helping each student discover the joy of playing music.

Don’t Play Guitar. Be a Guitar Player. Anyone can learn a few chords. My goal is to help you become the kind of guitarist people love to listen to. For over 20 years, I’ve helped students of all ages develop real confidence through private lessons and school music programs. While I specialize in rock and metal lead guitar, I teach all styles and customize every lesson around the music that inspires you. My lessons are built around playing—not just practicing. You’ll learn the songs, riffs, solos, rhythm, technique, improvisation, ear training, and musicianship that turn beginners into real guitar players. Every lesson is designed to keep you motivated, challenged, and excited to pick up your guitar. Whether your dream is to play your favorite rock solos, start a band, lead worship, write your own music, or simply play for the people you love, I’ll give you the skills and confidence to make it happen. Don’t just learn guitar. Become a guitar player. Play with confidence. Play with feeling. Play for life.

I’ve been singing and performing for over a decade, with experience in a cappella, solo performance, bands, songwriting, and recording. My musical background ranges from rock, soul, R&B, and blues to more progressive and jazz-inspired music. My approach to teaching is shaped by my professional background in counseling and supportive care, where I’ve used music to help people process emotions, cope, heal, and find ways to express what they’re feeling. I believe anyone can learn to sing. Together, we’ll build a strong foundation in breathing, pitch, tone, resonance, and vocal control while working with music that genuinely inspires you. Singing can feel incredibly vulnerable, especially when you’re first finding your voice. I want lessons to be a relaxed, judgment-free place where we can work through that vulnerability together and turn it into confidence. You don’t need to sound perfect—or even feel confident—to begin. With patience, consistency, and practice, we’ll build a voice you understand, trust, and can be proud of.

Edward Backus is a professional drummer. Initially playing drums as a child, he started playing seriously in his teens. His first professional session credits were on albums/singles with local Lake County artists including Corbin York, Zed Zed Lurk, as well as Strange Groove. Currently he maintains session/touring work throughout California. Having 4+ years in previous studio and school teaching experience, Edward is able to offer the student a wide variety of both musical inspiration as well as real world grooves and theories needed to begin playing alongside other musicians. Edward previously worked 4+ years across Lake County in multiple schools, with a certificate in ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis) as a Registered Behavioral Tech.