Music Lesson Teachers - Scottsdale Music Academy

MEET YOUR INSTRUCTORS

YOUR PERSONALIZED INSTRUCTION

Scottsdale Music Academy is first and foremost ALL ABOUT OUR STUDENTS and PARENTS. This is why we have the best in the business on our teaching staff. All of our music industry certified instructors have real-world music experience and a passion, as well as knowledge, for music education, so that our students can learn form someone with a deep understanding of their instrument. Of course having the skill to play like a pro is a requirement for all SMA instructors, however we all know that being a great musician does not always make for a great instructor. That is why every SMA instructor is not only required to have the skill and facility of a professional musician but the patients and heart of a teacher. Adult and youth students can be confident that your SMA instructor will be dedicated to YOU and YOUR goals and will help you reach them in the most efficient and effective way possible! And have fun in the process!

“AMPLIFYING PEOPLE’S CONFIDENCE AND PASSION FOR LEARNING MUSIC IS IN OUR ORGANIZATIONAL DNA. WE WILL STOP AT NOTHING TO DELIVER ON OUR PROMISE TO TEACH, INSPIRE, AND MOTIVATE OUR STUDENTS.” Owner, John Davis

John Davis: Owner & Lead Instructor

Musicians Institute, G.I.T

John Davis is the proud (yet extremely humble) owner and lead instructor of Scottsdale Music Academy. Since graduating from the renowned Musicians Institute (formerly G.I.T) in 1996, John has pursued his dream of playing professionally and teaching guitar lessons to other enthusiastic musicians. As a musician-turned-instructor, he firmly believes learning music should be fun, and his mission is to set every student free from the “rat box” approach to music lessons.

On the professional front, John has co-written and recorded two major releases and filmed several MTV music videos with the band F5. He knows all too well what it’s like to travel in a bus with 8 smelly dudes, because from 2005-2007, the band went on a U.S. tour. During that time, he had the honor of playing alongside major bands and artists, such as Alice Cooper, Staind, 3 Days Grace, Tesla, Alex Skolnick (Testament), David Ellefson, Jack Blades, and Tommy Shaw, and has recorded with some of the industry’s leading producers, including Bob Marlette (who recorded Tracy Chapman, Wilson Philips, Alice Cooper, and Shine Down) and Ryan Greene (producer of No-FX, Lita Ford, and Dishwalla). Whether on stage or in the studio, John’s passion for music is undeniable, and nothing brings him greater joy than sharing that passion with others.

Stephen Putnam: Piano, Guitar, Bass, Ukulele

Bachelor’s in Music Education

Stephen Putnam is a multi-instrumentalist from Jacksonville, Florida. He discovered his love for music in his high school band program, and has since participated in performances across North Florida in jazz, rock, gospel, choral, pop, and classical orchestral and band music. Stephen received a bachelor’s in Music Education from the University of North Florida with a focus in secondary level band direction, and currently teaches private lessons in piano, guitar, and bass. When he isn’t involved with music making, he can most frequently be spotted watching sports, playing with Legos, going hiking, and trying out new foods.

“If art is how we decorate space, music is how we decorate time.” Salah Moharram

Salah Moharram: Guitar, Bass, Drums, Voice, Keys, Ukulele

Salah has been a music teacher for the better part of a decade, having taught students of all different ages. Whether teaching someone how to strum campfire songs or guide a student through more complex music, it’s all in a days work. Salah is a multi-instrumentalist whose aim is to figure out where each students interests lie and help them develop their musical skills and reach their dreams. Whether you want to accompany yourself on the piano, prepare for University level combo’s and ensemble’s, or nail that solo you’ve always loved Salah has you covered.

His approach is very music forward, if you will.

“I dive into the nitty gritty of the songs we learn, as to learn techniques in the most seamless way possible.”

“Empowering passion through the language of music.” Quentin Walters

Quentin Walters: Voice, Piano, Guitar,

Bachelor of Arts

Quentin Walters is from the heartland of Wichita, KS, where his musical journey began with piano and drum lessons in his formative years. Fuelled by a passion for performance, he honed his skills while pursuing vocal performance studies at Kansas State University. Relocating to Washington state to carve out his path in music, Quentin immersed himself in the vibrant music scene, forming a band and chasing his dream of musical expression.

In the crucible of writing and performing, Quentin unearthed a newfound passion for guiding others on their musical odyssey. Teaching became not just a profession but a calling—a way to instill the joy of performance and the power of musical expression in others. Balancing his time between nurturing budding talents through voice, piano, and guitar lessons, and furthering his own musical growth, Quentin found fulfillment in sharing his expertise and love for music.

As life’s melody evolved, Quentin seamlessly integrated graduate studies and the blessings of a growing family into his harmonious tapestry. Through every chord strummed and every note sung, Quentin Walters continues to inspire others to find their rhythm and embrace the transformative power of music.

Sarah Lawson: Voice, Guitar, Piano, Ukulele

Master’s in Music Learning and Teaching

Sarah’s journey to becoming an educator has been as diverse and dynamic. From a young age, her passion for teaching intertwined with her love for music. Her educational path, marked by twists and turns, was anything but conventional. After navigating through a range of schooling experiences, Sarah emerged with a wealth of insights into different teaching methodologies, and perspectives on child rights—an invaluable foundation that continues to shape her approach today.

She pursued her Bachelor’s in Music Education at Arizona State University, where she delved deep into the art of teaching and the transformative power of music. Following her undergraduate studies, Sarah embarked on a fulfilling journey as a K-5 music educator, dedicating four years to nurturing young minds. Undeterred by challenges, she pursued further academic excellence, earning her Master’s degree and nearing completion of her Ph.D. program—a testament to her unwavering commitment to the field of education.

Beyond her scholarly pursuits, Sarah finds joy in culinary exploration, particularly in her quest to perfect dairy-free alternatives to her favorite comfort food, macaroni and cheese. Her resilience, creativity, and dedication to both teaching and music exemplify her remarkable journey and the depth of her passion for shaping minds and souls alike.

WHY SMA

At Scottsdale Music Academy we make it our mission to ensure nothing stands in the way of musical expression. Our team of music pros has been where you are and understands just how hard learning music can be. Through our many years of experience, expert training, and plenty of trial and error along the way, we’ve mastered the art of music…and you can, too.

With custom and interactive music lessons, the freedom to learn how and when you want, and a team of real-life musicians by your side throughout it all, we make learning an instrument fun, easy, and foolproof.

DON’T JUST TAKE OUR WORD FOR IT!