Justin is a classical guitarist and experienced music educator who holds a B.S. in Classical Guitar Performance from the University of Georgia and is currently pursuing his Master of Music in Classical Guitar Performance at UGA. His musical journey began at age 11 with his first guitar lesson. He later became an accomplished brass musician as well, earning All-State Band honors throughout high school and performing on trombone, tuba, and baritone. He began teaching music while still in high school, giving brass lessons to younger students.

Justin is passionate about helping students develop confidence, concentration, musicianship, and a genuine love of playing. He especially enjoys introducing students to the guitar’s incredible versatility and helping each student discover what they are capable of achieving.

Justin’s path eventually took him away from music for a time when he joined the U.S. Navy, serving ten years on active duty as both a nuclear reactor operator and Surface Warfare Officer. After leaving the Navy, he renewed his love for guitar and eventually returned to UGA to formally pursue Classical Guitar Performance.

Justin studied under internationally renowned guitarist Dr. Daniel Bolshoy and earned his B.S. in Classical Guitar Performance from UGA in 2020. He began teaching guitar professionally in 2017 and built a thriving studio of approximately 70 students. His students have earned top ratings and advanced through high levels of guitar repertoire with organizations including the Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music and the National Federation of Music Clubs. Many of his students have studied with him continuously for six to eight years and now perform repertoire commonly studied at the collegiate level.

Outside of music, Justin enjoys cooking and yoga. In addition to his B.S. in Classical Guitar Performance from the University of Georgia, he holds a B.S. in Criminal Justice from Florida State University and a B.S.A.S.T. in Nuclear Engineering Technologies from Thomas Edison State University.