Hi, I'm Jimmy.

I picked up the guitar when I was ten, and more than thirty years later it's still my life's passion. I grew up on rock and metal — that's where my technique and ear came from — but studying music theory and jazz formally in high school taught me something that has stuck with me ever since: it's all music, no matter what style you're playing.

From there I went deep. I earned a Jazz Studies degree at the Community College of Rhode Island, studying privately with some wonderful players along the way, then transferred to Rhode Island College to study classical guitar while continuing my jazz work with players I deeply admire. I was lucky enough to pick up a few scholarships in both jazz and classical guitar — recognition I still don't take for granted.

Away from teaching, I've played in jazz combos and in the pit for musical theater productions like Shrek, Little Shop of Horrors, The Addams Family, and Godspell. Playing keeps me honest about what I teach.

I've been teaching private lessons since 2000 — every style, every age, every ability level. I build each lesson around you: your goals, the way you learn, and the music you actually want to play. Whether you're making your first clean chord change, learning one song, exploring a new style, or sharpening skills that are already advanced, I'll help you get where you want to go.

Have a question or want to talk through your goals? Email me anytime at jimmy@melodicjimmy.com — I'd love to hear from you.