Our Coaches

is where you learn to play!

A Note from the Founder

Andy Harrison

"We are excited to help you discover all you can do with music and to learn in a way that's the most fun and effective for you. Thank you for the opportunity to be part of your lifelong adventure with music!"

Andy is a musician and recording artist living in Hillsboro Oregon. He has over 35 years of teaching and teacher training experience. He has written over 2000 songs, recorded over 19 albums and had three nationally charted singles. Andy developed the American Guitar Academy learning method which has been used in hundreds of teaching facilities across the U.S. to help thousands of people reach their goals learning music.

Corey Blaisdell

I am a 22 year old musician from Hillsboro Oregon. I enjoy a variety of music from classical, to choral, blues, rock, and metal. I recently graduated with a BA in Music Education from Pacific University and have toured and performed with their chamber singers as a section leader for the past four years as well as singing in their men's group titled "Splendid Audacity". I placed 1st in districts and 5th in state as a baritone at the 2016 Oregon Solo & Ensemble competition. I play a wide variety of instruments including all that we teach at AGA, with a heavy focus on guitar and voice. 

Karyn Hanson

I've been involved with music in many ways over the last 45 years. I began playing guitar in grade school and have been honored to be a student of classical guitarist, Michael Davis.  I have experience with the music business as a concert producer at Portland State University. I am currently finishing my degree in Music and Sonic Arts at Portland Community College where I perform solo and as a member of ensembles.  I excel in music theory and composition and have many years of teaching experience. I've been a music coach at American Guitar Academy since August of 2019.

Karren Oracion

I grew up in a family of musicians and was able learn to play many instruments at home. After a disaster hit my hometown and ruined my instruments, I thought I would never be able to play again. But after my father died, I realized life is too short not to pursue your dreams and that one of the best ways to remember and honor him is through music. So I continued learning and that's why I'm here, hoping I can encourage people that whatever your age, gender or status in life, it's never too late to learn new things. I'm here to teach, nurture and guide my students as they start their journey to become great musicians.

Devon Garber

I'm a graduate of Pacific University with a Bachelors of Arts in Music Education, now pursuing a Masters Degree, also in Music Education. I grew up in Stayton Oregon and discovered my passion for music starting in 4th grade. I performed in music programs including band and choir throughout grade school and at Pacific University, I sang and toured with the Concert Choir and Chamber Singers. I consider myself a 'forever student' eager to continue learning about music and music education, and I'm fueled by my desire to share my passion for music with others, and  to educate and inspire people to create their own music.