Our Coaches
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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.
Mathew Campbell
My interest in music began in Indiana, PA, where I studied music and traveled the world in several jazz and vocal ensembles. I've since been teaching private music lessons for over 15 years and am a multi-instrumentalist and musical artist with over 25 years on stage experience in many bands and as a solo entertainer. I've had several mentors throughout my career including Randy Lobeck (sax player for Bob Seger). In addition to coaching guitar, piano, voice and ukulele lessons, I also coach saxophone and clarinet. I also love teaching songwriting and music theory and like to keep a coaching style that creates a balance between fun and structured lessons, with plenty of wiggle room for your personality. I get no greater satisfaction than seeing my students surpass me and always strive to make each lesson enjoyable.
Kevin Kelley
Kevin recently moved to Oregon from Texas after spending 28 years working for Kilgore College, first as Music Director for radio station KTPB, then moving to the Music Department upon completing his Masters in Music from Stephen F. Austin State University. A bassist by trade, Kevin has taught guitar lessons, bass lessons, jazz and improvisation, and recording technology as well as leading various ensembles. Since moving to Oregon, Kevin has quickly established himself as an in-demand bassist playing for such artists as The Pat Stilwell Band, The Andrew Matthews Band and the Jenny Moriarity Experience. As a side project, Kevin has recently launched a solo act, singing some of his favorite songs accompanied by his nylon string guitar.
Joshua Franklin
I began my journey through music in college and have been teaching guitar and music theory ever since graduation. I can say that without a doubt, it is what I was meant to do. Having the opportunity to share my knowledge and passion for music with other people rejuvenates me to a degree that I can't even begin to compare it with anything else. I'm so happy to have the opportunity to continue to grow alongside such incredible musicians and students brimming with possibility.
Bill Hernandez
I have always loved music. It all started Sunday, Feb. 9, 1964... the night the Beatles first appeared on the Ed Sullivan show. Not really sure how my parents felt about their eight year old son wearing a Beatles wig shouting "She Loves You Yeah Yeah Yeah!!!" but it didn't matter because I was hooked. From my very first concert (Sonny and Cher) to the one I saw most recently (Elton John) and the hundreds more over 50 years, I love that music is the chronicle of our lives and I love the ability it has to bring back memories. Now at 66 years young, it's time to start creating new memories and passing on what I've learned to others. No matter what it is in life you’re passionate about, pursue it like there’s no tomorrow.
Lola Fields
Lola Fields is a native Oregonian currently living in the Portland area and working on her first album as a singer songwriter. Her music is inspired by artists similar to Adele. As a lead singer Lola is currently performing covers with Lola and Neil Duo singing a variety of music from jazz to country and Got Yer 6 band performing classic rock. Notable past performances include the wedding of Amy Roloff and Chris Marek from Little People Big World and many wineries, wine bars and private parties.
Liza Beer
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I began my journey through music in college and have been teaching guitar and music theory ever since graduation. I can say that without a doubt, it is what I was meant to do. Having the opportunity to share my knowledge and passion for music with other people rejuvenates me to a degree that I can't even begin to compare it with anything else. I'm so happy to have the opportunity to continue to grow alongside such incredible musicians and students brimming with possibility.