Ashley Serrano

Education and Background

Ashley Serrano is a passionate guitarist and music educator based in the vibrant Silicon Valley Area. Born in Modesto, California, she taught herself electric guitar at age 14, drawing inspiration from legendary guitarists including Jimi Hendrix, Eddie Van Halen, Prince, Steve Vai, and John Petrucci.

Ashley's formal education reflects her dedication to musical excellence. She earned her Associate of Arts in Music with an emphasis in classical guitar under Dr. David Chapman, followed by a Bachelor of Music in Guitar Performance from McNally Smith College of Music, where she studied with Dr. Eva Beneke. Her studies encompassed both classical guitar and contemporary electric guitar styles. In 2017, Ashley received a scholarship to attend the prestigious University of Southern California Thornton School of Music, where she earned her Master of Music with honors under the tutelage of Grammy-winning guitarist Scott Tennant and guitar legend Pepe Romero.

With a teaching career spanning since 2016, Ashley has built a reputation as an in-demand guitar teacher throughout the Bay Area. She currently serves as a part-time lecturer at California State University, Stanislaus, while maintaining a vibrant teaching practice at Community School of Music and Arts, where she works with students of all ages and fosters a welcoming, community-centered learning environment. Her diverse experience extends to onsite teaching at large tech companies, classroom settings, corporate environments, and ensemble coaching. She occasionally performs with local bands in the Bay Area and collaborates with her colleagues at CSMA.

If you don't see a lesson time that works for you send me a message, chances are I have a slot somewhere during the week!

Teaching Philosophy

"I believe every student deserves a teacher who sees their potential and supports their musical journey with patience and authenticity. Not every student arrives with a natural spark for music - some need long-term encouragement and a safe space to discover their unique voice. My role is to be present for each student with affirmation and kindness, helping them feel brave enough to express themselves authentically.

What makes my teaching unique is my dynamic range - I can guide delicate classical fingerpicking one moment, then help unleash someone's inner rock star the next. Whether a student wants to master Bach or channel Van Halen, I meet them where they are musically. My strongest attributes are my unwavering patience and enthusiasm, as I push students towards growth while creating a supportive and nurturing environment that fosters excellence.

I try to gamify the learning process and create collaborative lessons where inspiration leads and technique serves the music. My superpower is helping students feel comfortable putting themselves out there in recitals, and yes, I occasionally throw in a dry joke to keep things light!

Whether teaching a 7-year-old their first chord or helping a corporate professional rediscover their musical passion, I lead with inspiration and let technique follow. I have experience teaching students of all ages and am committed to making the learning process fun, engaging, and rewarding."