Adam Ratner

Adam Ratner is a guitarist, composer, and producer known for his innovative approach to jazz guitar, blending modern harmony, improvisation, and Brazilian musical influences. Based between Los Angeles and São Paulo, Adam has performed at international festivals including the Montreal Jazz Festival, SF Jazz Festival, and NPR Tiny Desk Concerts. As a solo artist he has been featured on Spotify's State of Jazz, Fresh Finds Jazz, 21st Century Jazz, as well as Apple Music's Shapeshifting Jazz playlist.

He holds a Doctor of Musical Arts (DMA) in Studio/Jazz Guitar Performance, with focuses in Music Teaching and Learning, Music Production and Composition. Adam has studied with iconic mentors such as Charlie Haden, Vince Mendoza, Larry Koonse, and Alan Pasqua, and has performed/recorded with artists including David Binney, Louis Cole, KNOWER, Kali Uchis, Genevieve Artadi, Jenny Scheinman, and Fabiano do Nascimento.

Adam is passionate about helping students grow as musicians in a way that’s both creative and personally meaningful. His lessons are student-centered, inclusive, and adaptable to all levels, with a focus on developing each student’s unique voice and artistic identity.

I teach in a way that’s flexible, collaborative, and focused on what genuinely inspires each student. Whether it’s jazz improvisation, harmony, chord melody, arranging, or exploring new sounds, I aim to make every lesson feel like a creative and focused exchange — not a one-way lecture.

I work with students of all levels, and always start by understanding your musical background, influences, and goals. From there, we might dive into transcription, ear training, playing with recordings, applied theory, or developing original material — whatever supports your growth and keeps you engaged.

My goal is to help you develop strong musical tools, a deep connection to the music you love, and a personal voice on your instrument.