Alejandro Russo

I am a guitarist and clarinetist with a Master of Music from Duquesne University and a Bachelor of Music from the University of South Florida. I’ve been performing and teaching for over a decade, with experience spanning classical, contemporary, and improvisational styles.

As a performer, I’ve served as Principal Clarinet with the University of South Florida Symphony Orchestra and Wind Ensemble, performed professionally as a substitute with The Florida Orchestra, and participated in the Clazz International Music Festival in Arcidosso, Italy. My background also includes extensive chamber and solo work, both on clarinet and guitar, where I developed a deep appreciation for musical expression, technical precision, and collaborative performance.

My teaching experience includes private instruction in guitar, bass, and clarinet for students of all ages and skill levels through the Pittsburgh Performance Society. I’ve also worked as a Graduate Assistant at Duquesne University, assisting students with performance preparation and academic development. My approach to teaching combines structure with creativity — helping each student build strong fundamentals while discovering their unique voice on their instrument.

Music has been central to my life since childhood, and my goal as a teacher is to share that same joy and curiosity with every student. Whether you’re picking up an instrument for the first time or preparing for an audition, I aim to make every lesson clear, encouraging, and personally meaningful.

My teaching style is patient, adaptable, and student-centered. I believe that each student learns differently, so I tailor lessons to individual goals and needs. For beginners, I emphasize a strong foundation in technique and reading skills, while keeping lessons engaging and motivating. For more advanced students, I focus on refining tone, musicality, and interpretation, as well as building confidence in performance.

I always aim to strike a balance between structured progress and personal enjoyment — making sure students not only improve technically but also connect emotionally to the music they play.