Giovanni Pettigrass

I’m a versatile musician and educator with a strong foundation in performance, teaching, and commercial music. I hold a Master of Music in Commercial Music (Guitar Emphasis) from Belmont University and a Bachelor of Music in Music Education & Jazz Studies from SUNY Fredonia, where my primary emphasis instrument was trombone. In addition to guitar, I’m proficient on low brass instruments including baritone/euphonium and tuba, allowing me to bring a broad, well-rounded perspective to both performance and instruction. 

My professional training includes studying closely with Paulo Oliveira, Head of Belmont University’s Guitar Program, and completing an apprenticeship with Jeff King, renowned guitarist for Reba McEntire, Brooks & Dunn, and Kelly Clarkson. At Belmont, I served as Guitar 1 Chair in Jazz Band 1, performed with Company (Belmont’s pop ensemble), completed a master’s recital and research paper, and performed in concert with Cody Fry. I’ve also had the opportunity to study with and perform alongside acclaimed jazz greats such as Brad Leali, Kim Nazarian, and Adam Unsworth.

As an educator and performer, I bring over a decade of teaching experience into every lesson. I’ve taught private guitar lessons for more than 10 years through the nonprofit music organization Perform 4 Purpose, in addition to directing middle school band and high school jazz band during my student teaching in the Skaneateles and West Hill School Districts. Professionally, Known for being personable, organized, and student-focused, I’m committed to helping students build confidence, versatility, and a lifelong connection to music.

As an educator and performer, I bring over a decade of hands-on teaching experience into every lesson, working with students across a wide range of ages, skill levels, and musical goals. For more than 10 years, I’ve taught private guitar lessons through the nonprofit music organization Perform 4 Purpose, guiding students from 1st grade through 12th grade. This long-term work has shaped a flexible, student-centered approach that balances strong fundamentals with creativity, confidence, and joy in music-making.

In formal classroom settings, I’ve taught at the elementary, middle school, and high school levels during my student teaching in the Skaneateles and West Hill School Districts, where I directed elementary and middle school bands as well as a high school jazz band. My responsibilities included leading full ensemble rehearsals, teaching sectional and private lessons, and organizing performances for the school community. During my undergraduate studies at SUNY Fredonia, I also served as a Teaching Assistant for the beginning trombone class, instructing college-level music education majors and supporting their development as both performers and future educators.

At the collegiate and professional level, my training includes focused study in guitar pedagogy during my master’s program, as well as teaching college freshmen in a guitar seminar course as part of my degree requirements. I’ve been teaching virtual Zoom lessons for several years, allowing me to effectively support students in online learning environments while maintaining engagement, accountability, and progress. Across all settings—private, ensemble, in-person, or online—I prioritize clear communication, organization, and adaptability, helping students build strong technique, musical understanding, and confidence that transfers beyond the lesson room.