Guitar, Piano, Percussion, and Voice instructor Juan Méndez has a deep appreciation for all types of music, with a particular passion for the indigenous music of his home country, Guatemala, and a wide range of jazz styles including Latin, Blues, Bebop, Dixieland, Free, Avant-Garde, Big Band, Cool, Fusion, Gypsy, Post-Bop, Modal, and Soul.

Juan began his music education in Guatemala at the Music Conservatory Jesús Castillo and the Polirítmos School, studying under Byron Campo. Upon moving to the U.S., he continued his studies, working with several renowned musicians, most notably Berry Harris in New York City, whose mentorship has had a profound influence on his music, philosophy, and jazz journey.

His expertise spans music education, composition, and music production. As a performer, Juan has gained diverse experiences that have shaped his musical identity. In Guatemala, he played lead guitar for artist Alizabeth Lee Kaiser, toured Mexico with the group Altavoz, and performed at the International Jazz Festival of Guatemala as part of the band Cleff Jazz.

During his seven years in the U.S., Juan has performed with many distinguished musicians in the DMV area, including harmonica player Howard Herrnstadt, drummer Keith Butler Jr., renowned double bassist Dr. Phill Ravita, bassist Sheryl Wilson, and drummer Art McKinney. In 2020, Juan released his first solo album, recorded at Divine Order Studios with producer Allyn Johnson (piano) and featured musicians Herman Burney (double bass) and Kelton Norris (drums).

As an instructor, Juan believes in a student-centered approach to teaching. He draws on both his formal education and practical performance experience to create engaging, personalized curriculums for students of all ages and levels, in guitar, piano, drums, and voice. He is passionate about helping students connect with the music they read, guiding them to bring their unique expression and interpretation to the page.

Juan’s classical training provides a strong foundation, emphasizing the importance of understanding the language of music from the outset. His extensive jazz background allows him to introduce students to improvisation and arranging early in their studies, offering a well-rounded and comprehensive approach to learning an instrument.

Teaching is a way for Juan to inspire others to develop a love for music, while reinforcing his own journey as a musician. His energetic, lively teaching style encourages student immersion, and he has successfully taught a wide range of students, from beginners to advanced players, and from children to adults. Juan believes that an openness to new methodologies focused on student success and development is essential for adaptable and effective teaching.