Throughout the Years - Biography
Bio - The Beginning
In 1981, I first picked up the guitar, quickly becoming captivated by its possibilities. As I delved deeper into music, my passion grew stronger with each passing day. Every waking moment revolved around the guitar, and I knew it would become the cornerstone of my life. The deep connection I felt with music then continues to inspire me to this day.
My First Teaching Position
In 1986, I began teaching guitar at Ken Masters Music Traders, a small, family-run music store in Lakeland, FL. My teaching career took off rapidly—I went from a handful of students to over 40 weekly students within a few months. I maintained this full schedule until I began touring, all while witnessing and contributing to the burgeoning Central Florida music scene. It truly felt like being in the right place at the right time.
Life on the Road as a Touring Musician
From the late ’80s through the early ’90s, I toured with the Orlando-based rock band Gunfighter. We shared stages with icons like Pantera, Black Oak Arkansas, and Robin Trower, performing across the southeastern United States. Playing in countless clubs and venues and entertaining thousands of fans was an unforgettable chapter of my career. My life revolved around writing, performing, and living the music.
During this time, Gunfighter also released a self-titled EP, which reached numerous fans and found its way onto radio stations, expanding our audience and solidifying our presence in the rock scene.
The Next Chapter
In 1992, I came off the road and returned to North Carolina, ready for a new chapter. While purchasing a set of strings at Pearson Music Company in Greensboro, I casually picked up a guitar and began playing. That moment led to a conversation with the store manager and soon after, a teaching position. Within two months, I was back to teaching 45 students a week, a schedule I have consistently maintained for over 31 years.
CD Release
In 2000, I released my first instrumental album, Event Horizon, featuring five original compositions. I played and recorded all the guitar and bass tracks, with a good friend contributing on drums. Event Horizon is available on all major streaming platforms today.
The Present
Today, I operate my own teaching studio in Greensboro, NC, where I continue to share my passion for music with a dedicated roster of 46 students each week. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of guiding thousands of students, helping them develop their skills and love for the guitar. Teaching remains one of the most rewarding aspects of my life, allowing me to inspire others while continuing to grow as a musician.
Teaching and Touring Timeline
Ken Masters Music Traders, Lakeland FL. 1986 – 1989
Full Time Touring 1989 – 1992
Person Music Company, Greensboro NC 1993 – 1995
The Music Loft, Greensboro NC. 1995 – 2015
Irving Park/Cornwallis Dr. Location, Greensboro, NC. 2015 – Present
Astrophotography
M45, The Pleiades Star Cluster - Click Image To Enlarge
The Rosette Nebula - Click Image To Enlarge
The Horse Head Nebula - Click Image To Enlarge
That Other Thing That I Do
If the night skies are clear, you’ll likely find me outside, camera and telescope in hand, chasing the light of stars that began their journey long before we ever existed.
I could talk about this passion for hours, but I’ll keep it brief here. If you’re curious to explore my astrophotography or learn more about my journey through the stars, I invite you to visit my dedicated photography site: