Santiago Sandoval

New to Lessonface
Guitar, Electric Guitar, Acoustic Guitar, Blues Guitar, Classical Guitar, Metal Guitar, Fingerstyle Guitar, Rock Guitar, Punk Guitar, Reggae Guitar, Lead Guitar, Beginner Guitar for Kids, Mariachi Guitar
Lesson Fees
$30.00 / 30 Minutes

About

I’m a professional guitarist and requinto player with over a decade of experience performing Bolero music and a strong background in classical and contemporary guitar. I’ve been playing requinto professionally since 2010 and bring real-world performance experience into every lesson.

I hold a Bachelor of Arts in Music from the University of California, Irvine, where I studied within the Bachelor of Music program with a concentration in Lute and Classical Guitar. My training combines formal musical education with years of live performance and studio work.

As an active musician, I’ve performed in a wide range of settings including small venues, festivals, private events, restaurants, bars, and studio recording sessions. This allows me to teach not just technique, but how to play musically and confidently in real-world situations.

I work with beginner to early intermediate students and focus on helping you build a strong foundation while learning music you enjoy.

  • Professional requinto player specializing in Bolero music since 2010
  • 10+ years of paid performance experience across Southern California
  • Performed at a variety of venues including restaurants, bars, private events, and community events in cities such as [Riverside, Los Angeles, Orange County]
  • Participated in live music festivals, cultural events & residencies
    • The 4th Annual Westside Unity Classic Car Show @ Santa Monica Pier 
    • Levitt Pavilion Los Angeles (MacArthur Park): Aug 29, 7–10 PM. Part of the Boleros De Noche presents: ¡Mambolero! night with Los Chicos Del Mambo and Noche Romántica DJs.
    • The Brand Library - Music Series
    • Residencies:
      • Cafe Tondo
      • Las Perlas (West Hollywood & Downtown LA)
      • Maclovias (Southgate)
      • Brown Soul Brewery
      • Madre Mexican Restaurant & Mezcaleria
  • Studio recording experience as a requinto/guitar player for independent projects and sessions
  • Regularly perform in small ensemble settings, focusing on traditional Bolero repertoire and accompaniment

Teaching Style

My teaching approach is clear, structured, and personalized to your goals.

I focus on breaking things down into simple steps so you can understand both the technique and the musical context behind what you're playing. I also prioritize learning real songs early on to keep lessons engaging and relevant.

Students can expect:

  • Step-by-step guidance
  • Clear explanations of technique and musical concepts
  • Practical exercises you can apply immediately
  • A supportive environment focused on steady progress

Curriculum

My teaching method is centered around each student’s interests and goals to keep learning engaging and effective.

I incorporate:

  • Student-driven learning – We work on songs you enjoy, including popular music, to keep you motivated while building core skills
  • Goal-based structure – Lessons are tailored toward specific outcomes, whether that’s improving technique, learning songs, or developing musical understanding
  • Skill integration – Technique, rhythm, and musicality are developed together so you can apply what you learn immediately
  • Curated external resources – I provide carefully selected YouTube videos and materials that I’ve vetted to help reinforce concepts outside of lessons
  • Technical development – I use exercises from Pumping Nylon to build finger dexterity, strength, and overall conditioning for more advanced playing

This approach ensures that students stay motivated while developing the technical and musical skills needed to progress consistently.

Credentials & Affiliations

  • Bachelor of Arts in Music, University of California, Irvine (UCI) (Completed 2014)
  • Studied within the Bachelor of Music program with a concentration in Lute & Classical Guitar
  • Formal training in classical guitar technique, fingerstyle performance, and historical string instruments
  • Professional requinto player specializing in Bolero music since 2010
  • 10+ years of paid performance experience including festivals, private events, restaurants/bars, and studio recording
  • 4+ years teaching beginner to early intermediate students
  • Taught one-on-one lessons focusing on guitar fundamentals, song learning, and technique development
  • Developed personalized lesson plans based on student goals and musical interests
  • Helped students build foundational skills in rhythm, chords, and lead playing