Guilherme Mauad Sant'Anna
About
I am a professional guitarist, arranger, and music educator from Brazil, with over 10 years of experience in performance and teaching.
I hold a degree in Popular Music from UNICAMP (University of Campinas) and completed advanced studies at EMESP – São Paulo State Conservatory, where I studied with some of the most respected musicians in Brazil.
Throughout my career, I have worked as a performer, arranger, and bandleader in a variety of musical settings, including jazz ensembles, orchestras, and big bands. I have also produced musical projects and recordings, developing a strong connection between theory and real-world musical practice.
My main focus is jazz and Brazilian music, and I specialize in helping students understand harmony, improvisation, and musical language in a practical and musical way.
I teach students from different parts of the world and have experience working with a wide range of levels, from dedicated beginners to advanced musicians.
Teaching Style
My teaching style is focused on clarity, musicality, and real understanding.
I don’t believe in teaching random exercises without context. Instead, I guide students to understand how music works, so they can apply it creatively and confidently in real playing situations.
Lessons are always adapted to the student’s level, goals, and musical interests. Whether you want to improve your improvisation, understand harmony, or develop your phrasing, I build a clear path to help you progress step by step.
I create a supportive and focused environment where students feel comfortable asking questions and exploring their musical ideas.
My goal is not only to improve your technique, but to help you become a more expressive and independent musician.
Curriculum
My teaching method combines theory and practice in a balanced and musical way.
We work with:
– Harmony and chord structures
– Improvisation (scales, arpeggios, and melodic development)
– Repertoire (jazz standards and Brazilian music)
– Rhythm, phrasing, and time feel
– Fretboard visualization and organization
I often use real musical examples and standard repertoire as a foundation for learning, helping students connect concepts directly to music.
Depending on the student’s level, I may suggest materials such as:
– Jazz standards (Real Book repertoire)
– Transcriptions of solos
– Technical and harmonic exercises tailored to the student
– Brazilian music repertoire (bossa nova, samba, choro)
All materials are selected based on the student’s goals, ensuring an efficient and meaningful learning process.
Credentials & Affiliations
Bachelor’s Degree in Popular Music – UNICAMP (University of Campinas, Brazil)
Advanced Studies in Guitar, Harmony, and Improvisation – EMESP (São Paulo State Conservatory)
Former Conductor and Assistant Conductor – SENAI Philharmonic Orchestra (Americana, Brazil)
Artistic Director – Americana Jazz Big Band
Co-director – Big Band São Junqueiro
Founder – Origens Produções (Music Production Company)
Active performer, arranger, and producer with experience in jazz ensembles, big bands, and orchestral settings
Experience in teaching guitar, music theory, harmony, and improvisation for over 10 years
