Jason Guzman

I earned my Masters and Bachelors of Music in Viola Performance from the University of Nevada Las Vegas in 2026 and 2023, where I studied with renowned violist and pedagogue Kate Hamilton. Having won the concerto competition in 2026, I soloed with both the UNLV Symphony and Chamber Orchestra. I was also Principal Viola of the UNLV Symphony for 6 years. Living in Las Vegas has allowed me to perform in shows like the Latin Grammys, Celine Dion, Bruno Mars, and Adele. 

In 2026, I was accepted into the National Orchestral Institute Festival where I performed with world class musicians such as Marin Alsop, Charles Yang, and David Alan Miller which featured a performance in Carnegie Hall. Abroad, I have participated in music festivals across Europe, most notably AIMS in Graz, Austria in 2025 and toured with the UNLV Virtousi strings across Italy and France. More locally, I am a part of the Jeekl String Quartet which performs dynamic and engaging concerts around the Southwest. Since 2023 I have been member of the Las Vegas Sinfonietta and have also played with the Las Vegas Philharmonic.

Having taught for over 13 years, I have ample experience teaching in-person, online, and group classes. Apart from my personal studio where I oversee 15 students of all ages and levels, I've taught at established music schools in Las Vegas such as Nevada Music Academy and was a Graduate Assistant for the UNLV String Department teaching university level lessons to students. I've taught online for online for 6 years.

My objective as a teacher is to establish a nurturing, captivating, and inspiring environment where every student feels empowered to flourish as a musician. I firmly believe that each student possesses unique learning preferences, so I meticulously tailor each lesson to align with their individual goals, experience level, and learning style. Whether you’re embarking on your violin or viola journey for the first time, preparing for auditions, or refining your advanced repertoire, my lessons are designed to build robust technical foundations while nurturing your personal musical voice.

My teaching philosophy centers around cultivating healthy technique, producing beautiful tones, expressing musicality, and developing efficient practice habits. Instead of simply dictating what to practice, I impart the knowledge and techniques to enable students to make consistent progress between lessons. Additionally, I incorporate music theory, ear training, rhythm, sight-reading, and performance preparation to equip students with a well-rounded musical education. For advanced students, I offer guidance on orchestral excerpts, solo repertoire, chamber music, college auditions, competitions, and recital preparation.

As a performer and educator with a Master’s degree in Viola Performance from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, I bring a wealth of professional performance experience and an unwavering passion for teaching into every lesson. Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of studying under esteemed violinists and violists such as Kate Hamilton, Matthew Hunter of the Berlin Philharmonic, Mick Wetzel of the Los Angeles Philharmonic, and C.J. Chang of the Philadelphia Orchestra. This diverse range of teaching philosophies has allowed me to adapt my approach to meet the unique needs of each student. With over a decade of teaching experience, I am dedicated to helping students not only enhance their instrument skills but also cultivate confidence, independence, and a deep appreciation for music.

Above all, my primary goal is to ensure that my students derive joy and fulfillment from making music. Whether your aspirations include securing a position in an honor orchestra, preparing for conservatory auditions, improving your school orchestra performance, or simply playing for the sheer love of music, I am committed to supporting your journey and fostering a lifelong appreciation for the art form.