Jayden Masen

12 Years Teaching Experience

INSTRUMENTS

VoiceIntermediate
PianoAdvanced
GuitarAdvanced
BassIntermediate
DrumsBeginner
UkuleleIntermediate
CelloBeginner
Music ProductionAdvanced
SaxophoneIntermediate
SongwritingAdvanced

GENRES

CCMClassicalPopRock

LANGUAGES

English

Mentor Mission Statement

My mission is to inspire purpose by weaving life skills into every lesson—helping students grow creatively, confidently, and courageously, while discovering how music can create meaningful change.

about Jayden

Jayden Masen’s love for music began with a spark of wonder—watching a scene from The Sorcerer’s Apprentice where Tesla coils performed OneRepublic’s “Secrets.” That blend of science, film, and music felt limitless, and at just six or seven years old, Jayden learned the entire song on piano within days. It became the first full piece he ever performed, igniting a lifelong passion for creativity and music.

At a young age, Jayden enrolled at the Sarah Kelly Music School, where he was drawn not only to the lessons but to the community. Surrounded by mentors who modeled passion and purpose, he began to understand what it meant to grow as both an artist and a person. A defining moment came in 2018 when Jayden performed “Apologize” on piano with his favorite band, OneRepublic, at the House of Blues in Houston. Playing for thousands made his childhood dream feel real and strengthened his desire to pursue music.

Jayden actually began teaching before he ever felt like a “real” musician. Around age twelve, he started assistant teaching and quickly discovered how much he loved mentoring others. Since then, teaching has remained a central part of his identity.

At ROOTS Academy, Jayden focuses on helping students build discipline, creativity, and confidence through music. He creates an environment where students feel supported, challenged, and capable of more than they imagined.

Outside of ROOTS, Jayden runs his production company, JMC Productions, performs regularly, and works as a producer and session musician.

Teaching Philosophy

My teaching philosophy is centered around creating a positive and supportive environment where students can explore and develop their musical abilities. I believe that every student is unique, so I custom-tailor my lessons to meet each individual’s needs and goals. I aim to connect with my students and their families, fostering a community where musical dreams can flourish, while also practicing a discipline that will be carried onto many other paths in the students’ lives. By sharing my professional experiences in live sound, music production, and artist development, I strive to inspire and guide my students on their musical journeys, helping them find their own identities and achieve their goals!

What’s been the highlight of your professional career — like your biggest spotlight moment to date?
“I had the amazing opportunity to play onstage with my favorite band at the time, OneRepublic, at the House of Blues in Houston, TX!”

What type of student will excel the most under your mentorship?
“A student with a high work ethic and a capacity to learn as much as possible in order to pursue their own dreams!”

What does being a “Mentor” mean to you and why are you excited to step into this role?
“Being a mentor means guiding, supporting, and inspiring my students by helping them grow their passion for music! I’m excited to step into this role because I love seeing students unveil their own potential and newfound skills. Sharing these moments with any student has always been rewarding and lifelong!”

What type of music did you grow up listening to? How did it influence your artistry?
“I grew up listening to a diverse range of music, from Classical and Pop to Rock, Country, RnB, Folk, Christian, and Metal. This eclectic mix has profoundly influenced my artistry, making me a true Jack of All Trades with a deep appreciation for all forms of music and art.”

Where is your favorite local spot? 
“Well, I am still familiarizing myself with the new community I have moved into, but The Well Coffeehouse is always a fave!”

If you could meet one author/performer/creator who would it be and what wold you ask them?
“I have already had the blessing of meeting everyone I could have ever dreamed of meeting! But now, maybe PJ Morton and I would ask him where his love of music derived from and what value he receives from his art.”

THE ROOTS MENTOR PHILOSOPHY

Our mentors play a crucial role in shaping not just artists but well-rounded individuals equipped with a growth mindset, character, determination, confidence, and grit — skills that will serve them for a lifetime.

Beyond the Notes: Our Teaching Philosophy

Our approach to music education goes beyond the traditional. While we undoubtedly focus on developing your musical talent, we understand that life's most valuable lessons extend far beyond the notes on a staff.

Our music mentors are passionate about nurturing your artistic abilities and your personal growth.

At ROOTS, we recognize that music is a powerful vehicle for character development. Our mentors instill qualities like discipline, responsibility, and respect through the art of music. Whether you're mastering the piano or perfecting your vocals, you'll also be enhancing essential life skills.

Learning an instrument or refining your singing takes patience and perseverance. Our mentors are there to guide you through the challenging moments, teaching you the importance of determination and grit – qualities that transcend music and apply to all areas of your life.

Self-confidence is a cornerstone of success. Our mentors help you build it through music by celebrating your achievements and nurturing your self-belief. As you hit those high notes or conquer a complex piece, you'll feel your confidence soar.

When you embark on a musical journey with ROOTS, you're not just gaining proficiency in your chosen instrument. You're also acquiring essential life skills that will serve you well in your academic, professional, and personal endeavors.

At ROOTS, it's not just about the music lessons. It's about the profound impact our music mentors have on your life.

At ROOTS, we are proud to have mentors who are actively engaged in the music industry. They're not just teachers; they're performers, composers, and artists who live and breathe music. This unique perspective enriches your learning experience, providing insights that go beyond the lessons.

In the heart of Music City's vibrant music scene, ROOTS Academy mentors often balance roles as musicians and educators. While their occasional commitments on the road or in the studio may lead to mentor substitutions, we're dedicated to keeping you informed about any lesson changes. In the rare event of an unmissable touring opportunity, rest assured that our team will facilitate a seamless transition to a new mentor.

Join us today to embark on an artistic and personal journey that will shape you into the best version of yourself. Experience the difference of mentorship at ROOTS Academy — where performing arts education becomes a transformative life experience.

THE ROOTS WAY

Our mission is to develop extraordinary artists and exceptional humans through transformative performing arts education. Through music, dance, and theatre, we inspire creativity, nurture character, and empower our students to positively impact their community and the world.

mindset
matters

(How we Think)

We believe mindset shapes not just who we are in the studio, but who we become in the world.

excellence
matters

(What we Do)

We believe excellence flourishes when preparation and vision align with discipline and passion.

people
matter

(How we Act)

We believe in creating spaces where everyone feels safe to create, supported to grow, and inspired to excel.

questions?

If you have any questions about our program, please don’t hesitate to call, text or email us. We’re here to help you Monday through Friday, 10am-6pm CST.

Emily Lindsey – Music Director
Josh Ashley – Systems & Strategy Manager
Marta Palombo – Music Operations Coordinator
Kinsey Overdeer – Scheduling Coordinator

EMILY LINDSEY
Music Director
JOSH ASHLEY
Music Operations Manager
ALEXYS HALSTENSGARD
Music Operations Coordinator
LORI KAIRDOLF
Schedule & Billing Coordinator