Jase Cortez

5 Years Teaching Experience

INSTRUMENTS

PianoAdvanced
BassAdvanced
VoiceAdvanced
GuitarAdvanced
DrumsAdvanced
ProductionAdvanced
SongwritingIntermediate

GENRES

Alt / Singer-SongwriterClassicalJazzPopRock

LANGUAGES

English

Mentor Mission Statement

Jase Cortez is a versatile music mentor whose passion for teaching grew from a lifelong immersion in music. Raised in a home where music was always present, Jase was inspired by his father’s guitar playing and picked up his own guitar at age ten. His curiosity quickly expanded into learning multiple instruments, songwriting, and music production. Today, he brings a well-rounded approach to teaching that blends strong musical fundamentals with creativity, exploration, and improvisation.

A defining moment in Jase’s musical journey came when he joined a summer rock band camp. Though he was a beginner, the experience sparked a love for collaboration and live performance that eventually led him to form his own band. Along the way, supportive mentors shaped his growth and inspired the adaptable, patient teaching style he brings to every lesson.

Jase believes every student learns differently, so he tailors each lesson to meet individual goals while building strong technique and confidence. His goal is for students to leave every lesson feeling accomplished, inspired, and excited to keep growing as musicians.

Outside the classroom, Jase is an active composer, producer, and performer who is always exploring new ways to grow as a musician. His appreciation for artists like Foo Fighters and Billy Joel, along with his love for a cappella singing, gives him a broad musical perspective that enriches his teaching. For Jase, music is a lifelong journey, and he is passionate about helping students discover their own voice while continuing to grow alongside them.

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 – Music Program Manager
Kinsey Overdeer – Customer Experience Lead
Marta Palombo – Music Program Coordinator
Zoe Nygaard – OnStage Program Coordinator

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