Justus Mitchell

INSTRUMENTS

VoiceIntermediate
PianoAdvanced
GuitarAdvanced
UkuleleAdvanced
ViolinIntermediate
BassIntermediate
Music ProductionIntermediate
SongwritingAdvanced

GENRES

CCMClassicalGospelJazzPopRock

LANGUAGES

Spanish

Mentor Mission Statement

My mission is to foster a love for music that’s unique to each student through encouragement, patience, and personalized lessons. I strive to create a space where mistakes are welcome, fun is essential, and students learn to believe in both their music and themselves.

about Justus

Justus Mitchell discovered the power of music at twelve years old while playing piano in a memory care unit for his father, who was living with early-onset Alzheimer’s. As he played familiar classics, his father lit up and began singing with a joy Justus hadn’t seen in years. Soon others in the room joined in — smiling, laughing, and even shedding tears. In that moment, Justus realized music doesn’t just entertain: it restores connection and brings people back to life.

Justus’s musical journey began earlier when his older brother casually asked if he wanted to learn a song from a favorite video game. Within minutes, Justus had figured it out by ear, and something clicked. Learning chords and scales opened a new world where music wasn’t just something to repeat—it was something he could create. Inspired by his father, a lifelong singer-songwriter, music became both a passion and a meaningful way to stay connected.

Influenced by artists ranging from Chopin and Beethoven to Yoko Shimomura, Koji Kondo, funk, disco, R&B, and crooners like Sinatra and Chet Baker, Justus developed a broad musical voice. Those influences shape his flexible and creative teaching style.

At ROOTS Academy, Justus believes music should never feel like a chore, especially for beginners. If a student feels stuck, he adapts — turning challenges into games or writing songs together so learning stays engaging and personal.

Outside of ROOTS, Justus performs around Nashville, plays keys in a Phil Collins tribute band, and is preparing to release his first album.

Teaching Philosophy

My teaching philosophy focuses on adaptability. I’ve encountered students of all ages and backgrounds, and not a single one learns the same way as the last. That’s why I believe it to be important to be flexible and understanding, creating a warm and healthy atmosphere that will inspire the student to not only enjoy the lesson, but to also enjoy practicing on their own time.

I will always take into account the preferred genres/styles of the student while also introducing a healthy amount of new material to expand their musical horizons. I will usually have different approaches to teaching depending on the instrument, all of which are aimed towards the personal success of the student.

Given that I am classically trained, I will try to promote a fundamental understanding of music theory that will help the students better understand their favorite music and why they love it.

What’s been the highlight of your professional career — like your biggest spotlight moment to date?
“In my teaching career, one moment comes to mind. I was teaching a young and incredibly bright student named Clementine. She was incredibly shy but a bundle of joy. After a lot of encouragement, we performed “Remember me” from the movie Coco for her first recital. After a great performance, seeing how excited and happy she was melted my heart. I was elated to be able to provide her with such a positive experience of music and I’m confident she’ll be playing for the rest of her life.”

What does being a “Mentor” mean to you and why are you excited to step into this role?
“Being a mentor to me is providing the student with a foundation that they can build upon in ways personal and unique to them. Everyone forms a distinct musical interest based on what they listened to growing up, so what works for me might not work for my student. That’s why it’s important to me to help the student find a love for music themselves, allowing their passion to grow independently even long after we part ways.”

What type of music did you grow up listening to? How did it influence your artistry?
“All kinds! The ones that stick out the most would be the 2010s rock scene like Coldplay, Paramore, Green Day, Panic at the Disco, MCR, RHCP, etc. At the same time, I was in love with artists like Daft Punk, Stevie Ray Vaughn and older music like Elvis, Dion, Paul Anca, Sinatra and the like. I also fell in love with soundtracks like those from The Legend of Zelda and the Studio Ghibli films, many of which first encouraged me to play the piano as well as begin to compose my own music. During my teenage years, I learned to deeply appreciate classical/romantic music such as that of Beethoven and Chopin, which greatly excelled my technical skill as a musician.”

Where is your favorite local spot? 
“Probably the Franklin Factory! Lots of great memories there growing up. Besides that, I’d say the Parthenon! Great picnic spot plus they used it to film the Percy Jackson movies which I find pretty cool.”

When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?
“Well, after my babysitter set a sandwich on fire and I got to see a bunch of firetrucks pull up, a firefighter was pretty far up on the list! Not long after, I fell in love with the concept of music therapy and then finally landed on being a film/video game composer!”

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