Miguel Morales

16 Years Teaching Experience

INSTRUMENTS

GuitarAdvanced
BassAdvanced
DrumsIntermediate
UkuleleIntermediate
PianoIntermediate
SongwritingAdvanced

GENRES

Rock

LANGUAGES

EnglishSpanish

Mentor Mission Statement

As a mentor at ROOTS Academy, my mission is to create a fun and joyous learning environment that cultivates passion and growth in every student. I strive to meet students where they are, balance practical knowledge with the music they love, and guide them through progressive, meaningful learning. Through my teaching, I hope students develop a lasting love for music and grow in the way that’s best for their own unique journey.

about Miguel

Miguel Morales’s musical journey began at home when his mom showed him his first guitar riff: a Spanish guitar intro that instantly captured his attention. From that moment on, music became a constant part of his life. As he grew older, Miguel became fascinated with the electric guitar, teaching himself songs by ear with the help of the internet and countless hours of practice. Attending rock shows early on left a lasting impression, and seeing musicians perform live sparked his desire to be on stage himself!

For a brief time, Miguel tried pursuing a more practical path by enrolling in business school during his first year of college. However, a year away from music made one thing clear: he couldn’t imagine a life without it. That realization led him to fully commit to his passion, eventually earning both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in music education.

Many of Miguel’s most meaningful influences came through collaboration. Writing and playing music with friends — especially during his high school rock band days — showed him how powerful music can be in bringing people together. Those experiences continue to shape his approach as both a musician and a mentor.

At ROOTS Academy, Miguel enjoys helping students grow through a balance of creativity, strong fundamentals, and thoughtful repertoire. He believes music should be both enjoyable and challenging, helping students develop discipline while discovering their own artistic voice.

Outside of ROOTS, Miguel performs original music, plays in a ’90s and 2000s rock cover band, and stays active in the local music scene.

Teaching Philosophy

To teach to the student’s specific interests and needs and make learning music a joyful experience.

What is your favorite down-time activity to reduce stress?
“I love to exercise, I am a fan of power lifting.”

What’s your favorite local spot to spend time at when you’re not working & what do you do there?
“Starbucks, I like writing song lyrics and researching music or music education related things. I also really love coffee, the nitro is my new favorite.”

What type of music did you grow up listening to?
“I essentially liked any music with good guitars in it; particularly rock, hardcore, and metal. I do like indie and softer acoustic music like Jason Mraz and Jack Johnson. Most recently I have been into slightly more alternative music like Artic Monkeys, Shakey Graves, and the Black Keys. I also highly value and appreciate the beauty and education of studying classical and jazz music.”

What is your favorite all time movie?
“I love Scott Pilgrim vs World because it has action, video games, and rock bands. Scott Pilgrim vs the World also has excellent quotable lines and an array of awesome actors that show up in the cinematic marvel universe. I am also a HUGE fan of all things marvel.”

What is your favorite quote?
“Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.” — Martin Luther King, Jr.

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