Ian Payne

Ian Payne

has been a musician for most of his life. He began taking piano lessons when he was seven and has continued his studies ever since. In high school, he played piano and electric bass in numerous rock, jazz and bluegrass groups. He also sang in choirs and a capella groups, and acted in a number of musicals with local Atlanta theater companies. Ian went on to receive his BA in Jazz Studies from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in May of 2021. At UNC, he played piano in the University Jazz Combos and electric bass in the Carolina Bluegrass Band for four consecutive semesters.

Today, Ian is an experienced jazz and pop/rock pianist, and a practiced bassist and singer. He has been teaching piano, bass, voice, and other instruments for the past three years. When Ian isn’t teaching lessons, he is touring or recording as the keyboardist and singer for the Atlanta-based rock act, Frute. In addition to being the band’s keyboardist and singer, he is also one of their mixing engineers and producers. He has mixed and mastered much of the material off of Frute’s studio albums and is knowledgeable in the field of music production.

Ian believes that allowing a student to pursue and explore their own interests is one of the most important aspects of music instruction. He likes to begin lessons with new students by asking what they would like to learn and what their goals are. He then spends some time in each lesson practicing material chosen by the student to make the lessons fun and engaging. Alongside this student-chosen material, he assigns material based upon the student's strengths and weaknesses to improve their skills and technique.

Ian typically dedicates a portion of a lesson to material that the student is interested in, a portion to material which Ian believes will be beneficial, and then dedicates some time to discussing or practicing exercises to advance their technique, aural skills, and knowledge of music theory. During lessons, Ian always offers positive encouragement for the student. Furthermore, he tries to exhibit his passion and infinite interest in music which he hopes will rub off on the student and inspire a parallel interest.

INSTRUMENTS.

Guitar, Electric Bass, Piano, Songwriting, Instrument and Singing

STYLES.

Jazz, Rock, Bluegrass, Pop, Funk, Other Contemporary Genres (Singer/Songwriter, Folk, Blues

REQUIREMENTS.

Students all ages & abilities welcome!

CONNECT.

TESTIMONIALS.

"Ian is very knowledgeable and personable. He allows me the opportunity to
learn at my pace while still challenging me to achieve the goals that we
have set forth. I am loving the progress we are making. Would recommend to
everyone, and am looking to continue working with him in the future for
more lessons."

- Drayton

"Ian is an amazing instructor. He has been working with my four year old
son. Ian is so patient and gentle. He is flexible and works soo well with
my toddler. My son is learning songs and enjoys playing the piano. The
homework assigned is easy for us parents to follow and help my young son."

- Dana

"Ian is knowledgeable and enthusiastic. He is willing to listen to my
desires & goals and cater the lessons to my needs."

- Linda

TIME TO LEARN MORE!

William Sandberg

William Sandberg

is a multi-instrumentalist and composer. He can always find a way to make music with whatever is available, whether it's an instrument or not (though he has a lot of instruments too). Whether a violin, a cereal bowl, or the sounds of summer cicadas, it's all an instrument to him. He's a fan of musicians like Chris Thile, Imogen Heap, Hiromi Uehara, Motoro Faam, Muse, Prokofiev, Andy Akiho, and so many more!

William graduated with a Masters in Music in Composition from the University of Wisconsin - Madison. He is an active composer and performer and has stumbled into performance opportunities in Tokyo, Seoul, and Taipei, as well as intentionally in the continental US. He especially loves collaborating with other musicians and sharing in his passion for music with everyone he meets. He likes to tell stories with his music, starting from a core emotion. He loves to listen to his listeners' interpretations of his music, creating their own stories from his music based on their own experiences.

William wants to inspire a love of music and encourage exploration and experimentation in each of his students. He started violin when he was 5 years old taking lessons from a strict Russian teacher because his mom told him to. This granted him a strong technical foundation. However, when he was given an electric guitar at the age of 15, he discovered his own love for music. William's goal as a teacher is to provide the structure and technical skills he learned from his classical training; not as restraints, but as support in guiding his students' on their musical journeys.

INSTRUMENTS.

Electric and Acoustic Guitar, Mandolin, Piano, Violin, Viola, Cella, Electric Bass, Ukulele, and Voice

STYLES.

Folk, Rock, Jazz, Indie, Pop, Metal, Classical, and Contemporary

REQUIREMENTS.

Students of all ages & abilities welcome!

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TESTIMONIALS.

Coming Soon!

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TIME TO LEARN MORE!

Archie O'Neal

Archie o’neal

owns too many basses. How many basses can one person possibly need? One, sure; two, why not; but four? Such a bass hog! Save some for the fishes. And the worst part is that he also spends so much time playing and teaching drums/percussion, guitar, piano, mandolin, accordion, and clarinet that he can't even play his basses all the time. Think of all those beautiful instruments collecting dust while he fritters away his time on the other instruments. What a waste! But until Archie grows several more arms, that's just the way it's going to be. 

Archie grew up listening to the Beatles and still does, sometimes, but also gets down to Tigran Hamasyan, Fiona Apple, System of a Down, Michael Franks, Debussy, and much more. He has written, recorded, and produced many albums himself and with bands, and one of his favorite listener responses to his music is: "But... why?"

The most important thing to Archie as a teacher is that his students enjoy playing music and feel both comfortable and inspired to pursue any musical interests that catch their ears. He is a music theory nerd, so with students who are interested in the whys, he fosters discussions of how what they're playing now relates to what they've played before and music as a whole. With students who just love playing, he poses new challenges every lesson and tries to give some sense of direction in developing technique (while also sneaking a little theory in).

INSTRUMENTS.

Piano, accordion, mandolin, electric guitar, acoustic guitar, drums, upright bass, electric bass, band coaching.

STYLES.

Rock, Jazz, Pop, Metal, Bluegrass, Funk, Folk

REQUIREMENTS.

Students of all abilities, ages 6 and up.

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TESTIMONIALS.

Coming Soon!

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TIME TO LEARN MORE!

Libby Nation

LIBBY NATION

is a versatile music educator, teaching a multitude of instruments and skills with Eclectic Music and an internationally touring multi-instrumentalist and singer. She has performed at Carnegie Hall, Ryman Auditorium, Wembley Stadium, The Hollywood Palladium, The Ellen Show, The Late Show with David Letterman, The Jay Leno Show, Late Night with Conan O’Brien, and concerts throughout Europe, Japan, and China. She currently performs as guitarist, mandolinist, pianist/keyboardist, and vocalist with the Chuck Nation Band.

Libby is passionate about helping students discover the joy of learning music through lessons that benefit for a lifetime. Her creative teaching methods, success rate with so many students and their families, and her ability to impart joy in learning have made her a favorite, in-demand teacher at Eclectic Music since 2011.

Libby believes that regardless of age, experience, or aptitude, all students can enjoy learning and gain a level of satisfaction on a musical instrument. The learning plan is tailored for each student’s individual interests and needs. The learning environment is comfortable enough for students to ask questions, take on new challenges, build confidence, and learn at an enjoyable pace.

INSTRUMENTS.

Acoustic Guitar, Piano, Voice, Electric Bass, Mandolin, Ukulele, Songwriting, Band Coaching.

STYLES.

Jazz, Blues, Bluegrass, Country, Folk, Americana, Pop, Rock, Singer/Songwriter.

REQUIREMENTS.

Students all ages & abilities welcome!

CONNECT.

TESTIMONIALS.

"Libby has been incredibly inspirational for our daughter. The level of confidence, passion, and drive that our daughter portrays is tremendous. Libby has an amazing way of connecting with children to pull out the best of them as individuals. Libby is truly a part of our daughter's love of music and she holds a dear place in not only our daughter's heart but our hearts as well.”

- Jenna and Ryan, parents of ukulele & voice student, age 8

"Libby has a unique talent for teaching teenagers and knows how to challenge her students. She's really helped my daughter discover the joy of playing piano without the pressure of being perfect. As a result, my daughter's mastery of piano has improved dramatically—she is confident and really enjoys playing, which is a priceless gift.”

- Elizabeth, parent of piano student, age 16

"Ms. Libby has unique teaching methods as well as tailored techniques for the young mind. As a result, my 6 year old, has a pure joy for piano and doesn't see lessons nor practice as a chore or bore but enjoys her daily practice (without reminders, I must say) and weekly lessons with Ms. Libby.  Not only is it Ms. Libby's integration of games, technology balanced with some traditional teaching, it's her sweet, humble, patient and fun spirit that makes her an amazing instructor for kids of all ages!”

- Melissa, parent of piano & voice student, age 6

"I have had several music teachers over the years, but Libby Nation is the best. By far.”

- Dennis, adult mandolin & bass student

"Libby is the best voice teacher I've ever worked with! There is so very much to singing, and I never feel judged or afraid to sing anything. Singing is such a fun thing to do. Libby is so super talented, patient, and kind. It's a pleasure to study under her!”

- Beth, adult voice & guitar student

"Having been impressed with the progress my son was making in his training with Libby, I saw the opportunity to pick up the guitar and begin playing again.”

- Pete, adult guitar student

"Without Libby our children would have lost interest in lessons years ago.”

- Meg, parent of piano students, ages 8 and 9

"We consider Libby to be a part of our family. She has worked with our three kids (ages 8, 10, 12) since the oldest was 6. Libby is an amazing musician who can play anything! She helps your child find the instrument that best suits him or her and in the process challenges them and builds their self confidence. You will not find a finer teacher anywhere!!”

- Jane, parent of piano, guitar, drums, & bass students, ages 8, 10, 12

TIME TO LEARN MORE!

Bennett Walton

BENNETT WALTON

is a guitar, bass, mandolin, songwriting, ukulele and band coaching instructor with Eclectic Music! Bennett's passion for music began in their family's living room, listening to their mother's record collection that included a wide range of classics such as Aretha Franklin, Fleetwood Mac, and the Beatles. When they would sing along, dance to the beat, or bang on their old piano unceremoniously, they felt a connection with those old songs that they had found in few other places. One of their favorite things of all was the rare occasion when their grandfather would strum his dusty guitar and sing lovely folk melodies and silly songs; at these times Bennett knew that this, more than anything, was what they wanted to do. Later, they joined the church choir and played handbells to develop their understanding of music. In 2001, Bennett received their first electric guitar; it was then that they felt that they finally had an instrument that was truly theirs.

From 2005 to 2009 Bennett attended the Savannah College of Art and Design where they focused on theatre and earned a BA in Film and Television. At SCAD, they fostered their interest in the narratives we use to spark empathy and explore new perspectives through various mediums. Upon returning to Atlanta, they found a way to bring their passion for narrative and their love of music together by playing guitar for professional musicals in town; they have performed in the band for musicals such as Spring Awakening, Rent, Freaky Friday, A Light in the Piazza, and many others. In 2014, Bennett took the next step in their music career by attending the Atlanta Institute of Music, where they developed their musical talent, dove deeper into music theory, and learned to tell their stories through their six string while capturing a solid understanding of the recording process. They left AIMM in 2016 with an Associates Degree in Music & Technology and a renewed fire to give music their all and spread the love and joy of music through teaching and live performance. When they are not teaching, you can find them in their studio rocking out, with their band or on their own.

Bennett’s teaching style can best be described as adaptable, low key, and centered on engendering a passion for music as a whole. With much of their early instruction being of a self-taught or informal nature, they prefer to listen to the needs of the individual student as opposed to following a strict lesson plan. Learning to play an instrument requires a certain level of dedication, patience, and practice, but first and foremost it should be enjoyable! Bennett works with each student to zero in on the aspect of music that excites them to pick up their instruments, fitting their lessons to their musical taste. Whether they are interested in becoming a six-string shredder, a strumming singer-songwriter, or simply looking for a hobby to further enrich their lives, Bennett is ready to help them along.

INSTRUMENTS.

Guitar, Electric Bass, Band Coaching, Songwriting, Mandolin, Ukulele.

STYLES.

Pop, Rock, Blues, Jazz, Musical Theatre.

REQUIREMENTS.

Students all ages & abilities welcome!

CONNECT.

LISTEN.

TIME TO LEARN MORE!

Michael McGill

MICHAEL MCGILL

teaches guitar, bass, rock singing, band coaching, songwriting and music theory with Eclectic Music. When you cross a huge repertoire with impeccable musical taste and an infectious spirit of fun, what do you get? You get Michael McGill, a singer-guitarist who has played for most of his life. Based in Atlanta but performing and recording across the South, his background and approach range from classic to alternative, alt-country, soul and pop. Michael has played and toured with original bands such as Catatonic Kids, the Viceroys and Garlic, cover projects like the glam-tribute High Heels, and hybrid groups like the Omnivores and the current Sweet Maries, playing a mix of originals and covers. Michael also plays solo, with a repertoire that has caused more than one listener to refer to him as the “human jukebox” or “human iPod.”

He has been teaching professionally in the Atlanta area since 2006 and his students currently range from ages 10 to 64; their level of expertise from beginner to advanced, and their musical taste from classic rock to the newest of the new. Michael offers lessons that center around learning whole songs, thus providing quick musical gratification, while delving into scales, theory and specific techniques as appropriate, so students can go as far as as they see fit. Integrating music the student is eager to learn with his own suggestions, Michael's approach is to individualize the experience for each student, tempered by just the right amount of that infectious spirit of fun!

INSTRUMENTS.

Electric Bass, Guitar (electric & acoustic), Rock Singing, Songwriting, Band Coaching.

STYLES.

Rock, Pop, Contemporary Styles.

REQUIREMENTS.

Students all ages & abilities welcome!

CONNECT.

TESTIMONIALS.

“Michael inspired our daughter to return to the guitar.  He encourages her by having her play the music she likes and then he incorporates the music theory around it. This unique approach keeps her engaged and wanting to learn more!”

- Lee, parent

"Michael probably had every song ever written between 1960 and 2000 memorized and could teach so well that he could make you feel like anyone from Richards to Clapton." 

- Reid, student

“I have been a student of Michael's for 3 1/2 years. With his help, my guitar playing ability has risen to an entirely new level! He is by far the best teacher I have had in my almost 20 years of playing the instrument. His knowledge of theory combined with his uncanny ability to decipher songs by ear and his genuine love of music make him uniquely qualified as an instructor. I highly recommend him to beginning, intermediate and advanced students of all ages!”

- Dina, student

“I have been taking guitar lessons from Michael for almost two years now. We work on some theory, but many times work on songs that I want to learn. I have enjoyed my lessons and highly recommend Michael's teaching style. He is talented, prepared, and really knows what he is doing. I have improved so much thanks to Michael.”

- Julie, student

"As one of Michael’s adult students, I appreciate his patience, encouragement and encyclopedic knowledge. His fluency in rock guitar is amazing. His passion for music, knowledge of theory and mastery of the guitar all make his lessons fun and rich in content.”

- Johanna, student

"My 17 year old son has been taking music lessons for over 8 years, since he was in 4th grade. Michael's encouragement helped push him outside his comfort zone to achieve new depths in playing guitar. Lessons with Michael were always the highlight of his week. We believed Michael’s encouragement and exposure to performing on stage helped Reid to create his own garage band where they perform at venues such as Masquerade, Smith's Old Bar, Center Stage and local ATL festivals. We highly recommend Michael and his many talents as a guitar teacher, especially to kids who want to have fun while playing!" 

- Reagan, parent

LISTEN.

Time to learn more!