Our Guitar Teachers

Stephen Danska

I’m Stephen Danska – a dedicated guitar instructor with over a decade’s experience nurturing students’ talents. My teaching philosophy revolves around fostering a love for music, encouraging creativity, and instilling a solid foundation of technical proficiency. As an active guitarist I infuse a spirit of artistic adventure whether in the classroom or on stage. It is my calling to inspire and share my musical expertise with students and audiences alike. I cannot wait to pass on my deep knowledge and lifelong love of the guitar to the next class of aspiring musicians!

Stephen Danska is a Bay Area native and accomplished guitarist, renowned for his versatile musicality and extensive experience both in teaching and performing. His musical journey began in third grade when he embarked on the path of classical music, starting with the piano. After five years of dedicated piano study, Stephen's passion for music led him to embrace another instrument—the guitar. He graduated from California State University East Bay in 2014 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Music, with a focus on jazz guitar performance.

Since completing his formal education, Stephen has become a prominent figure in the Bay Area music scene. As an active performing guitarist, he has graced the stages of numerous theater companies, including notable productions such as Ratatouille with the San Francisco Symphony and Berkeley Rep's premieres of "Paradise Square" and "Kiss My Aztec." His versatility shines through as he effortlessly transitions between genres, from playing in the orchestra pit for Broadway touring musicals to sharing the stage with artists ranging from country to heavy metal.

Justin Sakogawa

Justin champions a hands-on approach to learning music, working with his students in practical and understandable ways that even his youngest students enjoy. He lives for the “lightbulb” moments with his students – the times when they first grasp new concepts, with the same joy and excitement he experienced as a young learner and realize the potential they afford.

Justin Sakogawa holds a degree in music and has nearly two decades of guitar teaching experience in individual and group settings, for both public and private institutions. Justin has appeared in eight studio albums and has toured extensively in Europe, Asia, and the Americas.

During his off-hours, Justin is a certified personal trainer and fitness instructor, instilling discipline and providing encouragement to help people achieve their personal goals. Justin lives in Pleasanton, California.