Private Guitar Lessons With Jimmy Cruz

Hello! My name is Jimmy Cruz, and I'm a musician based in the Atlanta area. Music has been a constant presence in my life, influencing my creative spirit and passion since I was a young boy. Growing up on Long Island, New York, I was fortunate to be exposed to a diverse range of musical influences, from the vibrant rhythms of Hispanic music to the popular sounds of the 1960s.

This early exposure ignited a deep fascination with the guitar, an instrument that quickly became my conduit for expressing myself musically. It wasn't long before I started performing, honing my skills with various bands across different genres. Through the years, I've explored the depths of jazz, blues, rock, gospel, and classical guitar styles, constantly seeking new sonic landscapes to explore.

Music isn't just an outlet for me; it's a calling that extends beyond personal expression. For over 25 years, I've been deeply involved in music ministries at various churches in the Atlanta area, where my family and I have found a strong sense of community. Sharing the transformative power of music with others has been one of the most rewarding aspects of my musical journey.

My Musical Journey

My love for music has taken me on an incredibly diverse path. I've had the privilege of performing with numerous bands, each experience adding to my musical tapestry. My musical journey has also included collaborating with other artists, expanding my horizons and pushing me creatively. I've recorded guitar work on three albums for the talented Christian rock singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist Erin Reilly. Her music, which blends rock, jazz, and classical elements, has been a true inspiration.

Another memorable collaboration involved working with the prolific Italian jazz violinist and keyboardist Giorgio Finetti. He invited me to contribute lead guitar work to a funk track he created with bassist Steve Lucas entitled "BumpDeFunker." It was a blast to immerse myself in the groovy energy of the 70s funk style. My musical experiences have been a testament to the power of collaboration and the joy of exploring new musical territories.

Sharing My Passion as an Instructor

Music is more than just a performance art; it's a journey of continual learning and exploration. For over 35 years, I've had the pleasure of sharing my passion for guitar with students in the Atlanta area. Teaching has been an incredibly rewarding experience, watching my students discover the joys of making music and develop their own unique musical voices.

It's been truly heartwarming to see former students go on to become accomplished musicians and teachers themselves.

My Musical Offerings

You'll find a blend of musical styles on my website, reflecting my diverse influences and creative journey. My music page features my original compositions, showcasing a range of styles, from blues and jazz to rock and acoustic. I'm always composing new pieces, exploring different sonic landscapes and pushing the boundaries of my musical expression.

Beyond my original work, you'll also find renditions of other artists' songs, showcasing my versatility as a musician and my deep appreciation for the richness of musical tradition.