Michael Bottomley (University City, La Jolla, Clairemont)
Michael is a professional musician (B. Music, M.Div) with 20+ years experience. He specializes in teaching piano, violin, guitar, as well as beginner ukulele and trumpet. Trained with The Toronto Conservatory of Music (Canada) curriculum, he played violin in youth and university orchestras, chamber groups, played trumpet in school bands, was a church music director for 10 years, played with The Garrett Thomas Band, and founded The Harbor Music Academy (San Diego). Outside of music, Michael absolutely loves his three children, tries to play hockey once a week, and enjoys getting to the beach when he can to soak the sun and maybe catch some waves.
Andrew Ginzel (Bay Park, Pacific Beach)
Andrew offers lessons in guitar, bass, piano, ukulele, and music production techniques. He has had a deep love of music that developed when he started playing the guitar at the age of 15. Since then, Andrew has gained a wealth of musical experience through his involvement in several musical ensembles such as the Point Loma Nazarene University Jazz Band, where he was the principal guitarist, along with his extensive experience in worship arts ministries at various churches throughout the San Diego area. He is an experienced studio engineer who has produced and released music for artists as well as his own music. Andrew is also proficient with Logic Pro X, Pro Tools 12, MainStage 3, Finale and other production software. Andrew has experience teaching in both private lessons and in a music school environment. He loves seeing the joy that his students get from making music. He thrives on the challenge of meeting each student’s individual needs and seeing them grow both musically and personally. Andrew aims to provide each student with a comprehensive understanding of music while maintaining a fun and nurturing environment that allows each student to reach their full potential.
Patricio Pickslay (UTC, La Jolla, Bay Park)
As an instructor for over two decades, Patricio has developed a teaching style that he
has dubbed, “whole musicianship”. Through his Whole Music Program, he builds strong
musical foundations in his students, while still providing them with opportunities to develop
creativity and personal expression. Patricio’s multi-instrument capabilities allow him to
instruct comfortably on guitar, piano or bass. His interdisciplinary philosophy incorporates
traditional, progressive and even Suzuki method elements to foster complete musicianship
in his students.
Grace VanNortwick (La Mesa, Del Cerro, Allied Gardens)
Music has been a major component in Ms. Grace’s life. Having taken piano lessons since a primary student, and later, guitar instruction, she has gained a lifetime experiencing the joy of music. She was trained in piano with the Royal Conservatory of Music in Canada, and later played keys for church bands, and guitar for children’s music classes. She was a church music director, as well as a classroom music teacher. Since young adulthood, she has taught piano and beginner guitar, and even after earning a California Teaching Credential, continued to teach after-school lessons and music classes. She is delighted to teach music lessons full-time, knowing that learning a musical skill brings value and confidence to people’s lives. It promotes emotional well-being, and paves the way for opportunities to share the gift of music with others. Ms. Grace loves hanging out with her ever-growing family, reading, walking, and playing keys in her church band.
