The Montclair Music Studio is proud to introduce veteran guitar Derek Campos.

Mr. Campos, who has recently joined our staff, has been a guitar instructor for over 4 years. He is a graduate of Montclair State University with a degree in Jazz Studies.

Derek resides in Garfield and has been studying the guitar for over 10 years. He enjoys working with students from all different musical backgrounds and excels at helping them achieve their personal goals. This includes increasing their knowledge and proficiency in music theory, composition and performance.

Getting to Know Derek…

What brought on your interest in music?

When I was 13 I went on a trip to Croatia and met this man playing Bossa Nova at a local
tavern. I remember the passion that flowed from this man’s heart, and I said I would love to
connect to people through guitar. When I got back to the states, I signed up for lessons and the
rest is history.

When did you start your studies?

I began my studies at the age of 13 at the Fort Lee School of Music.

Was your family involved in music?

Not formally, but I do remember my father playing music around the house really loud and that feeling of the bass thumping in my chest. I remember thinking that feeling is really cool.

Have You Participated in Any Extra Curricular Organizations or music clubs?

In Highschool I participated in Honors Choir, Jazz Band, Marching band, and soccer. Towards the later half of high school I grew an interest in Jazz, which led me to Jazz House Kids, right
here in Montclair.

What are other types of instruments in your repertoire?

I have a GB10 Ibanez Jazz Guitar, Cordoba Nylon, Epiphone Les Paul, Custom Telecaster, and
an Ovation 12 string guitar.

Have you played at other venues?

I’ve played at Dizzy’s Club, NJPAC, and Montclair Jazz Festival through Jazz House Kids, I’ve also played at local NYC venues such as The Bitter End, Rockwood, Bowery Electric, Club
Groove, and some jazz restaurant spots in NJ/NYC.

Any favorite hobbies other than music?

I love painting and listening to vinyl when time permits, reading, and doing my own writing

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