Learn Music From Professional Musicians
Unlock your musical potential with lessons tailored to you
YOUR PERSONALIZED
Plan for Success
The Center for Musical Arts’ unique curriculum blends a modern approach to classic instruction, seamlessly integrating techniques informed by neuroscience. We understand that learning music isn’t just about mastering notes; it’s about nurturing creativity and emotional intelligence. Through our tailored programs, students learn to express themselves authentically through music, fostering a lifelong love and understanding of the art form.
Featured Instructors
Jacob Swedlow
DRUMS, PERCUSSION
Jacob is an award winning drummer, vibraphonist, and composer based in Sacramento, CA. After completing his studies at Oberlin Conservatory, he returned to California and now works full-time as a professional musician and private instructor. He also leads LabRats, an emerging jazz-fusion band that has been recognized by NPR for their contributions to their hometown music scene. Swedlow has collaborated/shared the stage with renowned artists, including Talib Kweli, The GZA, Tower of Power, Braxton Cook, and many more.
Danielle Perez
VOICE
Danielle is an alumni of Sacramento State School of Music and received her bachelor’s degree with an emphasis in jazz studies. She has sung with a number of vocal ensembles and choral groups; she sang in Vocal East at Las Positas College and Vox Now at Sac State. Danielle enjoys a variety of genres from jazz, pop, classical, and more. She is passionate about using music to foster growth, expression, and community.
Isaac Davis
TRUMPET
Isaac is a trumpet player from Hayward, California. Growing up, music was always important to him, as his father was a music producer and guitarist. In 2023, Davis graduated from Sacramento State University with a degree in Trumpet Performance and continues sharing his love of music through teaching and performing in Sacramento.
Connie Rottier-Thompson
PIANO
Connie is an award winning jazz/classical piano player operating in the Sacramento area. Beginning at the age of 7, Connie began performing in classical music competitions until high school where she decided to go into popular music. She now works in the Sac queer community hosting events and educating in jazz piano.
Jayden McCain
SAXOPHONE, PIANO
Jayden is a Sacramento-based saxophonist, pianist, and composer with over eight years of experience on his primary instrument. McCain is passionate about guiding beginning musicians and creating a supportive learning environment. As a performer, he is active in the local jazz scene and strives to use music as a tool for creativity, growth, and meaningful connection.
Nate Furgason
BASS, GUITAR, CELLO
Nate began playing jazz at age ten with his father, gigging in Northern California and the Bay Area while exploring various genres. In 2011, Furgason earned a Bachelor’s in Music from California State University Chico, performing with the award-winning Chico Jazz Collective. He later received a Master’s in Jazz Studies from NYU in 2014, studying with notable figures in jazz education.
Classes We Offer
Single Lessons
Private lessons taught on an instrument of choice that have personal attention paid to technique, practice tools, musicality, music theory, & repertoire.
Weekly Lessons
When learning an instrument, it takes 2-3 months of weekly lessons and practice to demonstrate noticeable growth.
Shed Sessions
The Shed Sessions are a way to meet other musicians, learn about the history of jazz, and learn the music. The tunes are a list of frequently called tunes at jam sessions and college auditions.
Live at the Center
The Center for Musical Arts proudly presents our “at the Center” concert series, where our goal is to give Sacramento musicians the event space they deserve.