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"I grew up in a musical family" says Derek. "My father played guitar, I discovered early on in my childhood that I wanted to follow in his footsteps."  By the age of four, Derek had his first guitar.  Even though it was a 'Mickey Mouse guitar' - he knew from the moment he picked it up that he wanted to spend the rest of his life playing.

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Throughout his adolescence, Derek took guitar lessons and dedicated himself to study and practice. He was on television with his first band when he was in  just 7th grade and began teaching guitar in 8th grade. He later went on to work in several music stores, and earned his college Bachelors degree studying music theory and business.  His study of both disciplines helped him form his approach to teaching music. He has over 25 years of experience in the music, media and entertainment industry. 

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