In this series, we’re interviewing our instructors to get a sense for their methods, philosophy on teaching, and more. Read below to learn more about Jacob Jaworsky, one of our guitar instructors!
What first inspired you to start playing music, and how did you choose guitar as your instrument?
My earliest inspiration for music came from my dad. He played trumpet throughout high school and college, and he often practiced at home while my brothers and I were growing up. I remember constantly begging him to let me try making a sound on the horn — though it quickly became clear that the trumpet would not be the instrument for me.
I realized I wanted to play guitar during a car ride to a baseball game. We were listening to Chicago, and when I heard Terry Kath use a wah-wah pedal, I was instantly hooked. As a young kid, the sound felt electrifying, and I knew I wanted to learn how to create something like that myself. Over the years, listening to guitarists such as Bob Dylan, Eric Clapton, Terry Kath, John Petrucci, John 5, Buckethead, Billie Joe Armstrong, and many others helped shape the style and sound of my playing today.
Do you have a favorite performance memory or musical moment that stands out from your career so far?
There are a couple of moments that stand out to me — one from singing, and another from playing guitar on a restaurant patio. During my junior year of college, I joined a musical scenes class where we performed selections from Little Shop of Horrors, Les Misérables, Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, and several other productions. A friend and I performed the confrontation scene between Jean Valjean and Javert from Les Misérables. At the time, tackling the higher tenor part was a real challenge for me, but the performance went incredibly well, and the audience response was unforgettable.
Another memorable experience came near the end of COVID restrictions. My wife Paige, our friend Davey, and I performed a folk set at Caston & Main Brew Yard. Our setlist included songs by Van Morrison, Three Dog Night, Bob Dylan, and several other artists. It was the middle of winter, and we played in a heated outdoor enclosure, doing our best to keep our fingers warm. Davey added some standout moments by jumping between percussion and riffs on his melodica. Despite the cold, it was an incredibly fun and memorable show to play.
What do you love most about teaching, and what’s one thing you hope every student takes away from their lessons with you?
I think the thing I love most about teaching is getting to pass on my knowledge, especially as my students develop their skills, but even if my students don’t remember a single word I say, the thing that I hope every student takes away from their time with me is a love of music. In all the years I’ve been doing this, I think I have had two students who have gone on to study music at the college level. That’s great, and I’m very proud to have helped them on that journey, but that’s not how I measure success. However well any of my students are able to play, playing music is a skill they can carry with them for the rest of their lives, and it is my hope that it is a skill that makes their lives richer and more beautiful, and I am grateful to play a part in that.
If you could play or perform with any musician — past or present — who would it be and why?
This is a fun, but incredibly hard question to answer! If I had to pick just one person, I would choose Billie Joe Armstrong. His songwriting style, the style of his guitar playing, and the depth of his lyrics are something I’ve always admired. To be able to sit down with him, learn about his creative process, and hear the stories behind his songs would be an unmatched musical experience. A close second, however, would be John Petrucci of Dream Theater. I would love to jam out with him and watch him play up close and in person. Getting to see his dedication to his craft and his sheer technical mastery would be mindblowing.
When you’re not teaching or performing, how do you like to spend your time outside of music?
When I’m not teaching at Canal Fulton Music, I enjoy a variety of hobbies that help me unwind and recharge. One of my favorites is exploring different bourbons and whiskeys. I love sharing new finds with friends and family, spending time together, and creating great memories. Every so often, we even wake up early to wait in line for special releases, hoping to snag a bottle we haven’t tried yet, or one we’ve been searching for.
I also enjoy relaxing at home by putting on a few records and listening to music. My wife and I love binge-watching new shows or discovering movies together, all while hanging out with our cats, Chewie and Leia, and our gecko Yoda. It’s the perfect way to slow down and enjoy some time away from teaching.
Our Invitation to You
If you’ve ever wondered what it might feel like to explore singing or instrument lessons — whether for yourself or your child — we invite you to come in and talk with us. We’ll help you:
🥁 Pick a musical path that you are excited about (voice, guitar, trumpet, violin, etc.).
💡 Connect with a teacher who doesn’t just teach technique — they inspire connection.
At Canal Fulton Music, we’re not only teaching music; we’re helping musicians find their voice.
Ready to explore? Learn more about lessons below.
