Jonathan grew up in Southern California and began his music journey with piano lessons at the age of twelve. At thirteen he started learning guitar as well. That same year, Jonathan joined the Youth Band at his church. In high school, he played piano for the jazz band and went on to receive the “Woody Herman Musician of the Year” award and several competition awards. During his later high school years, he played piano and sang for his church’s Sunday services and eventually became the church’s worship leader after graduating. Around this time, Jonathan began professionally teaching music classes to children from his church who showed interest. Jonathan received an AA in Musicianship, and a Bachelors in Applied Theology from California Baptist University, where he took private voice lessons and sang in the University Choir and Orchestra. He was promoted to Music Director for Eagle Ridge Church shortly after graduating, and taught for many years as a substitute teacher in his local school district.

Jonathan currently serves as the Music Director for Hope in the Valley Baptist Church, and is married to his wonderful wife, Desiree Beatty. Together they perform weekly in a cover band called “Sundae” for upscale venues, parties, business events, and the occasional wedding.

“I’m passionate about music as a means for building relationships and creative positive means for personal expression.”

One of the most fulfilling things to Jonathan is the opportunity to empower students to shine creatively through the medium of music. He focuses on developing student motivation as the key to consistent growth in musicianship by incorporating elements from his students’ dreams and desires into each lesson. He carefully crafts lessons to target weaknesses in each student while serving as a positive and encouraging mentor, and can’t help but show excitement for his students’ progress. Jonathan values students individually as unique, and desires to share the joy of music in a way that resonates deeply and personally with his students.

Jonathan also speaks ASL, Japanese, and Spanish!