Ian Zinecker

Born in Springfield, Missouri to a family of music educators, Ian began his music education at age five on the piano. When he was ten, his father gifted him a guitar, which would quickly become his first love. When he was 13, he began studying jazz with local UNT alumni, Johnny Strickler, before he continued studying to become a student at the university’s prestigious jazz program himself. Since first picking up the guitar, Ian has gained performance experience in many styles including jazz, funk, theater, Rhythm and Blues, pop, rock, and more. Ian has competed in and earned the top rank in many collegiate and state-level competitions. Since attending the University of North Texas, Ian has been receiving instruction from Dr. David Mooney and other adjunct staff, as well as composing and collaborating on music with his peers in both professional and casual environments. He has also received private instruction from musicians such as Dave Stryker, Corey Christiansen, and David Friesen.

Ian has developed a passion for music education while teaching privately and at various programs within the DFW area. He believes that every student has a unique and valuable perspective on music, and their instruction should be adapted to fit their level of mastery and learning style. He has worked with students in groups as well as one on one. His students have ranged from ages seven to sixty-five. From his seven years of teaching experience, Ian has learned much from his students, including his love for education. His hopes for all students are to ignite their passion for music and develop their musicianship.