About Justin
Welcome! My name is Justin Highland and I teach piano at the San Ramon Academy of Music.
After 12 years of teaching all levels and styles I’ve realized one thing: the best way for students to reach their full potential is simply having a great time learning! Makes sense, doesn’t it? My lessons are laid-back, fun, and completely tailored to the student.
I graduated from Metropolitan State University of Denver with a BA in Jazz and Classical Piano Studies and have mentored with classical pianists Tamara Goldstein and Peter Friesen, critically acclaimed jazz piano greats Art Lande, Eric Gunnison, Peter Stoltzman, and keyboardist extraordinaire Dennis Hamm from the Grammy winning band Thundercat.
I’ve been involved in both the LA and Denver music scenes and had my music featured on Denver’s own 89.3 FM KUVO radio.
When not playing or teaching, I love golfing, playing chess, traveling, and hiking.
Book With Justin
“I didn’t want my son to be turned off to piano because of all the practicing. Lots of work but not a ton of play. James brings enthusiasm and joy to the discipline. He picked up my son’s style and personality, and could flow according to my son’s uniqueness/playfulness.”
“My biggest concern is if my kids don’t enjoy and have no progress over a significant amount of lessons time. So far your role as a teacher has been very helpful in making my kids interested & focused on their lessons”