TRAVIS SHELBY BIO

Travis Shelby was raised in Auburn, NH. Initially inspired by the band Nirvana, Travis began playing guitar at age 14. He studied with local teacher George Westbay. George taught Travis the fundamentals of the instrument and helped foster a deeper appreciation for music. In high school, Travis was active in the music department. He played guitar for the jazz band under direction of award winning educator David Bresnahan. It was in high school that Travis first taught guitar lessons.

Upon graduation, Travis soon went to the prestigious Berklee College of Music in Boston, MA. At Berklee, Travis was fortunate to be surrounded by talented classmates and world class teachers. He began exploring various genres and styles at the school. While at Berklee, Travis gained experience playing weddings, musical theatre and cocktail hours. He studied with David Newsam, John Baboian, Larry Bell and Brett Wilmott. Towards the end of his career at Berklee, Travis was fortunate to study with virtuoso guitarist Richie Hart. Richie’s teaching changed Travis’s whole approach and understanding of music. Focusing on learning things by ear, being sensitive to what a song needs and playing with good feeling above all else were just few of the many ideas Richie showed Travis. Travis still studies with Richie to this day. From Richie, Travis also learned how to effectively teach music to other people. Travis graduated from Berklee in 2011 with a degree in music and minor in psychology. He graduated with honors. From there, he went on to help found Queen City Soul in New Hampshire. Queen City Soul is a funky jazz band that has held residencies at bars and played festivals such as the Sky Show and Winter Stroll.

Travis currently offers lessons to anyone looking in southern New Hampshire.

TESTIMONIALS

favorite genre

I’ve been studying with Travis for over two months and I enjoyed having lessons with him. My favorite genre is Jazz and I like Travis’ teaching philosophy which focuses on ear training and musicality of playing.

Deng Le
Student

Jordan

Travis is a great teacher and really breaks it down for you if your struggling and also very patient with beginners like me. I would recommend anyone to take lessons with him.

Jordan Smith
Student

bob

I cannot say enough great things about Travis Shelby! I would have given him 10 stars if there were enough stars here to fill in. I started my journey of the guitar at age 53 (never too old), and at that time Travis was recommended to me. Needless say I am still taking lessons from him and I trust this will keep happening for many more years to come

Bob Ramalho
Student

Fun factor

Searched several different Guitar teachers till I found Travis. He has a wonderful and patient ability as an instructor. You really get the whole ball of wax with Travis, he doesn’t just teach the guitar it can also be about becoming a better musician or the ability to play with other people, if that’s your goal, there’s always just the fun factor.

John Sweeny
Student

Travis Shelby is an amazing teacher! He’s not only knowledgeable but he is able to break things down and communicate to beginners. He has great patience and cares about your growth as a musician.

Etta Birmingham
Student

hooked

Since I’ve been taking lessons, my playing has grown leaps and bounds. From melodies and solos, I’ve learned by ear and I feel it’s the best way to learn. I recommend anyone to try one lesson and you’ll be hooked!

Barry
Student

deep roots in blues

Travis is a musician with deep roots in Blues and Jazz. He is one who studies the master and takes the music to a new level; this is a rare quality today in music. The result can be found in his playing and teaching.

Richie Hart
Associate Professor Berklee College of Music, World Class Musician