Who teaches the courses?

My name is Leo Salmela, and I am a music pedagogue (Master of Music) who graduated from the Sibelius Academy, Helsinki, as well as a professional musician.

I started playing guitar at the age of 12. I grew up surrounded by classical music, as both of my parents work in the field of classical music. At home, I listened to Bach and Beethoven until I discovered rock music and bands such as AC/DC and Guns N’ Roses. Since then, the guitar has been an important part of my life.

Over the course of nearly twenty years, I have actively played in various ensembles, performed at hundreds of gigs, and worked in studios and on music productions. I am a member of the long-running Linda & Leo duo and release my own music under the artist name Leon Nightingale. I have also been involved in several party bands and other music projects.

Experience as a performer and teacher

My experience as a performer has given me a practical understanding of what good guitar playing is built on. In addition to technique, rhythm, playing together with others, sound, and the ability to apply what you have learned in practice are all important. These are the skills I also want to pass on to my students.

As a teacher, I have worked at Groove Music School, Demo Music School, primary and secondary schools, as well as the Sibelius Academy, where I worked as a lecturer in ensemble playing, teaching future music educators.

Over the years, I have taught a wide variety of students, from complete beginners to highly advanced hobbyists. My experience has strengthened my belief that learning is most effective when teaching progresses systematically and the atmosphere is supportive and encouraging.

In my teaching, I consider it important that:

  • teaching progresses clearly and logically

  • everyone receives personal guidance

  • the atmosphere is relaxed and encouraging

  • students experience success and stay motivated to continue practicing

My goal is not only for students to learn new skills, but also to gain the confidence to use and apply them in practice.