Derek Kent is a classical guitarist and instructor born on a frigid winter night in the heart of Minnesota.  From an early age he knew that music would be a big part of his life.    His passion for music has led him to study classical guitar at the University of North Carolina School of the Arts, under the famed Suzuki teacher-trainer Joseph Pecoraro. He has recently registered with the Suzuki Association of the Americas to teach using the method developed by the legendary musical pedagogue Shinichi Suzuki.  

 

Derek arrived to the classical scene late in his musical journey.  As a youngster he dabbled in alto saxaphone, electric bass, electric guitar, and the drums, yet nothing could appease his yearning for musical intricacy like the classical guitar.  Classical music provides a physical and mental challenge that will enrapture him for the rest of his life.​



Currently a candidate for graduation in May of 2014, Derek will recieve a Bachelor's Degree in Classical Guitar Performance from UNCSA.  Over the past three years he has been performing across both North Carolina and Minnesota, collaborating with various instrumentalists and vocalists as well as composing scores for short films and contemporary dance pieces.  

 

Upon obtaining his degree, Derek Kent plans on moving back to Minnesota to perform, as well as teach guitar in the east metro using the Suzuki method.  Aside from teaching, one of his main focuses will be touring in the RQD Guitar Duo with fellow guitarist Neal Shipe.