David Ballard

Instruments: Guitar, Piano, Voice, Songwriting

Best Fit For: Students of all ages seeking a mentor with professional industry experience; especially those interested in songwriting, Rock en Español, or vocal performance.

Why we recommend him for music lessons in Kirkland & Bellevue:

With over two decades of experience as a professional musician and TV/film creator, David brings a sophisticated, multi-disciplinary approach to the Eastside music scene. A prolific songwriter with over 200 original compositions in both English and Spanish, he is uniquely equipped to mentor students in everything from advanced soloing to vocal technique. His background as the frontman of the acclaimed Rock en Español project *SANCHO* ensures his students learn not just how to play, but how to perform with professional presence.

He is a premier choice for families in neighborhoods like Houghton, Bridle Trails, and Enatai who value a teacher with global perspective. His instruction aligns with the high educational standards of the Bellevue College Music Department. By blending technical mastery with creative expression, he prepares students to appreciate the cultural depth of local landmarks like the Kirkland Performance Center and the vibrant arts community across Bellevue.

Specialized Teaching Focus:

• Guitar Mastery: Advanced scales, chord progressions, and soloing patterns across classic rock and Latin influences.
• Vocal Performance: Basic and advanced techniques focusing on breath, tone, and hand positioning.
• Bilingual Songwriting: Mentorship in composition and recording in both English and Spanish.
• Personalized Theory: Customized instruction that connects music theory to the songs students actually love in Juanita and Somerset.

Professional & Creative Background:

• Global Performer: Extensive touring experience across the U.S., Latin America, and Europe.
• Industry Veteran: Over 20 years balancing music education with a professional career in TV & Film production.
• Rock en Español Specialist: Founder of SANCHO, producing multiple albums and critically acclaimed music videos.

Teaching Style: David’s lessons are supportive, engaging, and deeply personalized. He focuses on building a strong technical foundation while encouraging the creative “outside the box” thinking necessary for students in West Bellevue and Finn Hill to find their own unique musical voice.