Griffin Swank does so many things so well, it can be difficult to catalog them all. First, there’s the musicianship: He is an ace on guitar, piano, pedal steel, ukulele, bass, and more, gliding between instruments with a calm confidence that reassures everyone around him, whether they’re fellow players or students. Next, there’s his teaching. Expert but open-minded, focused but fun, he transforms lessons into personal explorations of music. Lastly, but most importantly, there’s Griffin the guy: kind, responsible, funny, and encouraging.

At Bojangles, Griffin teaches all levels of guitar, as well as voice, piano, lap and pedal steel, ukulele, and more. When he isn’t teaching, audiences catch him performing live with his band Griffin Swank and the Hubble Space Parade, as well as Pot Roast, the Roadrunners, and other groups. 

As a teacher, Griffin loves the diversity of genres and styles students bring to the school. He works with players of all ages to develop a personal connection with music and a love of playing their instrument, all while pursuing achievable goals. 

“Studying an instrument can be an endlessly fulfilling quest that significantly strengthens our brains!” Griffin says. “At any skill level, there is always room to grow and learn new skills and tricks. It is one of the great ways in this life to connect with ourselves and the people around us.”