I grew up in Newfoundland, Canada where a rich tradition of Irish and English folk songs told stories inspired by the sea. My mom loved to sing and we had an old nylon-string guitar propped up in the living room that my dad would strum on Friday nights. This was how I learned my first chords and strumming patterns, and soon my parents enrolled me in lessons with a guitar teacher near my school.

The first few weeks or so were filled with hurting fingers and frustration - I was close to quitting. But my patient and encouraging teacher helped me get past the discomfort and opened up a world of musical discovery. Soon I was figuring out songs from records and the radio. I would play for hours in my bedroom, and at church, at school, for my friends - any chance I got.

That was the beginning of a life lived in pursuit of music.

From then until now, through all phases of my life music has been a constant. It has been with me through life’s highs and lows and everywhere in between. It has created lasting friendships. It gives me hope that we can make a difference. It reminds me of what is good in the world.

Picco Music Academy gives me a chance to share the gift that music has been in my life. I’m so fortunate to be joined on this endeavor by great teachers who share the vision and who love passing on the gift.

I hope you will consider Picco Music Academy on your musical journey!

Chris Picco, Founder