Adam Oliver
GUITAR • CLASSICAL / ACOUSTIC / ELECTRIC / BASS • UKULELE

Adam Oliver

  • 20+ years experience
  • Studio & soundtrack work
  • Band Program Director
  • Creativity + performance

Adam Oliver is a renowned studio guitarist, music producer, and guitar educator based in Southern California. With over 20 years of experience, his playing has been featured in major motion picture soundtracks and as the lead guitarist for Spot Collins and The Sessions. Adam’s musical journey began at the age of 8, quickly progressing to mastery and earning him a place at the prestigious Guitar Institute of Technology (GIT) in Hollywood, CA.

His career has since encompassed performance, production, and education, making him a versatile force in the music industry. For the past decade, Adam has been one of the most popular guitar teachers in Orange County, inspiring students with his passion and expertise. Before that, he spent 10 years teaching in other regions, honing his craft as an educator. In addition to guitar, Adam teaches bass and ukulele, offering students a well-rounded musical foundation.

As the founder and director of Irvine Art and Music Center’s (IAMC) Band Program, Adam has created opportunities for young musicians to collaborate, perform, and thrive. His emphasis on creativity and live performance ensures students gain both technical skills and confidence, making him a highly sought-after teacher.

Mike Talanca
BASS GUITAR • ALSO GUITAR / UKULELE

Mike Talanca

  • Musicians Institute (AA)
  • “Outstanding Student”
  • Audio engineer (20+ yrs)
  • Advanced harmony

Mike Talanca has been involved in music for over 20 years. He attended Musicians Institute, where he earned an AA in Music Performance and received the prestigious “Most Outstanding Student” award upon graduation. Since then, he has been recording and performing with various groups and artists in the Southern California area.

Alongside his performance career, Mike also composes and arranges music for clients. He has composed pieces for the media department of the USS Theodore Roosevelt, contributing to their ongoing projects. Recently, he collaborated with the Legacy Scoring Orchestra, working on his original music for an upcoming release. Moreover, Mike possesses extensive experience as an audio engineer, having worked in recording studios for over 20 years.

He has engineered recording sessions and excelled in mixing and mastering tracks for clients. Additionally, he has delved into sound design for cartoons. While Mike’s primary instrument is the bass, he is also proficient in guitar and ukulele. He warmly welcomes students of all levels, ranging from beginners to advanced players seeking to refine their skills or delve into advanced harmony.

Felicia Chen
PIANO & GUITAR • ACOUSTIC / ELECTRIC

Felicia Chen

  • GIT graduate
  • Level 5 Yamaha cert
  • Theory + musicianship
  • All levels

Felicia Chen is a dynamic and versatile musician whose talents span across guitar, piano, and traditional Chinese instruments. Born and raised in Taiwan, Felicia brings a rich cultural perspective to her music and teaching, fluently speaking English, Mandarin, and Taiwanese. Felicia's musical journey began at the tender age of four when she started classical piano training.

Her dedication and passion for music led her to develop impeccable pitch and a deep understanding of music theory, earning her the prestigious Level 5 Piano Teaching Certificate from Yamaha. As a trailblazer in her field, Felicia is proud to be the first Taiwanese female graduate of the renowned Guitar Institute of Technology (GIT) at Musicians Institute in Hollywood, California.

Before pursuing her musical dreams in the U.S., Felicia earned a Bachelor’s degree in Healthcare Administration from Chung Shan Medical University. Felicia is not only a talented performer but also a dedicated teacher, inspiring students with her vast knowledge and approachable teaching style. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced player, learning from Felicia is a transformative musical experience.

Robby Lochner
GUITAR • ROCK / METAL / BLUES • CLASSICAL • SONGWRITING • READING

Robby Lochner

  • Touring + recording
  • Artist development
  • Song placements (film)
  • All ages & levels

Robby Lochner is a professional guitarist, songwriter, music producer, and educator with decades of national and international experience in rock and contemporary music. Based in Southern California, he has built a career spanning touring, recording, artist development, and music education.

As a performer, Robby has toured and recorded with artists such as Jack Russell’s Great White, Rob Halford (Judas Priest) in Fight, Eddie Money, Herman Rarebell (Scorpions), Bobby Kimball (Toto), Spencer Davis, Cherie Currie (Runaways), and Carmine and Vinnie Appice. His extensive live and studio work gives students an authentic understanding of what it takes to grow as a working musician.

Robby’s production credits include song placements in films, and he served as technical advisor on the film Kid starring Brian Austin Green. His music has also been recognized nationally, including a feature on Billboard’s Album Network.

As an instructor, Robby teaches rock, metal, blues, classical guitar, ragtime, songwriting, and reading for students of all ages. His lessons blend strong fundamentals with real-world application, building confidence, creativity, and long-term progress toward each student’s goals.

Not sure who to pick?

Call us and we’ll match you with the best instructor for your goals, age, and schedule.

Enroll Now Call 949-559-3069
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