Hi, I’m Mario. From the moment I picked up my first guitar 17 years ago, I soon realised that this is what I wanted to do with my life. Not only did I enjoy playing the instrument, but my love for teaching was quickly uncovered. I began giving informal lessons to friends and family members who were keen to learn. This only fuelled my passion for teaching and planted the seed that inevitably led to the creation of Music with Mario and Friends. My aim was to offer the highest quality lessons to students. Lessons that not only gave clients the highest quality, but also the best value for money.

Although I no longer personally teach, I have assembled the most talented, passionate, hungry and professional team. A team that shares in that same goal. Collectively we are changing what a music school can, and should be. Our aim is to create an environment where excellence, great service, a warm atmosphere and unparalleled lessons are what our clients have come to expect from us.

We are proudly South African, proudly all inclusive, and proudly Music with Mario and Friends.

Hi, I’m Sergio. I’ve been playing guitar for around 15 years. Here at Music with Mario and Friends, I specialise in teaching the art of improvising. Now what is improvising? Improvising is a skill that allows you to play over a piece of music spontaneously without ever having rehearsed or prepared. It’s sort of like free-styling, but for guitar. Whatever style floats your boat, whether it’s Funk, Classical, Rock or Metal, we’ll delve into the theory of the genre, and learn how it actually works. The more techniques you have in your arsenal, the better your improv skills. So you’ll learn a wide variety of songs and licks that will utilise techniques such as tapping, sweep picking, legato and economy picking.

By the end of this course you’ll be an improvising beast with a high level of technical ability as well as a versatile musician who knows and understands why and how music works.

Hi, I’m Martin. For as long as I can remember, music has always been my passion. By the time I turned 9 I had already decided to dedicate my life to music, with the guitar being my main element. I studied and worked hard to be awarded my Diploma in Music Technology and Sound Engineering. I now have all this knowledge in me that I’m so eager to share. I always somehow knew that one day I would have the ability to assist and inspire others to learn along with me. Here at Music with Mario and Friends you will learn how to understand music and structure. Once you understand how music works, it’s important to feel the music. I will not only teach you how to play the guitar, I will show you how to become a professional session guitarist.

You can never learn enough if you focus on what you want to achieve. Follow your passion, and success will follow you!

Hi, I’m Mat. I’ve been playing the guitar for most of my life. From the moment I picked up my first guitar I felt an instant connection to the instrument, and today I feel it’s an extension of myself. After years of perfecting my skills, being the lead member of many musical groups, completing my studies in music and winning SAMMA awards as a musician, I have decided to join the Music with Mario and Friends team to share my knowledge of guitar and everything associated.

My passion for teaching has never been stronger and I look forward to educating and guiding students into success and beyond, through fun and interactive lessons!

Hi, I’m Tebogo. I’ve been playing the drums for over 14 years. From the minute I sat behind my first drum kit, I couldn’t get enough. This passion drove me to complete my Bachelor’s degree in music, majoring in drums and music education. Over the years I have worked and performed with various local and international award winning artists, and was also given the opportunity to partner with the department of arts and culture in 2014

Here at Music with Mario and Friends, my aim is to help my students become excellent drummers. I take great pride in taking complex rhythms and making them easily accessible to all. Drums add so much excitement to music, and I’m really passionate and eager to share that excitement with my students.
Drum roll please!

Hi, I’m Jayson. I’m a composer, arranger, performer and teacher of music. I’ve always been passionate about playing, teaching and sharing music with those around me.

I’ve performed extensively in the industry around South Africa, as well as abroad. This includes live gigs, corporate events, as well as being involved with my church band.

Here at Music with Mario and Friends, I aim to share my passion for the piano with my students. Being proficient in classical and jazz, I aim to assist my students in furthering their playing in these genres and beyond.

Hi, I’m Hlulani. I am a multidisciplinary performer and singer born in South Africa. I have a passion for all styles of music as a vocalist including Jazz, Soul, R&B, World Music and Pop. I have had extensive training in vocal work and performance through several genres. My musical career has brought me to many venues in South Africa, Mozambique and Germany.

I believe that anyone can make music; and in that creative space is where people are at their most human; exploring and telling stories – withholding nothing. I believe in creating a safe space for students to be unapologetically themselves.

No matter your reason for pursuing vocal training at Music with Mario and Friends; I am able and excited to structure a lesson that will meet your needs. I strive to inspire students to unlock their potential by incorporating strong vocal technique and musicianship into the music they enjoy singing.

Hi, I’m Timothy. I’m a full time performing musician and music teacher. My musical journey started at the age of 11, where I studied under guitarist Rodney Adonis. I soon realised not only my love for the guitar, but my passion for Jazz.

After years of hard work honing my skills, I emerged as a qualified and highly sought after Jazz guitarist, becoming Cape Town’s youngest full time performing musician at the age of 16. I began working with well known international artists in Cape Town and around the country.

Some highlights of my career include being nominated to perform at the Artscape Youth Jazz Festival, recording with pianist, composer and arranger Tony Drake, as well as performing with internationally renowned Jazz guitarist Jonathan Butler.

Here at Music with Mario and Friends I aim to assist my students in unlocking their hidden potential on the guitar, and guide them in allowing music to change their lives, as it has mine.

Hi, I’m Wandile. I’m a seasoned pianist, composer and music teacher. I honed my skills as an eager teenager fascinated by sounds exposed to me by the environment. I strive to always be the best version of myself, constantly evolving and exploring the depths of musical expression through the piano.

As your piano teacher, I am committed to sharing my expertise and ignite a fiery passion for music within you.

Here at Music with Mario and Friends I eagerly anticipate the opportunity to pass on my knowledge to you. We’ll explore rhythm, cultivate creativity, and nurture a deep understanding of the piano.

The piano awaits your command, and I am excited to embark on this musical journey with you.

Hi, I’m Mongezi. I’m a pianist, composer, producer and piano tutor. I’ve been playing the piano since the age of 13, and ever since, my life purpose was realised.

I’ve performed on numerous stages with multiple musicians, playing different genres ranging from Jazz to Afro-Pop and Hip Hop.

Here at Music with Mario and Friends, I aim to not only teach my students how to play the piano, but rather the art of understanding the science of music in a fun and simple manner. This technique enables my students to not only improvise, but to have the ability to impose and manipulate their own creative musical ideas at will with complete clarity and understanding.

I look forward to being part of your adventurous, creative music journey, filled with mysteries and accomplishments.

Hi, I’m Lindiwe. I’m a singer, flautist and voice coach. My passion for the human singing voice began at an early age when I was introduced to the concept of classical singing in high school. This sparked up a significant desire to take formal voice training which eventually led me to study my Bachelor of music. During my years of study, I specialized in voice performance and flute, focusing on Voice Health.

Throughout my music career I have been a music tutor, I have played lead roles in operas as well as musicals, and I have had several performances for formal government events and outreaches that gave me the opportunity to embrace my ability to sing all genres of music.

Here at Music with Mario and Friends, I aim to help and guide students of all ages to grow into their potential and fulfil their unique goals. While I teach my students to be excellent musicians and performers, I also strongly believe that music positively influences self-esteem, communication skills, stress management and creativity for their life. I proactively seek out and implement material from musical theatre, classical, jazz, afro jazz, rock and pop as well as contemporary genres to engage and stimulate all students.

I look forward to helping my students develop healthy singing technique and overall confidence. Let’s make beautiful music together!

Hi, I’m Jabu. I’m a violinist whose music transcends genres and borders. From Soweto to international stages, I blend classical precision with contemporary flair, creating unique and unforgettable experiences. Trained by the finest, I infuse my performances with authenticity, reflecting my personal journey and cultural roots. My emotive performances connect audiences to the universal language of music, leaving an indelible mark on hearts worldwide.
As a violinist and teacher, I believe that music is not just about mastering an instrument, it’s about discovering your voice and telling your story. I’m passionate about nurturing individual expression and creativity in my students, guiding them to find their own unique sound. Here at Music with Mario and Friends I strive to help each student unlock their potential, both as musicians and as individuals.

Hi, I’m Chief. I’m a piano player, arranger, song writer, teacher, reader and absolute music lover.

Born and raised in the East of Johannesburg, I started my piano playing journey in 2001. I’ve worked extensively in the music industry around South Africa and abroad. Having worked with professional musicians from around the world, I’m uniquely placed to better help my students excel with their playing, no matter their choice in genre.

I’m friendly, outgoing and absolutely love sharing my knowledge with anyone willing to listen.

Here at Music with Mario and Friends, I hope to transfer the knowledge I’ve gained with my students, so they may go forth and conquer their wildest musical dreams.