About Ralph Rotondo

Ralph Rotondo brings over four decades of teaching, performing, and mentoring experience to his music students. A graduate of the University of Lowell's prestigious Jazz Studies program, Ralph is a passionate educator and versatile guitarist who combines his classical tuba background into the unique voice of the seven-string guitar. Influenced by the style of George Van Eps, Ralph has developed a rich, multi-voiced approach to the instrument.

His playing spans a wide range of styles including Jazz, Classical, Funk, Blues, and Afro-Caribbean music. Throughout his musical journey, Ralph has studied with renowned artists and educators such as Jerry Bergonzi, Charlie Banacos, Harvey Diamond, and Attila Zoller. He has also participated in master classes with jazz legends Joe Pass, Tal Farlow, Max Roach, Billy Taylor, and Ted Dunbar.

Ralph’s teaching experience is equally broad, with faculty roles at Indian Hill Art Center, The Groton School, The Lawrence Academy, and the Creative Arts for Kids program in Reading, MA. He has taught in both public and private school settings, run his own teaching studio, and led numerous ensemble and afterschool music programs.

Whether introducing a beginner to their first chords or guiding advanced students through jazz improvisation and theory, Ralph’s teaching reflects his deep musicianship, technical excellence, and dedication to helping each student find their own musical voice.