Jesse Steele

Jesse Steele is an Adjunct Instructor of Guitar at the Music Academy of Southeast Missouri State University, where he teaches and integrates his expertise in classical guitar pedagogy with self-taught traditions of banjo and mandolin. He holds a Master of Music (M.M.) in Classical Guitar Performance and Pedagogy from Northwestern University and a dual Bachelor’s in Music Composition and Guitar Performance from Southeast Missouri State University.

• Education:
  • Bachelor’s in Music Composition and Guitar Performance (2018), Southeast Missouri State University
  • Master of Music in Classical Guitar Performance and Pedagogy (2020), Northwestern University

Steele’s research and practice focus on plucked string pedagogy, exploring historical connections between classical guitar and American folk instruments like the banjo and mandolin. His work bridges formal classical training with self-taught methodologies, aiming to revive and adapt early 20th-century teaching practices for contemporary education.

He has performed in masterclasses with renowned musicians such as Manuel Barrueco and Oscar Ghiglia, and with ensembles like the Contemporary Music Ensemble at Northwestern University. His performance repertoire includes mixed styles, electronic guitar, and banjo arrangements of classical and modern works.

Jesse also contributes to community music education by running summer camps, workshops, and classes at the SEMO Arts Council, while performing in recitals and church services. His teaching philosophy incorporates interdisciplinary approaches, linking vocal training, choir participation, and composition with plucked instrument pedagogy.