JD is originally from the southwest side of Chicago, has studied the guitar for close to twenty years, and has taught guitar to students of all ages for fifteen years. Soon after his skill on the guitar began to flourish, he started to delve into the subjects of music recording, sound reinforcement, and electronic production which lead him to obtain a degree from Columbia College Chicago in Audio Production and Design. After graduating college he began working as an audio instructor with an after school program geared at providing inner city youths with a working knowledge of sound reinforcement and music recording called the Sound Alternative. In addition to his work with the Sound Alternative, JD has served as a recording engineer for various bands and artists, and has held positions as Lead Audio technician for a variety of events and venues. JD has made it a life goal of his to surround himself with opportunities to work with music, and especially enjoys sharing his passion with others through performance and his teaching practice.