music education
skylar funk is a Los Angeles–based music educator and private instructor who brings creativity, versatility, and real-world experience to every lesson. With a Master of Music in Popular Music Teaching and Learning from USC Thornton School of Music, he teaches Music Theory at the LA County High School for the Arts (LACHSA) and offers private instruction in piano, guitar, saxophone, voice, songwriting, and developing musicianship and artistry.
sky’s teaching approach is grounded in Culturally Sustaining Pedagogy. Informed by his USC capstone project, Hacking Pop Music: A Student-Centered Approach to Teaching Harmony, he emphasizes giving students agency over the music they study. By connecting foundational theory to the songs and styles students love, he helps them build technical skill, musical understanding, and artistic confidence in ways that feel meaningful and motivating.
As a touring musician, member of Classic Noir, and frontman of Trapdoor Social, sky brings professional insight into teaching creativity, performance, and music entrepreneurship. As a mentor, he works with young artists to find their unique voice, navigate the music industry, and grow as both musicians and creative thinkers in a supportive, inspiring environment.