Guitar Center is cranking up the volume on its commitment to the next generation of musicians. In a bold move to revolutionize the learning experience, Guitar Center proudly announces the addition of two high-impact leaders to its Lessons team: celebrated educator Giovanni “John” Bianchette as Vice President of Music Education, and GRAMMY® Award-winning rock guitarist Dave Kushner as Senior Director of Music Education Experience.
With this powerhouse duo at the helm, Guitar Center is charting an electrifying course toward 50,000 active students – redefining how music is taught, experienced, and shared across its nationwide store network.
“This is a game-changer and showcases our commitment to the future of music education,” said Mike Schultheis, EVP and Chief Stores Officer at Guitar Center. “John is a strategic powerhouse in education, and Dave is a literal rock legend. Together, they bring unmatched energy, creativity, and credibility to our Lessons Program that will inspire a whole new generation of lifelong musicians.”
John Bianchette is a respected educator and brings public and private sector experience from leadership roles at Mathnasium, including Vice President of Education and Training. He has led instructional strategy, driven talent development, and shaped innovative, student-centered learning models. Focused on impact, Bianchette builds high-performing teams, broadens access, and redefines quality instruction. As Vice President of Music Education, he’ll oversee the expansion, innovation, and quality of Guitar Center’s music education offerings – building a scalable, inclusive experience that keeps students progressing, engaged and excited.
“I couldn’t be more thrilled to join a brand that lives and breathes music,” said Bianchette. “Guitar Center gives us the platform to reach tens of thousands of aspiring musicians, and we’re just getting started. It’s time to put music education back where it belongs – at the center of culture, creativity and community.”
Dave Kushner is best known as a founding member of rock supergroup Velvet Revolver and brings decades of stage, studio and education experience to his new role as Senior Director of Music Education Experience at Guitar Center. Kushner has composed music for film and television, collaborated with icons like Elton John and Stevie Wonder, and developed popular online guitar courses. In his new role, Kushner will bring the magic of performance to every lesson – energizing curriculum and content for students online and in-store.
“From the stage to the classroom, music has the power to change lives,” said Kushner. “As a musician who grew up in Hollywood, Guitar Center has been a part of my DNA for decades. With this new role, I plan to marry the ‘glory’ of the past culture with an educational experience rooted in the present and drive it all into the future.”
With the visionary leadership of Bianchette paired with Kushner’s deep experience within the music industry, Guitar Center’s Lessons Program is poised to spark creativity, confidence and community for tens of thousands of students across the country.
“The future of music education starts now,” said Schultheis. “And it’s louder, bolder, and more inspiring than ever!”
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