Randy Naranjo, M.S.
Guitar Instructor

Randy Naranjo is a guitarist, educator, and musician from Corpus Christi, Texas. His musical journey started in elementary school, where he sang in the 4th-grade choir and played cello in the orchestra. At age 14, he picked up the guitar, which quickly became his main focus and enduring passion.

He studied Classical and Jazz guitar at Del Mar College with Philip Hii, Chester Rupe, and Keith Justus. Randy went on to earn a Bachelor’s Degree in Jazz Studies from Texas State University in 2006, where he studied with Dr. James Polk and Mark Cruz. He later continued his training in Austin with guitarists Glenn Rexach and Tommy Howard. In 2009, he received a Master’s Degree in Secondary Education from Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi.

With 25 years of teaching experience, Randy has worked with elementary music and middle school choir students. For the past 12 years, he has been a faculty member at SAMA, where he enjoys sharing his knowledge and love of music with his students. As a performer, he has played with various groups exploring styles ranging from Classical and Jazz to Motown, Funk, and Rock.

Randy considers himself a perpetual student and is always eager to keep learning. In recent years, he has had the opportunity to study with guitarists Rich Severson, Sheryl Bailey, Alex Hutchings, and Carl Verheyen. He is also learning the craft of guitar and violin repair, which has deepened his appreciation for the instruments.

Randy lives in San Antonio with his wife Cathy, their three children, and their dog and cat. He remains grateful for the chance to teach, perform, and continue growing as a musician.