Guitarist and composer Don Pride has an extensive performance background. He is noted for being able to play a wide variety of styles.  As a classical guitarist he has presented concerts and recitals throughout the United States.  Don recently played lead guitar as part of Clay Aiken's band.  He is also a member of the Chelsea Symphony in New York City.  He recently performed for President George W. Bush in Kennebunk and is the leader of Pride & Joy, a group that has played throughout New England since 1995. 

Don was formerly on the Applied Music Faculty at the University of Maine at Farmington, where he was head of the Guitar Department. He served as Music Minister for Windham Assembly of God from 2007 – 2009.

Don has studied privately with distinguished guitarists Eliot Fisk, David Leisner, Mark Delpriora, Keith Crook, and Tony Gabouri.  He has also studied composition with Pulitzer Prize nominated composer Charles Fussell as well as Elliott Schwartz and Mark Scearce.  He graduated summa cum laude from the University of Southern Maine with his bachelor’s degree in Classical Guitar Performance.  He pursued further graduate studies at Manhattan School of Music in New York City and New England Conservatory in Boston.  He also attended the University of Maine at Augusta where he received a two-year diploma in Jazz Guitar Performance. While attending there, he had the privilege of playing with the great Tenor saxophonist Sonny Rollins.

Don teaches all styles of music including classical, jazz, rock and other popular styles.  He accepts students of all levels from beginners to advanced players.  Don’s unique style of teaching incorporates reading music, playing by ear and music theory.  He works with each student to create a customized lesson and practice schedule that will help them achieve their goals.  He has been teaching professionally for 25 years.