About Your Instructor
I’m Samuel Cristea, lead guitarist of Liliac—and someone who has dedicated more than a decade to mastering the guitar, studying music, and performing on stages across the country. My journey has been shaped by countless hours of practice, live performances, formal study, and a deep passion for pushing my craft as far as it can go.
My Story
For over 10 years, I’ve been actively playing guitar, performing live shows, and touring. Being on the road taught me what it really takes to play with confidence, consistency, and musicality night after night. It wasn’t just about technique—it was about discipline, communication, expression, and learning how to deliver under pressure.
These experiences shaped me not only as a guitarist, but as a musician who understands what works, what doesn’t, and how to help others grow.
A Blend of Formal Training & Self-Driven Mastery
My foundation started at the Downey Music Center, where I spent years studying music to develop strong technique, theory knowledge, and musicianship. This formal training gave me the structure and discipline to grow. But my journey didn’t stop there.
I continued learning on my own—diving deep into advanced techniques, studying the greats, and building my skills through self-teaching, online college-level music courses, and thousands of hours of dedicated practice.
This combination of structured study and self-driven exploration shaped me into the player I am today: versatile, experienced, and passionate about passing on what I’ve learned.
WHY I TEACH
After years of performing, studying, and continually pushing myself to grow, I realized something:
I love helping others find their voice on the guitar.
Teaching isn’t just a side passion—it’s my way of giving back to the next generation of guitarists. I know what it feels like to struggle, to hit walls, to feel confused, or overwhelmed. And I know the power of having the right guidance.
My mission is simple:
To pass down the torch.
To share what I’ve learned.
To help guitarists grow faster, play better, and unlock their full potential.
Whether you’re picking up the guitar for the first time or pushing toward advanced lead-guitar mastery, I’m here to guide you with clear direction, proven methods, and real musical insight.
My Promise to You
Every course, lesson, and resource I create reflects the years I’ve spent studying, performing, and refining my craft. My goal is to give you the tools, clarity, and confidence to become the guitarist you want to be—with a learning experience that’s structured, supportive, and genuinely inspiring.