Andrew Laughton is a guitarist, educator, composer, and Suzuki guitar teacher based in Waterloo, Ontario. He holds a Bachelor of Music (Honours Performance) with Distinction from Wilfrid Laurier University, where he studied classical guitar with renowned guitarist Terry McKenna. Upon graduation, Andrew was awarded the Alumni Gold Medal for achieving the highest academic average in an honours program.

 

Andrew's musical journey began with piano lessons at age six and guitar lessons at age eleven. While his early years were spent playing electric guitar and writing original music with local bands, he later developed a passion for classical guitar, leading to advanced studies in performance, composition, and improvisation. As a performer, he has appeared as a soloist, chamber musician, concerto competition finalist, and collaborator in a wide variety of musical settings. He is also an active composer whose works have been performed in concert halls, films, and multimedia projects.

 

Alongside his performance career, Andrew has maintained a thriving private teaching studio since 2017 and currently teaches guitar and piano students of all ages and levels. His teaching philosophy emphasizes deep technical understanding, joyful music-making, and fostering lifelong musicianship. Drawing on experience in classical, folk, popular, and improvisational traditions, he enjoys helping students discover meaningful connections to music through their own interests and goals.

 

Andrew was introduced to the Suzuki Method in 2023 and immediately embraced its philosophy of nurturing every child's potential through encouragement, listening, and parent involvement. He completed Every Child Can! and Suzuki Guitar Units 1, 2, and 3 through the Suzuki Association of the Americas and is an active member of the Suzuki community as a member of the SAA and Suzuki Music/Musique Canada. 

 

Andrew is excited to be part of the Suzuki Talent Education of Waterloo community and enjoys helping students and families build confidence, discipline, creativity, and a lifelong love of music.