Eric R. Singh
Faculty: Guitar
Education:
Doctor of Musical Arts (DMA), Guitar Performance — Northwestern University Master of Music (MM), Guitar Performance — Northwestern University Bachelor of Music (BM), Guitar Performance — University of Arizona Awards & Honors Northwestern University Doctoral Fellowship Northwestern University Eckstein Scholarship William Wolf Scholarship 1st Prize — Schaeffer International Guitar Competition Finalist — Norman Sholin International Guitar Competition University of Arizona Honors College Research Grant Bowdoin Summer Music Festival Merit Scholarship Professional Affiliations / Experience Former Faculty & Program Manager, Adult Guitar and Ensembles — Old Town School of Folk Music Lecturer & Resident Performer — Bienen School of Music, Northwestern University
Bio:
Eric R. Singh is a Chicago-based guitarist and educator with extensive experience teaching students of all ages and levels. He holds a Doctor of Musical Arts from Northwestern University and has taught at institutions including the Old Town School of Folk Music, Northwestern University, Harold Washington College, and The People’s Music School. Eric combines strong technical foundations with musicianship-first teaching that emphasizes listening, rhythm, and ensemble playing. As a performer, he has collaborated with leading contemporary musicians and appeared at festivals in the U.S. and abroad. His teaching focuses on helping students build confidence, musical understanding, and long-term engagement with music.
Favorite Musicians:
I love Jamaican music from the early 1960s through the 1980s — especially early ska, rocksteady, reggae, and dub. I’ve always admired Bob Marley and Joe Strummer and other artists who stood with the people. I’m also deeply drawn to early and contemporary classical music, particularly baroque lute and spectral composers such as Tristan Murail.
Quote:
“Music education is essential because it builds listening, discipline, creativity, and a sense of connection to others — skills that support learning and self-expression far beyond music itself. Merit School of Music is a special place because it combines artistic excellence with deep access and care, creating an environment where students from all backgrounds are supported, challenged, and empowered through music.”
