Hi, I’m Dave Yates, music instructor and owner of Appalachian Music Lessons of Johnson City, Tennessee. Born and raised in Johnson City, I’ve spent the majority of my life submerged in music on every level. I learned to play guitar at the age of 7 and have over 35 years of teaching and playing experience with multiple instruments. I’ve played with the likes of Merle Haggard, Grammy Award Winner Tim Stafford, Rhonda Vincent, Adam Steffey, Barry Bales, John Gardner, Rob Ickes, Charlie Daniels, Trey Hensley, and Doc Watson, just to name a few. In 2004, I released my own CD, The Working Man. I’ve taught private lessons since 1986. My experience also includes being an Adjunct Professor in the Appalachian Studies Department at East Tennessee State University from 2000-2016; ETSU is the only university in the world that offers a major in bluegrass music, . If you are interested in taking private lessons to reach your musical level of comfort, from the novice to the professional, I’m your guy. I specialize in teaching young kids and young musicians to help nuture their creative style, but I’m also qualified to teach professional and accomplished musicians alike. I am also available for studio session work.
200 E Mountcastle Drive , 37601 Johnson City
The Academy of Strings is a music Academy devoted to the personal development of children and youth through quality music education and performance.
8 Worth Circle Suite #102 , 37601 Johnson City
Private Music Instruction