About

Hi, I'm Tom.

Guitarist since twelve. Teacher since 2009. Dad of three. Rhode Island born and raised.

I've been playing guitar since I was twelve, and teaching since 2009. Over the years, I've learned that the magic isn't in the drills or the scales. It's in the moment a student stops going through the motions and realizes they're actually creating music. That spark, when it clicks that they're not just playing notes but making something their own, is what I live for as a teacher.

Born and raised right here in Westerly, I've spent my life making music in this community. Whether your child is picking up a guitar for the very first time or reaching for an All-State audition, I'm here to help them find that moment for themselves.

I'm also a dad of three, and that's a huge part of my life.

Tom laughing on the couch with two of his kids — Dad of three.

Through the years

School portrait of Tom as a boy in a bow tie and sweater vest — Me as a kid, in my bow tie era.

Three young guitarists in suits holding up their guitars — Around 1997. I'm on the far right.

Two guitarists playing on a stage under green lights — On stage with the band. I'm on the left. Photo: Kristi Kinsella

Tom at a microphone on stage with one arm raised — Still on stage. Photo: George Corrigan

Why “Riptide”?

Rip

First, you learn to rip on your instrument: to really play, with confidence and some fire.

Tide

We're a beach community. The name is a nod to our little corner of the coast.

Riptide

Put them together and you get what music does to you. It pulls you in, and before you know it you're swept up, making music that's truly your own.

Every new student starts with a free trial.

Pick a time and let's make some music.

Book a Trial Lesson