SOUND ROADS MUSIC
TOM FARRELL
DIRECTOR AND CO-OWNER
Tom Farrell – Director & Co-Owner
Tom Farrell has been teaching music for almost 30 years, helping many students grow into professional musicians. A strong advocate for live performance, he makes it central to both his teaching and his own career as a guitarist.
Growing up in Chicago, Tom started guitar at 12, learning how to play in rock bands before later pursuing classical guitar at DePaul University and Northwestern University, where he earned his master’s degree summa cum laude. He went on to perform for leading guitarists and won the Society of American Musicians Collegiate Guitar Competition.
As a performer, Tom has appeared on multiple film soundtracks and continues to tour and record, bringing his artistry to audiences across the U.S. and abroad.
REIKO NAKANO
DIRECTOR AND CO-OWNER
Reiko Nakano – Violinist & Educator
Reiko Nakano is a violinist, educator, and co-owner of Sound Roads Music in Santa Monica. She earned her Bachelor of Music degree from Berklee College of Music, specializing in Jazz and World Music, while also developing her artistry as a classically trained violinist. Known for her versatility, Reiko has performed with acclaimed artists and contributed to projects such as the Grammy-nominated soundtrack for the documentary Becoming by Kamasi Washington and GNX by Kendrick Lamar.
Alongside her performance career, Reiko has cultivated a deep passion for teaching. With years of experience, she brings creativity, discipline, and inspiration to her lessons, encouraging students to explore styles they truly enjoy. Believing that every student is an artist, she tailors her approach to nurture both confidence and technical skill. Through her teaching and performances, Reiko continues to inspire the next generation to connect with their passion for music.
