Anchorage Music Academy
Anchorage Music Academy was founded in 2020 with one goal in mind: to help students of all ages and experience levels learn the music they love. We understand that each student has different interests and different ways of learning. We take a flexible approach to our lessons, keeping the learning process fun and individualized for each student, all while teaching the proper amount of music theory and ear training depending on the student’s musical interests. Our teachers help students in everything from band/orchestra classes to music production to serious classical piano works to heavy metal and rock n’ roll! We want to make sure you aren’t just learning music, but having fun and working towards fulfilling your musical goals.
Andrew Manka
Owner & Instructor of Guitar and Piano
Andrew Manka is an award-winning guitarist who has over 10 years of music teaching experience. Andrew graduated with his masters degree from Northern Arizona University and later embarked on tours across the country with nationally acclaimed groups including the Grammy award-winning artist Los Angeles Guitar Quartet, Andrew York, NAU Chamber Orchestra, ASU Guitar Orchestra, and the Arizona State Guitar Orchestra. After several years of performing abroad, Andrew moved back to his hometown to open Anchorage Music Academy in 2020 and has since taught hundreds of young Alaskans. Andrew is currently studying for his Ph.D in Music Education under Dr. Lily Afshar at the University of Memphis. Andrew handles lesson scheduling and billing so feel free contact him with any questions!
Francisco Badillo
Instructor of Guitar, Drums, Violin, Ukulele and Piano
Francisco is a local staple here in the Anchorage Music scene and has been teaching music in Anchorage since 2015. After graduating from UAA with a double major in music performance and music education, he began performing professionally with several locally acclaimed acts including the Conway Seavey Band, Superfrequency, Woodrow, Velvet Lala, the UAA Jazz Combo and many more. Francisco has performed all over the state of Alaska in venues as large as the Sullivan Arena all the way to intimate performances for weddings at Crow Creek Mine. Francisco also co-founded the only mariachi band in Alaska, Mariachi Agave Azul, where he plays the Mexican vihuela.
Carrie Gruhn
Instructor of Beginner - Advanced Piano, Guitar, and Ukulele
Carrie Gruhn has a lifetime of experience teaching and performing music as a professional. She's been teaching piano for over 20 years and even performs locally with her jazz band, the A-Town Sharps, as well as various church services around the city. Carrie is a multi-instrumentalist and has experience with flute, ukulele, bass, guitar, and even vocals! Right now, her favorite instrument is mandolin. Carrie has been playing classical music since she was young, but also has played for high school jazz bands and can assist students with their school jazz studies.