Anne began her music studies at age 10 with violin and guitar. She continued her studies playing music and songwriting upon entering W.Va. University as a music performance major in violin. Anne graduated from The Music Business Institute Of Atlanta, which furthered her music career business knowledge. Throughout the years she has been awarded numerous publishing contracts along with performing and songwriting awards. She stayed busy touring with several bands including a stint with Willie Waters, son of Muddy Waters where she cut her teeth as a blues lead guitarist. Her bands shared the stage with numerous big name Artists such as Johnny Winter, Indigo Girls,and BB King. Her Guitar playing style has been compared to Eric Clapton and Rock Daddy Keith Richards to name a few. Anne started the Asheville Music School 14 years ago but now serves as the Asheville Music School-West location’s director and co-owner. She also founded The Rock Academy last year which gives her students an opportunity to learn about live group performance. Anne is also involved in the  Arts for Life Program as a music resident. Arts for Life is a non profit organization dedicated to improving the lives of young children and families battling cancer and other chronic illnesses by teaching visual art,creative art and music. Along with Anne's busy performance schedule, she remains deeply dedicated to bringing music education to the Asheville community.

LESSONS WITH ANNE

Anne is a dedicated and patient teacher who always encourages her students to have fun and celebrate each stage of their learning. She tailors lessons to fit each student's personality and style, combining method book study and structure with ear training and improvisation. She strives to nurture everyone's creativity with her encouragement and enthusiasm.

Anne also co-owns and co-manages Guitar Loops Live which provides Guitar Practice Loops.

Testimonials

"We've had our fair share of music teachers with three daughters. Each of them has offered something different and good. But I must say that Anne Coombs has brought all of the qualities that we've loved in our previous teachers together in one person. She's, first of all, a gifted musician in her own right and that's inspiring. She's committed to our daughter as if she were Anne's only student. She's able to motivate without imposing a burden, and for a busy teenage student this is vitally important. She's always positive and encouraging. Finally, Anne is such a nice person that you're glad to be taking lessons from her just to get to know her."

Beth McKinsey

"Anne has been teaching my son, Thomas, a little over three years. He now plays both acoustic and electric guitars. Anne established a positive, relaxed rapport with Thomas from day one. Her gentle, supportive style of instruction is both motivating and fun! While Anne strives to improve the skills of her students, having fun is her primary goal. Thomas' experience with Anne has boosted his self-confidence and has spilled over into other musical endeavors in his middle school band. Thomas will tell anyone who asks that he is a musician: a guitarist, a percussionist and a pianist. Anne seems to be able to bring out the best in him and make him eager to learn more!"

Shelly Blackburn

"My daughter and I take lessons with Anne. My daughter plays electric guitar and I acoustic. My daughter has been a student since March and I recently started this summer. We love Anne because of her teaching style. She uses positive reinforcement to help build your confidence and makes you feel relaxed. She always has a smile for you and I think she would be a great instructor for anyone. My 13 year old daughter thinks she ROCKS! I think she is pretty cool myself."

Cindy Cannon

Aubrey Cannon

“Anne Coombs is an amazing talent. She has performed during many of our events. Her repertoire is extensive and she has been very open and flexible with client special requests. Anne’s musicianship and skill, both vocally and on guitar, is impressive, but it’s her attitude and willingness to accommodate the needs of our clients that keeps us coming back to her. I couldn’t offer a higher recommendation.”

Joe Lasher, President, M7 Event Solutions

"Anne has been teaching Parker (12) guitar for 2 years and he switches between acoustic and electric. His interests have branched out from guitar to trumpet and now piano based on the fundamentals and love of music Anne helped him develop. Her teaching style is effective and approachable. Parker enjoys her summer Guitar Camp, too. I would recommend her to all ages. I hope to sometime take lessons myself! She is a delight."

Christine Nelson

"Anne is one super talented lady! I never knew I'd enjoy the sound of a Telecaster until I heard one played by her hands! And she's also a "giant" on a Strat!"

Stella Frances O'Dell Price

“Anne is able to teach Clay a lot and make it fun.  His music has given him something to feel good about.”

Karla Johnson

“Anne taught me so much, she deserves to be bragged on”. 

Tyler Harris

“Anne is a remarkably gifted and dedicated teacher who fosters a love of music in - and brings hidden (and not so hidden) talents out of - her students. She encourages us to play from our hearts and inspires us to bring our own interpretations to what we're playing/singing. I'm learning to play songs I never thought I could, thanks to Anne. She's a rare teacher who, in her teaching, combines necessary rudimentary instruction, kindness, patience, love of music and genuine interest in her students' musical paths. My musical life has been enlivened and enriched by having Anne as a teacher and creative guide, and I highly recommend her!”

Kirsten W.