When you first meet 16-year-old Sean Kim, it's easy to see he likes staying busy. He lives near Ventura Boulevard in Encino, trains several evenings a week at Hiro Martial Arts, and has been taking guitar lessons at Angeles Academy's Tarzana campus for almost three years.

These days, guitar is one of the first things he talks about. But that wasn't always the case.

What made you want to learn guitar?

Sean: "My cousin used to play, and I thought electric guitar looked awesome. Then I'd watch people playing online and think, 'I wish I could do that.' My parents suggested taking lessons, and after my first few classes I was completely hooked."

His mom remembers things a little differently.

"Sean has always been full of energy. Between school and karate, we wanted him to have something creative that challenged him in a different way. We weren't looking for another activity to fill his schedule. We wanted him to find something he'd genuinely enjoy."

After searching online for guitar lessons near them, they booked a trial lesson at Angeles Academy.

"We knew after that first lesson we'd found the right place."

Balancing Karate and Guitar

Sean trains in Karate several evenings in Ventura Boulevard, where he's been practicing for years.

Does karate help with guitar?

Sean laughs.

"More than I expected. In karate you repeat things… it’s muscle memory you know. Guitar's kind of the same. At first it's frustrating, but after enough practice your hands just know what to do."

His instructor noticed that Sean's discipline outside the music room quickly carried over into his lessons.

"He likes having goals," his mom says. "Whether it's earning a new belt in karate or learning a difficult song on guitar, he's happiest when he's working towards something."

From Power Chords to Performing

Nearly three years later, Sean's playlist and his playing have both grown.

"When I started, I couldn't even switch chords properly," he says. "Now I'm learning songs I used to think were impossible. It's cool because every few months I realize I can play something that would've completely confused me before."

He especially enjoys learning songs by bands he already listens to.

"Playing music you actually like makes practicing way more fun."

Performing at academy recitals has also become one of his favorite experiences.

"I still get nervous before I go on stage, but once I start playing I kind of forget everyone's watching."

What Would You Tell Someone Looking for Guitar Lessons?

Sean: "Just give it a try. You don't have to know anything before you start. If you like music, you'll surprise yourself."

For Sean, what began as a simple search for guitar lessons has grown into nearly three years of learning, performing, and building confidence. Today, the short drive from Encino to Tarzana isn't just part of his weekly routine, it's part of a hobby he genuinely loves.