Coleman is an amazing musician. Great classical technique, and is able to go off the page. Coleman owns any style he plays and is highly enthusiastic and inspirational to all.

Keenan Christensen Fletcher / Music Teacher

Coleman is as enthusiastic about teaching as he is playing because it's music. After observing him teach a number of times, I think it's as simple as that – sharing passion for making music and inspiring by his enthusiasm.

David Schiefelbein / Editor, Chaffee County Times

My son has been taking guitar lessons with Coleman for almost 2 years and we have been very impressed. Very professional but also keeps it real and interesting for a 13 year old. Definitely recommend Coletrain Music Academy! Also highly recommend the music workshop for any level of musician.

Corey Johnson / Parent of Student

David Lawrence’s Gypsy Jazz clinic was a wonderful feature of the 2019 CMA Summer Workshop. David is beautifully proficient in this style of music and for those who are just starting, it is important for your first exposure to be done well and in a welcoming environment. The class was approachable for the newcomers and provided something for all levels. The key rhythm style “La Pompe”, also the name of David’s band, was explained and taught clearly. This technique is the heart beat pacing Gypsy Jazz and requires one on one time with a very good teacher to get it right from the beginning. David is that teacher. The new comers were taught a simpler rhythm as a stepping stone to the whole. For the more advanced students, David provided a great rhythm checkup, especially for those who might have strayed. Each student was given a clearly illustrated book of real life chords designed to allow you to work towards efficient chord transitions. This again is why a clinic is so important, the same fingering will not work for everyone. All of our hands are different, if a chord shape isn’t working for you, a great teacher will help you find one that does. This critical feedback will give you hope and make your sound unique to you. It is something you wont get from YouTube. The song offerings gave opportunities for all levels. Like all the CMA classes, the emphasis was on making music with friends. David’s classes were no exception. You are learning to collaborate and arrange (i.e. have fun and more fun) with friends. Once again David provided ideas for blending styles and making songs your own. Overall a great short stop for directions on your never ending journey through music.

Matthew Maloney

I had an amazing time. Each day I learned things that totally reshaped the way I thought as a musician.

Emily King / Flutist

My daughter learned so much and truly thrived in her first open jam session.

Anne Hesh / Student's Parent

Best music workshop I've ever attended! The instructors were super pro and the scenery was spectacular!

Gary M. / Fiddle Player

Coletrain Music Academy has been the best resource to help me nurture my little girls love of music. She has learned to focus better, follow directions and the way she's learned to read music from left to right and looking ahead at what's next, translated to her learning to read earlier too. I've learned new ways to connect with her and how to help her learn and value hard work.

Christine W. | Student's Parent

My 8-year-old daughter is in her 2nd year of lessons with Coleman and I am continually impressed. He perfectly balances the challenges of playing well and fostering a love for the instrument. Highly recommend!

Gayla B. / Parent of Student

It was an incredible honor to play with Coleman Smith, who is one of the best fiddle players in the country.

Steve Young / Singer Songwriter