Student Spotlight: Nathan Seif 

August 28, 2026

Every student who walks through the doors at Music Royale has a story. A first spark that turned into a lifelong love of music. For Nathan Seif, that spark happened at age eight, watching Metallica for the first time.

Today, Nathan plays guitar and drums (with a little piano on the side), has completed 11 years of Rock School, and is heading off to Ohio University to study music production. We sat down with him to talk about his musical journey, his biggest influences, and the advice he’d give to anyone just starting out.

Watch his interview video here!

How Nathan Got Started in Music

Nathan’s love of music began the moment he saw Metallica live at age eight.

“They inspired me. I chose guitar because I wanted to try something new, and that seemed to be the coolest instrument.”

From there, guitar became his main instrument, with drums and a bit of piano rounding out his musical toolkit. These days, you’ll find him with Modern Color’s “Lavender” on repeat.

The Challenges of Learning Guitar

Like most guitarists, Nathan remembers the early days being rough on the fingers, literally.

“When I first started, it was like getting used to getting my fingers used to the fret, ’cause they left marks in them. But the more you practice, the more the marks go away.”

It’s a rite of passage every guitar student can relate to, and Nathan’s advice reflects it: consistency beats comfort, especially at the start.

11 Years of Rock School and What’s Next

Ask Nathan what he’s most proud of as a musician, and the answer comes without hesitation: sticking with Rock School for 11 years.

His next goal? Getting into a band and playing live shows this summer.

“A musical goal I’m working towards right now is being in a band and hopefully playing a couple shows this summer.”

Life as a Music Royale Student

Nathan currently studies with instructors Jesse and Nick at Music Royale, and he’s quick to point out what sets his lessons apart from a typical music class.

“The teachers are so great, and there’s a lot of hands-on stuff.”

He also has a favorite memory from the stage, one that involves a little on-stage humor with his teacher.

“Me and Jesse like to joke around a lot on stage, so those moments really pop out.”

And when asked about his favorite part of being a student here, Nathan kept it simple:

“Everyone’s really nice to work with.”

Turning Stage Nerves Into Confidence

Performing in front of an audience isn’t easy for anyone, and Nathan is candid about how his relationship with stage fright has changed over the years.

“Before a Rock School performance, I used to feel nervous, but the more I’ve done it, the less nervous I got. Now afterward, I feel like I’ve accomplished something.”

For Nathan, it all comes down to preparation.

“It’s all about confidence by practicing. The more you practice, the less you’ll have to think about it on stage.”

Dream Collaborations and Bucket List Songs

No student spotlight would be complete without a dream jam session. For Nathan, there’s only one answer:

“If I could jam with any musician, alive or dead, it’d probably be Kirk Hammett from Metallica.”

And the song he’d love to master someday? “Blackened” by Metallica. A fitting goal for a guitarist whose whole journey started with that band.

Nathan’s Advice for New and Aspiring Musicians

Nathan’s advice for other students is refreshingly straightforward and applicable far beyond music lessons.

For someone just starting lessons:

“Don’t quit, and just keep going, and you’ll eventually get to where you want to be.”

For someone who doesn’t consider themselves musical:

“Listen to music first. The more artists you listen to, the more you get inspired.”

For staying motivated long-term:

“Getting involved in the music community.”

For his younger self on day one of lessons:

“Practice every day.”

What’s Next for Nathan

This fall, Nathan is heading to Ohio University to study music production. He’s looking forward to making new friends and stepping into the professional music world.

Reflecting on how much music has shaped his life, Nathan doesn’t hold back:

“I like to listen to music every day. So if music wasn’t a thing, I don’t know what I would do. Music taught me, outside of playing the instrument, that it helps me get my mind off certain things and just relax.”

---

Ready to Start Your Own Music Journey?

Nathan’s story is proof that consistency, community, and a great teacher can turn a first spark of inspiration into a lifelong passion. Whether you’re picking up an instrument for the first time or looking for a music school that feels like a second home, Music Royale is here to help you find your sound.

Schedule your first lesson with Music Royale today