Heart-pounding riffs and smooth, sweet solos are Michael Pearlson’s specialty. For Pearlson, playing the guitar is more than a hobby, it’s a passion.
Pearlson picked up his first guitar when he was in second grade and has since fallen in love with the instrument.
“My first performance was when I was really little. I played a Christmas intro at church,” Pearlson said.
Pearlson began to further his knowledge of the music through private lessons. After he became more confident, he looked to join a band.
“My first band I was in was in middle school,” Pearlson said. “It was a punk band. I had the whole Mohawk going and everything.”
For a period of time after being in his first band, Pearlson stopped playing the guitar as often. However, something kept him from quitting entirely.
“When I was on and off playing guitar for a while, I was still taking lessons which really helped me keep it up,” Pearlson said. ” I was preoccupied with school a lot of the time, but I always knew that I would keep playing guitar because it was so satisfting and fun.”
Now Pearlson is a much more avid player and is anxious to learn more and develop his talent further.
He has been a part of the band Cathor for about three years and is enjoying it tremendously.
“The band has really been motivating me to practice more,” Pearlson said. “Jamming with the guys is a lot of fun.”
Canor is an alternative Rock band, which is Pearlson’s favorite type of music to play. However, he is eager to learn to play other styles of music as well.
“I would like to learn classical guitar and have always been interested intaking a guitar class.” Pearlson said. “I have also been interested in jazz and blues for a while.”
Pearlson has found that there is a whole world of music that is open to be explored but finding it requires lots of practice and discipline.
“I try to practice a little bit every day.” Pearlson said. “I probably practice for a half-hour maybe tow or three times a day.”
For Pearlson, all the hard work and practice is worth the time and effort.
“When you play songs or roffs an guitar sometimes they remind you of a movie, event, or music that you experienced before. You can kind of relive it in a way which is always good.”
Pearlson enjoys all aspects of guitar playing including recording, performing, and improvising.
“I just love waiting around to do my parts when recording,” Pearlson said “Improvising is fun but can be difficult if you’re off that day.”
Music has become a huge part of Pearlson’s life and he is absolutely sure it will stay that way.
“It is fun to know how to play music.” Pearlon said. “It is always satisfying just to play guitar in my room.”
Pearlson realizes that there is always room for improvement and plans on continuing to perfect his skill.
Learning music theory and how to read sheet music are high on Pearlson’s priority list.
“Music theory and actually reading notes is tough, but it would be really fun to take lessons and learn. I have always been interested in taking a guitar class at El Camino. It would help a lot.”
Although Pearlson isn’t seeking a career in musc, he admits that it is something he will never give up.
For now, Pearlson is spending most of his playing time with the band. Canor has just recorded a 4-track demo and are playing local shows here and there.
“I will definitely stick with the band for now.” Pearlson said. “After I transfer I don’t know where my music will take me, but I’m open to anything.”