About Us
Look, we started Cedar Institute because we got tired of music education feeling like homework. You know that feeling when a teacher makes something you love feel boring? Yeah, we're not about that. Since we opened our doors, we've been focused on one thing: helping people discover what's actually possible when they pick up an instrument. Whether you're 7 or 70, we don't treat everyone the same way (because that'd be weird). We listen. We adapt. And we genuinely believe that learning music shouldn't feel like punishment.
Over time, we’ve built a reputation for reliability, quality, and clear communication. We treat each project as a partnership and aim for outcomes that last.
Our Core Values
The principles that guide everything we do
Real Teaching
We don't follow scripts. Our teachers adapt. They know when to push and when to back off. Music education should feel like mentorship, not standardized testing.
Student First
Your goals matter more than our curriculum. Want to learn jazz instead of classical? Perfect. Need to slow down? That's fine. We're flexible because people aren't cookie-cutter.
Show Up
Consistency beats perfection every time. We believe in steady progress and honest feedback. Your teacher will tell you what's working and what isn't.
Community Over Competition
Yes, we'll help you get better. But we're not pitting students against each other. We celebrate everyone's wins here. Even the small ones.
Our Approach
Our approach combines proven methods with modern tools. We start with discovery, align on goals, plan clearly, and execute with quality checks at every step.
Our Story
Cedar started back in 2011 when a few of us decided the local music scene needed something different. We were frustrated watching talented kids quit because their lessons felt robotic. So we built something from scratch. Started with three teachers in a cramped studio. Now? We've got 9 instructors, a real facility on Via España, and hundreds of former students who still play music because we didn't kill their love for it. Turns out people respond when you actually care.
Company founded with a team of 3 passionate professionals
Expanded services and reached 500+ satisfied customers
Opened new headquarters and doubled our team size
Celebrated serving over 2,000 clients with 98% satisfaction rate
Meet Our Team
The people behind Cedar Institute
We’re a team that values ownership, clarity, and growth. We celebrate wins, learn fast, and keep client outcomes at the center.
Carlos Mendez
Founder & Piano Instructor
Started Cedar because he believed music education was broken. 21 years of teaching experience. Still practicing daily. Thinks Chopin gets underrated and loves when students finally 'get it.'
Marina Rodriguez
Vocal Coach & Operations
Former session singer turned teacher. Has a gift for making people believe they can actually sing. Runs the place's day-to-day while teaching voice lessons. Basically magic.
David Chen
Guitar & Ukulele Instructor
Self-taught guitarist who decided formal training matters too. Specializes in helping people transition from self-taught chaos to actual technique. Patient. Funny. Owns the best collection of vintage guitars in Bocas.