Bob Songster – Guitar, Ukulele, Bass (Faculty Member Since 2023):  Bob began performing and studying music at a young age, starting with piano, violin and clarinet; later he developed a love for the guitar, and then the bass. He received his Masters of Music Performance Degree from the University Denver’s Lamont School of Music, and his undergraduate degree from the University of Northern Colorado. Bob is an active performer in the vibrant Western North Carolina music scene and been a featured artist with the High Country Jazz Society, performs regularly at the Biltmore Estate and many of Asheville’s finest stages. Bob has had the opportunity to play with many of North Carolina’s finest musicians, including Michael Jefry Stevens, Billy Cardine, William Bares, Todd Wright, Andy Page, Pavel Wlosok, Chris Beyt, Rick Dilling, and many others. As an active educator, Bob has taught lessons, ensembles, clinics and classes to a wide range of ages and abilities. When he’s not playing or teaching music Bob enjoys mountain biking and hiking with his wonderful wife, Emily, and amazing dog “Tootsie.”