Eric
Guitar, Electric Bass, Voice, Songwriting & Music Theory Instructor
Singer • Songwriter • Multi-Instrumentalist • Recording Artist • Touring Musician
About Eric
Eric Leadbetter resides in his home state of Montana with his wife and son. Since 1999 he has released 11 albums of original music and toured to over 20 states, playing stages big and small for many different audiences. Music is his passion, and he loves sharing the knowledge and wisdom he's gained with thoughtful and excited students.
Instruments Taught
Eric's Musical Journey
Eric Leadbetter was born in Bozeman, Montana, where he draws a great deal of inspiration from the tall mountains to the cold smoke of his home state. He resides there today with his wife and son.
His solo career began in 2003 when he recorded his first solo album, Eric's Cosmic Kitchen, in St. Louis, MO. He then moved to Boulder, CO in 2003 and began playing out in local coffee shops and small bars. In 2006 he established the rock 'n' roll band Jive Coulis with some good friends from high school. They traveled to over 20 states performing in the veggie-oil-powered school bus, Sharleena, and recorded four all-original albums of Eric's music.
Jive Coulis retired in 2017 and the Eric Leadbetter Band was born. Since 2018 the band has released four albums—Leadbetter Band (2019), Howl (2021), Cake (2023), and Spell (2025). Eric also released an acoustic solo album, Middle Ground, in 2020. In total he has released 11 albums of original music.
Eric currently lives in southwest Montana and plays gigs constantly throughout the Northwest. Whether solo, duo, or full band, he is always gigging—playing an average of 240+ shows a year—as well as teaching guitar and songwriting. He continues to evolve and find creative ways to bring music into the Pacific Northwest and online communities.
Sharing the Stage
Eric has had the honor of sharing the stage by opening for many legendary and acclaimed artists. In 2021 the Eric Leadbetter Band opened for the legendary ZZ Top at the Britt Amphitheater—an experience for the books! Other artists he has opened for include:
His original music is uniquely his own, with echoes of the golden ages of rock. He draws his musical inspiration from these eras by listening to a vast collection of classic vinyl.
Teaching Philosophy
Music is Eric's passion, and he loves sharing the knowledge and wisdom he has gained with thoughtful and excited students. Over 13 years of teaching, he has worked with all ages and all skill levels—from complete beginners to advanced players—across an estimated 50–70 students (and possibly more).
His lessons are built around each student's goals and musical interests. Depending on the student, lessons may include:
- Guitar technique and repertoire across many styles
- Electric bass fundamentals and groove
- Voice and vocal coaching
- Songwriting and creative expression
- Music theory and practical application
- Improvisation and live performance preparation
- Building confidence for the stage and the studio
As an active, gigging musician who plays 240+ shows a year, Eric brings real-world performance experience directly into every lesson—helping students not just learn to play, but learn to perform, connect with an audience, and find their own authentic voice.
In Eric's Words
"I want my music to not only reach people's ears in a sweet and engaging way, but also to challenge the mind and inspire the heart and soul. I have creatively explored music very deeply in my life, and I see no end to the amount of musical wisdom to be gained. It is an honor for me to be able to share my musical expression with people that are open and willing."
Instruments & Areas of Study
Eric teaches:
Experience levels:
- Beginning through advanced students
- Children, teens, and adults
- Private 1-on-1 instruction
- Online music lessons
Hear & See Eric Perform
Eric's original music spans rock, blues, folk, and singer-songwriter influences, with echoes of the golden ages of rock. Explore his albums and live performances on the platforms below—each opens in a new tab.
Ready to Make Music with Eric?
Whether you are picking up an instrument for the first time, returning to music after years away, or sharpening your songwriting and performance skills, Eric will help you grow with real-world wisdom from a lifetime on stage.
Credentials & Experience
Born in Bozeman, MT, Eric draws inspiration from the tall mountains and cold smoke of his home state. His solo career began in 2003 with his first album, Eric's Cosmic Kitchen, recorded in St. Louis, MO. After relocating to Boulder, CO, he founded the rock 'n' roll band Jive Coulis in 2006, touring 20+ states in a veggie-oil-powered school bus and releasing four all-original albums. In 2017, Jive Coulis retired and the Eric Leadbetter Band was born, releasing four albums since 2018—Leadbetter Band (2019), Howl (2021), Cake (2023), and Spell (2025)—plus the 2020 acoustic solo album Middle Ground. Eric plays an average of 240+ shows a year across the Northwest and has opened for legendary artists including ZZ Top, Marcus King, Thunderstorm Artis, John Mayall, Leftover Salmon, Blues Traveler, and Govt Mule. With 13 years of teaching experience, he has taught all ages and skill levels, from complete beginners to advanced students.
Questions About Lessons With Eric
Learn more about Eric's teaching approach, instruments taught, and trial lesson process.
Ready for Your First Lesson with Eric?
Book a 1-on-1 trial session to meet Eric, discuss your musical goals, and start playing.