The Journey of High Flight Audio

At High Flight Audio, music isn't just a business—it’s a lifelong passion. The company was founded by Shawn, a multi-instrumentalist whose musical journey spans decades, continents, and a distinguished career of service.

As a Veteran-Owned Small Business, High Flight Audio brings the same discipline, dedication, and precision to music education that defined Shawn’s 26 years in the military. Today, his mission is simple: to pass on the thrill, joy, and community of music to the next generation of players.

From a Nylon-String Guitar to the Banjo's Call

Shawn’s musical roots began at nine years old in Phoenix, Arizona. Armed with an old, borrowed nylon-string guitar from his mother, he took his first chords at a free summer community clinic. From that moment on, his love for the strings only grew.

Around that same time, a family business trip to a bluegrass festival in Wickenburg, Arizona changed everything. While sitting by a hotel pool, a small bluegrass band started playing, and Shawn heard the banjo for the very first time. In an era dominated by 1980s heavy metal, pop, and rap, it was the driving, soulful rhythm of the banjo that truly sang to his heart and soul. Right then and there, he was determined to master it.

By the time he reached high school, Shawn expanded his repertoire to the upright bass. While he honed his technique playing in the symphonic orchestra, his true joy came from digging in and slapping the strings to bluegrass, country, and the blues.

A Lifetime of Service and Strings

Music remained a constant anchor throughout Shawn’s life, even during his 26-year career in the United States military.

• U.S. Marine Corps (6 Years): Served proudly as an aircraft mechanic.

• U.S. Air Force (20 Years): Continued his service within aircraft maintenance management until his retirement.

No matter where the military took him, Shawn never lost his love for music or the unforgettable thrill of performing on a stage. After retirement, he decided to channel his immense energy, technical precision, and musical talent into a new mission: helping others discover their own musical voice.

After retirement - Shawn is, first and foremost, a family man. Blessed with a beautiful wife and four boys, his dedication to his family is matched only by his commitment to giving back. For years, Shawn has poured his time and energy into community service, actively supporting both his faith community and various local orgs. Whether he is leading local initiatives or spending quality time with his family, Shawn believes in building strong foundations and leaving a positive impact on the world around him.

Whether you are picking up an instrument for the very first time or looking to take your playing to the stage, Shawn and High Flight Audio are here to help you reach your goals.

"Music has the power to take you anywhere. Let’s start your journey today." > — Shawn, Founder & Instructor