Ari Elfasi

Ari Elfasi is a versatile guitarist and dedicated music educator with over 12 years of experience across the worlds of blues, rock, metal, funk, jazz, and Latin music. Since first picking up the guitar at 17, Ari has built a career grounded in performance, collaboration, and a deep love for sharing music with others.

A prominent performer throughout the D.C. and Maryland live music scene, Ari has opened for nationally touring acts like Steel Panther and collaborated with Grammy-nominated producers Gantt Mann Kushner and Eric Taft. Over the years, he has performed with numerous ensembles and continues to stay active on stage nearly every weekend.

Currently, Ari performs with Quantum Leap, a high-energy Top 40 80s cover band known for weddings, private events, and club gigs. He also leads America Yanay, a Latin American ensemble that brings cumbia, salsa, and bachata to vibrant life, and plays in Velvet Divide, an original alternative rock band. His solo material, released under the name Tyler Thorn, is available on all major streaming platforms.

In addition to his musical life, Ari serves as the Financial Director for a nonprofit organization that distributes restricted funds to underserved families throughout the Greater Washington Area. His work in both music and nonprofit leadership reflects a commitment to community, creativity, and empowerment.

As an instructor, Ari brings that same passion into every lesson. He offers a welcoming and flexible approach to teaching, working with students of all ages and skill levels — from first-time players to aspiring songwriters. With experience as a performer, bandleader, and collaborator, Ari helps students build both technical skills and musical confidence, all while encouraging creative expression through the guitar.