Mike Risko is a guitarist, teacher, author, performer, and co-owner of Mike Risko Music, where he has spent over four decades helping musicians of all ages and backgrounds build skills, creativity, and confidence.
Since founding Mike Risko Music School in 1995 and Mike Risko Music Store in 2009, Mike has played a key role in building a nationally recognized business that serves both music students and retail customers. He teaches private and group lessons in guitar, bass, and piano, and offers coaching in improvisation, songwriting, theory, and band performance. His lessons focus on practical application—helping students develop technique, ear training, rhythm, and overall musicianship—while keeping learning fun and relevant to each student’s goals. Whether students want to learn to jam, play in a band, write original songs, or master foundational skills, Mike tailors each program to meet them where they are and guide them forward.
Mike is the author of four guitar instruction books used in music schools and studios across the country. As the lead guitarist of The Mike Risko Band, he has performed at community events, festivals, and special concerts throughout the region. The band was featured at the 2025 NAMM Show in Anaheim, CA.
A respected voice in the music industry, Mike serves on the Board of Directors for the National Association of Music Merchants (NAMM) and the Ossining Chamber of Commerce. He is a regular speaker at the NAMM Show and NYSSMA conferences, and has participated in NAMM’s advocacy work on Capitol Hill, representing New York at the federal level to support access to music education.
Under Mike and Miriam’s leadership, Mike Risko Music has received 25 Best of Westchester awards, has been named a Top 100 Music Store in the World by NAMM for 11 consecutive years, and was awarded Best Community Music Retail Store globally in 2021. The business was also honored with the NYS Empire Award for its contributions to music education and community impact.
Mike continues to lead, teach, and perform with a focus on practical musicianship, creativity, and the belief that music can inspire lifelong growth—for players, students, and the entire community.