Bobby Hatfield is a Columbia native who lives in Columbia with his wife, Elise, their son, and their 2 cats. He is currently the lead vocalist/pianist of the indie rock band, The Sea Wolf Mutiny. His passion for music began at an early age as he learned piano, percussion and guitar, both self taught and instructed, with 13 years of piano instruction as well as 7 years of symphonic and marching band experience and instruction. Bobby studied under Jenna McSwain, jazz pianist from New Orleans. Hatfield began playing locally in 2009 and has since expanded his endeavors with the band regionally, after graduating from Columbia International University in 2008.

The band’s first record, The Last Season (recorded with Kenny McWilliams of Archer Avenue Studios & released August 2011), received praise from The Free Times, Shuffle Magazine, SceneSC music blog, and the USC publication, Garnet and Black. Their album also reached #3 on the monthly charts of the local university radio station WUSC in January 2012, and remained in the top 25 for 2 months. The group generates continued interest and growth both locally and regionally, as Bobby and his band continue to play in and throughout the southeast.

Bobby’s teaching strengths lie in helping students learn to compose and edit their own work, drawing from a vast array of musical tastes and interests. He desires to instill a lifelong love and appreciation of music in his students by teaching them not only technique, but also showing them how they may find uncommon melody with well worn notes. Bobby hopes for his students to be inspired and encouraged both during and after a lesson to better themselves and will engage them on whatever level they need to succeed at their goals.

He is always okay with a bit of rambling and a bit of fun. Students beware the rambling.