Hi, I'm Manuel!

Musician, Meditation Teacher, and Mindful Mentor for Musicians.

I am an Italian-Slovenian classical guitarist, born in 2001. Music has been part of my life since I was five: I honestly can't remember a time without the guitarin my hands.

I discovered meditation in 2020, shortly after moving to the Netherlands to continue my musical studies. What began as a simple curiosity soon became a powerful tool for focus, calm, and resilience, both in daily life and during performances. Two years later, a personal event shifted everything: my dad and brother were in a serious motorcycle accident. That experience became the moment I realized how deeply I needed practices that could support my mental clarity, emotional stability, and physical calm, not only as a person, but as a musician.

From that day forward, mindfulness, breathwork, and body-based awareness became essential in how I live and how I practice.

Why I Do This Work:

As a performer, I’ve experienced firsthand the mental tension, self-doubt, and performance anxiety many musicians silently carry. Whether it’s stage fright, lack of focus, creative burnout, or physical tension in the body — I’ve been there. And I know there’s a better way.

Through this project, The Centered Musician, I help musicians of all backgrounds access practical tools to:

• Stay calm under pressure
• Reconnect emotionally with their music
• Reduce mental noise and overthinking
• Build a more mindful, intentional relationship with their instrument

My Background:

In 2024, I became a certified meditation teacher with Arhanta Yoga. I also completed my training as a Craniosacral Therapist (CST1), deepening my knowledge of the nervous system, emotional processing, and physical tension patterns. These skills allow me to guide musicians through somatic techniques, deep relaxation methods, and mindful practice strategies to support both artistic growth and inner well-being.

As a classical guitarist, I also enjoy composing and transcribing music. Transcription helps me explore the expressive language of other composers, while composition allows me to shape my own voice and explore new sonic territory.

Let’s Create Calm Together

No matter your background, instrument, or experience level, I’m here to help you create a grounded, intentional, and fulfilling relationship with music. Whether you’re struggling with stress, tension, or simply looking for more presence and clarity in your playing, I’d love to support you.