In Loving Memory of Professor Strahinja Sajin (1938–2025)

Professor Strahinja Sajin, founder of The Shine School of Music, a beloved teacher, musician, and storyteller, passed away peacefully at home on 13 December 2025, surrounded by his family. He was 87 years old.

If it were not for Strahinja, The Shine School of Music would not exist today. His vision, perseverance, and lifelong devotion to music laid the foundation for a legacy that continues to inspire generations of students across continents.

Born in Bosnia and a survivor of World War II, Strahinja began his musical journey at the age of eight in Banja Luka, where he studied clarinet and piano. In a world still recovering from conflict, music became both his refuge and his purpose. At the age of twenty five, driven by a desire to deepen his understanding, he sought out classical guitar studies under Stanko Prek in Zagreb. Stanko Prek was the first classical guitarist in Yugoslavia and a student of Heinrich Albert. Through this lineage, Strahinja inherited a rich tradition rooted in the German classical guitar school, which he carried forward into his teaching philosophy.

Strahinja taught in numerous public schools across Bosnia, Belgrade, and Germany, sharing his knowledge with discipline, generosity, and care. He published pedagogical works, most notably the book The Shine School of Guitar, capturing his musical philosophy, technical principles, and approach to teaching in written form.

In 1988, he opened music schools in Stuttgart, and in 1993, he moved with his family to South Africa, where he founded the first Shine School of Music. These beginnings grew into an international, family run institution. In 2008, Strahinja’s son Milos co founded the Shine School in Barcelona. It was here that Strahinja began sharing his vast knowledge through online lessons and musical workshops. In 2021 he moved permanently to Spain.

A remarkably versatile musician, Strahinja mastered piano, clarinet, guitar, saxophone, drums and the accordion, and at the age of seventy five, he added the violin to his repertoire. His flexibility, curiosity, and humility as a learner remained constant throughout his life.

He was deeply loved by his students, not only for his musical expertise but for his gift as a storyteller. Strahinja wove his personal history into vivid, humorous, and moving tales that captivated listeners and brought them back again and again, for the music and for the stories.

True to his word, Strahinja continued teaching online until the very end, vowing never to stop sharing music. His influence lives on most profoundly through his children, who continue in his footsteps, building upon the musical legacy he so carefully and lovingly created.

We are deeply grateful for the love, memories, and messages shared in honour of Professor Strahinja Sajin. His life was devoted to music, education, and family, and it has been profoundly moving to see how many lives he touched.

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Gift Vouchers for Music Lessons in Barcelona

A Meaningful Gift That Lasts

Finding a gift that is both personal and lasting can be a challenge, especially when you want to offer something more meaningful than an object. Music lesson gift vouchers from Shine School of Music offer an experience that grows over time, building confidence, creativity, and skill. Whether it is for a child, a teenager, or an adult, a music gift voucher opens the door to learning an instrument in a supportive and inspiring environment.

Based in Barcelona, Shine School of Music has become a trusted destination for high-quality music education, welcoming students from all backgrounds and levels. Our gift vouchers are flexible, beautifully simple to use, and suitable for complete beginners as well as experienced musicians looking to deepen their practice.

How to Purchase a Music Gift Voucher from Shine School of Music

Purchasing a gift voucher is simple and straightforward. Vouchers can be tailored to specific instruments, lesson packages, or full courses, giving you complete flexibility. The recipient can then arrange their lessons directly with the school, choosing schedules and formats that suit them best.

We have a simple form HERE, where you can select your music class, course and instrument. Once purchased, you will receive an email PDF with the voucher, which you can print and gift.

Explore our instruments, teaching philosophy, and course options. Our team is also happy to advise if you would like help choosing the most suitable gift.

Music Lesson Gift Vouchers for All Instruments and Ages

At Shine School of Music, students can study a wide range of instruments including guitar, piano, drums, bass, violin, voice, saxophone, flute, clarinet, trumpet, and many others. Lessons are tailored to each student’s level, musical taste, and personal goals, ensuring a motivating and enjoyable learning experience.

Gift vouchers can be used for individual lessons or for complete music courses, making them suitable for short introductions or longer-term learning journeys. They are popular gifts for birthdays, Christmas, Reyes, and special occasions, as well as thoughtful surprises for adults who have always wanted to learn an instrument but never found the right moment.

Music Courses in Barcelona or Online, Flexible Learning Options

While Shine School of Music is proudly based in Barcelona, we also offer high-quality online music courses for students who prefer to learn remotely. Our online programmes are especially popular for guitar and flamenco, combining structured lessons with expert guidance and real musical depth.

This flexibility makes our gift vouchers ideal not only for local residents, but also for friends or family members living elsewhere. A music course can begin in Barcelona and continue online, or take place entirely online, allowing students to learn at their own pace while staying connected to experienced teachers.

Why a Music Gift Voucher Is a Better Gift

Music lessons offer benefits that go far beyond learning notes and rhythms. They improve concentration, coordination, memory, and emotional expression, while also providing a creative outlet that can last a lifetime. Unlike physical gifts that may fade or be forgotten, a music gift voucher creates ongoing moments of progress and achievement.

At Shine School of Music, lessons are designed to be engaging, structured, and enjoyable, with teachers who adapt their approach to each individual. This makes a gift voucher a thoughtful and personal choice, whether the recipient dreams of playing their first chords or refining advanced technique.

Give the Gift of Music

A music gift voucher from Shine School of Music is more than a present, it is an invitation to explore creativity, build confidence, and enjoy music in a meaningful way. Whether in Barcelona or online, for guitar, flamenco, or any other instrument, it is a gift that resonates long after it is given.

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Learn Music in Barcelona at Shine Music School

If you’ve ever dreamed of playing an instrument or singing with confidence, there’s no better time than now—and no better place than Shine Music School in Barcelona. Whether you’re a total beginner or an experienced player looking to advance your skills, Shine offers personalized music classes for students of all ages, backgrounds, and levels.

Why Learn Music?

Music is more than just a hobby. It’s a universal language that stimulates the brain, enhances memory, fosters discipline, and improves emotional wellbeing. It’s one of the few activities that uses both hemispheres of the brain simultaneously—helping with cognitive development in children and promoting mental health and focus in adults.

People learn music for a wide range of reasons. Some are looking for a way to express themselves creatively, while others want to build a skill that brings confidence and a sense of accomplishment. Music has also been shown to improve memory, focus, and emotional intelligence. For many, it’s a form of relaxation and a chance to engage in something meaningful beyond the routines of daily life. Whether you want to connect with others, stimulate your mind, or simply enjoy the process of making sound, music offers something unique and fulfilling.

Why Choose Shine Music School?

Located in the vibrant neighborhood of Gràcia, Shine Music School has been a trusted name in music education since 2008. The school is known for its warm, multicultural environment and offers lessons in a wide variety of instruments. Students can study guitar and bass (from flamenco to jazz to rock), piano (including classical, modern, accompaniment, and improvisation), singing (in various styles), and drums (with a focus on rhythm, technique, and groove). Additional offerings include violin, saxophone, clarinet, trumpet, and music production and theory for those interested in composing or producing their own music.

Shine’s faculty consists of professional musicians from around the world, offering classes in English, Spanish, Catalan, and more. The school caters to children, teenagers, adults, and retirees, with flexible scheduling options and online lessons available to meet the needs of busy students.

Music as a Hobby – A Lifelong Joy

For many students, learning music becomes a deeply rewarding personal journey. It serves as a creative outlet and a source of relaxation. Music helps people unplug from the demands of modern life, providing an engaging and mentally stimulating alternative to screen time. For some, it becomes a meditative practice. For others, it is a joyful way to return to a childhood passion or try something completely new. Regardless of your background, music can fit seamlessly into your lifestyle and become a meaningful, lifelong pursuit.

Join the Shine Community – Jam, Collaborate, and Perform

What truly sets Shine Music School apart is its strong sense of community. Students aren’t just taking isolated lessons—they’re becoming part of a lively, supportive network of musicians.

Shine regularly hosts Jam Sessions, where students of all levels can perform, experiment, and collaborate in a welcoming environment. These events help build confidence and allow students to put their skills into practice in a real-world setting. In addition, the school runs Combo Groups, which bring students together to form small bands. Through ensemble playing, students experience the dynamic energy of musical collaboration while learning essential performance skills.

These community opportunities allow students to connect with peers, develop their timing and listening abilities, gain experience performing, and stay motivated through social engagement. They also create lasting friendships and a sense of belonging, which is especially valuable for adults looking to meet others through creative activities.

Start Fresh This September

As the new school year begins, September is the perfect time to sign up for music classes. Whether you want to commit to regular weekly lessons or simply try out a new instrument, Shine Music School will help you design a course that fits your goals and your schedule.

Learning music at Shine means more than just practicing notes or studying theory—it’s about engaging with creativity, connecting to others, and discovering the joy of making music.

Get Started Today

Visit shinemusicschool.es to explore the full list of courses and teachers. Book a trial lesson, join a combo group, or sign up for your first jam session. Shine Music School is here to support you every step of the way on your musical journey.

Come for the music. Stay for the community. Shine in Barcelona.

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Introduction to Music Classes and Courses at Shine Music School in Barcelona

Since 2008, Shine Music School in Barcelona has been helping students of all ages and levels discover the joy of making music. Whether you’re picking up your first instrument or returning after years away, Shine offers a welcoming, professional space to grow your skills.

What does Shine offer?
Shine’s philosophy is rooted in flexibility, creativity, and quality instruction. With both group and private lessons available, students can build a learning path that fits their lifestyle—whether that’s once a week, twice a month, or an immersive full-time plan.

Starting in September, Shine Music School offers tailor-made programs designed for:

• Children as young as 5—fun and playful beginner classes

• Teens and adults—with flexible scheduling to fit studies and work

• Advanced students and professionals—refine your craft with skilled teachers

Key instruments offered include:

• Guitar

• Piano

• Violin

• Drums

• Singing

• Saxophone

Why sign up in September?
It’s the perfect time to start fresh. New academic year, new goals, and a great time to settle into a routine. The school’s cozy Gràcia location, supportive atmosphere, and multilingual staff make it an easy, enriching addition to your week.

From classical to rock, jazz to flamenco—Shine helps you find your musical voice.

Reigster HERE

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Intensive Music Courses Barcelona in August: A Summer Hit You Shouldn’t Miss

When the sun blazes over Barcelona and the rhythm of summer slows everything down, it’s the perfect time to turn up the tempo on your musical journey. Shine Music School offers Intensive Music Courses in August, ideal for beginners hoping to kickstart their skills or seasoned musicians looking to refine their technique during the quieter season.

Why go intensive?
Summer intensives compress weeks of learning into just a few sessions—giving you focused, 1-on-1 time with top-tier instructors. With flexible scheduling and tailored programs, Shine’s August courses are a great way to make the most of your vacation time while doing something creatively fulfilling.

Whether you’re staying in the city or just visiting, you can choose from a wide range of instruments, including Guitar, Piano, Violin, Singing and the drums.

Guitar – Gabriele Cortinovis

“Gabriele teaches Classical Guitar, Flamenco Guitar, Contemporary Guitar encompassing Jazz & Blues Guitar, Electric Guitar (Pop&Rock/Heavy) and Acoustic Guitar (Folk) at the Shine School of Music.” He studied flamenco in Jerez with prestigious teachers such as Manuel Valencia, Antonio Rey, and trained at the Cristina Hereen Foundation with masters like Niño de Pura and Rafael Riqueni. He performs regularly in Spain and Europe and teaches in Barcelona.

Guitar – César Munera

“César Munera specializes in Flamenco Guitar, Classical Guitar, Fingerstyle, Acoustic Guitar (including Folk and Blues), and Banjo at the Shine School of Music. Born in Colombia in 1982, he received his first guitar at the age of five, learning folk music and blues. In 1999, he entered the University of Antioquia to study classical music. In 2008, César performed the Concierto de Aranjuez with the EAFIT orchestra and was awarded a scholarship to study flamenco guitar in Barcelona at the Conservatori del Liceu.
He now lives in Barcelona, performing regularly and teaching flamenco, classical, and blues guitar.”

Singing – Gabriela Grabowski

“Gabriela teaches singing. She has a teaching experience of 10 years in Individual and Group Singing Classes, for children, teenagers and adults… studied Music and Singing at the Manuel de Falla Conservatory… specializing in the Functional Method of Voice (Rabine Method)… has performed and continues to play… in Metal, Rock&Pop, Jazz and World Music.”

Courses are tailored for both adults and kids, and you don’t need to be a local. International students are welcome—there are even classes in English, Spanish, Catalan, and more.

Turn your summer into a soundtrack with a Shine intensive. Whether you’re jamming through jazz standards or mastering classical technique, this August could be your musical breakthrough. SIGN UP NOW!

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