Jeanie Tavitas-Williams | 210SA Contributor

Name: Augusta Vargas, 28

Location: Main Street Pizza & Pasta

You're really stylin' with that guitar and you play beautifully.

Thank you! My professor Terry Muska, and, of course, God are the reasons I can play well.

How long have you been playing?

Since I was 16, but I didn't begin seriously studying it until about two years ago. Before I could just play by ear, but now I can actually read music. I'm so glad I finally pursued the discipline of (guitar playing).

What stopped you before?

Laziness. Well, it was more like a little spirit of self-doubt inside me, telling me it would be too hard or take too much time.

And now?

Now I realize it's worth the time and effort. My guitar is like an aphrodisiac for my mind and spirit. When I play it, I get inspired to pursue my other passions. We only get one life; we have to live it.

Indeed. What are your plans?

To lead a praise and worship band and write inspirational music and documentaries — I'm also a filmmaker. I've already finished my RTF (radio-TV-film) degree at SAC, and I'm trying to decide between going to Texas State or the University of the Incarnate Word.

Until then?

I work at the Starbucks Hear Music Coffeehouse on the River Walk. I'm a barista, but I also sell music and I play my guitar every other Friday night.

Jeanie Tavitas-Williams | 210SA Contributor