Adam Pettit began his formal training on the classical guitar at age fifteen, at the Texas Christian University Music Preparatory program with Chip Christ, later receiving study from Charles Postlewate. Shortly thereafter, in 1997, he received the gold medal at the University Interscholastic League Competition's state competition on classical guitar, and was subsequently awarded Outstanding Performer. He was also a prizewinner in the 2003-04 National MTNA competition for solo guitar.

Adam Pettit entered the Peabody Conservatory of Music of the Johns Hopkins University under scholarship in 1998. He studied in the studio of Julian Gray, receiving extra training from Ray Chester and Manuel Barrueco. Immediately after graduating in 2002 with high honors, earning his Bachelor of Music degree, he continued his studies at Peabody earning his Master of Music in Guitar Performance which he completed in 2004. Currently, Adam Pettit is enrolled at the University of Southern California as a Doctorate of Musical Arts candidate in the studio of William Kanengiser.

While at USC, he was awarded first prize in the Donald Miller Classical Guitar Concerto Competition, where he performed the Tres Danzas Concertantes by Leo Brouwer. Following the success of this performance, he was asked to perform once again with the South Coast Symphony Orchestra in Orange County, California. Adam also enjoyed the distinct of honor of being chosen to perform the solo guitar part in Electric Counterpoint for the composer himself, Steve Reich, at his 70th birthday celebration.

In addition to classical repertoire, Adam also enjoys exploring the flamenco style and collaborating with a number of chamber groups.  At this time, as a member of the Helios Guitar Quartet, he plays the 7-string guitar in a massive project featuring some of Bach’s finest repertoire.

Adam Pettit serves on the faculty at Orange Coast College, Cypress College, and Riverside Community College.