Cohort Iv
2025 LAB COHORT
Alejandra Santillanes
Alejandra Santillanes is a Mexican-American flutist based in Baltimore, MD. A passionate and dedicated educator, she is a Teaching Artist with the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra’s OrchKids Program and Flute Faculty with Music and Mindfulness Summer Program. Highly driven to work with El Sistema model programs which provide equitable access to music education for young people, Ms.Santillanes has also been guest faculty Teaching Artist with Peabody Preparatory’s Tuned-In Summer Program, and Musicians for the World Inc. As a collaborator and performer, she is a freelance orchestral musician and formerly served as principal flutist of Boston’s CØDA Ensemble, a chamber group dedicated to bringing under-performed and newly commissioned works alike to the spotlight. Ms.Santillanes is an alumni of the Domaine Forget International Music Festival, and Virtual Flute Music Festival. She holds degrees from The Boston Conservatory (M.M.) and Florida Southern College (B.M.), and is forever indebted to her primary teachers and mentors, Sharon Sparrow, Elizabeth Rowe, Linda Toote, and Colleen Blagov.
Alejandra
Santillanes
Baltimore Symphony OrchKids
Anna Watrous
Anna Watrous is a cellist and music educator based in Lexington, Kentucky. She received her Bachelor’s Degrees in Music Education and Arts Administration from the University of Kentucky in 2023, and will be receiving her Master’s Degree in Public Policy and Administration from Colorado State University in December 2024. Anna is about to start her fourth school year working for Central Kentucky Youth Orchestras as a teaching artist for both their MusicWorks program, and Friends in Music program. She is also an orchestra teacher for the Fayette County Public School System, performs locally, and maintains a private cello and violin studio. Anna is dedicated to the idea that every student is deserving of an accessible high-quality music education, and is centering her career around making this a reality in her community. Outside of music, Anna enjoys gardening, going to local coffee shops, and spending time outdoors.
Anna
Watrous
Central Kentucky Youth Orchestras
Aren Bucci
With over a decade of experience in music education, Aren Bucci is a viola and violin teaching artist from the Indianapolis area. Aren comes from a family of musicians where artistic expression has always been viewed as a basic human right, and they carry this belief into their teaching. Known for a patient and engaging teaching style, Aren fosters a love for music while emphasizing technical proficiency and artistic expression. Having taught students of all ages and skill levels, Aren utilizes a variety of pedagogical methods tailored to individual needs. This approach not only enhances musical skills but also builds confidence and teamwork among young musicians. They have led numerous orchestras, guiding students in performances that showcase their talents and dedication. Passionate about nurturing the next generation of musicians, Aren is committed to creating a supportive and inspiring environment where every student can thrive.
Aren
Bucci
Metropolitan Youth Orchestra
Austin Walker
Austin Walker is a music education student at Louisiana State University, where he has dedicated the last eight years to mastering the cello. His passion for expanding local communities' appreciation of classical music has driven his efforts both in and out of the classroom. Austin works with Kids' Orchestra, teaching elementary students the foundations of music through cello instruction. He has also volunteered in library programs across multiple states, providing fun and recreational activities to children through instrumental instruction. Austin believes that teachers are the gateway to outstanding student creativity and are essential in shaping the future.
Austin
Walker
Kids' Orchestra
Barbara Rodriguez
Barbara Rodriguez was born in Caracas, Venezuela, and now brings her vibrant energy to Miami, Florida. With a Bachelor's degree in Psychology from Universidad Central de Venezuela, and extensive training in Cello Performance from the Conservatory of Music Simon Bolivar, Barbara's educational journey is as rich and diverse as her musical talent.
Currently, she is further honing her craft by pursuing a post-baccalaureate in Music Performance at the New World School of the Arts, in partnership with the University of Florida. Barbara's passion for music and education shines through her work with the Miami Music Project, where she inspires young minds as a Teaching Artist. Her previous role as a Teaching Assistant in the ECI program at Miami Children's Museum highlights her dedication to nurturing future generations.
Barbara's excellence has not gone unnoticed; she recently received a prestigious award for her academic achievements at the New World School of the Arts. Looking ahead, she aspires to continue growing both professionally and personally as a musician and music educator. Known for her perseverance, consistency, dedication, and hard work, Barbara Rodriguez is a true testament to the power of passion and commitment in the arts.
Barbara
Rodriguez
Miami Music Program
Ben Jacobs
Ben Jacobs is a double bassist and music educator in the Chicago area. Ben is on the Early Childhood faculty at the Merit School of Music. They are currently pursuing a teaching certification in K-12 music at Northeastern Illinois University while maintaining a private double bass studio. They hold a Bachelor’s degree in Music Performance from Northwestern University and a Master’s in Music Performance from the Cleveland Institute of Music, where they studied Eurhythmics pedagogy. Ben is excited to share their love of music with the next generation! When not teaching or performing, you can find Ben enjoying a good board game with some friends or attempting to pet a stray cat.
Ben
Jacobs
Merit School of Music
Chase Miller
Clarinetist, Chase Miller is an active performer and educator in the central Kentucky area. Currently, he holds Adjunct Clarinet Instructor positions at Transylvania University (Lexington, KY), Centre College (Danville, KY), and Asbury University (Wilmore, KY). In addition to work at the collegiate level he is finishing his fifth year as Program Director of Central Kentucky Youth Orchestras after school El Sistema inspired program, CKYO - MusicWorks.
He was selected to represent Kentucky in South Arts’ inaugural 2020 Emerging Leaders of Color Professional Development Program. June, 2020 The Kentucky Governor's School for the Arts awarded Chase with the Annual Marlene M. Helm Alumni Achievement Award. Which was created to honor an outstanding alumnus or alumna for their contribution to the arts in their home community, their service to the Governor’s School for the Arts, and the dedication to enriching the state’s artistic future.
Chase has attended festivals and education clinics both in the United States and internationally. He has participated in various chamber music festivals such as Fresh, Inc. in Wisconsin and BayView Music Festival in Petoskey, Michigan. He attended Music Academy International, an Opera and Chamber music festival in Mezzano, Italy. He’s been involved in a concert tour in Ireland with the Esker Festival Orchestra.
An active educator, Chase maintains a private clarinet studio of 18 students in the central KY area, from ages 8 to 65 years old. He has traveled to LA to work with The LA Youth Orchestra on behalf of Central Kentucky Youth Orchestras. He is a part of the Excelcia Music Publishing recording project in Tampa, FL, which provides cutting-edge listening resources for music educators.
Chase earned his bachelor's degree from the University of Kentucky (UK) and his Masters in Clarinet Performance at University of Arizona (UA). His teachers include Scott Wright, Jerry Kirkbride, and Jackie Glazier.
Chase
Miller
Central Kentucky Youth Orchestras
Chase Meister
My name is Chase Meister and I am currently a music education major at Oakland University. I am currently a woodwind educator throughout the Rochester, MI area. I am currently the lead woodwind teacher at Accent Pontiac and teach woodwinds at various high schools. I am also a professional woodwind doubler and pianist. With these skills I have worked with high schools, community theaters, and professional theaters.
Chase
Meister
Accent Pontiac
Chrestien Bottoms
I am a Teaching Artist with the Metropolitan Youth Orchestra, a program of the Education Department at the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra. I also teach middle school orchestra at Global Preparatory Academy.
Chrestien
Bottoms
Metropolitan Youth Orchestra
Christian Paillan
Mr. Paillan has more than fourteen years of teaching experience. He earned his BA with concentration in violin teaching and conducting from Universidad de Talca, Chile. During his undergrad, he taught at the university music conservatory and in an elementary school string project. He received his MM at the University of Florida where he studied with Dr. Janna Lower. During that time he also taught at the Gainesville Music Academy and in an elementary school string project. He earned his DMA at the University of Alabama, as a student of Jenny Gregoire. After graduation he worked for the Tuscaloosa Music Academy, the University of Alabama Music School, and the Tuscaloosa City Schools string program in middle and high school. Since 2022 he is a string teaching artist at the Rhode Island Philharmonic Music School, were he teaches private lessons, group lessons at their community outreach string program, coaches chamber music, and conducts two of their youth orchestras.
Christian
Paillan
Rhode Island Philharmonic Orchestra & Music School
Clark Floer
Clark is a percussionist from the Pontiac, Michigan area where he primarily works with Accent Pontiac. He works with other percussion ensembles in the metro Detroit area providing social change through music. Clark is excited to join TATI!
Clark
Floer
Accent Pontiac
Dina Dokic
My name is Dina Milivojev Dokic and I am a professional musician, playing the viola and violin. I have a Bachelor’s degree in Music from the Academy of Music in Novi Sad, Serbia, majoring in the Viola. I have spent the last ten years teaching children of all ages both the viola and the violin (with a majority of pupils learning the violin).
I also have teaching experience as a YONA Sistema teaching artist, teaching viola to elementary schools students in Edmonton.
I have also performed at various concerts, festivals and events in Europe, Botswana and Canada, and have been the strings coordinator for the military orchestra in Botswana.
I love working with children and youth and being surrounded by their positive energy and eagerness to learn. I can work by myself or as part of a team and have a passion for music and teaching it and am looking for various opportunities where I can teach music and grow as a teacher and a musician.
Dina
Dokic
Winspear Center - YONA
Ebonie Pierce
Ebonie Pierce is a graduate of University of Maryland, Baltimore County with a Bachelor of Arts in Flute Performance. There she was a Wind Ensemble Librarian and a flutist in the Wind Ensemble, Symphony Orchestra, and Chamber Ensemble. She has been playing the flute since 2006 where she started at Hazelwood Elementary School in Baltimore City.
While a student there, she was one of three students awarded the first scholarships to the Peabody Preparatory of Johns Hopkins University to participate in a pilot program called Tuned- In, during the summer of 2007. She was also featured in the Fall 2008 edition of the Peabody Magazine highlighting her accomplishments in the program. She studied under the distinguished tutelage of Dr. Rachel Choe of the Preparatory who has molded and skillfully guided Ebonie over the years, to become the gifted flutist she is today. Ebonie is the Adjunct Flute Faculty for the Peabody Preparatory and a substitute Flute Teaching Artist for the OrchKids program. She has the privilege to teach private flute lessons, music theory, and conduct the Downtown Concert Band. She also served as the Interim Business and Memberships Manager at El Sistema USA where she expanded her career into arts administration and management. Ebonie is kind-spirited and bright and she enjoys opportunities to share in music making.
Ebonie
Pierce
Peabody Preparatory - Tuned In
Lane Rogers
Lane Rogers is a saxophonist, composer, producer, and instructor. She graduated from Arizona State University (ASU) with a Bachelor’s of Music in Jazz Performance and a Bachelors of Art in Popular Music (emphasis on production). While at ASU, Lane participated in several ensembles, including the ASU Jazz Reparatory Band, Latin Jazz Band, and several Pop music
ensembles and has also been part of jazz ensembles through Scottsdale Community College and Paradise Valley Community College. As an instructor, she has taught private saxophone and clarinet lessons, music theory classes, audio production classes, as well as ensembles. Lane has since
included a focus on composition, moving into the realms of game scoring, film/tv scoring, writing, and producing pop music. Moving forward, Lane looks to continue her musical journey through learning, creating, and sharing while continuing to be part of the music community.
Lane
Rogers
Phoenix Conservatory of Music
Emily McDonald
Emily McDonald is a graduate of Kutztown University, where she earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Music Performance in 2018. There she studied with a focus on violin under Dr. Mary Ogletree and Dr. Peter Isaacson as well proficiencies on viola, piano, voice, and guitar.
An experienced violinist of 20 years, Emily performs regularly in the first violin section of The Berks Sinfonietta chamber ensemble of Reading.
She has collaborated with The Southeast PA Symphony, The Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp Festival Orchestra, The Bucks County Symphony Orchestra, The Reading Choral Society, The PA Philharmonic, and The Lancaster Symphony Orchestra and the Lancaster Chorale. She is also an Artist in Residence with the non-profit El Sistema style orchestra program Crescendo Music of Phoenixville.
Emily is knowledgeable in teaching stringed instruments to students of all ages. She has received special training through the Suzuki Association of the Americas Courses, hosted at Temple University. Emily is committed to her thriving teaching studios based at Valotta Studios in Exton, PA, and at Mosaic Music in Phoenixville, PA.
Emily
McDonald
Crescendo Phoenixville
Ernesto Herrera
Ernesto Herrera Miranda (La Habana, Cuba, 1988) is a renowned tenor, composer, and conductor. From his early beginnings in professional music, Ernesto showcased his talent and passion for the arts, establishing himself as a prominent figure in the music industry.
Ernesto's musical journey started when he joined "Camerata Vocale Sine Nomine" under the direction of Maestra Leonor Suárez Dulzaides. He was part of this ensemble for 12 years, where he excelled as soloist, arranger and composer. With the "Camerata Vocale Sine Nomine," Ernesto performed in prestigious venues and festivals in Colombia, Cuba, Ecuador, the United States, and Mexico, earning awards, standing ovations, and international recognition. Ernesto has composed or arranged over 40 works for chorus. Among Ernesto's notable achievements is the reception of the 2012 award as composer for the best choral arrangement at the 3rd edition of the Mexican Festival "Jalisco Canta." He was also awarded first prize for the best Cuban music arrangement at the Electo Silva International Competition and second place for the best composition. In 2019, Ernesto emigrated to the United States of America, where he currently resides and maintains an active career as soloist, composer, arranger, and conductor. He collaborates with various ensembles as a composer, soloist, and conductor, including BYU Singers, Sierra Linda Master Chorale, the La Sierra University Chamber Singers, and the Los Angeles Master Chorale.
Ernesto is a graduate of La Sierra University, where he studied Choral Conducting and Composition under the guidance of Dr. Ariel Quintana, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree. Since arriving in California, he has served as a resident composer and singer for the Vallejo Drive Seventh-day Adventist Church choir, the First Presbyterian Church of Hollywood choir, La Sierra University’s United and Chamber Singers and the Sierra Linda Master Chorale. Most recently, Ernesto directed Morten Lauridsen’s Lux Aeterna (June 2023)
In 2023, Ernesto embarked on a successful tour of France, Germany, and the Netherlands, where he performed the Mozart Requiem tenor solos with the Sierra Linda Master Chorale and the La Sierra University Choirs and Orchestra.
Ernesto Herrera Miranda's prolific musical career is a testament to his dedication, talent, and versatility. His deep spiritual devotion and commitment to the sacred choral repertoire as well as to the Latin rhythms are impacting performances around the world.
Ernesto
Herrera
Riverside Arts Academy
Francisco Malespín
Francisco's musical career began at a school in Brazil that follows the internationally recognized "El Sistema"
Mr. Malespin was the first of very few to receive the Rita Simó Scholarship which covered all costs of his B.A. in Cello Performance and a certificate in Music for Social Changer. He then completed his M.M. and P.C. at DePaul University with a Performance Scholarship. During his studies in Chicago, Francisco was abele to study with members of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra (CSO) including its former Assistant Principal and current Principal Cello.
With over 10 years of experience teaching students for Chicago based "El Sistema" schools such as The People's Music School and on its after school programs through the Chicago Public Schools (CPS), Francisco has also taught at DePaul University's Community Music Division.
Francisco is currently a fellow with the Civic Orchestra of Chicago and performs with many other orchestras around the midwest.
FRANCISCO
MALESPIN
Sistema Ravinia
Sarai Aboites Nunez
Saraí Aboites is a multifaceted musician from Northwestern México, whose passion for musical diversity, human development and community permeates her day to day labor.
Currently based in Michigan, Saraí wears many hats: she serves as a dedicated educator with the Sphinx Overture Program, Manager of Operations and Personnel with the Battle Creek Symphony, violist freelancer, and is pursuing a Doctor of Musical Arts degree at Michigan State University.
Saraí is an enthusiastic and creative teacher deeply invested in pedagogy and individual growth. Her approach aims to ground students in practical techniques while inspiring them to foster creativity, in music and life.
Her rich and diverse background reflects her global perspective and collaborative spirit. Saraí has worked with musicians and ensembles across various genres and continents. She has sung in choirs, salsa groups, performed with orchestras, smaller ensembles, and mariachi. Her participation in music festivals has taken her to different parts of Mexico, Belgium, Germany, and the US, where she has engaged in varied musical experiences.
Sarai
Aboites Nunez
Sphinx
Gerald Campbell
Gerald is a professor and music production mentor with Guitars over Guns, as well as the owner of Nova Sound Production and Technology.
His journey into the world of music was profoundly shaped by his Jamaican heritage and its vibrant musical traditions. This cultural background ignited his creative passion and led him to pursue both music and entrepreneurship from an early age. After completing his studies in audio, technology, and business at university, Gerald began his career by selling stage and studio products, music compilations, and digital assets.
In 2014, Gerald founded Nova Sound as a production and technology company dedicated to advancing audiovisual technology and serving venues and studios across South Florida. Over time, his vision broadened to encompass financial education and career guidance, placing him at the crossroads of entertainment and finance.
As Nova Sound approaches its 11th anniversary in March 2025, Gerald reflects on the remarkable journey the company has undertaken. Early in his career, financial difficulties became a driving force behind his commitment to educating others about financial literacy and technology. These experiences also inspired him to author his debut book, I/O: Investing in Opportunity NFF, and he is eagerly anticipating the release of his third full-length album, 30 Under 30, scheduled for late 2024.
Gerald
Campbell
Guitars Over Guns Organization- Miami
Gerard Gueringer
Gerard Gueringer is a sound engineer, producer, rapper and songwriter from the Southside of Chicago, IL. While being a consumer and writer for most of his younger years he would discover his passion for sound in 2015. Since then he has served as an engineer for artists throughout Chicago and executive produced three projects with his collective “BLOTR/W” where he is also featured as a rapper and singer. “The process of creating music is one of the most powerful forces in the universe. Being able to create resonance with the tools and instruments we are given is greatly underestimated. It has the potential to influence big changes in the world.”
Gerard
Gueringer
Guitars Over Guns Organization- Chicago
Kyle Perez
Kyle Perez is a guitarist, composer and music teacher based out of Tempe, Arizona. Kyle performs in a multitude of genres including but not limited to jazz, classical, rock, pop and flamenco. He has performed in many different performing environments ranging from solo guitar, rock bands, jazz combos as well as chamber music with various instruments.
While at Chandler-Gilbert Community College, Kyle studied fretboard harmony and arranging with Randy Tucker. He was a teaching assistant of Professor/Instructor Tucker, assisting him with beginner guitar group classes. During his time at CGCC, he arranged and engraved pieces for the Chandler Gilbert Guitar Ensemble and regularly performed with other departments such as the CGCC Dance, Theater and Orchestra as a soloist for their production of Kansas’ Dust In The Wind. Kyle also attended ASU from 2019-2021, where he studied classical guitar and composition with Jiji Kim. Much like his time at Chandler-Gilbert Community College, Kyle regularly performed with various instruments including cello, voice and also tuba. In 2021, Kyle graduated with a Bachelors in Guitar Performance from Arizona State University after completing two recitals in which he premiered over an hour of his own compositions and arrangements including his piece Variations on a Theme by Charlie Parker and his chamber piece for cello and soprano War Machine.
Kyle offers lessons for guitar, bass, ukulele, and piano, and has experience teaching in both group and private lessons. He also streams educational material on Twitch and Youtube where he teaches viewers how to arrange, compose and practice music. When it comes to teaching, Kyle’s focus is self efficacy of the student, focusing on helping students achieve their goals by showing them a clear path to success. Music provides us a rare opportunity to better ourselves in a way where we are constantly redefining what’s possible.
Kyle
Perez
Phoenix Conservatory of Music
Wendy Kao
Violist Wendy Hui-Yi Kao grew up in Taiwan, and started her musical training at age five. She received her Doctorate degree in 2022 under the tutelage of Professor Eric Nowlin at Michigan State University. She holds a Master’s degree under violist Che-Hung Chen at Temple University in 2015 where she was a graduate assistant for Music Preparatory Program, and she obtained the Artist’s Certificate degree from the University of Missouri-Kansas City where she studied with Professor Scott Lee. She received her Bachelor’s degree from the National Sun Yat-Sen University where her mentor was violist Tomizawa Naoko. She has attended masterclasses with musicians and groups such as the Orion String Quartet, Miami String Quartet, Emerson String Quartet, violist Hung-Wei Huang, Massimo Paris, Wing Ho, Yizhak Schotten, and Susan Debois, Xidi Shen, Teng Li, Hsin-Yun Huang, Richard O’Neill, as well as violinist Johnny Gandelsman, cellist Brian Manker. As a chamber music enthusiast, she attended festivals around the world including the Eastern Viola Music Festival, the Euro Music Festival, the Montecito International Music Festival, the Round Top Music Festival, the Kent Blossom Music Festival, Taipei Music Academy & Festival, and Atlantic Music Festival as a resident artist fellowship recipient, and among others. Currently, Wendy Kao serves as the section violist in Battle Creek Symphony Orchestra, she has appeared with the St. Joseph Symphony, Kinner Philharmonic, Midland Symphony, Jackson Symphony, West Michigan Symphony, Kalamazoo Symphony, and Saginaw Bay Symphony Orchestra. She currently teaches at the Expressions Music Academy, Flint Institute of Music-Flint Schools of Performing Arts, Sphinx Organization-Overture Program, and Detroit Symphony Orchestra-Vera and Joseph Dresner Foundation Allegro Ensemble & Civic Youth Ensemble. In the path of being a better music educator, Wendy now is a Suzuki and Paul Rolland string pedagogy certified instructor. In addition, she attended the American String Teachers Association National Conference, she also participated in Mimi Zweig Summer retreat for violin and viola teacher workshop, Karen Tuttle Viola Workshop, String Teacher Workshop at Ohio State, and more in the past.
Wendy
Kao
Sphinx
Jack Uppling
Jack teaches and plays guitar, electric bass, piano, and ukulele in addition to composing. He’s played in multiple bands throughout his life and records from home in his free time. Jack moved to Seattle with his band from Ann Arbor in 2016. They played Indie Psych Rock and were influenced by bands like Talking Heads, The Strokes, and David Bowie. They had the privilege of recording a single with Steve Albini(Nirvana) and an EP with Gordon Raphael(The Strokes). They toured the east coast multiple times before deciding to make a change and move out to Seattle.
Jack’s first Instrument was upright bass in middle school, then he started to explore electric bass, and took up guitar shortly after. After spending a few years playing in bands, Jack started taking piano lessons from a professor at the University of Michigan. After moving to Seattle, he took private composition lessons for about 2 years. Songwriting is the most important part of music to him, and would love to help people learn how to start writing their own songs in addition to playing the instrument of their choice.
Although he’s played in mostly rock bands, He’s explored learning guitar and writing songs in all different genres, and would feel comfortable helping others learn whatever genre/style that they're interested in. Jack graduated from film school in Michigan before moving to the west coast. He wrote and directed several short films and entered them into film festivals all over the country. His love of film and music influence each other constantly. He loves telling stories through his songs. He’s excited to help people figure out how to play whatever it is they're passionate about.
Jack
Uppling
Phoenix Conservatory of Music
Jack Mason
Jack Mason is a Tulsa native who has loved music since his start playing flute in 6th grade band. After high school, he knew music was his passion and pursued a bachelor's degree from the University of Arkansas in music, where he studied flute under professor Catalina Ortega and Dr. Rhonda Mains. During his time at the University of Arkansas he was an active member of the Razorback Marching Band, Inspirational Chorale, and was the first ever Diversity Equity and Inclusion chair for the Lambda chapter of Kappa Kappa Psi National Honorary Band Fraternity. After graduating in 2023, he began working for Sistema Tulsa, a nonprofit music education organization aimed at providing free music education to students all across the Tulsa area. There is specializes in band, more specifically woodwinds, and is able to help serve Sistema Tulsa’s approximately 400 students.
Jack
Mason
Sistema Tulsa
James Castañeda
James Castañeda, cello and violin, is a musician and educator with experience teaching music to people of all ages in private, classroom, and camp settings. He has been teaching in a number of roles since moving to Minneapolis from Washington, D.C., where he spent three years teaching general and instrumental music at a public elementary school in addition to private lessons.
While in Washington, James founded and instructed an orchestral strings program for 4th and 5th graders—the first of its kind in DC Public Schools. He also started an after-school choral program, taught general music to students with severe disabilities, and forged meaningful partnerships with community foundations and performing arts organizations. James was proud to see his students perform in their very first school-wide concerts, and later on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial and the Millenium Stage of the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.
Born in Racine, Wisconsin, James studied Cello, Instrumental, and General Music Education at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. He is an avid performer of a variety of musical styles and loves working with beginning strings students. In his teaching, James strives to create a safe, welcoming, and fun atmosphere that inspires creativity, responds to student needs, encourages a depth of understanding, and maintains high expectations for beautiful music making in a variety of styles.
James
Castañeda
MacPhail Center for Music
Jeimar Gomez
Jeimar 'Zeth Phoenix' Gomez is a High Tenor Singer/Songwriter, Producer, and certified Audio Engineer who’s been in the arts since before he entered grade school. At only 21 years old, his jack-of-all-trades-like artistic creations, unrivaled business approaches, and creative marketing and branding strategies have garnered the attention of music organizations and record labels such as Universal Music Group, Warner Music Group, Top Dawg Entertainment, and Empire Distribution. These endeavors lead him to establish his own Record Label Imprint and Publishing Company, ‘Bleu Moon Phoenix Recordings’ and ‘Bleu Moon Phoenix Music Group, LLC’, respectively, in September of 2023. Within one year of establishing these entities, he singlehandedly signed a Global Distribution Agreement with ‘The Orchard’, a subsidiary of Sony Music Entertainment, to service his company.
Jeimar
Gomez
Guitars Over Guns Organization- Miami
Johanna Brock (née Wiesbrock, pronouns she/they) is a Chicago-based teacher, composer, audio engineer, and multi-instrumentalist. A trained orchestral violist, Brock has been teaching violin, piano, and audio engineering since 2016, both in private and group lesson settings, to students ages 3 to adult. As a performer, Brock’s solo work takes inspiration from modern and canonical music for violin and violin. Using voice, synthesizers, viola, and audio samples, Brock’s music explores the boundaries between sound and linguistic meaning.
Johanna
Brock
Merit School of Music
Johanne Moller
My formal training includes a Bachelor of Music at University of Western Ontario where I studied voice, organ and composition. While in university, I worked as an organist and junior choir director. I first started learning to play piano very early with my mother, a professional pianist who studied at the Copenhagen and Aarhus Conservatories in Denmark.
Currently teaching in my home studio as well as at the Bowmanville Long and McQuade studio, I am a certified piano instructor with the Royal Conservatory of Music, and I am Vice President the Ontario Registered Music Teacher's Association, Whitby branch. I also work as a collaborative artist, accompanying voice students and local artists from time to time. Continuous professional development enables me to meet the individual needs of each student with consistent enthusiasm.
On my down time, I enjoy singing in adult SATB choirs, nature walks, camping with family and paddling. Before taking time off to become a mom of two lovely kids, I did a degree in Public Health and worked as a Public Health Inspector.
I joined SONG (Sounds of the Next Generation) as a choral instructor in September 2023, teaching the Primary and Junior Cobourg Choirs. I really enjoy teaching group music classes in voice, as the possibilities of exposing the children to music education through play based learning are endless. I very music look forward to expanding my repertoire of classroom games and strategies.
Johanne
Moller
Sounds of the Next Generation (SONG)
John Hunter
John Hunter has received many accolades as a student. He has performed with many of the regional orchestras and is an active teacher and freelancer in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex. Some of the orchestras he has performed with include Plano, Fort Worth, Arkansas, and Dallas Chamber Symphonies.
John was a winner of the UT Arlington Concerto Competition, where he performed Giovanni Bottesini’s Concerto #2 in B minor for Double Bass and Orchestra. He has also attended festivals such as Brevard Music Center, PRISMA, Aruba Symphony Festival and National Music Festival and has performed with members of the Dallas Symphony Orchestra alongside Pinchas Zukerman as part of their collaboration with Southern Methodist University.
John
Hunter
Dallas Symphony Orchestra Kim Noltemy's Young Musician's Program
Jose Mendez
Born in Barquisimeto Venezuela in October 12 1985, Jose Angel Mendez has developed a passionated artistic career, combining a remarkable labor either the traditional venezuelan folklore such as the most highest professional levels in the venezuelan academic music. The National philharmonic Orchestra of Venezuela was one of the prestigious organizations the Mendez served as Principal Musician "Doublebass" during seven years, performing as solist in several opportunities and conducting his own premier "Guatpori" "Fantasy for piano, flute, violin, bass clarinet, violoncello and percussion". Currently, work as an Orchestral Teacher for Dallas ISD at William Travis TAG Academy and Kim Noltemy Young Musician Program of the Dallas Symphony Orchestra as well.
Jose
Mendez
Dallas Symphony Orchestra Kim Noltemy's Young Musician's Program
Julian Orem
Julian Orem is an active multi-instrumentalist and educator in the greater Indianapolis area. Julian earned both his B.A. in Music and Neuroscience, and M.M. in Music Performance at Butler University. Julian currently holds teaching positions at Cathedral High School, Butler Community Arts School, and most recently as a Teaching Artist with El Sistema Indianapolis.
Julian is an in-demand performing artist. He is the founder of Ripple Duo (cello and saxophone duo), The Sunset Syndicate Saxophone Quartet, and a Saxophone Artist with the new music collective, Sound Ecologies. Julian is involved in yearly composition consortiums, and commissions new works regularly.
Outside of music, Julian is the General Manager of a family-owned restaurant,
and enjoys visiting local record stores and traveling historic national roads!
Julian
Orem
El Sistema Indianapolis
Julieta Fahie
Julieta Fahie was born in Acapulco, Mexico, and raised in San Diego, California. Her passion for music developed at a young age in an elementary music classroom, where she first discovered the joy of singing. This early love for music led her to participate in a mariachi band, choir, and various ensembles.
Julieta pursued her musical education at Grossmont College in San Diego, CA, where she majored in music with an emphasis on vocal performance and a minor in music theater.
Today, Julieta is the Level 1 Director at Soundscapes. In this role, she continues to share her passion for music, guiding and inspiring her students.
Julieta
Fahie
Soundscapes
Katie Stewart
Kathryn Stewart is a classical double bassist from the Princeton, New Jersey area. She has been playing bass for over 20 years, and is starting her second year of teaching this fall! She attended the Juilliard school for her undergraduate degree with Mr. Albert Laszlo, and graduated in 2018. She currently is in Symphony in C located in Camden, NJ, and will sub with the New Jersey Symphony. She teaches with the El Sistema program Trenton Music Makers in Trenton, NJ, and has 3 private students who inspire her every day. In addition to playing bass, she loves going birding!
Katie
Stewart
Trenton Music Makers, Capital Harmony Works
Kelly Blake
Kelly Blake is a musician and comedic performer based in Miami, FL. Through her work as a teaching artist, Kelly enjoys encouraging budding musicians as they start exploring their talents, and mentoring students through the development of their musical abilities. In addition to music instruction, Kelly is a company member at The Villain Theater in Little Haiti and can be seen performing comedy throughout South Florida.
Kelly
Blake
Guitars Over Guns Organization- Miami
Kiernan Marriott
Kiernan Marriott is an accomplished pianist, musician, songwriter, and teaching artist from Phoenix, Arizona. Kiernan has a degree in Music Learning and Teaching: with an Emphasis in Popular Music and currently teaches ensembles, piano lessons and music theory classes at Phoenix Conservatory of Music.
Kiernan
Marriott
Phoenix Conservatory of Music
Laurie McFaul
Laurie maintains a studio of private violin students of all ages in Minneapolis/St Paul, MN. In addition to this she is owner/director and teacher of early childhood education classes, is a free lance violinist, and a teaching artist with the Twin Cities Youth Symphonies Harmony program.. She is passionate about awakening people of all ages to the power of musical experiences through music education at all ages. She is a graduate of the University of MN Twin Cities school of Liberal Arts with a degree in Musicology, a certified Music Together and Rhythm Kids teacher and mother to 3 children.
Laurie
McFaul
Greater Twin Cities Youth Symphony
Luz Osorio Díaz
Born in January 16 of 1995 in Loíza. Puerto Rico. Is the daughter of Luz Díaz and Raúl Osorio and the last women of a group 7 siblings. She began to felt love to music in her first 9 years as a kid, starting playing pan flute, but even when curiosity leads her to play other instruments through the years like the guitar, piano or singing, Luz only took music seriously after meeting the Viola at the age of 12 in the music program: Centro Esperanza de Loíza.
Three years later in August 2010 at the age of 16 she moved to a Special Music School called Libre de Música de San Juan and after finished her grades in the same institution on 2013 she stared a Bachelor Degree in Viola Performance in the Music Conservatory of Puerto Rico
Through the years Luz kept working as a musician playing with many artists, events and groups, some of these groups are the Orquesta Filarmónica de Puerto and Royal Symphony Orchestra.
At the present Luz developes as a independent musician, evolves as a music teacher in the Music Program 100x35 giving group classes to kids under the ages of 4 to 9 years and work as member of the Music Program PEDCO (Programa Conoce tu Orquesta) where with others strings players offer several conference in schools of any kind to introduce kids throught the orquestal instruments in order to reform lives.
Luz
Osorio Díaz
Programa Música 100x35
Matt McCreadie
Matt is a violinist and percussionist who teaches String Ensembles from ages 6-18 with Sounds of the Next Generation in Ontario, Canada.
Matt
McCreadie
Sounds of the Next Generation (SONG)
Miranda Rojas
Miranda Rojas is a passionate educator and performer based in Okaloosa County, Florida. Previously a member of the Carriola Quartet, Sinfonia Gulf Coast’s Quartet-in-Residence, she now works with the organization as their Education and Outreach Assistant. She also maintains a private studio, Rojas Strings, where she teaches violin, viola, and cello.
As a teacher, Rojas believes in instilling her students with confidence and creativity. She seeks to learn how to best serve each individual student. She is Suzuki trained and has an interest in cross-cultural teaching strategies and a range of musical styles.
Rojas performs regularly in the region on the violin and viola, including as Principal Second Violin with Panama City Symphony Orchestra, as well as a section musician with Sinfonia Gulf Coast, Pensacola Symphony Orchestra, Northwest Florida Symphony Orchestra, Gulf Coast Symphony Orchestra (MS) and Albany Symphony Orchestra. She is also the Music Director for HERo, a Tallahassee-based organization that works to amplify the voices of women in music and perform music by women composers. Her voice can be heard on the HERo Talk podcast. Rojas collaborates regularly with pianist Rebecca Edmiston, and the two frequently give duo recitals.
Rojas received a Master of Music in Violin Performance from Florida State University, where she studied with Corinne Stillwell, and a Bachelor of Music in Violin Performance from Belmont University, where she studied with Elisabeth Small.
Miranda
Rojas
Sinfonia Gulf Coast
Narain Darakannda
Narain Darakananda is a violinist and violin/viola teacher based in Providence, Rhode Island. He is a teaching artist with the Rhode Island Philharmonic Orchestra and Music School. He can be found performing at the Candlelight Series in Providence as well as other venues in Rhode Island. His students have gone on to play at the Rhode Island Philharmonic Youth Orchestras, Villa Sinfonia Foundation, Ottawa Youth Symphony, CODA All-State Orchestras, Golden Gate Philharmonic and San Francisco All-City Middle School Youth Orchestra.
Before moving to Rhode Island, Narain was an active performer in California, performing with the Sacramento Philharmonic & Opera and Vallejo Symphony. He also taught privately at the Amabile School of Music, Northern California Music and Arts Cultural Center, and at his private studio.
Narain received his bachelor's degree in music and psychology from Bard College studying with Erica Kiesewetter and his master’s in violin performance from the San Francisco Conservatory, studying with Kay Stern. He is also an alum of Round Top Music Festival 18’, DeLay Starling Violin Symposium 19’, and Emerald Coast Chamber Music Festival 20’.
Narain
Darakannda
Rhode Island Philharmonic Orchestra & Music School
Nick Hildebrandt
Nicholas Hildebrandt is a multi-instrumentalist whose primary focus is on guitar and songwriting. During his studies at Musicians Institute he had the privilege of working under the wing of jazz guitarist Sid Jacobs, which he accredits to this day for his pedagogical approach to jazz and baroque ideas. He has fostered that technique which he instills today in group or private settings at The Phoenix Conservatory of Music where he currently is a resident teaching artist.
Nick
Hildebrandt
Phoenix Conservatory of Music
Nora Reyes
Noraberth Reyes Rodríguez is an Academic Supervisor of Música 100 x 35 Program by El Sistema in Puerto Rico since March 2023. As an Academic Supervisor of Music, Mrs. Nora, teaches different kinds of music classes focused on early childhood education to all the staff in the Program. Furthermore, she provides educational training, lesson planning, and musical event coordination. As part of her role, Nora emphasizes to the students and the staff how to complete the mission statement of the Music Program, which is to promote social rescue and development through music, giving access to Puerto Rican children and youth, turning music into an instrument to motivate, dignify, and unify.
Nora started as an assistant pianist for the early kids’ orchestra, making music repertory, directing the orchestra and supporting them in tuning the orchestra's instruments in the same Music Program since August 2014. Nora's passion for teaching started from a very early age, raised by a musician parents. Her childhood was surrounded by music and developed her talents in church. Her music education began at the Escuela Libre de Música in San Juan, specializing in piano and choral vocalist. Also, Nora participated in the Jazz Workshops of Berkley College of Music in Puerto Rico from 2005 to 2009, standing out as a vocal performer. She continued her university studies in the Conservatory of Music of Puerto Rico, to complete a bachelor’s degree in General Music Education, achieving Cumlaude Honors. After graduating, Nora was a music teacher (K-12thgrade) at the Colegio Discipulos de Cristo in Hato Tejas, Bayamon from 2014 to 2016. Over past years, Nora has stood out as a choir director. One of the most outstanding achievements was the Concert El Regalo de la Navidad in December 2016, where she directed a choir of over a hundred voices, and a live Band that included renown artists Ex. Noemi Luz, Jorge Vizcarrondo, and Jorge Laboy. Meanwhile, Noraberth has directed various orchestras in the Música 100x35 Program impacting over a hundred Puerto Rican children. During the pandemic, Nora transformed her teaching style by using her knowledge in video editing and recording to continue helping students stay connected with the music lessons and culminated this phase with two unprecedented virtual concerts. Teaching, listening to music, singing, and innovating are part of her passions in life. She loves connecting with kids, enjoying their energy and creativity. Her personal interests are family gatherings, movies, painting, dancing, pets, traveling, beach, and sunsets. Several of Nora’s values are respect, fellowship, compassion, honesty, gratitude, cooperation, generosity, and integrity to name a few. As for the future, Nora wants to create a music school to impact all ages, where music, communication and technology merge to develop artistic skills and competencies relevant to this generation. A place where the students not only learn to play an instrument, but also, know how to make music production in a recording studio, edit videos and then expand that knowledge to reach those who are less fortunate.
Nora
Reyes
Programa Música 100x35
Oliver Munoz
Oliver is a professional violist from Chile. He began studying classical violin with a scholarship from a new music program (similar idea to “El Sistema”) intended to reach students from low income backgrounds outside of Chile’s capital at the age of 14. After a few years with the violin, he transitioned to the viola, which he spent seven years studying at the Catholic University (Pontificia Universidad Católica) in Santiago, Chile.
Once he had completed his university studies in 2007, Oliver began his professional career with a combination of performance and pedagogy. He played freelance with various classical orchestras in Chile, including National Youth Symphony Orchestra, Chamber Orchestra from the Teatro Municipal and Philharmonic National Orchestra.
He also performed regularly as a freelance ensemble musician in local groups playing popular, jazz, fusion, and folk music. Occasionally, Oliver worked as a studio musician on different recording sessions.
Oliver began teaching violin and viola to students of all ages in 2003. He offered private classes to individual students of all ages, working most frequently with children and teenagers. Over the course of the 13 years he spent teaching in Chile, Oliver had roughly 30 private students of all ages and experience levels.
He also worked as a violin and viola instructor at various artistic schools, as well as private and public schools, including Artenautas, Academy of Arts, El Trigal school, Saint George College, National Youth Orchestras program and, Sol del Illimani school. His activities as an instructor in these programs included curriculum development, individual and ensemble instruction, organizing and overseeing student performances, and providing instrument care.
Oliver’s approach to teaching in many ways draws on the traditional classical teaching methods he himself benefitted from as a student. He also seeks to incorporate a mix of humor and artistic philosophy with his young students in the hopes of inspiring a sense of joy and exploration through music in them.
Since moving to Chicago in 2016, Oliver has worked as a teaching artist and viola /violin instructor in various schools and programs, including The People’s Music School, the Chicago Youth Symphony Orchestra, and Bucktown Music School. With over 20 years of teaching experience in two countries, Oliver has an approach to teaching that he is comfortable with, but he is always excited to learn new ways to engage students in the wide and rewarding world of music.
Oliver
Munoz
The People’s Music School
Orlando Ruiz
Puerto Rico Symphony, Arturo Somohano Philharmonic, and Bayamon Symphony Orchestras. Dr. Ruiz made his solo debut at age 13, performing a Leeroy Anderson's A Trumpeter's Lullaby at the Caribe Hilton Hotel and Casino. Four years later, Dr. Ruiz was accepted by early admission at the Conservatory of Music in Puerto Rico, where he pursued his undergraduate studies. While studying at the Conservatory, Dr. Ruiz was the trumpeter for the Sunday T.V. program "Accion de Pura Sangre"; from Camarero Horse track racing. Furthermore, he was freelancing in various musical projects like the soundtracks of "Seva Vive" by Angelica Negron and "El Clown" by Omar Silva while becoming the first trumpeter to complete the Performance Diploma at the Conservatory with Roberto Ramirez as his mentor.
In 2007 Orlando went pursuing his master's degree with Prof. Stephen Leisring at the University of Kansas in Lawrence, Kansas, where he performed as principal trumpet of the K.U. Symphony Orchestra and assistant principal of the K.U. Wind Ensemble. While in Lawrence, he played in numerous concerts and projects, including a tour in China and recording for Scott Watson's "Thoughts of a Cow" with the K.U. Trumpet Ensemble. Orlando Also recorded with the K.U. Wind Ensemble "Wild Nights" featuring works by Frank Ticheli, David Dzubay, Steven Bryant, Roshanne Etezady, and John Mackey. Dr. Ruiz also premiered "Songs of Aeolus" trio for trumpet, bassoon, and piano by Joe Eidson for the International Trumpet Guild (ITG) composer's competition.
After concluding his studies in K.U. he put into practice the pedagogical concepts acquired overtime as founding trumpet teacher at the system of youth orchestras of Puerto Rico, where he taught trumpet and served as orchestra and wind ensemble conductor for three years. After those years, he went to work for Houston I.S.D. as band and orchestra conductor, where 14 of his students previously rejected on Houston's All-City Youth Band made the ensemble under his advice. During that time in Houston, Orlando performed with the Houston Heights Orchestra, the Galveston Symphony, the Houston Brass Quintet. He served as principal trumpet of the Houston Sinfonietta, where he performed as soloist Alexander Arutunian's Trumpet Concerto. In 2015 Orlando became a trumpet teacher assistant at Texas Tech University in Lubbock, Texas, where he taught trumpet lessons and taught advanced trumpet techniques to future band directors. While in Lubbock, Orlando performed with the Lubbock Symphony Orchestra and their Educational brass quintet and the Midland-Odessa Symphony and Chorale. Orlando graduated from Texas Tech as a Doctor of Musical Arts in 2020, where he published: An Analysis of Roberto Sierra's Rapsodia for Solo Trumpet and Wind Ensemble. In this publication, Dr. Ruiz explored the piece's origin through interviews and post-tonal theory analysis techniques.
Currently, Dr. Ruiz teaches trumpet in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex area and as a Teaching Artist in the DSO Young Musicians Program. He also enjoys playing with the Dallas Asian Winds and as a sub in West Texas Symphony.
Orlando
Ruiz
Dallas Symphony Orchestra Kim Noltemy's Young Musician's Program
Paula Toral Navarro
Born in the Canary Islands, Spain, she started her musical studies, playing the violin at her hometown music academy. She earned her bachelor's degree at the Higher Conservatory of the Canary Islands and later her master's degree in Music Performance at Southeastern Louisiana University. She is currently pursuing her DMA at Louisiana State University, minoring in music education. She has taught music group classes in various social projects such as "Barrios Orquestados" in Spain and Kids’ Orchestra in Louisiana.
Paula
Toral Navarro
Kids' Orchestra
Peter Skjodt
Peter Skjodt started playing the violin at age six. He continued his studies, playing in school and in youth orchestras in the Chicagoland area. At age fifteen, Peter began private lessons with Gerardo Ribeiro in his private studio. After high school he was accepted into CCM, a conservatory in the University of Cincinnati where he studied with Won Bin Yim. After college, Peter began playing freelance violin around the Chicagoland area. He was a member of the Third Coast Quartet for many years, playing in recitals, weddings, and other freelance opportunities. He enjoyed working with a recording studio and recording string quartet tracks for hip hop albums. During this time Peter started to teach privately and for some time worked for a Chicago based string teaching business called Smiling Strings. Around this time, Peter auditioned and was accepted into the Northbrook Symphony and played under Maestro Larry Rapcheck for eight years. Peter is currently working for MUSIC INC. Chicago, a non profit music education program on the west side of Chicago in the North Lawndale neighborhood. He has been a site manager and teaching artist there for eight years. He teaches individual, and small group lessons, as well as conducting the youth orchestra and running sectionals. Peter continues to play and enjoy violin with his colleagues, friends, and family.
Peter
Skjodt
Music Inc.
Randolf Jimenez
Hailed by Billboard Magazine as ..."one of the best Latin-American drummers nowadays", Randolf Jimenez is a respected drummer, percussionist, composer, educator and published author who has worked with many Latin-Grammy and Juno award-winning artists and musicians. He has been playing professionally for more than 20 years and he has taught hundreds of students from beginner to advanced levels. He has also conducted masterclasses, clinics and workshops in different parts of the world. He is currently a Dance Accompanist at York University and a Percussion teacher artist at Sistema Toronto.
His work has been featured on websites, newspapers and magazines in South America, Europe, Japan and Canada including Billboard Magazine, All About Jazz, Malta Core, Drum Fills Kafe, Acid Conga, Tokyo Jazz Review, A Uno Magazine, CARAS Magazine and many others.
Since moving to Canada in 2013, he rapidly became “the most sought-after Latin drummer in Toronto”. Randolf has toured all over Canada and has also played in some of the most renowned venues in Ontario such as Meridian Centre for the Arts, Nathan Phillips Square (City Hall), Harbourfront Centre, Dundas Square, Daniel’s Spectrum Theatre, Opera House, Toronto Centre for the Arts, Glenn Gould Theatre at CBC and many more.
His drum method “The Groove Schoolbook” is currently distributed worldwide through Mel Bay Publications.
Randolf is an official endorser for Sonor drums, Paiste cymbals, Tycoon Percussion, Vater drumsticks, Audix microphones, Focusrite interfaces and Humes&Berg cases. He is also a voting member for the Latin Grammys (LARAS).
Learn more at: www.randolfjimenez.com
Randolf
Jimenez
Sistema Toronto
Ella Kim
Rooted in the philosophy of lifelong learning, Ella Kim approaches both music and life as ongoing experiments, with each note and experience a unique variable.
She is committed to nurturing creativity and curiosity in others. Ella's artistic spirit is characterized by an exploration of the creative process, embracing the relationship between spontaneity and structure.
Ella is currently a Teaching Artist at YAMA and the Orchestra Librarian and Liaison for the Yakima Symphony Orchestra. Outside of YAMA, you can find Ella designing, knitting, or hiking with her dog, Lucky.
Ella
Kim
Yakima Music en Accion
Rose Wodarcyk
Rose Wodarcyk is a violist, educator, and arts administrator based in the Phoenix metro area of Arizona. In summer 2024 she joined the Tetra String Quartet, a nonprofit organization that serves the community and empowers the next generation through performing and teaching chamber music. Prior to joining Tetra, Rose was a founding member of the Mint Trio, a string trio that performed for various community organizations in Baltimore, Maryland. She was also a member of the Peabody String Sinfonia, a conductorless string orchestra with the mission of bringing healing and beauty to Baltimore residents in challenging situations. As well as being a regular performing member of Sinfonia, Rose was Co-Director for the 2021-2022 season. As Co-Director, Rose curated concert programs that blended both classical and popular music, facilitated Sinfonia rehearsals, recruited new members, and engaged with local community organizations to arrange concerts.
Rose also maintains a private studio of viola and violin students. Besides teaching privately, she has served as chamber music coach for the Baltimore Youth Symphony Orchestras, violin/viola instructor for the Bridges Music Program in Baltimore and Baltimore Symphony OrchKids, and strings coach for the Young Artists Orchestra of the Peabody Preparatory. Previously she taught violin and viola lessons at Baltimore School of Music and also held the position of Program Coordinator.
Rose is the recipient of a Douglas Cox viola scholarship and plays on a Cox viola made in 2016. She earned a Bachelor of Music degree from Peabody Conservatory, where she studied with Victoria Chiang.
Rose
Wodarcyk
Tetra Chamber Music Institute
Roshelle Pekarek
Based in the Kansas City area, Roshelle Pekarek is a dynamic teacher and performer. She holds a B.M. in Violin Performance with honors from Missouri State University where she studied with Dr. David Hays.
In addition to a studio of private students and serving as a clinician for local programs, Roshelle is a teaching artist with Harmony Project KC and the Concordia Music Conservatory. She also loves leading a class for Drunken Fiddles, a program for adults with little to no musical experience; she has enjoyed playing fiddle music since she was young.
Roshelle is currently a member of the Topeka Symphony and concertmaster for the Westwood Ensemble. She plays regularly with the Springfield (MO) Symphony — their recent full productions of Swan Lake and the Sleeping Beauty with the Saint Louis Ballet have been career highlights. In the summer, she performs in the orchestra and chamber ensembles of the Taneycomo Festival Orchestra.
When she isn’t teaching or making music, you can find Roshelle snapping pictures, cruising around in Mini Coopers, or playing with Mouse, her cat who loves to play fetch.
Roshelle
Pekarek
Harmony Project KC
Sadaf Sohrab
Sadaf Sohrab is a music educator deeply committed to fostering musical growth and community engagement. Her teaching philosophy is rooted in community music and culturally relevant pedagogies. She believes that educators have a responsibility to provide high-quality education to all students and support them in becoming the best versions of themselves while empowering them to bring positive change to their communities.
Sadaf’s journey in music education began at York University, Toronto, where she earned an Honours degree in Bachelor of Fine Arts in Music. During her time at York University, she specialized in classical violin, folk fiddle, and music education, studying under the guidance of esteemed instructors like Mark Skazinetsky and Anne Lederman. Currently, Sadaf is in her final year of a Bachelor of Education program for Primary/Junior at York University, Toronto.
Her professional career is marked by her active involvement with Sistema Toronto since 2022. She currently works as a Teaching Artist at one of the centres and teaches violin and cello. In the summer of 2024, she had the opportunity to work as a Program Assistant at the Sistema Toronto office, assisting with curriculum development and other administrative tasks. In addition to her work at Sistema Toronto, Sadaf is an active member of the Rose Orchestra community in Brampton. She has a long-standing relationship with the Rose Orchestra, having started in the youth division (Rosebud Orchestra) in 2017. Today, she serves as the 2nd violin coach for the Rosebuds, plays as a 2nd violinist in the Rose Orchestra, and is involved as a Board of Director.
Looking ahead, Sadaf aims to continue her work in music education and community engagement, leveraging her skills and experience to inspire the next generation of young musicians. Her passion includes creating engaging, inclusive and empowering music spaces for young people to learn. Sadaf continuously strives to grow as an educator for students and the educator she wishes she had as a student. Her long-term goals include attaining OCT designation to be a certified elementary school teacher and serve the communities she works in, and to start her own non-profit music program in her hometown, Brampton.
Sadaf
Sohrab
Sistema Toronto
Sadie Azersky
Sadie Azersky is a composer, producer, and pianist based in Phoenix, Arizona. Growing up classically trained in piano, she now strives to develop her own style by combining classical influences with electronic music production. In addition to her solo music, she plays in several groups in Phoenix, including Ellie Fern and the Evergreen, and electronic duo STEREOPLXSMA. She also produces for several local artists, and composes music for film and dance. Outside of creating music, she teaches piano, songwriting and audio production at Phoenix Conservatory of Music, and is the chapter leader for the We Make Noise Phoenix chapter.
Sadie
Azersky
Phoenix Conservatory of Music
Sam Tobias
Sam Tobias is the jazz program coordinator for Paterson Music Project where he manages two jazz-specific sites for students grades 4th-8th and teaches jazz flute classes. Prior to his work with PMP, he taught music as a public school teacher in the cities of Newark and Linden. In 2018, Sam published his first book, “Planet Sax: 26 Études for the Maturing Student,” a color-illustrated book of challenging pieces that reflect the diverse world of music that is available to students. Sam is especially interested in teaching creativity as a skill and developing through music the agency students need to be successful in their lives.
Sam
Tobias
Paterson Music Project
Sam Hight
From an early age, I knew that I wanted to be in a career that actively engaged and worked with people. From my sophomore year in high school, I began teaching private trombone lessons while studying privately myself in saxophones. During my grade school years, I regularly participated in the ILMEA state auditions and performed in ensembles and camps outside of school. These activities include Birch Creek, ILMEA District 9 Jazz Ensemble, and Lyons Township HS Marching Band camp.
I completed my undergraduate studies at Northern Illinois University in the fall of 2013 with a major in music performance and a minor in psychology. During my commencement, the president of NIU Doug Baker selected me to be called 'Most Likely to be Successful' out of my graduating class. This included a speech of my accomplishment during my time at NIU including starting jam sessions on campus, working with clubs that increased diversity, and making donations to various departments outside of my major.
In 2015, I began my own wedding entertainment company called the Groove Cartel, and since 2016 I have been a teaching artist at The Peoples Music School, where I am now Director of the Jazz Ensemble.
Throughout, I actively participate in the musical scene in Chicago gigging and performing, all while teaching during the day.
Sam
Hight
The People’s Music School
Satchel Henneman
Satchel Henneman (b.1995) is a composer and virtuoso guitarist from the Pacific Northwest currently based in Riverside, California. He has received degrees from Cornish College of the Arts (BM ‘17) and Yale School of Music (MM ‘20), where he studied with Ben Verdery. Satchel has guest lectured at the Yale School of Architecture, The New School, and Pace, and is currently on faculty at Riverside City College, the Riverside Arts Academy and the Claremont Community School of Music.
Satchel
Henneman
Riverside Arts Academy
Simon Ablan
Venezuelan Cellist, with 18 years of experience, playing in recognized orchestras of Venezuela, and a cello instructor, with more than 12 years of experience. I have received training as a cellist and as a cello instructor withing the System of Orchestras of Venezuela and the Latin American Academy of Cello.
Among my previous teachers stand out, William Molina Cestari considered one of the best cellists today, Javier Peraza and Samuel Perez. I was in Violoncello courses with renowned masters of the instrument, Horacio Contreras and Luca Francetti. I was part of the National Children's Symphonic Orchestra of Venezuela. I played in Orchestras under the direction of Internationally recognized Directors such as Gustavo Dudamel, Sir Simon Rattle, Diego Matheuz, Jose Olivetti among others.
Simon
Ablan
El Sistema Texas
Tom Torrisi
Tom Torrisi is a classical guitarist, composer, and arranger currently working and residing in Buffalo, NY. Active as both soloist and chamber musician, Tom has been heard performing throughout the United States and in the UK and has been featured on WNED, WXXI, WRUR, and BBC radio. He has received top honors in numerous competitions including the APSU Concerto Competition, the Memphis University International Guitar Competition and the Southern Guitar Festival Competition.Tom is a passionate advocate for new music and frequently collaborates with composers premiering pieces by Rachel DeVore Fogarty, Gerald Garcia, Edgar Girtain, Evan Henry, Arthur Keegan-Bole, Timothy Lee Miller, Robert Morris, and Zack Pentecost among others and has performed at 21st Century Guitar Festival, Black House Collective, June in Buffalo, Mostly Modern Festival, New York City Electroacoustic Music Festival, and zFestival. As a composer Tom draws on his diverse and eclectic performance background and one can hear traces of influences as wide-ranging as French impressionism, Balinese gamelan, American minimalism, and heavy metal. In addition to the guitar, Tom is a passionate explorer of non-Western musical styles and currently teaches and performs with Nusantara Arts' Balinese gamelan ensemble, and has previously performed with Gamelan Sanjiwani and Gamelan Lila Muni in Rochester, NY.
Tom
Torrisi
Nusantara Arts
Traivon Williams
Traivon L. Williams holds a Master of Music in Composition degree from California Baptist University (CBU). He has over 15 years of professional musical experience as a music performer and recording musician. As a performing musician, Traivon has been a pianist and/or vocalist in a variety of ensembles including choir and orchestra, jazz ensembles, cover bands, small groups, and chamber ensembles. He has a passion for integrating expressive meaning to music.
In addition to his distinction as a musician and performer, Traivon is also an inspirational and energetic music educator who finds his greatest passion in nurturing both intellectual and spiritual growth in the lives of young people. Traivon began his teaching career as a private voice and piano instructor. He then went on to pilot a K-1st grade Music program in Corona California, teaching classroom music and literacy for multiple sites in the Alvord Unified School District.
Traivon is known for his commitment and motivation to inspire students while instilling within them an appreciation for music, learning and life. He is skilled at integrating cooperative learning and multiculturalism into lesson plans and providing a well-rounded learning experience while instilling passion and joy into student’s lives.
Traivon
Williams
Riverside Arts Academy
Troy Downey
Troy Downey is a multi-instrumentalist, composer and teaching artist from Des Moines, Iowa and currently resides in Chicago, Illinois. Troy has been teaching music across the Midwest for the last decade, and has been playing and performing for nearly two decades. He has partnered with many teaching organizations, currently working in association with Guitars Over Guns and the Chicago Public School district. Troy also has a long background in teaching early childhood music. Recently he has written the curriculum for and launched a brand new introductory music theory class for kids. His passion is for jazz, though he is adept at many other styles as well. Troy is primarily a guitarist and keyboardist, but he loves to learn other instruments as a hobby. In 2024 he performed his first few shows on the alto saxophone! Troy's philosophy to teaching music is to always make it fun, exciting and accessible:
"It's called playing music, not working music."
Troy
Downey
Guitars Over Guns Organization- Chicago
Tyler Adamthwaite
Tyler is a composer and violinist/violist from Denver, Colorado. He holds a PhD from the University at Buffalo in Music Composition, where he taught courses in Electronic Music, Composition, and Rock History. His compositions have been featured on concerts and in festivals presented by top ranking ensembles such as Yarn/Wire, Transient Canvas, Loadbang, and Ensemble MisEn.
As a violinist Tyler has performed with the Vertex ensemble, Amherst Chamber Players, and has led various groups consisting of friends and colleagues. Currently he is a regular member of the Buffalo String Works faculty quartet.
Tyler has been a Teaching Artist with Buffalo String Works for the past two years, where he has focused on creating a space where students engage with the curriculum to chose their own music. He thinks that the music classroom is a space of learning both technical skill and creativity. His students have written pieces as a class which have been featured on BSW concert programs.
Tyler
Adamthwaite
Buffalo String Works
Zoe Merrill
As a California native and third-generation musician, Zoë believes in nurturing citizen-artists who not only excel in music but also make a positive impact on society. She hopes to foster growth in each of her students, especially within her private studio and in the classes she teaches at Enriching Lives Through Music (ELM), an El Sistema-inspired program where she leads group classes and conducts the string ensembles.
Zoë's extensive performance background includes roles as a violin fellow with MTT’s New World Symphony and as a member of the Civic Orchestra of Chicago, and performances alongside acclaimed musicians such as Neil Young and Yo-Yo Ma.
She holds a MM from the Eastman School of Music and a BA from UCLA with a minor in French. Outside of music, she delights in hiking, trying new foods, and exploring the vibrant Bay Area with friends and family.