Faculty
A USC music school graduate, Suzanne has taught for over 40 years. Accomplishments include performing in the Indiana University Symphony, South Bend Symphony, USC Symphony, among others and teaching at the South Bend Community Schools Summer Clinic, the Idylwild Summer Music School, the Irvine Conservatory of Music, the USC Community School of Performing Arts. She is a creative teacher committed to excellence, providing good fundamentals for the beginner and coaching advanced students as they prepare for auditions, performances, and contests. Suzanne is also offering a 10% discount on lessons for senior adults ages 70+. Vaccinated.
Monday 3:00pm-8:30pm Tuesday 1:30pm-8:30pm, Thursdays 2:30-8:30, Sunday 3pm-5pm ONLINE ONLY
Monday 3:00pm-8:30pm Tuesday 1:30pm-8:30pm, Thursdays 2:30-8:30, Sunday 3pm-5pm ONLINE ONLY
Marcelo Soares is a classically trained violinist from Brazil who has more than twenty years of coaching and performance experience. During his extensive orchestral career, Marcelo served as the concertmaster of the Riberiao Symphony Orchestra, and appeared as a soloist with them on numerous occasions. Additionally, he was a member of the Sao Paulo Symphony Orchestra, and was a Titular First Section Violin under the direction of Marin Alsop. As an international soloist, Marcelo has performed works including Romance by Antonin Dvorak, Karl Goldmark’s Concerto for Violin, and Violin Concerto no. 1 by H. Wieniawsky. In January of 2020, he won first prize in the 6th edition of the Shenzhen, China music competition. Beyond his orchestral career, Marcelo enjoys private teaching, as well as coaching students for competition; in 2009, he was invited as a guest teacher at The University of Sao Paulo. He is dedicated to helping students prepare for their auditions and develop a fervent passion for music. Fluent in Portuguese. Vaccinated.
Tuesday 1:30am-9pm
Tuesday 1:30am-9pm
recently completed his Master’s Degree in Cello Performance at Azusa Pacific University after completing both a Bachelor’s Degree in Cello Performance and Humanities degree in 2018. Prior to his time at Azusa, Jared studied with Seattle Symphony cellist Walter Gray, and had the opportunity to participate in masterclasses with both principal Chicago Symphony cellist Stephen Balderston and renown cello soloist Joshua Roman. Jared studied under Dr. Marek Szpakiewicz DMA, Professor Christopher Russell, Ingrid Chun and Suli Xue of the Los Angeles Philharmonic, Karen Dryfus from USC, Glenn Dicterow, former New York Philharmonic concertmaster, and Dariusz Skoraczewski, the principal cellist for the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra. Jared had the opportunity to travel to Zhengzhou, China with a small group of six instrumentalists from the Azusa Pacific University Symphony and Professor Russell. While in Zhengzhou, Jared and his colleagues rehearsed and performed with the Yellow River Symphony Orchestra, performing Aaron Copland’s Our Town, Johannes Brahms’s Concerto for Violin and Cello in A minor, and Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 2 in C minor at the Henan Art Center. Additionally, while playing with the symphony, Jared had the opportunity to play for a televised choral competition that took place near Zhengzhou. Jared has additional performed as a cellist and choral ensemble member in both Hong Kong, Xian, and Beijing. In addition to his classical training, Jared has also had the privilege of working throughout Los Angeles as a performing and recording artist. See his YouTube here. Vaccinated.
Wednesday - 1:30pm-6:00pm, Saturday 12pm-4pm
Yao Wang (cello)
was born in Xinjiang, China, and began cello study at the age of five with his father. After attending Shanghai Conservatory in China from 2004- 2005, he completed his Performer’s Certificate at La Sierra University in Riverside, received a full scholarship to the Thornton School of Music, University of Southern California, and received his Master Degree in music performance from Azusa Pacific University. In 2000 Yao was awarded 2nd Prize in the National Competition and top prize in the Central Conservatory String Competition in China. In 2002 he received a full scholarship to the Itzhak Perlman Music Program, and performed with Perlman in that year. Also in 2002, Yao was featured soloist in a performance of the Elgar Cello Concerto with Xinjiang Philharmonic. Yao won 1st Prize in the American String Teachers' Association competition in Redlands Los Angeles, and received a full scholarship to the International Cello Master Program Gregor Piatigorshy Seminar that year. In 2008, he became one of winners in Sigma Alpha Iota Competition. Yao served as principal cellist of the Corona Symphony Orchestra from 2008-2010 and continues to solo in the Los Angeles area. Fluent in Mandarin.
Friday 4pm-6:30pm ONLINE ONLY
Leo Nobre (string bass, guitar)
Leo has his bachelors degree in music from the University of Miami. A native Brazilian, Leo attended the American School of Rio de Janeiro, studying acoustic nylon guitar and string bass. As a high schooler he played with various Brazilian artists before being accepted to the University of Miami School of Music where he studied music theory, piano, arranging, and composition. He is a jazz musician, performing on and recording with many artists like Herbie Hancock, Stevie Wonder, Dori Caymmi, Airto Moreira, Jill Scott, Sergio Mendes, Hubert Laws, Black Eyed Peas, Shakira and many others. Leo has been awarded two Latin Grammy awards for playing with Sergio Mendez. Fluent in Spanish, Portuguese, and Italian. Vaccinated.
Thursday 4pm-8:30pm
Wednesday - 1:30pm-6:00pm, Saturday 12pm-4pm
Yao Wang (cello) was born in Xinjiang, China, and began cello study at the age of five with his father. After attending Shanghai Conservatory in China from 2004- 2005, he completed his Performer’s Certificate at La Sierra University in Riverside, received a full scholarship to the Thornton School of Music, University of Southern California, and received his Master Degree in music performance from Azusa Pacific University. In 2000 Yao was awarded 2nd Prize in the National Competition and top prize in the Central Conservatory String Competition in China. In 2002 he received a full scholarship to the Itzhak Perlman Music Program, and performed with Perlman in that year. Also in 2002, Yao was featured soloist in a performance of the Elgar Cello Concerto with Xinjiang Philharmonic. Yao won 1st Prize in the American String Teachers' Association competition in Redlands Los Angeles, and received a full scholarship to the International Cello Master Program Gregor Piatigorshy Seminar that year. In 2008, he became one of winners in Sigma Alpha Iota Competition. Yao served as principal cellist of the Corona Symphony Orchestra from 2008-2010 and continues to solo in the Los Angeles area. Fluent in Mandarin.
Friday 4pm-6:30pm ONLINE ONLY
Leo Nobre (string bass, guitar) Leo has his bachelors degree in music from the University of Miami. A native Brazilian, Leo attended the American School of Rio de Janeiro, studying acoustic nylon guitar and string bass. As a high schooler he played with various Brazilian artists before being accepted to the University of Miami School of Music where he studied music theory, piano, arranging, and composition. He is a jazz musician, performing on and recording with many artists like Herbie Hancock, Stevie Wonder, Dori Caymmi, Airto Moreira, Jill Scott, Sergio Mendes, Hubert Laws, Black Eyed Peas, Shakira and many others. Leo has been awarded two Latin Grammy awards for playing with Sergio Mendez. Fluent in Spanish, Portuguese, and Italian. Vaccinated.
Thursday 4pm-8:30pm
holds a masters degree in Composition from Wayne State University where he then taught for 13 years before coming on board at Neighborhood Music in 2006. Freelance pianist, band leader, composer/arranger and educator, Gary has been performing at the piano for over 45 years in jazz, classical and pop genres. www.myspace.com/garyblumerjazzpiano Vaccinated.
Vaccinated. Member MTAC
Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday 1:30pm-8:30pm, Saturday 9am-5pm;
Vaccinated. Member MTAC
Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday 1:30pm-8:30pm, Saturday 9am-5pm;
is an experienced soloist and collaborative artist with performances in the United States, Taiwan, and on television. Most recently, Yafei worked as a collaborative pianist with numerous Los Angeles-based choirs, including SUUS Choir, Taiwanese Hai-Yun Choir, and Woodland Academy Choir. She serves as a staff accompanist at CSU Northridge, and regularly accompanies for student competitions and evaluations throughout the greater Los Angeles area. As an active member of the Music Teacher‘s Association of California (MTAC), Ms. Lin has developed a reputation as a music educator dedicated to excellence and student success, and her students have been recognized for their outstanding performances in the Certificate of Merit and ABRSM. A native of Taiwan, Yafei began studying piano at the age of seven and continued her education at Shih Chien University, where she studied piano and violin. She holds a Master’s Degree in piano performance from CSU Northridge, with piano studies under Dmitry Rachmanov, and was the recipient of the Etude Music Club Endowment and the Art Council Music Scholarship. Fluent in Mandarin. Advanced level only. Vaccinated.
Member MTAC, Royal Conservatory
Wednesday 1:30-8:30pm, Saturdays, additional availability upon request.
Member MTAC, Royal Conservatory
Wednesday 1:30-8:30pm, Saturdays, additional availability upon request.
received her Bachelor of Arts Degree from Pennsylvania State University, a Master of Music Degree in Piano performance from Duquesne University in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and a Master of Arts Degree in Applied Women’s Studies from Claremont Graduate University with an emphasis in music. She is an advocate for women in music and has presented concerts and lecture recitals on the music of women at a variety of conferences throughout the United States. She has twice been a prizewinner in the International Bartok-Kabalevsky competition and won the Pittsburgh Concert Society Competition in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Jamie is past Chairperson for the Pomona Valley annual auditions of the National Guild of Piano Teachers and past President for the Claremont Alumni Chapter of Mu Phi Epsilon. She is a member of MTAC, MTNA, National Guild of Piano Teachers, American Guild of Organists, International Alliance of Women in Music and is a founding teacher for the Royal Conservatory Music Development Program in the United States. Vaccinated.
Member MTAC, Royal Conservatory
Monday-Friday 1:30-8:30pm, Saturdays, additional availability upon request.
Eve Chen (piano)
Harry Li (piano, theory)
Member MTAC, Royal Conservatory
Monday-Friday 1:30-8:30pm, Saturdays, additional availability upon request.
Eve Chen (piano)
first started piano lessons at age five at the Yamaha Music School in Taiwan; this is where she began to develop her passion for music. During college she participated in various recitals, placing in many competitions, most notably receiving the Honor Award at the Performance Scholarship Competition of Old Town Music for Piano. She also won first place at the Seventh Annual Piano Ensemble Festival of Fullerton College. Ms. Chen graduated from California State University, Northridge with a Bachelor’s Degree in Piano. At CSUN, she studied under Dimitry Rachmanov and performed in master class with Roberto Prosseda. She was a recipient of the CSUN Music Department of the Music Teacher’s Association of California, West Valley Branch Scholarship in 2010-2011. Eve has been active as a teacher and performer for over 10 years, and she is currently a member of the Certificate of Merit program (MTAC). Fluent in Mandarin. Vaccinated.
currently full
Harry Li (piano, theory) recently received third place in the We Are Musicale Bach Festival. Having started piano along with music theory studies at the age of five, Harry became extremely passionate about teaching. He had earned the ABRSM piano diploma, a “5” on the AP music theory exam, as well as a “distinction” mark on the ABRSM theory level 7 in his high school years. Harry has been teaching piano and music theory for 4 years. He had mastered the CM theory curriculum, the AP theory curriculum, and the ABRSM piano and theory curriculum. He prides himself as one who can turn complicated or dreadful concepts into interesting and simple analogies to help students understand and memorize better. He wants every student to find the music journey rewarding, successful, and, most importantly, enjoyable. Fluent in Mandarin. Vaccinated.
Saturday 12p-4p, Sunday 10:00am-4:00pm, upon request
Saturday 12p-4p, Sunday 10:00am-4:00pm, upon request
Jonathan, a lyric tenor and San Diego native, studied vocal performance (B.A.) under Dr. John Craig Johnson and vocal coach Ines Irawati at Point Loma Nazarene University. Before finishing his studies, Jonathan had become an accomplished teacher. At the age 18 he began directing his church choir and by the following year had become the Director of Worship Ministries (Centro Cristiano La Palabra.) In the middle of his junior year of college he had been offered a teaching position at the Recreational Music Center in San Diego. There he created a Vocal Arts Summer program and helped create school curriculums through their school site programs, establishing a vocal curriculum at the Saint Charles Borromeo Catholic Academy. Furthermore, Jonathan has sung with Diego Opera’s university partnership program Opera Exposed! and outreach program Opera on Track under the direction of Dr. Nicholas Reveles.
Jonathan has had the privilege of being invited to sing throughout the United States and internationally in Mexico. He made his U.S. Debut with Long Beach Opera, March 2016, in the role of “Wissam” in of Heather Raffo & Tobin Stokes’ Fallujah, an opera inspired by the story of U.S. Marine Christian Ellis in the Iraq War. He reprised the role in his debut with New York City Opera November 2016. Jonathan made his international debut with Opera de Tijuana in the role of “Joe” in Gershwin’s Blue Monday October 2015. Other roles include Long Beach Opera as “Man 1” in Robert Xavier’s west coast premier of Frida (2017); Opera Theatre of the Rockies: “Radames” in Verdi’s Aida (2017/scene), “Goro” in Puccini’s Madama Butterfly (2017/scene), “Pylade” in Gluck’s Iphigénie en Tauride (2017/scene); Lensky in Tchaikovsky’s Eugene Onegin (2015/Act 1), Don Jose in Bizet’s Carmen (2015/scene); San Diego Opera’s Opera on Track as “Don Ramiro” in Rossini’s Cenerentola 2016/Act 1); Point Loma Opera Theatre: “Parpignol” in Puccini’s La Boheme (2015), “Prince Charment” in Massenet’s Cendrillon (2014), “Beppe” in Donizetti’s Rita (2014), “Giuseppe” in Loesser’s Most Happy Fella (2013), “Aeneas” in Purcell’s Dido and Aeneas (2012) understudy for “Camile” in Lehar’s Die Lustige Witwe (2012) and “Don Anchise” in Mozart’s La Finta Giardiniera (2011). Fluent in Spanish. Vaccinated.
Monday-Thursday 1:30pm-8:30pm, Friday 1:30-6:30,
Jonathan has had the privilege of being invited to sing throughout the United States and internationally in Mexico. He made his U.S. Debut with Long Beach Opera, March 2016, in the role of “Wissam” in of Heather Raffo & Tobin Stokes’ Fallujah, an opera inspired by the story of U.S. Marine Christian Ellis in the Iraq War. He reprised the role in his debut with New York City Opera November 2016. Jonathan made his international debut with Opera de Tijuana in the role of “Joe” in Gershwin’s Blue Monday October 2015. Other roles include Long Beach Opera as “Man 1” in Robert Xavier’s west coast premier of Frida (2017); Opera Theatre of the Rockies: “Radames” in Verdi’s Aida (2017/scene), “Goro” in Puccini’s Madama Butterfly (2017/scene), “Pylade” in Gluck’s Iphigénie en Tauride (2017/scene); Lensky in Tchaikovsky’s Eugene Onegin (2015/Act 1), Don Jose in Bizet’s Carmen (2015/scene); San Diego Opera’s Opera on Track as “Don Ramiro” in Rossini’s Cenerentola 2016/Act 1); Point Loma Opera Theatre: “Parpignol” in Puccini’s La Boheme (2015), “Prince Charment” in Massenet’s Cendrillon (2014), “Beppe” in Donizetti’s Rita (2014), “Giuseppe” in Loesser’s Most Happy Fella (2013), “Aeneas” in Purcell’s Dido and Aeneas (2012) understudy for “Camile” in Lehar’s Die Lustige Witwe (2012) and “Don Anchise” in Mozart’s La Finta Giardiniera (2011). Fluent in Spanish. Vaccinated.
Monday-Thursday 1:30pm-8:30pm, Friday 1:30-6:30,
Hailed by the San Diego Union-Tribune as a “versatile wonder,” Kiana Bell is making her voice heard in the worlds of classical, musical theatre, and pop singing. While completing her B.A. in Music at Point Loma Nazarene University, she spent three years as part of San Diego Opera’s Educational Outreach and Apprenticeship program, Opera Exposed!, performing concerts in the Greater San Diego area, as well as on the main stage as one of the youngest members of the chorus. Favorite credits include Carousel (Utah Festival Opera), Ragtime (San Diego Musical Theatre), La Cenerentola (San Diego Opera on Track!) and American Rhythm (Lamb’s Players Theatre). Kiana has received prizes and recognition from the La Jolla Symphony and Chorus Young Artists Competition, the National Association of Teachers of Singing, and the Metropolitan Opera National Council. Kiana has recently taken a step into commercial music by becoming a Featured Singer and vocal captain for Royal Caribbean Cruises International, where she travels and performs anything from Musical Theatre revue shows to her own pop and soul sets. Kiana has been teaching private vocal lessons and vocal workshops since 2012. She makes it her aim to equip her students for any genre of singing by harnessing and cultivating classical-based technique. Vaccinated.
Currently on tour
Currently on tour
Jeffrey Tay (piano, guitar, voice)
Jeffery Tay is a singer-songwriter, Independent Artist, Producer. Jeffery started learning classical piano a at the age of 10, and shortly after began learning the ukulele and guitar. He majored in vocal studies and holds a bachelor degree from Xinghai Conservatory of Music where he was awarded “outstanding graduate student.” After graduation, he signed a contract with a Chinese label to be a singer and songwriter and released two original albums between 2013-2015. Soon after, he released 4 original singles as an independent artist, producing his own music videos, one which was pitched by MTV Chinese Channel and aired for more than one year. In 2018 Jeffery moved to Los Angeles and graduated from Musician Institute with a Certificate in Independent Artistry.
He holds awards as Top 4 in “The Guangzhou Foreign Language Singer Competition” (2009); Champion of “Budweiser of China Campus singer competition”; Top 10 in Hong Kong TVB “International Chinese New Talent Singing Championship” shows (2012); Top 4 in MTV China channel ‘Aloft Star’ (2015); Top 4 in Guangdong TV ‘Live casting idols of China’ (2016) Fluent in Mandarin and Cantonese. Vaccinated.
Monday - Friday 1:30-8:30pm; Saturday 1pm-5pm, additional availability upon request.
Jeffery Tay is a singer-songwriter, Independent Artist, Producer. Jeffery started learning classical piano a at the age of 10, and shortly after began learning the ukulele and guitar. He majored in vocal studies and holds a bachelor degree from Xinghai Conservatory of Music where he was awarded “outstanding graduate student.” After graduation, he signed a contract with a Chinese label to be a singer and songwriter and released two original albums between 2013-2015. Soon after, he released 4 original singles as an independent artist, producing his own music videos, one which was pitched by MTV Chinese Channel and aired for more than one year. In 2018 Jeffery moved to Los Angeles and graduated from Musician Institute with a Certificate in Independent Artistry.
He holds awards as Top 4 in “The Guangzhou Foreign Language Singer Competition” (2009); Champion of “Budweiser of China Campus singer competition”; Top 10 in Hong Kong TVB “International Chinese New Talent Singing Championship” shows (2012); Top 4 in MTV China channel ‘Aloft Star’ (2015); Top 4 in Guangdong TV ‘Live casting idols of China’ (2016) Fluent in Mandarin and Cantonese. Vaccinated.
Monday - Friday 1:30-8:30pm; Saturday 1pm-5pm, additional availability upon request.
Earned a Bachelor of Music degree with and emphasis in Performance from California State University Fresno. Lori also studied with Leone Buyse, Jim Walker, and attended Summer Master Class Seminars with the renowned master flutist and teacher, Frances Blaisdell. With over 20 years of performing and teaching experience Lori is passionate about passing on her love of music to her students through a nurturing environment that emphasizes tone production, technique building, ear training and artistry/musicianship. She believes the study of music enhances every aspect of a young persons development, creativity, sense of accomplishment and future success. Vaccinated.
Board Member MTAC, Member National Flute Association
Wednesday 1:30-6:30, Thursday 1:30pm-8:00pm
Board Member MTAC, Member National Flute Association
Wednesday 1:30-6:30, Thursday 1:30pm-8:00pm
Evan completed his undergraduate studies at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama in London, UK under world renowned oboists Nicholas Daniel and Gordon Hunt. He is currently a master’s student at University of Southern California studying under Joel Timm. He has also participated in a variety of summer music festivals and academies in Brazil, Canada, and England to name a few. With a passion for chamber music, he has been a guest artist in such groups as Camerata Pacifica and the Kuhmo Chamber Music Festival in Finland. As an LA native, Evan is committed to social justice and has worked with groups such as Harmony Project and Street Symphony, both of which are spearheading social change through music and education. Evan aims to provide his students with a warm, encouraging environment with values rooted in musicality and guiding them to their full potential as an oboist.
Jason Geunsu Lee was born in Seoul, South Korea. He earned a Bachelor’s degree in Jazz Guitar from Conservatorium van Amsterdam in the Netherlands. After returning to Korea, he taught private guitar lessons at Baekseok Arts University, Paekche Institute of the Arts, and Soongsil University as a lecturer. He then moved to Los Angeles to pursue his Master’s degree in Studio/Jazz Guitar program at the University of Southern California, where he was selected to perform with the USC Thornton Jazz Orchestra, directed by Bob Mintzer and Vince Mendoza’s combo. Both ensembles were selected to perform in the final round at the Monterey Next Generation Jazz Festival in 2016 and 2017. He studied jazz guitar with Bruce Forman as well as studio guitar with Richard Smith and Pat Kelly. He also had an opportunity to perform American Root music under Steve Trovato’s guidance. He completed his Master's degree with Pi Kappa Lambda Honors. With over 10 years of teaching experience Jason's mature and steady character makes him a very trustworthy teacher. His patience and love gives his students as sense of great encouragement. Fluent English and Korean. Vaccinated.
FACULTY CURRENTLY NOT TAKING ON NEW STUDENTS:
Mon-Fri:1:30-8:30pm, Saturday 8am-12pm
Dr. Ken Nagatani (guitar) Received both a Master of Music and a Graduate Performance Diploma from the Peabody Conservatory of Music, where he studied with Manuel Barrueco, and completed the Doctor of Musical Arts degree at the University of Southern California in 2006 as a student of William Kanengiser. While at USC, he was the recipient of the Mary Pickford Foundation Endowed Scholarship in Classical Guitar and the Jack Marshall Memorial Scholarship. Ken has been active as a teacher and performer in Los Angeles area for the past 17 years, and is currently an adjunct instructor at East Los Angeles College, Long Beach City College, and Glendale City College. Vaccinated.
Wed 1:30pm-8:30pm, Saturday 9:00am-5:00pm
Wed 1:30pm-8:30pm, Saturday 9:00am-5:00pm
Sean has been teaching guitar and bass for over 15 years, working with students of all ages, ability levels and styles. Sean holds a Bachelor of Music from CSU Hayward and is currently a graduate student in the Studio/Jazz Guitar program at USC's Thornton School of Music. Having also studied at the renowned Berklee College of Music, Sean has had the honor of learning from some of the best music educators in the world. As teacher, Sean seeks to inspire his students by encouraging their own creativity and musical interests while building a strong foundation in the fundamentals. As a music lover without regard to genre, Sean has performed in many musical settings, from straight ahead or avant-garde jazz to blues, rock, pop, funk and classical. As a leader, Sean performs regularly with his organ trio as well as various jazz ensembles. Though jazz/improvised music plays a huge part of his musical life, Sean is also involved in various rock projects, musical theater as well as work as a session musician. Currently, Sean is working on composing and recording his original music as well as performing in the LA area.
Wednesdays 1:30pm-8:30pm, Sunday 1:30pm-5:00pm
Wednesdays 1:30pm-8:30pm, Sunday 1:30pm-5:00pm
Is featured as the lead tenor saxophonist in the LA Swing Barons as well as member of the classical saxophone quartet Ex Sono. Josh has received numerous awards as a soloist and section player in multiple genres including Outstanding Musicianship awards from the Riverside Jazz Festival and the Fullerton College Jazz Festival as well as winning the state MTNA chamber music competition in California. As a student at California State University Fullerton, Josh played principal saxophone for Symphonic Winds and First Tenor for the Fullerton Jazz Orchestra while studying with Damon Zick and Jeff Ellwood. Josh has performed with artists such as Bob Mintzer, Joe LaBarbera, Francisco Torres, and Scott Robinson. Vaccinated.
Saturday 9am-5pm, Sunday 12pm-4pm
Saturday 9am-5pm, Sunday 12pm-4pm
started playing the violin when he was 6 years old but switched to the trumpet in 1997. A native of Penang, Malaysia, he served a.s principal trumpet in the Penang Symphony Orchestra from 2000-2002. In 2015, he was appointed Principal Trumpet with Dream Orchestra of Los Angeles and has been performing with this wonderful ensemble since then. Since coming to the United States, Caster has appeared in numerous orchestras, including the American Youth Symphony, Orange County Symphony, Santa Monica Symphony, Quad City Symphony, Cedar Rapids Opera, West Coast Chamber Orchestra etc. While in college, he was one of the finalists in the Maia Quartet competition and was awarded outstanding Pi Kappa Lambda award in 2007. Caster has been performing with many professional ensembles, including the Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra, Brazilian Symphony Orchestra, National Orchestra of Malaysia, Kumamoto International Orchestra, etc. under numerous conductors and artists, such as Kees Bakel, Michael Tilson Thomas, Kurt Mazur, Dame Kiri Te Kanawa, Kazuyoshi Akiyama, and many more. During the summers, he has performed in many countries, including Brazil, Italy, Japan, Korea, Belgium, Taiwan, Australia, Thailand, Canada, etc. A doctorate graduate from the USC Thornton School of Music, Caster was inducted as a member of the Phi Beta Kappa Honor Society in 2007 and 2013. While at school, he was also a Fulbright scholarship student and has been awarded 2013 outstanding Brass Chamber Music award. For the past summers, Caster has been performing in many world-class music festivals, including the International Winter Music Festival in Brazil, Alba music festival in Italy, etc. In 2014, he was invited to perform Bach’s Brandenburg Concerto No. 2 with West Coast Chamber Orchestra. His primary teachers include Andrew Balio, Boyde Hood, David Greenhoe, John Bourque and William Theis. Aside from being an orchestra musician, Caster has also served as Music Director/ Conductor of the Youth Symphony West Orchestra, Brass Coach at California Summer School for the Arts and Adjunct Professor of Brass at Grace Mission University. Caster is a much sought after teacher of trumpet. His students have won numerous music awards, admitted to credited universities, such as Michigan University, Eastman School of Music, University of California, Los Angeles, Cal state University at Northridge, etc. At the same time, Caster’s students also performed in music festivals, orchestras and competitions throughout the country, including the International Trumpet Guild competition, Colburn Youth Symphony and Jazz Orchestra, Pacific Youth Symphony, Idyllwild Music Academy, Colorado Youth Jazz Ensemble, etc. Fluent in Mandarin. Vaccinated.
Wednesday 3pm-6pm, Friday 2:00pm-6:00pm, Saturday 2:00pm-3:30pm
Wednesday 3pm-6pm, Friday 2:00pm-6:00pm, Saturday 2:00pm-3:30pm
One of the world’s fastest men is also one of the best jazz trumpeters on Earth. Nolan Shaheed, is the world record-holder at 800 meters and the mile for people 50 and older. He also competes in triathlons and runs the 1,500 and 3,000 meter events. His lips are just as fast as his feet. He was musical director for Marvin Gaye and he’s played with Count Basie, Natalie Cole, Stevie Wonder, and Diana Ross, among others.
Upon request
Upon request
Kenny’s career as a professional drummer began at age 12 when he performed under the direction of the Red Saunders Orchestra at the Regal Theater. He was the staff drummer for Brunswick Records while teaching at the American Conservatory before moving to Los Angeles. Kenny toured with such greats as Lou Rawls, Aretha Franklin and Natalie Cole and performed with Ella Fitzgerald, Lucy Arnez, Diahann Caroll, Carol Channing, Ray Charles, Al Green, Eddie Harris, Al Jarreau, Chaka Kahn, Cheryl Lynn, Billy Preston, Helen Reddy, Dionne Warwick, and Stevie Wonder, and is currently the drummer for Jeff Goldblum. He enjoys teaching and working with people. Vaccinated.
Monday-Wednesday 1:30pm-5:30pm, Saturday 11:30am-3:30pm, Additional availability upon request
Monday-Wednesday 1:30pm-5:30pm, Saturday 11:30am-3:30pm, Additional availability upon request
Fernanda Fuentes (percussion, drumset)
(percussion, drumset)
Growing up in Curico Chile, Fer learned to love and appreciate the rhythms of her home country from cumbia, and cueca to salsa and Latin rock/pop. She played and recorded with the Latin Grammy and MTV awards nominated girl band MammaSoul, and toured through Europe and South America with the girl band LaBanda en Flor. Fer moved to LA 4 years ago and her exceptional skill and passion for music has gotten her to perform with artists like Lauren Jauregui from Fifth Harmony (on her South American Tour opening for Halsey), world famous reggaeton artist Becky G., Thalia at the Forum LA, Debbie Gibson on her tour in Chile, Indonesian pop star Inul Daratista, Jorge Blanco, Abraham Laboriel and Oscar Hernandez among others. Fer is currently endorsed by TRX Cymbals, DW Drums, Vic Firth and MEE Audio. Vaccinated.
Upon request
(percussion, drumset)
Growing up in Curico Chile, Fer learned to love and appreciate the rhythms of her home country from cumbia, and cueca to salsa and Latin rock/pop. She played and recorded with the Latin Grammy and MTV awards nominated girl band MammaSoul, and toured through Europe and South America with the girl band LaBanda en Flor. Fer moved to LA 4 years ago and her exceptional skill and passion for music has gotten her to perform with artists like Lauren Jauregui from Fifth Harmony (on her South American Tour opening for Halsey), world famous reggaeton artist Becky G., Thalia at the Forum LA, Debbie Gibson on her tour in Chile, Indonesian pop star Inul Daratista, Jorge Blanco, Abraham Laboriel and Oscar Hernandez among others. Fer is currently endorsed by TRX Cymbals, DW Drums, Vic Firth and MEE Audio. Vaccinated.
Upon request
Quentin Dennard (percussion, drumset)
Quentin Dennard was born in Detroit, Michigan, and started his career in the late 1960s as session drummer for Motown Records. In a career spanning more than half a century, he has performed with multitude of music legends including Aretha Franklin, Roy Ayers, Dionne Warwick, B.B. King, Issac Hayes, Lamont Dozier, Jermaine Jackson, The Originals, Billy Mitchell, Keb Mo, and The Temptations. Quentin has also worked as a drummer in musical theatre, performing in the Fullerton Opera’s production of Ain’t Misbehavin, as well as the Ms. California beauty pageant and the world-renowned play Jelly’s Last Jam. Quentin’s mastery of many styles of music helps his students learn to “feel” each style, so that when they are called into a performance or recording session, they are not only ready to sight-read in any style, but to excel and impress.
Upon request
Quentin Dennard was born in Detroit, Michigan, and started his career in the late 1960s as session drummer for Motown Records. In a career spanning more than half a century, he has performed with multitude of music legends including Aretha Franklin, Roy Ayers, Dionne Warwick, B.B. King, Issac Hayes, Lamont Dozier, Jermaine Jackson, The Originals, Billy Mitchell, Keb Mo, and The Temptations. Quentin has also worked as a drummer in musical theatre, performing in the Fullerton Opera’s production of Ain’t Misbehavin, as well as the Ms. California beauty pageant and the world-renowned play Jelly’s Last Jam. Quentin’s mastery of many styles of music helps his students learn to “feel” each style, so that when they are called into a performance or recording session, they are not only ready to sight-read in any style, but to excel and impress.
Upon request
FACULTY CURRENTLY NOT TAKING ON NEW STUDENTS:
Carolyn Iga (President, Piano, Kindermusik)
Grew up teaching herself to play the ukulele at the age of 4, and taking formal piano lessons at the age of 7. She became the lead trumpet in the Hawaii State Junior Orchestra, Concert Band, Marching Band and Jazz Band. Carolyn earned a Bachelors in Music Education from the University of Hawaii and a Masters in Church Music with a major on piano and choral conducting from The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary and a Masters in Divinity from Fuller Theological Seminary. In 2000 she opened Neighborhood Music School, teaching piano to kids in her neighborhood and expanding to studios in Malibu, Santa Clarita, San Gabriel, and Arcadia. She worked with mommy and me classes and has coached beginner students all the way through the advanced level of the Certificate of Merit exam and her students have received up to 100% music theory awards. She coaches her students to see the chord structures their music, in order to venture off the piano score and improvise, a technique which is essential in church music. After opening her Arcadia school she began studying Mandarin and has since devoted her life to relief work in China. She coaches piano, vocal, and theory students when she is in town. Fluent in Mandarin. Vaccinated.
Member MTAC, accepts new students only upon special request
Grew up teaching herself to play the ukulele at the age of 4, and taking formal piano lessons at the age of 7. She became the lead trumpet in the Hawaii State Junior Orchestra, Concert Band, Marching Band and Jazz Band. Carolyn earned a Bachelors in Music Education from the University of Hawaii and a Masters in Church Music with a major on piano and choral conducting from The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary and a Masters in Divinity from Fuller Theological Seminary. In 2000 she opened Neighborhood Music School, teaching piano to kids in her neighborhood and expanding to studios in Malibu, Santa Clarita, San Gabriel, and Arcadia. She worked with mommy and me classes and has coached beginner students all the way through the advanced level of the Certificate of Merit exam and her students have received up to 100% music theory awards. She coaches her students to see the chord structures their music, in order to venture off the piano score and improvise, a technique which is essential in church music. After opening her Arcadia school she began studying Mandarin and has since devoted her life to relief work in China. She coaches piano, vocal, and theory students when she is in town. Fluent in Mandarin. Vaccinated.
Member MTAC, accepts new students only upon special request