MEET OUR TEACHERS
Emily Ireland (she / her) — Owner and Director of Brighter Minds Music
Early Childhood Music and Piano Teacher
Emily Ireland has helped hundreds of families discover the joy of playing and sharing music. She has been a full-time piano and early childhood music teacher since 2002, and delights in bringing new and familiar musical experiences to students. Ms Ireland has been trained in the Kindermusik, MacPhail Center for Music and Musikgarten curriculum, and has received training in Kodály and Dalcroze.
With a a master's degree in music education from the University of St. Thomas, and a bachelor's degree in music and German from Gustavus Adolphus College, Ms Ireland's educational background will ensure that you receive the best in music education.
In classes with Emily, you and your loved ones will create special friendships and have fun learning and making music together. In piano lessons with Emily, you or your loved one will learn to play quickly - and more importantly, correctly – with her guidance. Emily is committed to making sure her students discover the joy that comes with making music.
Ms Ireland is actively involved in the music community, a member of music teacher organizations such as Music Teachers National Association (MTNA), Minnesota Music Teachers Association (MMTA), St. Paul Piano Teachers Association (SPPTA), and Association of Professional Piano Teachers (APPI).
Please contact Emily to discuss how Brighter Minds Music teachers can help you or someone you care about discover the joy of making music.
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Adam R. (he / him) — Drums, Guitar, and Electronic Music Composition Teacher
Born and raised in Minneapolis, Minnesota, Adam acquired what has evolved into an inseparable relationship with music at an early age. Although brief, the experience he gained as a percussionist in elementary school left a lasting impression on his musical development. Growing into an avid listener of a vast array of genres over the years, he eventually found himself gravitating towards the guitar. Sitting down and learning his first chord on his living room couch introduced him to a means of expression, freedom, and creativity, marking the beginning of his life-long journey of practice.
Through the trials and errors of autodidacticism, Adam looked outwards, seeking guidance through private lessons and music courses. Enrolling himself into Minneapolis College led him to study music theory with Elizabeth Pauly, jazz improvisation with Joel Sundseth, and guitar fundamentals with David Crittenden. The work leading up to achieving his Associates of Arts degree with an Emphasis in Music proved to be pivotal in the refinement of his skillset as a musician, giving him experience in rehearsing, performing, and recording on guitar, bass, and drums. He plans to continue his education by pursuing his Bachelor's degree in jazz studies and guitar performance in the coming years.
As of late, Adam has been focused on arranging interpretations of jazz standards, recording original compositions, and expanding his understanding of music production and fretboard fluency. He feels blessed to have the opportunity to teach at Brighter Minds Music, and he looks forward to sharing what he's picked up along the way with you! Whether you'd like to learn how to play your favorite songs, dive into theoretical concepts, or just jam with a friend, Adam's mission is to facilitate a warm and welcoming environment for you to have fun making music in.
Alexa H. (she/her) — Piano and Drums Teacher
Alexa started piano lessons at a young age before moving to percussion in the school band. Throughout junior high, she developed her skills on the marimba, drum set, and piano. In high school, she performed as a percussionist in the concert orchestra and played drum set in the jazz band. Outside of school, she was the drummer in several rock bands for fun. Alexa further pursued her passion by studying music performance at University of St. Thomas, where she performed with their concert orchestra and jazz band, taking the stage at Orchestra Hall and internationally.
After transferring to the University of Minnesota, Alexa minored in music performance. Upon graduation, she joined the Grand Symphonic Winds ensemble, performing as a percussionist in both the Twin Cities and Chicago.
Currently, Alexa is the drummer for Dead Kings of Norway, an alternative music band that performs original music throughout the Twin Cities. Alexa is passionate about music and dedicated to teaching.
Alec S. (he/him) — Drums, Piano, Guitar, and Ukulele Teacher
Alec grew up in Prior Lake, Minnesota, where he was surrounded by music from a very young age. His parents and extended family members were all musicians, both professionally and as hobbyists. He began taking private piano lessons from ages 6 to 10, eventually taking fascination with rhythm section instruments like drums, guitar, and bass throughout his teen years. At age 14, he took up private violin lessons, and soon played in a local school orchestra later that year, continuing until his high school graduation. Throughout these teen and early adult years, he also picked up a habit of composing and producing his own music on computer software, eventually enrolling in some audio production courses at Hennepin Tech Community College in Eden Prairie.
Alec continued to compose and mix/produce his own music in genres such as metal, jazz, and electronic music in his early 20s. Later, he took up private Drum lessons as well as composition and theory lessons from private instructors before earning a B.S. in music at the University of Wisconsin in River Falls. There, he primarily focused on piano and drum performance, as well as composition and arranging. He has spent years getting acquainted with a number of instruments while refining his skills in mixing and producing his own compositions.
When it comes to teaching, Alec believes that it is important to remember all the means by which music has been conceived throughout history. With this in mind, an instructor should always present different ways to appreciate and teach potential students. His goal is to help people find their interest in music, even if they are not yet aware of it.
Ben L. (he / him) — Guitar, Drums, Piano, Electronic Music Composition, and Ukulele Teacher
Arts educator, teaching artist, musician, and program support professional with over fifteen years of experience in contemporary music education, media arts instruction, curriculum development, and creative program operations. Holds a Master of Arts in Interdisciplinary Art and Education with a demonstrated record of teaching, mentoring, and supporting diverse student populations across K–12, college preparatory, community-based, and nonprofit arts education settings. Experienced in faculty collaboration, student advising, instructional coordination, and creative production within academic and professional environments. Committed to inclusive, student-centered pedagogy and the integration of creative practice with academic rigor.
Brooks B. (he / him) — Violin and Piano Teacher
Hailing from Stillwater MN, Brooks Berg is an enthusiastic musician and educator currently based in Minneapolis. Mr. Berg maintains a varied performance career, having played as soloist, orchestral musician and chamber musician throughout the United States and Europe. As a proponent of new music, Mr. Berg has premiered works at festivals in Italy and NYC, and most recently presented a recital of women in electronic music in Boston’s North End. Mr. Berg has been teaching privately since 2012, working with all ages, and holding community and university positions. Mr. Berg received his DMA from Boston University as a student of Bayla Keyes, and earned his MM and BA from New York University and Luther College, respectively
Catriona A. (she / her) — Flute, Guitar, and Piano Teacher
Catriona’s music journey started at a young age with exposure to multiple genres through music listening, singing, film, and 8 years of intensive dance training. She began studying the flute at the age of 11, performing in concert bands and wind ensembles as section leader, and soon discovered an interest in composing and arranging music. Upon graduating high school, she began teaching as a freelance private flute instructor, motivated to help young flutists develop their skills and confidence as concert band and orchestra students. Catriona completed her undergraduate music studies at the University of Minnesota – Twin Cities, focusing on composition and creative studies while she continued to teach lessons, perform in the UMN Symphonic Band, and study other instruments. As a composition student, she had the opportunity to develop her creative voice under the guidance of Dr. Alex Lubet, completing multiple compositional projects including arranging an original piece of her own, Uncertain Circumstance, for the UMN Composer’s YouTube concert during the Covid-19 pandemic. She graduated in 2021 with her Bachelor of Arts in Music.
Since then, she has continued to teach music lessons independently and within private lesson studios, having over 7 years of experience while working towards an active music-making career. As a teacher, composer, and creative, Catriona believes that trusting intuition and freely using the imagination is the best way to create authentic art and music and strives to encourage her students to find their own creative path while building a sturdy foundation in theory and technique. Outside of creating and teaching music, you’ll catch Catriona performing in the Hopkins Westwind Concert Band and the Silverwinds Flute Choir, reading, and spending time with family and friends.”
Charlie S. (He/Him) — Bass Guitar, Guitar, and Ukulele Teacher
Charlie is a Twin Cities based guitarist. He started playing fingerstyle classical guitar at a young age, but his real interest in music began when he was in middle school when he discovered artists like Led Zeppelin and the Grateful Dead. Charlie eventually picked up electric guitar when he was a sophomore in high school and since then has continued to expand his musical repertoire. growing proficient in a number of different styles including: rock/blues, jazz, fingerstyle acoustic, and classical guitar. Charlie is currently pursuing a degree in music business at the University of St.Thomas. He also enjoys playing gigs around the Twin Cities with his band, Monarch.
Christina K. (she/her) — Piano, Musical Adventures, and Voice Teacher
Christina has two great loves: music and animals. When she’s not teaching music skills she’s teaching dogs new skills. While growing up, her parents supported her interests by encouraging her to pursue the arts. She earned a Bachelors of Arts in Musical Theater at Columbia College Chicago and completed a Masters in Teaching program at the University of St. Thomas with a concentration in Music Education for grades K-12 (Vocal/Classroom Music). Overall she has about ten years of experience in classroom teaching, as well as experience in teaching a variety of ages including adults.
Her main areas of strength and knowledge include singing, piano, composing, music theory, dancing, and theater. She has performed on stage for multiple theater productions, she has directed and accompanied piano for musical ensembles, and she has led music for various church services.
Christina is especially eager to help beginning musicians find their strengths. She enjoys bringing engaging and creative learning opportunities. When you take a lesson with Christina she will take care to adapt the lesson to your own interests and goals.
David S. (he / him) — Guitar, Electronic Music Composition, Piano, and Ukulele Teacher
David has taught music for nearly 25 years, and works with students of any age or ability level. He holds a Master’s Degree in Music Education from North Dakota State University, where he studied piano with Andrew Froelich, and has taught both in classrooms and in private studios.
He is the winner of several songwriting awards, including the prestigious Kerrville (TX) New Folk Award, and was recently awarded a top-5 place for film scoring by the Indie Gathering International Film Festival. He also has many years’ experience in theater as both a Musical Director and show/rehearsal accompanist.
In addition to teaching, he tours throughout the US and Canada. In his spare time he enjoys being in the north woods, visiting the Great Lakes, or watching football on TV.
David W. (he/him) — Bass, Guitar, and Ukulele Teacher
Brought up by a musical family in Northfield, MN, David is an eccentric musical mind with a specialty in guitar, bass and ukulele. Growing up in band, orchestra, choir and musical theater, he then started a rock and roll journey at 16 upon getting his very first guitar.
He delights in making instrumental arrangements of any piece the student would like to learn. No matter how obscure or unconventional, his biggest joy is to connect people to the music they love.
David's higher education began humbly at Normandale community college where he majored in music, then transferred to the University of Wisconsin River Falls. There, he earned his BA in music and has since been growing as a musician, sharing his love of the craft.
Emilia P. (she/her) — Piano and Voice Teacher
Emilia is a 2024 graduate of the San Francisco Conservatory of Music. While at SFCM, she studied both classical voice and musical theater, receiving her BM in Vocal Performance. She is thrilled to be back home in the Twin Cities. At just 20 years old, she made her professional debut with the Ohio Light Opera performing Edith (Pirates of Penzance) and covering the role of Kathie (The Student Prince). Since then, has performed two world premiere roles: Alex in Meow and Forever, and Lyra in The Disappearance of Ava Morgan. Emilia loves contemporary opera, and seeks innovative ways to keep classical music relevant in today’s world. Some other favorite roles she’s performed include: Giannetta (L’elisir d’amore), Cupid (Orpheus in the Underworld), and Jo March (Little Women). Along with singing, Emilia studies both classical piano and cello. She is also a recipient of the prestigious Undergraduate Scholar Award from The Presser Foundation
During her time at SFCM, Emilia discovered a passion for not only performing, but teaching. As an educator, she strives to help students find their voice—both in music-making and as individuals. Her lesson space is a judgment free zone, and her students will always feel safe and supported. Emilia has an older sister who is a professional opera singer, and her mother has been an educator for as long as she can remember. She understands the importance of musical education at any age and appreciates the significant role family plays in the music-making process.
Emily T. (she/her), Cello Teacher
American cellist Emily T. began her musical journey at age four, and today enjoys a career as a soloist, chamber musician, orchestral musician, researcher, and pedagogue. She has performed from coast to coast, and in many of the states in-between, including in notable venues such as the Van Cliburn Concert Hall and Moody Performance Hall in Dallas-Fort Worth, the Mead Witter Concert Hall in Madison, and the Jacobs Music Center in San Diego. Notable performances include the world premiere of Song: for English Ivy by Oliver Hecht, the US premiere of Saudade Fantasia by Joey Eng, a showcase performance with the TCU Symphony at the Texas Music Educators Association conference in San Antonio, a 30-person cello choir performance in collaboration with Texas Cellos, and a special collaboration with ballet dancer Ali Marshall and choreographer Joy Bollanger featuring selections from Bach’s second cello suite accompanied by dance.
As an educator, Emily strives to help her students discover the joys of playing cello through a holistic pedagogy that combines a strong technical foundation, bodily awareness, and mindfulness while simultaneously working with her students to develop their listening abilities and the practical application of music theory concepts. She received long-term Suzuki teacher training from the University of Denver’s Lamont School of Music, where she also held a graduate teaching assistantship in music theory. She is currently a registered cello teacher with the Suzuki association of the Americas.
Emily received her Bachelor of Music in cello performance from Texas Christian University and her Master of Music in cello performance from the University of Wisconsin Madison. She is currently furthering her education at the University of Minnesota, where she studies with the acclaimed soloist and pedagogue Matt Haimovitz.
Jacob H., (he / him) - Piano and Guitar Teacher
A 2015 graduate of the University of North Texas, Jacob is a producer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist who spent years helping shape the sound of the Dallas music scene. Grounded in a deep foundation of live performance—including extensive work playing piano for churches across North Texas, notably at Highland Park United Methodist Church—Jacob brings a rich, soulful versatility to both the stage and the studio.
As a producer and co-writer, Jacob has collaborated with some of Dallas's most compelling acts, including Cure for Paranoia, Dezi 5, and Johnny b33. His dynamic production style and distinct sonic signature earned him a nomination for Best Producer at the Dallas Entertainment Awards, while his live chops have landed him major stages, including opening slots for R&B icons Ginuwine and Dru Hill.
Now recently relocated to Minnesota, Jacob is bringing his signature blend of technical musicianship, collaborative songwriting, and polished studio production to new projects across the Midwest.
Jeff S. (he / him) — Piano and Voice Teacher
Jeff is thrilled to join the Brighter Minds Music family as a vocal coach & piano instructor! Originally hailing from Wilmington, Delaware, Jeff has been singing since before he could remember. His love for music began at home, as most musician’s love for music does. His mother recognized his knack for music and immediately put him into Kindermusik & early piano lessons.
As he entered middle school that love for music transitioned to a love for musical theater & there was hardly a time that you would not find him in a production at any time of the year. This love for theater and music transferred into high-school where he participated in the theater programs, chorale programs, wind ensemble as a mallet player, & marching band as a member of the drum-line.
He knew that music is what he wanted to do with his life, & continued his music studies into college at Berklee College of Music in the vocal performance program. He then went on to finish his degree at McNally Smith College of Music with a bachelors in Vocal Performance.
During college he began singing for the Minnesota Music Hall Of Fame band, “Free and Easy.” “Free and Easy” is a 10 piece corporate horn band that has been prevalent in the Twin Cities since the 70’s. He still holds this position today, & can be seen regularly performing around the Twin Cities & the surrounding areas. He has also started his own project, the “Jeff Gavin Band.” Most recently he had taken his career to new waters as a singer for Carnival Cruise Lines. Due to the cruise industry shutting down, he is back in the area and ready to help you train your voice!
Lessons with Jeff will be fun, engaging, & full of awesome custom exercises that help you get to where you want to be. He will work on establishing a repertoire of songs for you that you truly enjoy and want to sing and play, all while bringing out the best in you as a musician and a performer.
Jodie S. (she / her) - Voice, Piano and Musical Adventures Teacher, Early Childhood Music Teacher
Jodie was born and raised in Rochester, Minnesota. From a very young age, she took a great interest in music, with her earliest memory being singing in nursing homes at only 4 years old. She brings 12 years of formal voice training, extensive school choir background, and active theatre experience to her teaching.
Jodie has a bachelor of fine arts degree in musical theatre from Minnesota State University, Mankato. Soon after graduating from college, she joined a 70s inspired band that she toured with around the metro area. This gave her an abundance of performing experience and taught her how to collaborate in an ensemble.
She has been teaching for the last 8 years and became an early childhood educator in 2019. When Jodie teaches her students she strives to make a real connection with them. Jodie spent 4 years as an early childhood educator at Kinderberry Hill Child Development Center. Jodie has a genuine love for little minds, and watching them grow and thrive. Your child will fall in love with Ms. Jodie’s bubbly, enthusiastic personality, and more so will develop a joy and love for music.
Teaching voice is one of Jodie’s great passions! In classes with Jodie, you will learn technique, breath control, dynamics, stage presence, and how to preserve your vocal health.
Jodie truly believes that learning piano at a young age teaches students how to multitask, develops finger dexterity and teaches students a new skill that they can truly be proud of.
Outside of teaching and performing, Jodie’s entire world revolves around mothering her beautiful little boy.
Justin B. (he / him) — Voice and Piano Teacher
Justin is a highly acclaimed opera singer based in Bloomington. He has sung with opera companies around the world, including Washington National Opera, Santa Fe Opera, Operafest Røykenvik, and Des Moines Metro Opera. He is a four time District Winner for the Metropolitan Opera Laffont Competition, Second Place winner for the Fort Worth Opera McCammon Competition, and a quarterfinalist for the Tenor Viñas Competition in Barcelona, Spain. A versatile performer, he has been seen on stages outside of the opera world, most recently as Franz/Dennis in The Glimmerglass Festival’s award winning production of Sunday in the Park with George. Amid his vocal pursuits in high school and college, he was also known for his musical pursuits playing guitar, bass, and occasional piano in rock bands and solo performances. If you know someone, from youngster to adult, that is enthusiastic and eager to learn about all genres of music, Justin may be the right fit for you!
Kathleen R. (she / her) — Piano and Musical Adventures Teacher
Kathleen brings a lifelong passion for music, teaching, and sharing the arts with others to her piano instruction. She approaches each lesson with a dynamic spirit of fun, a commitment to artistry and a focus on meeting the unique needs and interests of each student. Kathleen establishes a joyful, skill-based learning environment rooted in the Minnesota Music Teachers Association (MMTA) curriculum, with an emphasis on musical expression and creativity.
Kathleen holds a B.A. in Music Performance, Music Education and Elementary Education from St. Catherine University, and an M.A. in Music Education from the University of Minnesota. Her career has spanned elementary music classrooms, children’s choir directing and private piano instruction—each experience reinforcing her commitment to nurturing the musical potential of every student and exploring the rich diversity of music of many cultures.
Kathleen was named the 2021 Minnesota Music Educator of the Year by the Minnesota Music Educators Association.
Kathleen performs in a piano/flute duo and accompanies musicians of all ages, representing a wide range of genres, including classical, jazz, pop, folk, country, and Broadway show tunes. As a music educator, Kathleen hopes to spark a lifelong love for music in her students.
Lachlan F. (he / him) - Bass Guitar, Guitar, Electronic Music Composition, Piano, Ukulele, and Voice Teacher
Lachlan is a devoted pedagogue and musician with over 20 years’ experience in music education. He holds a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in music from the Boston Conservatory and a Doctorate of Musical Arts from the University of Texas. His music education began at 4 years old when he was recognized as being able to play anything he heard by ear. Over the years Lachlan has learned to play several instruments and is fluent in several genres of music, including Classical, Jazz, Rock, Pop, Musicals, Country, and Devotional Music.
Lachlan’s early music career was as a recording engineer and music producer in Seattle, Washington during the 1990’s music scene. He holds diplomas in Audio Engineering, MIDI Technology, and Sound Design from Shoreline College in Seattle, Washington. In the early 2000’s he worked on Broadway in Boston’s Theater district as a sound Engineer for shows such as Chicago, Sunday in the Park with George, and West Side Story.
His first international recognition came in 2005 for his compositional work ‘Medley Tipico,” commissioned by the New England Conservatory Youth Philharmonic. In the same year he won the Roger Session’s Memorial Award in Composition. Following that year, he was invited to study at the famed Fontainebleau Conservatoire de Musique, in France. He is a student of Osvaldo Golijov, Larry Thomas Bell, Donald Grantham, and Russell Pinkston. Lachlan has recently relocated to Minneapolis with his wife, Dawn, and is excited to be teaching for Brighter Minds Music.
Lauren B. (she/her) — Piano, Voice, and Musical Adventures Teacher
Lauren began taking piano lessons at age 5, being drawn to pursuing music from a young age. Throughout her K-12 education, Lauren took every opportunity to participate in school, community, and honors ensembles as both a vocalist in choirs, and a clarinetist in instrumental ensembles. In high school Lauren began to work as a collaborative pianist in addition to her studies in solo piano repertoire.
Lauren continued her musical studies at the University of Minnesota, receiving a BM in Vocal Music Education. During her time pursuing her degree, Lauren pursued experiences teaching voice and piano, cultivating a further love and knowledge of vocal and piano pedagogy. Lauren is presently entering her second year as a classroom educator, residing in the Twin Cities metro area.
Lauren is so incredibly delighted to begin teaching piano and voice lessons at Brighter Minds Music. She believes that learning music should be joyful and fun at any age and ability level. She is dedicated to finding an approach to the student’s instrument of choice that is best suited for their individual learning styles. Lauren is so excited to help guide her students in joyful engagement of music that speaks to her students and their musical interests.
Leslie B. (she/her) — Piano, Singing, and Musical Adventures Teacher
Leslie graduated from University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire with a Bachelors in Music Therapy. During her time at UWEC she found a love for piano accompaniment. Whether it be a theater, solo artist, or student education; being contracted as the accompanist opened many doors of experience for Leslie. Because of this experience, another door opened into the world of adaptive music. There are many people that have the opinion that music is not available to them because of a variety of physical or mental conditions. This is simply not true. Leslie firmly believes that all things are possible with music! As a result, she is routinely called upon to serve as a performance coach to individuals with adaptive needs. For the last 20 years she has been coaching, teaching, training, and providing accompaniment to choral groups, theater troupes, and solo artists.
When not performing you can find Leslie with headphones on either practicing, working on her long neglected You Tube channel, indulging her hobby of researching various tidbits of Music History, and of course teaching piano and voice with Brighter Minds Music.
Meg K. (she / her) — Voice, Piano, and Musical Adventures Teacher
Meg is a versatile music educator and dynamic performer who brings a deep passion for rhythm, ensemble playing, and vocal pedagogy to the Twin Cities community. Grounded in rigorous performance training from Gustavus Adolphus College, Meg furthered her expertise by earning a Master of Arts in Music Education from the University of St. Thomas, where her research focused on integrating music with career and technical education frameworks.
An active and celebrated performer both inside and outside the classroom, Meg vocal talents and stage presence earned her the distinction of being named a Klondike Kate Finalist in 2025. She shares her love for live performance across the region as an alto section leader and soloist for River Hills United Methodist Church and as a volunteer trombonist and featured vocalist with the River Valley Band. From directing a 20+ member contemporary worship band at Lake Wapogassett Lutheran Bible Camp to leading youth singers in the Angelica Cantanti Youth Choirs, Meg excels at building community through song.
As a classroom educator and curriculum specialist, Meg holds specialized credentials, including an Orff-Schulwerk Teaching Certification and a Smithsonian Folkways Global Music Certificate from the University of St. Thomas. She leverages this hands-on, creative approach to engage diverse student bodies from preschool through eighth grade in immersive musical experiences like African drumming, Orff ensembles, and mass choir. Her exceptional instructional leadership at All Saints School directly resulted in the program receiving the prestigious Best Communities for Music Education national designation from The NAMM Foundation. Whether on a stage or in front of a classroom, Meg is dedicated to cultivating vibrant, inclusive spaces where musical expression can thrive.
Michael W. (he / him) - Guitar Teacher
Michael is an accomplished classical and contemporary guitar player. He has played for more than 20 years and studied classical guitar at the University of St. Thomas, where he studied with Dr. Christopher Kachian.
His musical experience combines both formal classical training and performances, along with many years writing and performing with acoustic and alternative rock bands. He truly loves helping students quickly begin playing the type of music they want to play, without sacrificing the key musical concepts and techniques that will ensure they learn to play properly.
When not practicing one of his many beloved guitars, Michael can be found bicycling, gardening, traveling (when time allows) and developing historical skits with his cat Lucky.
Nate M. (he / him) — Drums and Guitar Teacher
Nate has been playing various instruments since 1999. After graduating high school in 2010, he did what most think they have to do before knowing what they want to do and enrolled at Saginaw Valley State University to become a History teacher. Although after only a year and a half, Nate decided it best to take a collegiate break to pursue a more focused life in music. After three years of performing throughout his home state of Michigan, grabbing accolades like “Review Magazines Best New Artist of 2012” award (Killer Kong), and winning multiple Battle of The Bands to the make cash needed to fund traveling to bigger shows, he decided to take his career to the next level by enrolling at a new school. In a city with a real music scene.
In the fall of 2013 Nate enrolled at, the now defunct, McNally Smith College of Music. By the summer of 2016 he was graduated with a Bachelors degree in Music Business, and immediately shifted into working in radio promotions and licensing with Tinderbox Music in Uptown, Minneapolis. During that time he stayed active amongst the scene, filling as a drummer for local acts like The Coax, and opening for national acts like Night Moves. Working to help open a new St.Paul chapter for Sofar Sounds, and continued to volunteer at every Minneapolis Sofar Sounds event working with acts such as Dan Rodriguez, Haley Bonar, Night Moves, and a magnificent plethora of smaller and equally impressive local acts.
Today he can be found behind the kit performing with Steve Miller Lite, and occasionally caught playing solo as Sister Electric (Kid Michigan). Coming out of the darkest periods of 2019 was the realization to return to what he’d set out to do all those years ago when first enrolling in College back a decade ago in 2010. With both an intimate knowledge of music as well as its uglier half, the business side, Nate is well positioned and intellectually equipped to speak on not only the theory necessary behind becoming a great musician but the business knowledge needed to protected yourself in what is one of the craziest and most rewarding industries in the nation.
Nathaniel R. (he / him) — Piano, Electronic Music Composition, Musical Adventures, and Voice Teacher
Nathaniel is a native of Minnesota and has been playing piano since he could reach the keys. He performed in various recitals and talent shows through high school, regularly winning statewide competitions through the Minnesota Music Teachers Association. Graduating with a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Northwestern, St. Paul, he continued his music studies in the graduate program of the University of Minnesota School of Music. As a composer, his orchestra pice, Reflections for Orchestra, was played by the Minnesota Orchestra and performed by the University of Minnesota Symphony Orchestra. Nathaniel spent four years as a classroom music teacher at Pan American Christian Academy in Sao Paulo, Brazil. He has over 20 years of experience teaching private lessons in piano, voice and composition to all ages. Nathaniel also enjoys fairy gardening and board game development.
Noah L. (he / him) — Voice, Guitar, and Piano Teacher
Noah is a classically trained vocalist, having studied at the esteemed Indiana University for his Master's education, and at Luther College for his Bachelor's. He sings primarily the genres of opera, oratorio, and art song. The fundamentals of his method also translate very well to singing healthily, powerfully, and musically in other styles, such as musical theater or popular music. He devotes great focus to singing in a manner which is healthy for the voice, allowing one to sing for lengthy periods without strain or vocal fatigue. He also encourages and helps further the student's personal artistry and ability to study closely the music being sung. Noah additionally educates with the intent of developing the singers technical and scientifically informed understanding of their body and the singing process.
Noah is also an instructor of piano, guitar, and ukulele, having played each for many years, and having studied piano and guitar as a secondary focus as part of his collegiate education.
He teaches with patience, fun, and sensitivity, yet challenges students, resulting in students with rapid and steady growth in their abilities, musical enjoyment, and confidence.
Richard M. (he / him) — Piano, Voice, and Violin Teacher
Richard grew up in Jamestown Virginia where he learned violin and voice. His largest achievement at that time was participating as a Bass 2 singer for all state chorus. After high school, He moved to St. Paul and went to Concordia university St. Paul where he studied Music, Psychology, and ministry. He participated as a Bass singer in the Christus choir and other church ensembles throughout the twin cities.
He primarily composed orchestral strings music or choral arrangements. Richard has also assisted some metal bands in their song writing processes.
As a teacher he strives to assist students in cultivating their interests and curiosity in music. Learning and uncovering music has been one of the greatest experiences in his life, so being able to share that is one of his goals.
Ryan L. (he / him) — Piano and Drums Teacher
Ryan is a K-12 licensed music educator from Lakeville, MN. He has taught individual music lessons for 8 years and is in his 4th year as a Band Director, teaching a wide variety of instruments. Ryan enjoys helping others and sharing his passion for music education. Students and families can expect an individualized approach to fit the needs of each student as well as clear and consistent communication.
Ryan is currently working on his Master's Degree and holds a Bachelor of Music in Music Education from Concordia College in Moorhead, MN. He has experience performing with various ensembles which include concert band, orchestra, percussion ensemble, chamber music groups, as well as solo. He continually seeks new exciting musical opportunities, having been a member of the Star of the North Concert Band, Prairie Winds Concert Band, Lakeville Area Community Band, and has traveled as far as Santa Cruz, Bolivia to teach music. In his free time, he enjoys dogs, watching sports and spending time with family.
Ryan T. (he / him) — Piano, Drums, and Voice Teacher
Ryan is a local composer, pianist, singer, and drummer. He’s been playing piano since he was 8, singing since he could make noise, and composing and drumming for about 6 years. He graduated with a degree in Music composition from Indiana Wesleyan University in 2021 and did some Graduate work in composition at Belmont University. In his studies he sang with several choral ensembles, student recitals, operas, and musicals. He played piano and drums with several small groups. He also composed and rehearsed two of his own full length recitals. He has a passion for performing, making new music, and sharing his joy of music with other people.
He is able to teach almost any style of singing, piano, and drumming. He has taught with several different studios and has loved helping people find joy and passion in music. Come on in and find your love for music!!
Sarah Y. - Cello Teacher
Sarah Yang is a cellist and audio engineer based in Minneapolis, Minnesota. She has been playing cello since age 7, and participated in the Minnesota Youth Symphonies, Minnetonka Symphony Orchestra, and DePaul Symphony Orchestra throughout her musical education.
Sarah holds a Bachelor of Science in Sound Recording Technology and Cello Performance from DePaul University, and has performed and recorded cello for a variety of projects including pop, folk, musical theater, classical, video game, and church music.
Sarah is passionate about meeting her students where they’re at and helping them discover their unique self-expression through music. She teaches from traditional string materials like Suzuki and Essential Elements, and also loves to collaborate with students and parents to personalize lessons and materials to students’ musical goals and interests!
Besides cello, Sarah also enjoys playing guitar, bass, and video games.
Zora R. (she/they) Violin, Viola, Cello, Piano, and Musical Adventures Teacher
Born in New York, but raised in Arizona, Zora is a music educator, performer, and composer/arranger with a passion for all things music! Her musical journey began at the age of 9 playing the violin in her school orchestra. During her early teens she was fortunate enough to participate in a multitude of musical groups, including the Central Arizona Symphony, Strings of the Sonoran, etc. In her late teens, she was presented with an opportunity to work with her violin instructor teaching private violin and piano lessons as well as working under her as a music teaching assistant at a K-8 school. This fostered a new interest for music teaching and after graduating high school in 2020 she got into Grand Canyon University's music education program.
In May 2025, Zora moved to Minnesota and in December of that year graduated with her bachelor's degree in music education-Instrumental from Grand Canyon University and her Minnesota K-12 Instrumental and Classroom Music teaching license. Zora’s teaching philosophy can be summed up as music should be a fun, tailored experience, it is a great way for students to learn/develop essential life skills, and she owes her students a quality education by always striving to be her best through constant learning, growing, and refinement of her craft. For Zora, music has given her a sense of belonging and the freedom to express herself with authenticity and confidence. Outside of music, Zora enjoys going to events, playing board/video games, making jewelry, and spending time with her partner, her friends, and her cat.
INTERESTED TO JOIN US AS A TEACHER?
We are looking for enthusiastic teachers who would love to share the joy of making music with young children and families.
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