Gregory Levinson

Violin/Viola, Studio Production & Engineering, Video Game Sound Design

Gregory Levinson is a freelance sound engineer and musician. He was born and raised in Chicago and is fluent in French and Russian. During his time at Columbia College Chicago, he acted as a teaching assistant for multiple sound-design and computer programming courses. After graduating with his bachelor’s degree in Game-Design from Columbia College Chicago, he has been working as an avid audiovisual and recording engineer for the Art Institute of Chicago, Atomic Hospitality Group, Critical Sound, Joy of Audio, and numerous other freelance companies around Chicago. As a musician, Gregory studied for ten years with renowned violinist David Yonan, participated as a violinist in the CYSO, has entered in many Chicago-based violin competitions, as well as music festivals in California.

In his spare time, Gregory practices martial arts, studies video-games, plays music, and has a passion for learning and teaching.

Kenichi Kiyama

Violin, Viola

Kenichi Kiyama is a California-born violinist who loves performing and teaching. He started the violin at the age of 9 through the music program at his elementary school. Realizing his passion for music, he started private lessons a year later and has never stopped. Kenichi was the concertmaster of several honor groups during his precollege years. He was the prize winner of MTAC Concerto Competition, Saddleback Concerto Competition, and SCP Concerto Competition. Kenichi received his BM from CSULB where he studied with Henry Gronnier, Director of Colburn Academy. He was the concertmaster of his university’s orchestra and was a member of the university’s elite string quartet. He was the featured violinist in several projects including NEOJIBA collaboration concert, Covington Concert Series, and the recording artist for several animated short films that received millions of views and awards for best picture.

After CSULB, Kenichi moved to Chicago, attending Roosevelt University to receive his Master’s in Classical Performance and Performance Diploma where he studied with Mrs. Almita Vamos. During his time in Chicago, he performed as a member of the Civic Orchestra of Chicago and other local/midwestern professional orchestras such as Minnesota Orchestra, Elgin Symphony and Rockford Symphony. He was also the featured violinist for a segment in the Ear Taxi Festival, a new music festival.

Kenichi has been teaching violin and viola for about a decade to students of all ages and abilities. He enjoys watching his students accomplish their musical goals. He will stop at nothing to exhaust all possible ways to help your student succeed at their instrument. Kenichi has a background in martial arts and in physical wellness making his approach to both the violin and viola a more physically “harmonious” one.

On his own spare time, Kenichi loves learning new things, enjoys nature walks, exploring new places, eating good food with good company, and sleeping.

Marta Fraser

Piano, Voice

Marta Fraser is a versatile artist, accomplished in music composition, piano, voice, and paper crafts. She holds a Masters in Piano Performance and Chamber Art from Lviv Music Conservatory, earned the role of Concertmaster, and has pursued doctoral studies in Chamber Music at the same institution.

As founder of the Sofi Fraser Project, Marta has produced over 100 compositions for piano, violin, voice, and other instruments, exploring diverse styles ranging from ancient Ukrainian folk to jazz, folk-rock, and pop-rock, as well as soothing music for sleep. She is a recipient of the Grand Prize and Public Choice Selection at SheFest 2021 for her outstanding performance and songwriting based on the works of Taras Shevchenko.

Marta’s teaching philosophy prioritizes the combination of creative expression with each student’s unique abilities. She encourages her students to explore their creativity by improvising and composing their music while also providing instruction on basic performance and stage techniques to enhance their musical expression. Through introducing various music styles and genres, she guides her students to discover their musical preferences, fostering a comfortable and inspiring learning environment. Above all, she strives to make learning enjoyable and engaging, inspiring a love for music in her students.

Marta’s philanthropic endeavors include establishing the Fraser Scholarship with her husband in 2017 to support gifted students from Drohobych Music College, and contributing to orphanages in Stryi and Znamyanka that serve children with disabilities.

In addition to teaching and performing, Marta is an accompanist and backup vocalist for several Jewish congregations in Chicagoland, and serves as the accompanist and assistant conductor for the Hazamir Jewish Youth Choir.

Tandaleria Roland

Voice, Studio Production, Engineering

Tandaleria is a Chicago native and vocal powerhouse who began singing at an early age. Throughout grade school, Tandaleria honed her craft by singing in her school choir and by the time she reached the fourth grade, she had penned her first song. She attended Dominican University, where she majored in music and studied under notable musicians Devvora Papatheodora, Jeffrey Kelly, Rose Guccione, and Patricia Morehead. In addition to her extensive musical training, Tandaleria received classical vocal training under the instruction of Rose Guccione and Shanka Falls. Upon graduation, Tandaleria decided to pursue a career in music. Inspired by her family and the legendary songbird Mariah Carey, Tandaleria began writing songs and performing with a slew of local Chicago artists.

I think the thing that makes me or any other artist stand out, is the delivery of the message. It’s your story in your words. It’s told in away that no one but you can tell it. Someone could have lived and gone through your exact life, but they still would not be able to tell your story the same as you.

Today, Tandaleria continues to tell her story through song and invites other artists to experience her vision through her YouTube web series, Sessions with Tandaleria. She’s currently working towards creating a production company where she plans to produce and develop young talent.

My next move is just to enjoy what I do always. I truly love helping people, and the joy that comes with it.

Antonella Caporale

Piano, Music Theory, Early Childhood

Playing piano begins when you master the rules and play with passion, evoking immense feelings that resonate with both the musician and the audience.

Antonella is a music professor, specializing in piano and music theory. She completed her master’s degree in Music from the Music Conservatory of Reggio Calabria “F. Cilea” Italy.

Antonella has enjoyed teaching piano and music theory to students of all ages and levels of advancement for over 32 years. She began teaching in Italy and continued here in the United States. She believes that music theory is a critical component to understanding the language of music, so much so that she has written multiple books on the topic. To date Antonella has written 10 music theory books, including an eight-book series specifically designed for her younger students.

Meeting the abilities, needs, and way of learning of each student while simultaneously ensuring they feel empowered as they learn to play is her passion and goal. She offers an integrated approach to piano instruction for intermediate students as well as methodical professional training for advanced students. She believes music is an important aspect of life and can be learned by students of any age and doesn’t require any kind of previous background.

Antonella offers private piano lessons, mommy/daddy and me classes, group theory classes, and music theory college prep courses.

She has dedicated her life to her love for teaching, exuding a passion for music that is mirrored in her students, motivating them to cultivate their own creative ambition.

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Ebony Martin

Voice, Piano

Soprano, Ebony Marie Martin is noted for her natural dramaticism and powerful voice. She has performed both in the US and Europe and has worked with renowned conductors such as Michael Rossi of the Washington National Opera. She made her professional debut as the role of Nedda in Leoncavallo’s I Pagliacci with Voccalis International Singing Repertory Company in 2016. Her other notable roles include Blanche, Mimi, Pamina, Fatime and La Ciesca.

Concert performances include solos in Porgy and Bess with the Symphony of Southeast Texas, Handel’s Messiah, Mozart’s Vesperae solennes de confessore, Vivladi’s Gloria, Brahms Requiem and more. Ebony studied in Siena, Italy for 6 weeks during the Siena, Italy Music Festival where she sang for Mitchell Piper of Piper and Anselmi Management and performed in both Mozart’s Die Zauberflöte and Massenet’s Cendrillon. She has recently been accepted into the Utah Vocal Arts Academy’s notable Role Study program which begins in July.

In competition, Ebony has had wins in GHNATS district, Cal-Western NATS district and region and was an Encourage Award recipient of the Metropolitan Opera National Council Auditions in the Nevada District in 2015. She is also a seasoned voice and piano teacher with 10 years of experience teaching all ages and levels. Ebony has her B.M in Vocal Performance from Lamar University as well as her M.M in Vocal Performance from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas.

Jennifer Manske

Voice, Songwriting, Piano

Jennifer is a Chicago-based singer/songwriter with a passion for helping other vocalists and songwriters realize their unique potential. She began her training as a classical vocalist at a young age and later realized her passion for the freedom and vibrancy of jazz & contemporary music during her time at the Chicago Academy for the Arts. It was then that she began attending jazz jam sessions around the city of Chicago and formed her own quintet, playing various venues in the city. In 2010, she was invited to perform at the Civic & Arts Foundation Union League Jazz Improvisation Competition at Buddy Guy’s where she placed 3rd in her division and won the “People’s Choice Award”.

Jennifer continued her music training at the University Of Miami Frost School Of Music majoring in Jazz Vocal Performance & Studio Music. Her studies consisted of performing in various vocal ensembles in addition to jazz piano, ear training, music theory, and music technology. In 2011, Jennifer moved back to Chicago after becoming a signed recording artist with OneSun Entertainment in partnership with the Chicago Recording Company. During this time, Jennifer also became a session/jobbing singer working in various recording studios and performing a wide range of repertoire with various jobbing bands. After setting her roots back in her hometown, Jennifer earned her Bachelor’s degree from Columbia College Chicago majoring in Contemporary, Urban, and Popular Music Studies in 2015.

Jennifer believes that the strongest musicians are developed through a delicate balance of solid technique and creative nuance. She strives to help each vocalist optimize their vocal health with a comprehensive understanding of vocal anatomy and muscle memory. She is very passionate about tailoring each students’ curriculum based upon the student’s goals, desires, and genre preferences while ensuring a well-rounded education in various styles, techniques, and musicianship. Jennifer teaches voice, piano, and songwriting.

Rob Dicke

Robert Dicke is a drummer who knows no boundaries behind a set of drums. When asked what kind of music he plays, the most common response is, “I just play drums”. Robert completed his Masters in Jazz Studies at DePaul University where he found a major inspiration in his playing through drum teacher Dana Hall.

Robert was a two-year member of the DePaul Jazz Ensemble with whom he had the opportunity to perform with the like of Jimmy Heath, John Fedchock, Randy Brecker, and drum great Jeff Hamilton who he got to rub elbows with on a week-long tour by bus from Chicago to New York and back.

In 2014, Robert was awarded a fellowship with the Luminaries Cultural Foundation through the Union League Club of Chicago. This is a city-wide jazz improvisation competition open to anyone, on any instrument, under thirty years old. Five people are selected each year for the fellowship. The foundation was instrumental in helping Robert release his first album as a leader with his group Calamity Flamtet.

Robert is also an in demand freelancer and can be found hauling his drums around Chicago just about every weekend.

Paul Merar

Bass

Paul Merar has done extensive work in recording projects and live performances, earning two platinum records for his work on the Stayin’ Alive and Rocky IV soundtracks.

Paul is adept at playing all styles of music from Jazz and Rock to Classical (string bass). His work in jingles for national corporations includes the Wall Street Journal, Tropicana Hotel, Toyota, Target, McDonald’s, Levis, and numerous others.

His television and film appearances include the Golden Globe Awards, Merv Griffin, Solid Gold, Stayin’ Alive and Dance Fever. He has toured with Stix Hooper from the Jazz Crusaders, Iyo Matsumoto, Arbors, Chevere, Faith Pillow, and numerous other projects. Paul received his B.A. in Music Theory from DePaul University in Chicago.

Dave Berger

Dave has been playing guitar longer than he can remember. Although a Phi Beta Kappagraduate of the University of Chicago and a former member of the American Conservatory of Music, he has still managed to perform professionally his entire life, and is fluent in a wide range of styles. Highlights include a stint touring with the Staples Singers, some time backing up Otis Clay, and performances on Italian television and at the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival and Toronto Gospelfest.

For the past several years David’s original music trio Blue Soul has played the Taste of Chicago as well as localarea clubs. In addition, he has played innumerable jazz, rock and society gigs with local Chicago groups. He also works for several production companies promoting and producing original music for other artists. You can hear Dave on many blues, gospel, and jazz recordings, including the 2014 released Michael Fiorino Ensemble 456.

Larry Beers

Drums, Percussion

Whether he’s playing Jazz, Blues, Latin, Big Band, R&B, Fusion, Zydeco, or Rock and Roll, ask any sound engineer at any studio he’s recorded in, any bartender at any club he plays, or any fellow musician he’s performed with and they’ll say Larry Beers is a master of his craft. Ah, but once he was just a prodigy.

Being a drummer was in his blood. Following in the footsteps of his father and uncle, five-year-old Larry envisioned his destiny when he first set eyes on Uncle Jim’s red Sparkle Roger’s drum set. He started playing at the age of six and was taking lessons by seven.

High school, 1978, Champaign, IL. Larry Beers plays his first original rock band Edna Skoog. In his senior year, he is selected to join The McDonald’s All- American Marching Band and Jazz Band. He travels across the country performing at various functions including nationally televised events such as Tournament of Roses Parade, the Macy’s Day Parade, and on The Jerry Lewis Telethon. Throughout most of high school and all the way through college Larry follows his inspirations and play jazz and R&B. He hones his skills performing big band, bebop and free jazz.

1983, at age 19, we find Larry in the studio with CBS recording artists Champaign recording “Woman in Flames” featuring their third hit single “This Time”. The following year is spent on the road with their U.S. tour.

Moving to Chicago in 1986 Larry plays with various artists in multiple genres with some diverse characters. Some of those musicians include: Latin jazz pianist Bobby Enriquez; Composer Fred Simon; Ghallib Ghallob; Cooly Cool featuring Rolling Stones bassist Daryl “Munch” Jones; Action Figures featuring Mars Williams, Buddy Miles; Angus Thomas and Kevon Smith; Chameleon Records recording artists The Way Moves; and blues legend Melvin Taylor.

In 1991 when Larry teams with high school band mates The Charming Beggars are born. The Beggars spend the next six years recording and performing in and around Chicago and the Midwest. In 1993, Larry is brought into the studio to lay down tracks for Arista recording artists Crash Test Dummies’ album “God Shuffled His Feet”.

Continuously seeking out original projects in 1996 Larry joins The George McRae Trio. They record two albums and can be heard playing locally. That is also the year he joins The Nicholas Tremulis Orchestra. In 1997, Numbers, another original jazz quintet is formed with “LB” in the driver’s seat. From 1997 to 2002 Larry records and tours the United States and abroad with Capricorn/Calliope Records R&B recording artists Sonia Dada. During this same time Larry performs with the Freddy Jones Band. He records “Marigold” with Marty Lloyd for Razor and Tie Records and forms a recording and performance alliance with Wayne Healy both members of the Freddy Jones Band.

Let’s back track to 1996. Always looking to stretch his creative wings, when Larry joined The Nicholas Tremulis Orchestra he “found it to be just the right challenge for his evolving style.” Since becoming a member of the band, Larry has recorded six albums and has been involved with all five Waltz benefit concerts for Heartland Alliance’s Neon Street performing with dozens of legendary artists that graciously participated in those events. This is an ongoing project that is near and dear to Larry’s heart.

2005 Larry stumbles into an opportunity to become a found member and drum section leader for the now renown 30-piece circus punk marching band Mucca Pazza. All of a sudden he finds himself on the Conan O’Brian Show, at Lollapalooza, on a Weeds episode and a host all manner of huge engagements. Mucca continues into there eighth year of wowing audience and there seems to be no stopping them.

Chicago’s busiest drummer Larry Beers spends his nights playing drums with current and continuous projects including: Mucca Pazza, Michael McDermott; The Nicholas Tremulis Orchestra; and a host of singer/songwriters including: Dan Navarro, Ezra Ferman, Ben Joseph, Brad Peterson, Anne Soltys and the Familiar, Jennifer Hall, Sam Wahl, He math rocks it with and Bad Forum; World beats it with Ulele, and sets the rhythm for Ralph Covert’s various projects including Bad Examples and Ralphs World. His days are spent recording award-winning commercials, upcoming albums with the aforementioned artist among others, and sharing his craft with future drummers. On occasion, Larry is known to fly off and join in concert with Dennis DeYoung of Styx fame, has had the pleasure of performing with George Clinton; and spends time in European working with Angus Thomas and Blondie Chaplain.

From prodigy to master, his is an ever-evolving musical tale with legendary possibilities.

Rachel Sarah Thomas, Director

Voice, Piano, Songwriting, Music Together

Rachel Sarah Thomas is a vocal coach with a background in pop and musical theater performance. She studied in the classical voice program with Luretta Bybee at the University of Michigan and is now finishing her degree in Contemporary Voice and Composition at Roosevelt University.

After studying classically, she shifted her focus to contemporary music and original composition. In her recordings she has worked with Grammy Winners Tha Bizness and internationally renowned rapper Talib Kweli. She has songs licensed by the Adult Swim programming block on Cartoon Network as well as the Wrigley Corporation. She has opened for the likes of Femi Kuti at Millennium Park, Thievery Corporation at Milwaukee Summerfest, and K. Flay at the House of Blues. She also works with starbeat studios in Deerfield, IL lending her voiceover and writing skills to various nationally and locally syndicated jingles including Celebrity Scoop for WGN radio, American Weather-makers, and Tri-State Carpet and Floor.

She believes using the foundations of classical technique towards the stylized and emotional realm of pop & contemporary performance creates formidable singers. She is taking students of all ages and is happy to accept vocalists who want to work on writing their own songs.

Mike Harvey

Voice

Mike Harvey has an extensive and still advancing professional career of touring, live performances, recordings, voice over work, arranging, composing, and producing. He has been heard performing live and on studio recordings with Seal, Stevie Wonder, Sting, Steeley Dan, Jon Bon Jovi, Diana Ross, R. Kelly and more.

In addition to working with musical artists, Mike Harvey can be seen in numerous television appearances during his years working with Saturday Night Live, The Tonight Show, Late Night with Jimmy Fallon, and 30 Rock, and has also has lent his talents to numerous national commercial spots. His most recent gigs includes lending his voice to a few dates on the Stevie Wonder’s ‘Songs on the Key of Life’ tour and singing background for the hit Fox TV show ‘Empire’.

Mike Harvey is a singer, writer, arranger, and producer who with his own band, became one of the first ‘Up and Coming Artist’ for New York City’s Verizon Wireless’ very first music festival in Bryant Park. He has worked steadily in Chicago and NYC for 24 years. His most recent high profile gig was contracting and singing background for Stevie Wonder’s ‘Songs In the Key of Life’ tour in Chicago and Detroit (November 2014). For the 17 years that he lived in NYC, he sang on many projects for television that included Saturday Night Live, 30 Rock, Late Night with Jimmy Fallon, and several TV specials.

His voice can be heard singing background on many records that include two Grammy winners, and countless commercials. He also has done voiceover work for major clients that include Comcast and McDonald’s. Mike is extremely versatile and is one of the very few vocalists that can also be a music director for a band or artist.

CREDITS

Albums
Sting
Diana Ross
Steely Dan
R. Kelly
Bette Midler
Nancy Wilson
Luther Vandross
Ricky Martin
Anita Baker
Randy Brecker
Jose Mari Chan
Linda Eder
Donald Fagen
Rob Mathes
Matthew Morrison
Billy Porter
Jane Kelly Williams

TV Appearances
Saturday Night Live
The Tonight Show with Jay Leno
Late Night with Conan O’ Brien
Late Night with Jimmy Fallon
30 Rock
PBS special featuring Shelley MacArthur and George Perris
John Lennon Tribute ‘Imagine’ @ Radio City Music Hall, NYC
The Steve Harvey Show
Live with Regis and Kathie Lee
Rosie O’ Donnell Show

Movies
Anastasia
Hoodlums
The Last Days of Disco
The Love Guru Sparkle (2012 remake)

Live Performances
Seal (Human Being Tour)
Stevie Wonder ‘Songs In the Key of Life’ tour 2014 (Chicago/Detroit)
Sting’s Rainforest Concert at Carnegie Hall, NYC
Al Green
Hillary Clinton’s birthday Bash at Roseland, NYC
One night @ Wembley Stadium in London: Mary J Blige
Toni Braxton
Jon Bon Jovi
Chaka Khan
K.D. Lang
Robert Palmer
Seal
Rod Stewart
Steve Winwood
Beyonce (Queen Mary II, NYC)
Roberta Flack (San Diego, CA and Central Park Mass in NYC)
Korn (Live Album recorded at the Apollo Theater in Harlem, NYC)
Nathan Lane
Rob Mathes (featured soloist)
Robin Thicke (NHL Awards Show)
Threepenny Opera (Ballad singer took over for recording artist, CeeLo)

Heidi Joosten

Heidi Joosten is a composer/pianist/harpist/vocalist living out her musical dreams in Chicago. Originally from Northwest Wisconsin, she has been singing since she was brought into the world by a family of music educators.

While Heidi enjoys singing in pop, country, rock, jazz, and classical genres, her true love is musical theatre. Regional theatre roles include Natalie Goodman in Next to Normal, Eponine in Les Miserables, Ensemble (“Bless the Lord” Soloist) in Godspell, Laurie Williams in Oklahoma, and Meg Brockie in Brigadoon.

As the voice is a very personal instrument, Heidi’s individualized teaching method strives to meet each student where they’re at and get them to where they want to go through the proper and healthy training of the voice. She bases her methods in a classical approach and expands upon that depending on the genre specifications. As a pianist of all genres, she specifically tailors her curriculum to match her individual students’ desires to learn the multiple techniques of the instrument while also keeping them engaged in the material they’re learning.

Outside of NSMI, Heidi gigs as a composer/pianist/harpist in the city, specializing in musical improv, audition coaching, cabaret writing/performing, and the combination of all of these with her work with Forte Chicago, an all-female comedic operatic improv ensemble. As a pianist, she serves as a liturgical pianist for DePaul University, collaborates on cabarets all over the city, and she music directs both sketch and improv comedy shows at the Annoyance theatre, iO, and Second City. Her first musical theatre cabaret, Cheaper than Therapy, premiered in August 2018, and her first solo piano album, Winter Meditations, was released on Bandcamp in December 2018.

Looking forward into 2019, her original musical The Bone Harp (with Laura Stratford) will have an official reading at the Chicago Musical Theatre Festival in February and Queer Eye: The Musical Parody (written with Evan Mills) will be opening at the Playground Theatre in March.

Nate Niederkorn

INSTRUMENTS

Guitar, Ukulele, Bass, Songwriting, Composition, Arranging, Production, Live Sound, Music Theory

STYLES

Rock, Pop, Blues, R&B, Country, Folk, Classical

DEGREE LEVEL

Bachelor of Music in Contemporary, Urban, and Popular Music

BIO

Ever since Nathan began playing melodies on the piano by ear at the age of five, music has been more than just an integral part of his life – it IS his life. While piano was his first instrument, the guitar has become his primary musical voice. “I spent many nights in my youth listening to my father play song after song on his guitar,” Nathan says. “He really inspired me to become actively involved in music. After seeing my dad get so much enjoyment out of his playing, how could I resist?”

Nathan’s “day job” is with the popular foreign language educational company Señor Wooly LLC, which produces songs and music videos for middle- and high-school Spanish and French students. He also is part-owner of 3 Fish Entertainment, LLC, which manages several cover bands in the southeastern Wisconsin market. When not working, he spends his time composing, recording, and teaching his students everything they need to know to succeed as musicians. All of his experience allows Nathan to give his students the complete package. “Knowing how to play the guitar isn’t always enough,” Nathan says. “If a guitarist wants to enter the larger world of professional playing, he or she needs a broad skill set. I love to share lessons I’ve learned while navigating the business. If you want to make the guitar your passion too, let’s work together to get you there!”

For over thirty years, Nathan has developed his skills on the guitar. His knowledge of the instrument increases every day, and he loves to share that knowledge with students of all ages.

Chris Forte

Chris Forte is a musician and teacher of many talents. He has performed all over Chicago, toured nationally and internationally, appeared on national television and taught guitar for over 12 years. As a member of Sam Cockrell & The Groove, Chris won the prestigious Albert King Award for Best Unsigned Blues Guitarist in the country in 2000 and later recorded with the world-famous Memphis Horns. He has performed in theater shows such as Tiny & Tina’s Wedding, Grease and Little Shop of Horrors, as well was featured multiple times on The Jenny Jones Show as a roaming singer/song-writer.

Chris has performed in 6 different countries and more than 27 states with all kinds of bands, including his own group, The FORTE Band, which is getting ready to record their 2nd CD with music available on iTunes. He has also been featured on Dean Richard’s WGN radio show, the WGN morning news several times and his guitar stylings are well-documented on more than a dozen full-length CD’s.

As an educator, Chris currently teaches guitar techniques and Jazz Guitar Ensemble at Columbia College (for 5 years now), directs the Chicagoland Jewish High School Jazz Band (for the last 8 years) in addition to having taught literally hundreds of students in the north suburban area for the last 10-plus years. Currently, Chris would claim his greatest accomplishments have been finding his wonderful wife, Kristin, and having their first child, Annabelle, who is the apple of her father’s eye.

Tristan Warwick

Classical Piano Virtuoso, All Genres of Piano Instruction, Music Theory, Pedagogy

Tristan Warwick comes from a family of musicians and educators, and is passionate about carrying on that tradition. Studying music and playing piano for more than 20 years, he has captivated audiences and judges alike with his performances and interpretations of all the great classical standards. A veteran performer, Tristan has experience not only playing live concerts and competitions, but also live radio and live television.

Having won over 100 first place awards from various piano competitions and festivals, earning multiple degrees from some of Chicago’s best universities, and teaching students of all ages and abilities for over 15 years, Tristan is equally ready and at home performing at your next special get together or big event, or teaching you everything from the basics of how to play the piano to the most advanced of musical techniques and artistries.

Tristan was taught piano and music theory in the early years of his life by renowned pedagogue Edward Parker. Tristan then went on to study at DePaul University where he earned both his Bachelor and Master of Music Degrees in Piano Performance, studying the entire time under world famous concert artist Eteri Andjaparidze. While there, he was a frequent solo performer on the AmerKlavier series of concerts, gave performances on radio WFMT, and was part of various chamber ensembles and orchestras. Tristan went on to continue studies at Roosevelt University’s CCPA where he could be found giving solo recitals in Ganz Hall, premiering new works of music, and again performing with many of the ensembles and orchestras that the school had to offer; all the while earning a Performance Diploma under the tutelage of acclaimed pianist Jorge Federico Osorio.

A passionate teacher, Tristan has been helping to raise the next generation of Chicago pianists and musicians for over 15 years and is ready to share all of his knowledge and experience with you! Students always come away from lessons having not only learned about the music they are studying, but having had a lot of fun doing it! As your instructor, Tristan will help guide you along your musical journey in a way that is custom tailored to your own unique needs, abilities and preferences so that you are always learning material that is fun, relevant, and educational.

Jordan Christianson

Creating authentic music with other musicians is one of Jordan’s greatest joys. As a teacher, he shares that joy and curiosity with his students. He understands that each person has different aptitudes and interests, and he takes that into account when developing lessons. As a result, students are able to express their unique selves while developing a technically sound foundation.

Jordan grew up studying classical piano in Fargo, ND. After discovering jazz and performing at the Montreux Jazz Festival with his high school band, he decided to pursue piano seriously. He graduated with a Bachelor’s from Minnesota State University Moorhead and a Master’s from the University of Miami, both in jazz performance. During this time he began teaching, and accepted his first students in 2008, ranging from beginners to adults. While in school Jordan had many exciting performance opportunities, which culminated in 1st-place finishes in the small group and big band categories at the 2011 Eau Claire Jazz Festival. He has performed with jazz artists such as Stefon Harris, Tierney Sutton, Kate Reid, the New York Voices, Peter Erskine, Marvin Stamm, Allen Vizzutti, and Ben Allison.

Most recently Jordan lived in Green Bay, WI, where he taught class piano in the public school system, maintained a private studio, and performed regularly in church and as a member of various jazz groups. He’s thrilled to now be playing and teaching in Chicago.

Kyle Besetzny

Cello

Kyle Besetzny began studying cello at the age of four with Nina Wallenberg at The Music Institute of Chicago. Mr. Besetzny attended Suzuki Book classes on Saturday mornings throughout the early stages of his career. During the Summer of 2007, he attending Interlochen Summer Arts Camp in the Intermediate Division. He returned the following two summers as well as the summer of 2012 in the High School Division.

Throughout Mr. Besetzny’s high school career, he was active in the Maine South Symphony Orchestra, Chamber Orchestra, String Orchestra, and Pit Orchestra. Mr. Besetzny was also part of the Midwest Young Artist’s Concert Orchestra in 2009 and Symphony Orchestra from 2010-2012.

Mr. Besetzny received a Bachelor’s degree from Roosevelt University’s Chicago College of Performing Arts. During his time at Roosevelt, Mr. Besetzny studied with Tanya Carey. He has also studied with such teachers as John Marshall, David Carter, Astrid Schween, Jeffery Lastrapes, Paul York, and Dmitry Kouzov. Mr. Besetzny also studies Viola da Gamba with Craig Trompeter and is an Eagle Scout.

Desi Tantcheva

Violin, Viola

Loved by students and faculty alike, Desi holds both BM and MM from the State Academy of Music in Sofia, Bulgaria. Prior to moving to the U.S. in 1996, Desi has been performing with leading orchestras in Europe. She served as principal violist for the Whiting Park Festival Orchestra for 8 years, performed regularly with the Illinois Philharmonic, Illinois Symphony Orchestra and is currently a member of the Northbrook Symphony Orchestra and Highland Park Strings.

Teaching both Traditional and Suzuki methods, Desi has been on the faculty of Encore Music Academy in Crystal Lake since 2002, OM in Northfield, Wilmette Park District, Solo Classic in Buffalo Grove and her private studio. She has taught at Glenbrook South and Glenbrook North H.S. for several years.

Desi lives in Northbrook with her husband George – also a professional musician and teacher.

Zoey Witz

Guitar

Zoey has been playing guitar since 1987 and playing professionally since 1997.

He has played all over the country and in Mexico and Canada with various blues, rock, R&B, country, jazz, pop and dance bands, opening for such stars as Travis Tritt, Estelle, Scott Henderson/Jeff Berlin/Dennis Chambers, and Bernie Worrell, and touring the east coast and Texas with Cajun/zydeco legend CJ Chenier (including an appearance at the 2015 New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival).

Zoey is also an active session player appearing on records by World Class Noise, Laury Shelly, Nicholas Barron, Derrick Procell, Social Act Band and others.

Zoey has been teaching guitar since 2001 and has seen some of his students go on to be active performers themselves.

Louie Zagoras

Guitar, Ukulele, Bass, Songwriting

Louie tells a great story with his guitar, his voice and a great collection of songs.
—Joe Satriani

Louie Zagoras is the founder, lead singer/lead guitarist and primary songwriter for the band ROLLOVER. Louie and the band toured the country extensively in the 90’s when the band’s first record broke big on Chicago’s 93.1 WXRT-FM radio. Louie’s song “Shipwreck” was the break-out single. Louie was the first Chicago rock artist to be signed by the legendary Bill Graham Management (Santana, Lynyrd Skynyrd, The Neville Brothers, Joe Satriani, etc.). With the popularity of ROLLOVER’s debut CD growing, Bill Graham Management put The band on the road supporting top rock acts like The Allman Brothers Band, Joe Satriani, Sheryl Crow, Blues Traveler, The Neville Brothers, John Hiatt, Hot Tuna, Johnny Winter, Buddy Guy, Robin Trower, Cheap Trick, Eddie Money, and many others.

Louie lets his music speak for itself and by his own choice always adds plenty of Guitar. He loves and has been influenced by the music of Eric Clapton, The Allman Brothers Band, Jimi Hendrix, George Harrison, Tom Petty and other classic bands and artists. His sound is described as “roots rock meets the blues”.

In 1995, Louie’s song “Shipwreck” was featured on A&M Records “H.O.R.D.E. CD Sampler”. They were constantly on the road, sometimes spending months traveling from L.A to New York and back again. This gave the band a chance to really develop their sound and tighten up their already exciting live shows. The band did many tour dates supporting Joe Satriani and performed with him in the U.K for a month of sold out shows in 1996. Upon returning to the states the band did two more sold-out nights with Joe at the famous Fillmore in San Francisco.

Louie’s songs have been used for TV shows (CBS’s The Rachael Ray Show, Nash Bridges, Spelling Productions etc.) and movies (Lost and Confused). For the last 17 years, he has been writing songs with Roy Marinell. Roy co- wrote “Werewolves of London”, “Excitable Boy”, other hits with the late great Warren Zevon. Roy also recently co-wrote “All Summer Long” with Kid Rock. Louie is also a Producer, Recording Engineer and Session Musician. He produced all of the ROLLOVER CDs as well as the new “Twenty Fingers” solo CD. He has also produced many other artists including 9-year old Guitar Wizard, Tallan T-man Latz. Louie is a multi-instrumentalist who also plays piano, bass, drums, sitar, harmonica, Hammond B-3, pedal steel guitar, mandolin, percussion and many other instruments.

After three nationally distributed CDs and countless tours with ROLLOVER, Louie has released his first solo CD, “Twenty Fingers” on Isis Records. Produced by Louie and The Herron Brothers, it features top Chicago musicians Jay Davenport on Drums, Ed Stevenson and Mark Gleed on keyboards and former Black Crowes/Jimmy Page bassist Greg Rzab. Joe Satriani says “Twenty Fingers” is a joy to listen to.”

QUOTES

Twenty Fingers” is a joy to listen to. Louie tells a great story with his guitar, his voice and a great collection of songs.
—Joe Satriani

Louie is one hell of a guitar player…one of the finest I’ve had the pleasure of working with…he always manages to add just the right part to set the tune off perfectly…
—Roy P. Marinell, Co-Writer
Warren Zevon Classics
“Werewolves of London” and
“Excitable Boy”
Kid Rocks “All Summer Long”
and many others

Zagoras knows that guitar heroics can add to a song instead of define it, and his fills throughout the disc and “Sun” bring home the point that a guitar hero need not take center stage to be the hero.
—Daily Vault Album Reviews

Louie’s voice and guitar are so distinctive. The album is a nice combination of rock and blues and acoustic bluesy ballads. Great guitar fills throughout.
—CD Baby

If you have any interest in hearing some great guitar music then you need to get Louie Zagoras’ “Twenty Fingers” CD.
—Indie Music Stop

Louie is a very talented longtime rocker of note who specializes in classic sounding blues-rock stylings amply displayed in his own originals as well as in some really well done covers.
—Greg Easterling
Veteran Rock DJ
WRDV-FM, The DRIVE
97.1, Chicago
WXRT, WCBR, WDCB

PERFORMANCES

Current

Double Door, Chicago, IL
Martyrs’, Chicago, IL
Bill’s, Evanston, IL
Gabe’s, Highwood, IL
Hanson Brothers, Glenview, IL
Metro, Chicago, IL
Blue Bayou, Chicago
House of Blues Atlantic City, NJ (w/ OAR)
Pianos in New York City
Rock and Roll hall of Fame Benefit show. Raleigh, North Carolina,
With “the Dave Mason Band”

Past (with ROLLOVER)

Fillmore, San Francisco, CA (w/Hot Tuna)
Wembley Arena, London, UK (w/Joe Satriani UK Tour)
Glasgow Center, Glasgow, Scotland (w/Joe Satriani)
World Music Theater, Chicago, IL (w/The Allman Brothers Band)
Metro, Chicago, IL (w/Dave Matthews Band)
Park West Chicago, Chicago, IL (w/Robin Trower)
Sand Stone Theatre, Kansas City, MO (w/Blues Traveler)
Slims, San Francisco, CA (w/Sheryl Crow)
House of Blues, Los Angeles, CA (w/Joe Satriani)
House of Blues, Chicago, IL (3-nights w/The Neville Brothers)
Fillmore, San Francisco, CA (Fillmore poster made for this event) (w/Joe Satriani)
Rosemont Horizon, Rosemont, IL, (w/Cheap Trick and Eddie Money)

Brandon Hunt

Born and raised in Memphis, Tennessee, Brandon fell in love with music at a young age. He began playing piano when he was 7 years old, eventually learning percussion by age 11. Originally inspired by blues/rock guitarists Stevie Ray Vaughan, Jimi Hendrix, and Eric Clapton, Brandon picked up guitar by age 12. After moving to the Chicago suburb of Libertyville during his freshman year of high school, Brandon became very involved with playing in rock and jam bands, as well as jazz ensembles, small combo groups, marching band, choir, and orchestra.

Brandon graduated with honors from DePaul University’s School of Music in June of 2013 with a Bachelor of Music in Jazz Studies. Studying under talented professors such as Bob Palmieri, Dr. Bob Lark, and Tom Matta, Brandon began to expand his musical vocabulary and technical prowess of his instruments.

Touring internationally with Bassel & The Supernaturals and working as a freelance musician and a member of several other Chicago bands, Brandon has had the experience of performing a wide variety of musical styles, primarily focused in funk, soul, jazz, rock, pop, and blues.

As a multi-instrumentalist instructor, Brandon teaches piano, guitar, bass and beginner percussion and employs several innovative pedagogical methods in his lessons. He has also performed on an NBC television show alongside Colbie Caillat, toured and recorded with jazz greats Jeff Hamilton, Jimmy Heath, and Phil Woods, and scored music for independent films.

Chinaa Orr

Tahlia Orr, artistically known as Chinaa, is an up and coming artist in Chicago who is known for her soulful, graceful voice. She has received her training at Columbia College Chicago in Vocal Performance. Throughout her career, she has gained experience in songwriting, background vocals, studio vocals, and live performance.

Chinaa grew up singing gospel music in her home church as a child, and has since developed her career inspired by her Gospel roots. Along with gospel music, Chinaa is well-versed in various genres such as R&B, Pop, and Jazz. By studying with some of the music industry’s best, such as Jeff Morrow, Jonathan McReynolds, and Walter Owens to name a few, Chinaa has mastered the art of executing with precision of skill without forsaking personal style.

She has performed in different venues including the Chicago Symphony Center, Auditorium Theater, Chicago Theater, Jay Pritzker Pavilion, Reggie’s Rock Club, and more! She has sung with artists such as Israel Houghton, Cory Henry, Cassandra O’Neal, Jonathan Nelson, Kurt Carr, Erica Campbell, Anita Wilson, and more.

Chinaa recognizes that it is important to teach her students about emotionally connecting and relating to the music they’re singing. She wants to offer students a full experience in training by exploring their passions and incorporating them into their craft as vocalists.

Tommy Sanchez

A highly sought-after instructor, Tom has been teaching music since the age of 18. As a graduate of Berklee College of Music, he has performed on countless TV & Radio commercials and many CD’s. Tom has toured extensively throughout the US (nearly all contiguous 48 states), Canada and Mexico as well as performing festivals and club dates in Japan, Europe and Turkey. Highlights of his touring career include openings for rock icon Sting, blues royalty B.B. King, jazz legend George Benson, and more (see below). Tom has even performed at private events for Dennis Rodman (Dennis’ Birthday Bash) and Bill Clinton (Presidential Inaugural Ball). Having a Grammy Nomination for his work with the Chicago based acid-jazz pioneers Liquid Soul, Tom continues to teach, perform and record in the Chicagoland area.

Notable Chicago Area Venues include – Ravinia, Chicago Theatre, World Music Theater, Aragon Ballroom, Vic Theatre, House of Blues, Metro, Double Door (5 yr. residence), Mayne Stage, Taste of Chicago, Chicago Jazz Festival, Orchestra Hall, Lyric Opera…and many more.

Notable US Venues include – Theater at Madison Square Garden, Central Park (NYC), Newport Jazz Festival, New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival, Fillmore (San Francisco), Maxwell’s (NJ), First Avenue (Prince’s Club, MN), House of Blues (Chicago, Boston/Cambridge, Los Angeles, New Orleans, San Diego)…and many more.

Composed and performed on music for TV – Californication (Showtime), Eastwick (ABC), Flash Gordon (Sci-Fi Channel), and Pretty Little Liars (ABC Family).

Billboard’s Hot Dance Music/Club performance – Donna Summer (#1) and Karen Ramirez (Top 20).

TV & Radio commercials include – McDonald’s, Coca-Cola, Disney, Budweiser and many more.

Openings for the following national acts (Pop/Rock) – Sting, Jewel, Isaac Hayes, Boz Scaggs, Los Lobos, L.L. Cool J. and more.

Openings for the following national acts (Blues) – B.B. King, Buddy Guy, Jonny Lang and more.

Openings for the following national acts (Jazz) – George Benson, Michael Brecker, Count Basie Orchestra and more.

For further info please visit:
http://www.tomsanchezguitarist.com

Mike Poupko, Founder

Guitar, Ukulele, Bass, Engineering, Production, Mixing, Composition, Songwriting, Arranging, Music Theory

Michael Poupko has been playing guitar for almost 30 years and teaching music for almost 20. Mike is happy to share his knowledge and is proficient in Electric and Acoustic Guitar, Bass Guitar, Ukulele, Recording and Music Production. Prep for a gig, a big audition or just learn a fun skill.

MIKE’S MUSIC IN TV AND FILM

Networks and Corporate: Disney, NBC, FOX, BBC, Discovery Channel, Travel Channel, Food Network, Cooking Channel, HGTV, WGN, DIY Network, MGM, Universal, Bose, Relix Magazine, Rutgers University and more.

Notable Shows/Movies: Dateline NBC, Design On A Dime, Bizarre Foods With Andrew Zimmern, Made In America (Emmy winning), Rehab Addict, So You Think You Can Dance, New In Town (Renée Zellweger, Harry Connick Jr.)

Where: US, Canada, India, Hong Kong, Russia, Australia, Germany, Turkey, Mexico, Brazil, Scandanavia, Spain, Portugal, UAE…

PERFORMANCE EXPERIENCE

Notable Venues: House Of Blues, World Music Theater, The Metro, CBGB’s, Double Door, Park West…

Shared the bill with: Tom Petty, The Black Crowes, The Wailers, Soul Asylum, Soul Asylum, Cracker, Fishbone, Blind Melon, Victor Wooten, Rachel Yamagata, and more

Performed Live With: Frankie Avalon, Nely, Jeff Mauro (Food Network), Jim Peterik (“Eye Of The Tiger,” “Vehicle”), and more.

Theater: Tony & Tina’s Wedding, Hair, Footloose, and more.

Countries Performed In: Most of the US, France, Spain, Italy, Portugal, Morocco, Canada and more

AWARDS

Chicago Music Award – “Best Rock Album” – Punsapaya – Prepare to Qualify
Chicago Music Award – Punsapaya nominated a second time for “Best Rock Album”
Chicago Music Award – Punsapaya nominated 3 years in a row for “Best Rock Performer”
Elmhurst Jazz Fest – Outstanding Soloist award 2 years in a row.

EDUCATION

Bachelor’s degree in Jazz Guitar Performance from the Chicago Musical College at Roosevelt University in 2001.

Songwriting

Songwriting Lessons

30 minute monthly package

45 minute monthly package

60 minute monthly package

Meet the Teachers!