David Thomas School of Music

Bios

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  David Thomas

  Owner

  David Thomas, founder of the David Thomas School of Music, has taught over 10,000 music lessons. In addition to private music education, he has taught at St. Joseph Conservatory of Music, St. Paul Academy, Highland Catholic, and has headed music clinics at numerous colleges and public schools. David’s method of teaching is acclaimed by artists including Doc Severinsen, Charles Lazarus of the Minnesota Orchestra, Eric Wangensteen (Lead Trumpet, Bette Midler), and numerous public school educators. David Thomas graduated from the Armed Forces School of Music and performed with an all-star classical and jazz group in New Orleans for admirals, mayors, senators, and dignitaries and officials such as Colin Powell and Bob Hope. David is one of the top free-lance trumpeters in the Twin Cities and has performed at Orchestra Hall, the Ordway Center for Performing Arts, The Dakota Jazz Club, and the Chanhassen Dinner Theater. In 2003, David’s solo jazz cd, “Wingin’ It” rose to #14 on the US Jazzweek Chart and was awarded the New Orlean’s “Best Top 10 New Releases of 2003”, receiving national airplay on 200 radio stations across the country, including New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco, and New Orleans.

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  Tamara Henschel

  Senior Manager

  Tamara graduated from the University of Northwestern, St. Paul with degrees in Instrumental Music Education, Psychology, and Bible. She has taught private instrumental music lessons since 1989 on brass, woodwinds, orchestral strings, percussion, and piano with many of her students winning numerous awards and honors. Several students have gone on to perform professionally and become music teachers themselves. Tamara worked for Groth Music in Bloomington, MN for over 15 years, managing the Educational Services department for over 10 years. During her time there, she became well-versed in printed music, band and orchestral instruments, and elementary music education. One of her strengths was building relationships with area music educators, many of whom she still keeps in contact with. Tamara has performed at Carnegie Hall, Orchestra Hall in Minneapolis, the Ordway Center for Performing Arts, and the Sheldon Theatre. She performed for years with the John Philip Sousa Memorial Band and currently performs with several community theatre groups on a wide variety of instruments.

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  Gus S.

  Flute, Clarinet, Saxophone Teacher

  Gus graduated from the University of WI, Stevens Point with a B.Mus degree in Jazz Studies. Gus has studied under great musicians such as Greg Keel, Irv Williams, David Hastings, Andrea Splittberger-Rosen, and Paul Doebler. He has performed with the MN Orchestra, the Jack Brass Band, Mick Sterling and the Irresistibles, and Dr. Mambos Combo. He enjoys working with students of all ages and believes that music should be inspirational and fun for all.

  Education:

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  Betha P

  Flute Teacher

  Betha has always loved music and started taking flute lessons at a young age. She is currently completing a B.A. in Music at Bethel University. Betha has studied under Sharon Kapeluck, Julie Goos, and Trudi Anderson. She has toured with both the Bethel University Orchestra and the Bethel University Wind Symphony. She enjoys the one-on-one experience with students and the process of seeing them come to love music and play their best.

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  Marilyn F.

  Oboe Teacher

  Marilyn graduated from the University of MN with a B.S. degree in Music Education and has completed three years of study toward a Masters of Fine Arts in Oboe Performance also at the University of MN. Marilyn has studied with Rhademaus Angelucci, Richard Killmer, and Basil Reeve, all principal players for either the MN Orchestra or the St. Paul Chamber Orchestra. She has worked with artists such as Pincas Zuckerman, Pavoratti and the Three Tenors, and Julie Andrews. Over the years, Marilyn has performed with the MN Orchestra, St. Paul Chamber Orchestra, MN Opera Orchestra, and Minneapolis Pops. Marilyn has been on staff for 5 years and has had great success with students of all levels.

  Education:

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  Eric D

  Flute, Clarinet, Bassoon Teacher

  Eric graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Instrumental Music Education, studying clarinet under Dr. John Lecklider, Dr. Paul Moxness, and Dr. Richard Webb. He also studied under the expertise of Ruth Giles (flute), Martha Lindberg (oboe), Dr. John Lindberg (bassoon), and Dr. Paul Moxness (saxophone). Between 1998-2005, Eric taught middle school and high school bands, and has been teaching private lesson music instruction since 1998. He has played bass clarinet in Mankato Symphony Orchestra, St. Cloud Symphony Orchestra, and Minnesota Philharmonic Orchestra. He played the E-flat clarinet in Shostokovich's Symphony No. 5 in the Northwest Suburban Symphony Orchestra. Eric has also performed with the Whispering Winds (co-founder), Minnesota Valley Community Band, Howard-Lake Waverly Community Band, and the North Star Community Band. He is currently a member of the Minnesota Freedom Band. From 2007-2013, Eric served was the Auxiliary Director for the Minnesota Freedom Band, directing the marching band, jazz band and small ensembles. In 2010, he became their Artistic Director. Within his tenure with community band, he has composed and premiered two original compositions "Metamorphic Fantasia" and "The Land of the Morning Calm." He is also a member of the Minnesota Band Director's Association.

  Education:

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  Hannah H.

  Saxophone Teacher

  Hannah is pursuing bachelor’s degrees in Music Performance and Music Education at the University of Minnesota- Twin Cities, where she is a student of Preston Duncan. At the university, she is involved in a quartet and performs as principal saxophonist in Symphonic Band. She has performed in masterclasses hosted by Kenneth Tse, PRISM Quartet, and Libby Larsen. In addition to teaching through the David Thomas School of Music, Hannah is an apprentice teacher for the Band Project program at the Folwell School in Minneapolis.

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  Kelby B.

  Clarinet, Saxophone, Trombone, Guitar Teacher

  Kelby earned his bachelor’s degrees in Musical Arts and Education from Hamline University. In addition to teaching private music lessons, Kelby enjoys composing and performing with local bands of his own and freelance performing with other area groups. He has fun teaching students of all ages and connects easily with them.

  Education:

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  Melissa W.

  Piano and Voice Teacher

  Melissa has been performing professionally in the Twin Cities for over 20 years. Her primary focus is piano performance / accompaniment and musical direction, along with teaching voice and piano to all ages. She studied classical piano and voice through her teen years and transitioned into broader genres, such as musical theatre, popular music, and jazz. Currently, Melissa performs and directs with various live theatre groups, educational organizations, the Methodaires Show Choir, small ensembles, and as a solo artist.

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  Lynnette H.

  Harp Teacher

  Lynnette started playing harp at the age of 10. She graduated with a Bachelor of Music degree in Harp Performance from the University of Minnesota. Since college, Lynnette has performed and taught all around the Twin Cities. She has performed in Orchestras, Ensembles, with Choirs, for Weddings and played background music for countless receptions and parties. She continues to study and improve through master classes, workshops, conferences and individual study with top harpists in the field. She is active in the Minnesota Harp Society and has served on its Board of Directors

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  Teresa H.

  French Horn Teacher

  Teresa graduated with a B.S. degree in Music Education from Maranatha Baptist University and a Master’s degree in Music with Horn Proficiency from the University of MN. Teresa has studied with Herbert Winslow, Michael Gast, Bernhard Scully, Dr. Lin Folk, and Dr. Craig Parker. She actively performs with the Encore Wind Ensemble and the Bloomington Civic Theatre Company. Teresa has taught and performed in several foreign countries including Peru, Brazil, Ireland, and South Africa.

  Education:

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  Kurt A.

  Trumpet and Guitar Teacher

  Kurt graduated from the University of MN with his B.Mus degree in Trumpet Performance where he studied with Dr. David Baldwin. Kurt started playing piano at the age of three and later added trumpet and guitar. He performs regularly with Circle of Heat and freelances throughout the Twin Cities.

  Education:

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  Charlie R.

  Trumpet, French Horn, Trombone, Baritone, Euphonium, Tuba Teacher

  Charlie graduated from Bemidji State University with a B.S. degree in Instrumental Music Education and a minor in Vocal Music. As a graduate teaching assistant, Charlie directed the University of North Dakota band. He also attended the Naval School of Music in Norfolk, VA. Charlie served as band director for the Howard Lake/Waverly/Winstead Schools and the Warren/Alvarado/Oslo Schools for many years.

  Education:

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  John B.

  Trombone, Trumpet, Baritone, Euphonium, Tuba Teacher

  John graduated from the University of Northwestern–St. Paul, with a degree in Music Performance. He has studied privately on trombone with Dr. John Tranter, Rick Gaynor, and Dr. Jeremy Kolwinska, along with some lessons from Monte Mumford and Dave Graf and master classes with Doug Yeo, Tom Ashworth, and Doug Wright. John studied privately on piano with Karen Stiles, along with some classroom piano under Dr. Barbara Rogers. John currently performs on trombone with Big Toe and the Jam, Century Brass, and Mike’s Brass, and is a regular sub with many groups across a variety of genres. John has been teaching since 2011, and currently also teaches through his own studio and the University of Northwestern Academy of Music.

  Education:

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  Annie K.

  French Horn Teacher

  Annie is a current graduate student at the University of MN studying with Caroline Lemen pursuing her Master’s in Music. She graduated from the University of St. Thomas with her Bachelor’s degree where she studied with Sarah Schmalenberger and Matt Wilson (MN Opera). Currently she is an active performer not only with large and chamber ensembles at the U of M, but various ensembles in the community.

  Education:

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  Sarah Y.

  Percussion Teacher

  Sarah is currently pursuing her bachelor's degrees in Percussion Performance and Music Education at St. Olaf College in Northfield, MN. She has been playing percussion for nine years, and has been involved in numerous ensembles ranging from Wind and Symphonic Bands, Orchestras, Percussion Ensembles, Pit Orchestras, and Jazz Ensembles. Sarah has participated in the University of MN Honor Band, the Minnesota Band Director's Association Honor Band, and the Minnesota Music Educator's Association Honor Band. Sarah has studied privately under John Greene, Corey Desens, David Hagedorn, Phil Hey, and Paul Hill. She recently auditioned and was awareded positions in some of St. Olaf's most prestigious instrumental performing ensembles. In addition to teaching private percussion lessons, Sarah volunteers with her middle school's summer band program and her high school's marching band program.

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  Sophie D.

  Saxophone, Piano Teacher

  Sophie is currently pursuing her bachelor's degree at St. Olaf College in Northfield, MN where she participates in the St. Olaf Band, St. Olaf Saxophone Quartet, and Jazz Ensemble I. She has a strong passion for jazz saxophone, having played in the Minnesota Youth Jazz Band through all four years of high school. Sophie has experience on soprano sax, alto sax, tenor sax, baritone (bari) sax, and bass sax, which she plays in the St. Olaf Band. She has studied privately under Scott Johnson and Kurt Claussen and has attended master classes with saxophone greats Greg Keel, Tom Luer, and Adam Kolker. In addition, she performed with the JazzMN Orchestra in 2014 for the McNally Smith College of Music's Winter Jazz Blast. Sophie has also studied piano privately for many years. Although saxophone is now her primary instrument, she continues to enjoy the piano and feels it provides a great foundation in music for all students. Whether on saxophone or piano, Sophie believes in fostering the love of music in students of all ages.

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  Miriam D.

  Trumpet Teacher

  Miriam holds a Bachelor of Music Education from the University of Northwestern-St. Paul. Throughout her time at UNW she was involved in numerous performance ensembles including the Symphonic Band, Orchestra, Jazz Ensemble, and Brass Ensemble, as well as participated in pit orchestras for UNW theatre productions. Miriam has been a member of the Wayzata Symphony Orchestra since 2010, and currently serves as second trumpet. She frequently subs with the Metropolitan Symphony Orchestra and enjoys freelance performing. Her primary instructor is Dr. Philip Norris, and she has also studied with Manny Laureano and Robert Dorer of the Minnesota Orchestra. Miriam enjoys teaching students of all ages and abilities. She loves teaching the fundamentals of music that help students excel and reach the next level in their playing. She also enjoys helping students explore the versatility of their instrument through styles such as symphonic band, orchestral, and jazz.

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  Neil B.

  Trumpet Teacher

  Neil B. III graduated from the University of Northwestern - St. Paul in 2010 with a Bachelor of Music Education degree. Since then he has taught band in the St. Paul school district, Central Lutheran School, for the Mounds View public school summer band program, and for the Schmitt Music Strike Up the Band program. In addition to teaching, Neil is an active trumpet player in the Twin Cities area and performs regularly with the Twin Cities Trumpet Ensemble, the Wayzata Symphony Orchestra, the Century Brass, and the Century College Chamber Orchestra. In 2013 he performed a solo recital on the trumpet accompanied by both piano and brass quintet. Neil's students have had a history of success by successfully auditioning for school bands and jazz band, the MMEA All-State Band, Minnesota Youth Symphonies, the Greater Twin Cities Youth Symphonies, and by achieving excellent and superior ratings in solo and ensemble contests. In his free time, Neil enjoys spending time with his wife and friends, playing the trumpet, reading, and playing strategy board games. He currently resides in St. Anthony with his wife, Lori Anne.

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  Tom J.

  Guitar, Mandolin, Ukulele, Dobro Teacher

  Tom Johnson is an eclectic musician who has been playing and teaching for 17 years. Tom received a Bachelors degree in Music in Jazz/Studio Guitar Performance from Minnesota State University Moorhead in the spring 2007 and started teaching as an adjunct faculty in the following fall. He has also has been teaching privately since he picked up the guitar. His diversity of specialties in teaching and performing is matched by the diversity of age and skill level of students. On guitar he teaches: beginner, rock, jazz, blues, country, bluegrass, classical. He also teaches dobro, pedal steel, beginner banjo, mandolin and ukulele. He has toured and performed in: rock bands, bluegrass, hip-hop bands, jazz, alt-country, and solo classical guitar. He has currently started working on his Masters in Guitar Pedagogy from the University of St. Thomas.

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  Faraz G.

  Piano Teacher

  Faraz began playing piano as a young child and quickly fell in love with the instrument. His initial childhood training took place in Tehran, Iran before moving to the United States following high school. Faraz currently entertains shoppers on the piano at the Von Maur store in Eden Prairie. In addition to reading music, he has memorized nearly 13 hours of piano music and is able to fulfill customers' requests for specific songs, pieces, and styles of music. In addition to teaching private piano lessons, Faraz has used his teaching abilities in the role of music therapist with special-needs junior artists, and has developed music therapy curriculum for children with disabilities, improving their lives through music. Faraz teaches children and adults of all ages and ability levels from diverse cultural backgrounds.

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  Lydia M.

  Piano Teacher

  Originally from Montana, Lydia earned her Bachelors of Music degree in Piano Performance from Texas Christian University before moving to Minnesota to pursue her Masters of Music degree in Piano Performance from the University of Minnesota. She has had the privilege of performing in master classes with Dr. Veda Kaplinsky of Juilliard, Dr. Nelita True and Dr. Douglass Humphreys of the reknowned Eastman School of Music, Professor Pavel Egorov of Saint Petersburg Conservatory, and concert pianist Mark Salman. In addition, Lydia studied under Dr. Tamas Unger at Texas Christian Univeristy and is currently studying under Lydia Artymiw at the University of Minnesota. Lydia has been teaching piano students for over ten years and teaches a wide variety of ages and ability levels, from young beginners to more advanced students and adults. Her teaching abilities span a wide variety of musical styles from classical to modern. Lydia connects with students very easily and adapts her teaching style to fit each individual’s needs. In addition to piano, Lydia also has teaching and performing experience on the harp. In addition to her studies and private teaching, Lydia teaches two sections of Class Piano at the University of Minnesota, is the accompanist at the Mendota Heights United Congregational Church, and plays with the Chancel Girls Choir at Mount Olivet Lutheran Church.

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  Zach G.

  Trombone, Euphonium Teacher

  Hailing from Conway, Arkansas, Zach G. is an internationally renowned orchestral and solo trombonist. He received his Bachelor of Music in Performance from St. Olaf College in Northfield, MN, studying for three years with Larry Zimmerman. He then spent two years in Boston, playing actively as a freelance musician, teaching lessons to beginning low-brass students, and studying with Norman Bolter at The Boston Conservatory, where he graduated with a Masters of Music in Performance. Zach is currently studying with Tom Ashworth at the University of Minnesota in pursuit of his third degree, a DMA in trombone performance.

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  Chris W.

  Trombone, Euphonium Teacher

  Inspired by the unusual appearance of the "sliphorn," Chris Wiley began playing the trombone in 7th grade. He continued playing through high school, where he enjoyed the concert, marching, and jazz bands. A marching band scholarship helped Chris to continue on to the University of Tennessee, where he studied trombone with Don Hough and jazz improvisation with Jerry Coker. After spending a little time playing in New York City, and later, playing on cruise ships, Chris earned a masters in jazz studies at Indiana University, where he studied with David Baker and trombonist Edwin Anderson. For the David Thomas School of Music, Chris enjoys teaching trombonists of all ages and abilities. He's also a freelance musician in the Twin Cities, and plays regularly with the Nova Contemporary Jazz Orchestra, Tim Patrick and his Blue Eyes Band, and the Selby Avenue Syncopators. Two of his favorite trombonists are J.J. Johnson and Jack Teagarden.

• Mike H.

  Guitar Teacher

  Mike began studying guitar at the age of 12 and it quickly became a passion of his. He enjoys listening to and playing various styles of music from pop to jazz, blues, rock, and latin. He plays and teaches both acoustic and electric guitar to students of all ages. Mike firmly believes in making guitar lessons fun for the student and strives to incorporate their favorite pieces into the learning. Mike currently performs with several bands in the Twin Cities and nearby areas.

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  Alex R.

  Voice, Piano, Trumpet Teacher

  Alex graduated in 2016 with a bachelor's degree in Music/Vocal Performance from Macalester College in Saint Paul where he studied primarily under Laura Nichols as well as Patricia Zanardi, for voice, Laurina Sager Wright for piano, and Dave Jensen for trumpet. While in school Alex was active in a number of performing groups including the Concert Choir, Wind Ensemble, A Cappella (The Macalester Traditions) and small ensembles. In addition to teaching for David Thomas School of Music, Alex teaches the Crescendo Choir at ComMUSICation and teaches in their summer program.

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  Alexis R.

  Voice Teacher

  Alexis has been a part of classical choirs and has been performing for over 10 years. She has participated in auditioned choirs such as the MMEA All-State Honors Choir, the ACDA Honors Choir, and the OAKE National Children’s choir. Starting at the age of 10 she was on stage performing in talent shows, variety shows and many musical theater performances as well as landing the role of Dorothy in The Wizard of Oz during her 7th grade year of Jr. High and Ariel in Footloose her senior year of high school. After graduating from high school she spent her first year of college at Augsburg College in Minneapolis studying Classical Vocal Performance and Music Therapy. Desiring to learn more about contemporary music and the music industry she will be apart of, she transferred to McNally Smith College of Music where she is studying Vocal Performance and Music Production, working toward earning her Bachelors of Music in Vocal Performance. Apart from her studies Alexis has started two businesses, A.K. Productions LLC and Party For a Princess. At the Minnesota State Fair Amateur Talent Contest 2015 Alexis performed as "Snow White" on the Grand Stand Stage for thousands of people and it was truly a dream come true. Alexis enjoys teaching students of all ages and sharing her passion for performing.

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  Sarah Joy B.

  Voice, Piano, Cello, Violin Teacher

  Sarah Joy first fell in love with music when she picked up the violin at age 7. Since then she has expanded her range of instruments with piano, voice, and cello, which is now her primary. She is currently studying Instrumental Composition at McNally Smith College of Music in St. Paul, MN. Sarah Joy performs with various orchestras, bands, and churches in a variety of musical styles including classical, gypsy jazz, folk, pop, and blues. She has studied cello with Tom Rosenberg and Dr. Ken Lurie, voice with Sahar Hassan, piano from Gary Gratz, and instrumental music composition from Mark Henderson and Jay Fuchs. In addition to teaching and performing musically, Sarah Joy also teaches dance with her favorite styles being contemporary and hip hop.

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  Lucia S.

  Saxophone, Flute, Piano, Guitar

  Lucia is a Minneapolis-based saxophonist and educator who also plays flute, piano, guitar, and specializes in all styles of improvised music. Born and raised in Lima, Peru, Lucia grew up listening and learning from the greatest: Charlie Parker, Sonny Rollins, and John Coltrane, to name a few. She studied Jazz Harmony and Improvisation in Peru with the great guitarist Andres Prado. In 2012, Lucia moved to Buenos Aires, Argentina to study jazz at the Conservatorio de Musica Manuel de Falla. ​Lucia is currently pursuing her Saxophone Performance degree at McNally Smith College of Music in St. Paul, Minnesota, where she was awarded the Women in Music Scholarship. She is studying under the mentorships of saxophonist Pete Whitman and trumpeter Adam Meckler. ​Lucia plays with Eric Gravatt'sQuintet, Source Code, and some of the finest jazz players in town, where they continue to explore the depths of free improvisation. Eric Gravatt's experience playing and recording with Weather Report, McCoy Tyner, Joe Henderson, Michael Brecker, and other heavyweights provides invaluable insight and connections for Lucia. She also does a lot of studio work and collaborates with artists in different genres of music such as jazz, funk, rhythm & blues, soul, hip hop, and latin.

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  Alec P.

  Tuba, Trombone, Euphonium, Flute, Guitar, Trumpet Teacher

  Alec is a senior undergraduate student at the University of Minnesota, studying Instrumental Music Education. He studies tuba with Steven Campbell of the Minnesota Orchestra, and also independently studies many other instruments. Along with the David Thomas School of Music method of teaching by modeling, Alec also believes strongly in the importance of fundamentals and creativity in his teaching. He focuses on teaching his students how to develop a great sound, the importance of warm-ups and exercises, and how to compose and improvise.

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  Aaron H.

  Saxophone Teacher

  Saxophonist and composer Aaron H. has performed across the United States as a jazz saxophonist, clinician, and composer. Aaron has written numerous big band works, string arrangements, small group pieces, and chamber works. Some of his collaborations have included saxophonist Bob Reynolds, the University of North Texas One O'Clock Lab Band, vocalist Marlene Verplanck, vocalist Don Most and Starbucks artist of the week S. Carey. As a saxophone performing artist, Aaron has been featured as a guest artist by universities such as University of Wisconsin Eau Claire, Wichita State University and Eastern Washington University. Aaron has performed at top-tier music venues nationwide including the Dakota Jazz Club, Snug Harbor, the Next Generation Jazz Festival, Scat Jazz Lounge, and the Eaux Claires Festival. Aaron exclusively plays and endorses Keilwerth saxophones. He has scores published with Sierra Music and Really Good Music.

• Aaron M.

  Percussion Teacher

  Bio coming soon.

• Lydia S.

  Clarinet Teacher

  Bio coming soon.

• Robert W.

  Flute Teacher

  Bio coming soon.

• Kathy O.

  Saxophone Teacher

  Bio coming soon.

• Patti A.

  Clarinet and Saxophone Teacher

  Bio coming soon.

• Brian V.

  Trumpet, Trombone, Baritone, Euphonium, Tuba Teacher

  Bio coming soon.

• Brian H.

  Flute, Clarinet, Saxophone Teacher

  Bio coming soon.

• Alex D.

  Clarinet Teacher

  Bio coming soon.

• Jessica C.

  French Horn Teacher

  Bio coming soon.

• Marco S.

  Trombone, Baritone, Euphonium Teacher

  Bio coming soon.

• Stuart S.

  Oboe Teacher

  Bio coming soon.

• Martin K.

  Bass Teacher

  Bio coming soon.

• Holden B.

  Trumpet Teacher

  Bio coming soon.

• Cody L.

  Trombone, Baritone, Euphonium Teacher

  Bio coming soon.

• Keith N.

  Flute Teacher

  Bio coming soon.

• Kevin M.

  Woodwind, Brass, Percussion Teacher

  Bio coming soon.

• Michael C.

  Violin, Viola Teacher

  Bio coming soon.

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  Dylan R.

  Guitar, Piano, Uke, Cello Teacher

  Beginning his musical life near the end of his elementary school years, Dylan picked up the electric guitar around 9 years ago, and since then has not stopped expanding the skill-sets in music that he wants to obtain. Currently, he also plays classical guitar, cello, piano, ukulele, along with also some drums and bass. Back in his home state of Wisconsin, he competed in the WSMA Solo & Ensemble Competition for his last three years of high school with both classical guitar and cello as well. From this, he earned the highest state scores possible for his performances on both instruments each year, and also an Exemplary Soloist Award for classical guitar. Wanting to expand his musical knowledge into a future career, Dylan auditioned to get into the McNally Smith College of Music, and was accepted into the Bachelor’s Program for Guitar Performance. Here, he is currently studying under teachers including Chris Olson, Tim Lyles, Joe Elliot, and Dr. Eva Beneke. As it was his goal to get his education from a contemporary music college like McNally in order to become a very diversely-skilled musician, Dylan enjoys studying there under his teachers in various styles including Rock, Blues, Jazz, Classical, Reggae, Funk, R&B, Folk, Afro-Latin, and Improv. Along with studying guitar there, he has also studied cello from Thomas Rosenberg and some percussion skills from Dr. David Schmalenberger. Before his time at McNally, Dylan enjoyed playing guitar and cello for the pit orchestras of his high school and community theater musicals, and has now also had the experience of playing in several ensembles in St. Paul. These include settings involving orchestras, percussion groups, the Improvestra run by Adam Conrad, as well as world music groups such as a Sephardic music ensemble. In addition to having played in several church service opportunities on guitar and cello, he is currently a music theory tutor at McNally Smith too, and along with teaching instruments to people, enjoys teaching and helping students there understand the science that goes on behind the music we hear and play.