Our Team

Karen has followed her passion to bring a community of high-quality music making and experiences to students of all ages and levels with the official start of Ztunes Music in 2016 and the acquisitions of Eclectic Music in 2024 and ATL Music Lessons in 2025.

She has performed and taught throughout the United States, Mexico, and Canada. Teaching since 2000, her students have been known to place in honors groups, youth orchestras, competitions, and sit first chair in their bands. Many of her students have gone on to pursue professional careers in music at prestigious conservatories and universities.

Outside of Ztunes, Karen directs the flute ensemble at Beacon Hill Middle School, is Recording Secretary for the Decatur Music Teachers Association, and has presented for various State Music Teachers Associations and universities. She resides in Decatur with her husband, Nathan (trombone, Atlanta Symphony Orchestra), and sons Jason (trumpet) and Tristan (drums).

Anna is a teacher of voice, piano, and Playground who also happens to be our Director of Education. In addition to her work behind the scenes, she appears frequently as a professional actor on the great stages of Atlanta. She is a graduate of the University of Florida where she received a Bachelors of Fine Arts in Musical Theatre.

Anna specializes in Musical Theatre voice, performance, and audition prep. In her lessons, she prioritizes healthy vocal technique and storytelling. She is also enthusiastic about helping her students find their own special voice and with it, develop a sense of artistry that is all their own. It asks a lot of courage from her students, but she fosters a safe, encouraging, and playful environment that yields beautiful growth and blossoming artists.

As a working performer, Anna has the unique opportunity to bring the professional world of theatre-making into the lesson room – an exciting prospect for students looking to join the industry one day. She is also passionate about early music education and is a leader in our Playground program, having received certification in 2018.

The dream, for Anna, is that every student leaves their lesson a better version of themselves. And in turn, maybe they help others do the same.

Alex Tchernis is a class of 2026 student at Decatur High School. Music has always been one of her favorite things, in and out of a classroom. She has studied piano, flute, percussion, clarinet, and now plays bassoon in the Decatur Wind Ensemble. She has been a Ztunes student for years and is a huge fan of private lessons, chamber music, flute club, and all the extra opportunities for music performance and fun. Also, ask her about marching band and color guard! She has been a passionate participant in several sections of the marching band and is now enjoying being a part of the color guard. Alex is in the Education as a Profession Career Pathway at Decatur High and has already enjoyed one year of helping sixth grade band students in her position as an intern with the middle school band director. Alex is thrilled to be able to contribute to the Ztunes culture of engagement with music. She has loved working with Ztunes students at summer camps and can’t wait for the next camp!

Kristen is a Decatur native who enjoys working in her community and helping manage the studio’s day-to-day operations. After retiring her violin in middle school—and relocating her singing career to the shower—she’s feeling inspired to pick up the strings again, especially with access to such a talented team of instructors.

When she’s not keeping the studio organized, Kristen channels her creativity into graphic design and her custom jewelry and accessories business, which you may have seen at local pop-ups around Avondale and Decatur. She looks forward to supporting both students and teachers at the studio.

Lissy is a professional stage manager who has spent the past decade working on live events, including opera, theater, and music festivals. She spent a large portion of that time touring with William Kentridge as a stage manager, stopping everywhere from the Sydney Opera House to Johannesburg, South Africa. Lissy recently settled in Atlanta to be closer to family. She loves being a part of making a creative vision come to life and is excited to do that here at Ztunes!

Marietta, not named after the city, is however, a 25 year resident of VaHi. She enjoys seeing her daughter and area music students grow and stretch their talents. An avid crafter and graphic designer, Marietta always has a project, if not three, in the works.

Zanaiah Billups is an aspiring arts administrator and vocal performer from Augusta, GA. She studied music industry, classical voice, and marketing at the University of Miami and completed her Bachelor of Music. Now that she is back in Georgia, she is excited to grow in arts administration and continue her musical journey.

Daniel is a professional guitarist, composer, and educator known for adapting to various genres of music; notably Jazz, Blues, Rock, Funk, R&B, Gospel, and Metal. Daniel graduated from Georgia State University with a Bachelor of Music in Jazz Studies. During his time at Georgia State he studied music overseas in China and played alongside the GSU Jazz Band with jazz greats Donny McCaslin, Joey Defrancesco, Paquito D’rivera, Bobby Shew, and Mike Abene. He currently performs all around the Atlanta area with the Ray Howard Band, CHOPS, Onstage Atlanta, Mr. Bighead, and plays Gospel on Sundays.

A lifelong instrument enthusiast, he has been building and repairing guitars, tube amps, and pedals since the age of 14. Combining this hands-on experience with formal training, he completed the coursework to become a Certified Piano Technician with the Piano Tuning Academy and joined our staff as our in-house piano tuner in the Fall of 2025.

Alben began studying classical piano at the age of 7 and guitar at the age of 15 at the Rhode Island Philharmonic School in Providence, RI. At the age of 14, he began studying under Dr. Irina Tchantceva, participating in various festivals and competitions around the New England area. In university, he studied under Dr. Sandra Hebert and Dr. Ralf Gawlick for performance and composition, respectively and graduated from Boston College with his B.A in Music with a concentration in Performance and Composition, as well as a degree in Political Science in May, 2019.

He has continued his music career based out of Atlanta taking an all encompassing approach: teaching since 2019, producing for his own bands and being commissioned to do so by other artists, performing in solo recitals and accompanying, as well as composing for short films. His journey in music has taught him many lessons which he is eager to teach his students under a philosophy of growth and cognitive/personal development through the arts. His goal is to reach as many people as he can through music.

Alex Gayton has been playing music for as long as he can remember. Learning music through his family’s music collection and playing on his grandmother’s piano. By the time he was old enough to play drums he had immersed himself in all things music, playing in ensembles at school and forming his first band in the 7th grade, playing shows in the local punk rock scene.

Since those early experiences he has been performing and recording professionally, earning his B.A in Music from Eastern Washington University and his M.M in Jazz and Improvised Music from the University of Washington.

Over the last decade Alek has performed locally and nationally with a wide variety of artists. His flexible playing style has led to a wide range of performance opportunities, including playing with Le Grotto, Delvon Lamar, The Bob Curnow Big Band, Ernie Watts, Mike Stern and the Seahawks Drumline. These opportunities have led to performances at notable events such as Monterey Jazz Festival’s Next Generation, South by Southwest, The New Orleans Jazz Festival, MNF on ESPN and several US and West Coast tours. His drumming can be heard on the Erina song Home, which is featured on HBO’s Cherish the Day.

As an educator, Alek possesses the flexibility to teach to each individual student. Every student has different interests and goals. He believes in giving students the opportunity to explore and create on their instrument, while focusing on strong fundamentals. He additionally puts emphasis on learning songs and playing along with music, while learning about the history of the band or artist with his students. (Alek loves music history!)

Alexander Kao is an Atlanta based clarinetist who has over 10 years of performance and teaching experience. He has performed throughout the United States and Europe as a member of multiple ensembles. Raised in Madison, Wisconsin, Alexander began studying clarinet at the age of 10 and made his international debut at the age of 17 in London, England at Cadogan Hall.

He began his professional studies at Western Michigan University in Kalamazoo Michigan where he earned a BA in music, studying under a variety of teachers including Georgiy Borisov and Ellen Glick. During this time he performed and recorded with a variety of ensembles throughout southwestern Michigan such as the Western Michigan University Symphony Orchestra and the Academy Street Winds. After completing his undergraduate studies he decided to further his musical education and began studying under Chanse Morris.

Since relocating to Atlanta to begin his graduate studies under Kenneth Long at Georgia State University, he has continued to teach as a member of the Ztunes Music faculty and perform throughout the Atlanta area.

Anna Snider is a dynamic voice teacher and seasoned teaching artist who has brought her passion for performance and vocal technique to theaters and institutes all over the Atlanta. Whether she’s in a rehearsal room, a classroom, or behind a piano, Anna is all about helping singers and musicians unlock their unique sound and tell powerful stories through song.

With years of experience working at a variety of theaters and educational programs, Anna has taught everyone from total beginners to seasoned performers. She specializes in musical theater, but loves teaching pop and even classical!

Anna believes singing should feel good, sound great, and be a whole lot of fun. Her goal is to help each student build a voice and sound they can trust and a confidence they can carry with them on stage and off.

Anne Richardson has over 30 years experience as a performer, composer, and music instructor. She earned her Bachelor of Music in composition and flute from the Oberlin Conservatory, and a Master’s degree in composition from the San Francisco Conservatory. From 1994 to 2005, she served as director of Neighborhood Music Schools, a community music school based at Georgia State University. ​

Ms. Anne has performed with artists such as the Indigo Girls and Michelle Malone, and has written music for numerous artists, including contemporary music ensemble Thamyris. She composed the music for the silent film, Claire, and toured with the film, conducting the orchestra in live performance at venues all over the United States and Europe.

Born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio, Ashley started classical piano lessons at age 8. When her grandmother passed away unexpectedly, her grandfather shared that it was her wish for Ashley to learn to play the piano, and he fulfilled that wish by paying for lessons in her memory for years to come. In 2010, Ashley joined the world-renowned Singing Angels youth choir in Cleveland, marking the beginning of her journey in vocal instruction. In 2015, Ashley attended Ohio University School of Communication Studies, but continued her music education through collegiate choir, a cappella, piano lessons and voice lessons. She graduated with a degree in Communication Studies concentrating in Public Advocacy, and a minor in Mathematics.

Ashley has worked in both the nonprofit and hospitality fields, advocating for people experiencing poverty and homelessness, as well as expanding food access in Athens, Ohio. In 2021, Ashley moved to Athens, Georgia (Athens to Athens!) and led a local nonprofit in their flagship program, delivering 130,000 books to 12,000 students at 22 elementary schools, promoting childhood literacy across Northeast Georgia. Following this experience, Ashley shifted into a season of exploration and hospitality work, living and working at travelers’ hostels in South Lake Tahoe, California and Wailuku, Hawaii. In 2024, Ashley moved to Atlanta and began her current role as a Volunteer Manager for a hospice company. Her current role involves recruiting, onboarding, training and pairing volunteers to work with hospice patients and their families, offering companionship and support at the end of life’s journey.

In January 2025, Ashley began teaching piano part-time at ATL Music Lessons, and greatly looks forward to seeing her students every week, watching them progress as they work together. Ashley is thrilled to be part of the transition over to ZTunes, with the opportunity to welcome new students to group piano lessons and possibly take on private lessons in the future!

Ashley lives in Reynoldstown with her cat Mattie. In her free time, she enjoys rollerblading on the beltline, hiking in North Georgia and making music with friends.

Brooke is a professional singer/songwriter specializing in the genres of folk and pop. She plays guitar and piano and frequently plays shows across Atlanta and the Southeast. Brooke is regularly releasing music on all streaming platforms and is consistently growing as an independent artist. She has been studying music since the age of 7 and believes every person has a gift worth sharing. If you are looking to expand your knowledge, strengthen your belief in yourself, and deepen your art of storytelling, Brooke is the perfect fit.

Bryan Johnson is an adept string instructor with nearly a decade of teaching experience. He has taught at several private music schools and served as a teaching assistant at the University of Georgia. His primary focus is in classical music, but is well-versed in bluegrass, fiddle music, and many other playing styles. As a teacher, he believes in a hands-on approach to learning and creating an environment that encourages students to grow both as musicians and people.

Bryan is an accomplished and active musician, playing with orchestras such as Charlotte Symphony, Greenville Symphony, Savannah Philharmonic and several others throughout the Southeast. He also has extensive experience playing chamber music. He previously served as the violist for the Hodgson String Quartet and was the principal violist for the ARCO Chamber Orchestra. He currently participates in community outreach programs that bring free string quartet concerts to venues outside of the concert hall.

When he’s not playing, Bryan likes to go running at local parks, cooking for friends, or staying home and playing Animal Crossing. Bryan holds a BM from Furman University and an MM and DMA from the University of Georgia.

Cardell Smart II is a dedicated vocal instructor who brings over 13 years of training and real-world performance experience to students of all ages and skill levels. Born and raised in Atlanta, Georgia, Cardell grew up rooted in R&B and Gospel, but his musical background extends far beyond that. He has studied and performed a wide range of styles—including Pop, Jazz, Classical, and Choral Music—giving his students a well-rounded and versatile approach to vocal development.

Cardell earned his degree from Berklee College of Music in 2024, majoring in Professional Music with concentrations in Songwriting and Music Business. While at Berklee, he trained under world-renowned artists and educators such as Ledisi, Tia Fuller, and Lil John Roberts. His professional performance experience includes singing for major artists like Usher and Childish Gambino, and working alongside fellow artists in R&B, Pop, and Gospel.

As both a performer and educator, Mr. Cardell is passionate about helping singers and pianists grow in confidence, technique, and artistic expression. His teaching philosophy focuses on building healthy habits, understanding the instrument, and nurturing each student’s unique sound—whether they are brand-new to music or preparing for advanced opportunities.

Garrett Knighton is a lifelong musician and dedicated music educator with 7 years of experience teaching a variety of music genres. A versatile multi-instrumentalist proficient in guitar, mandolin, violin, piano, and flute, Garrett began his musical journey on piano and later excelled in school band and orchestra programs. He received guitar instruction from Terry Cantwell at Mercer University and Macon State before earning a B.A. in Music Performance from the University of Georgia, studying under John Sutherland and Philip Snyder.

During his studies, Garrett was active in the UGA Philharmonia and co-founded music projects that performed at festivals such as Bragg Jam, Kat Kat Phest, and Mighty Oak Festival. His bands have been featured in Athens Flagpole, Immersive Atlanta, The Blue Indian, and B-Metro Magazine. In 2017, his band received the Flagpole Upstart award and was nominated for a Vic Chesnut Songwriter of the Year Award in 2018. Garrett specializes in classical, folk, indie rock, and jazz, and has been focusing on expanding his knowledge of different pedagogical approaches to learning music.

Greg Washington was born in Mobile, Alabama and began playing the drums at age fifteen. In his teenage years, he created his own drum set, using a variety of materials from his parent’s garage. He participated in the high school band, and was able to earn a full scholarship to community college. While there, his appreciation for drumming heightened, and he eventually left Mobile to study at the Atlanta Institute of Music. Greg has also studied at the world famous Collective School of Music, known by some as the “Drummers Collective”, in New York City.

He has worked with the award-winning rap group, Outkast, and was featured on their album Stankonia, which sold over five million records worldwide. In addition to Outkast, he’s worked with legendary rapper Chuck D from the group Public Enemy.

Greg now teaches drum lessons to students of all ages. In addition to teaching, Greg continues to perform and perfect his craft by expressing his versatility in various genres of music including, Gospel, R&B, Rock, Hip Hop, Funk, and Reggae. He has also branched out into music production and recording, using his creative skills to collaborate with musicians and vocalists.​

Hannah Lake is an enthusiastic & creative teacher who is passionate about helping students of all ages find joy in music and build their confidence, whether it’s for karaoke, an audition, or a solo performance! She brings acting and movement techniques from her career as a performer and teaching artist into her music lessons, and her ultimate goal is for each student to leave smiling and inspired.

After receiving her Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theatre and a Minor in Dance from Western Carolina University in 2013, Hannah completed the Horizon Theatre Acting Apprenticeship and has worked professionally around Atlanta for the last 9 years. Some of her favorite onstage roles include Veronica Sawyer in Heathers the Musical (OnStage Atlanta), Annie A.K.A. “Six” in Chicago, Lina Lamont in Singin’ In the Rain (Springer Opera House), dancing in the ensemble of Holiday Inn (Circa ’21 Playhouse), and Cheryl in Evil Dead: The Musical (Out of Box Theatre). Hannah also has been teaching for the last 7 years with various companies around Atlanta, including The Alliance Theatre, Once Upon a Ballet, The Atlanta Children’s Theatre, and in both public and private schools through the Alliance Theatre’s Institute.

For the past 3 years, Hannah has been spreading the love of music, working with students ages 3 to 18, teaching beginner music principles, piano, voice, audition prep and coaching, and ukulele. Teaching music has been the most joyful teaching experience for her yet!

If your child is ready to explore the world of music in a fun and supportive environment, Hannah would love to welcome them to her studio!

Hannah Marie Smith is a BFA Musical Theatre graduate from Reinhardt University and an alumnus of Horizon Theatre’s AppCo program. She has been teaching voice to middle and high school students for six years and continues to perform in Atlanta, with recent credits including Beautiful (Aurora Theatre), Boys in the Buff (Out Front Theatre), Head Over Heels (Marietta Theatre Company), and Disaster (Onstage Atlanta). She has also performed in traveling concerts like Ladies of the 80s and She’s a Rebel.

Hannah is a seasoned performer and educator with a passion for helping her students unlock their vocal superpowers! As a former “baby belter” and a pianist, she brings her own stage experience and teaching know-how to guide students through the tricky terrain of head voice and mix. Hannah is all about embracing individuality and finding that special connection to every song, making performances truly shine. She believes that a mix of hard work, imagination, creativity, and action is the secret recipe for any piano or voice student to hit all the right notes and achieve their dreams!

Jamila Harrison is a dedicated music teacher, and accomplished pianist with over 20 years of performance experience and 10 years of teaching expertise. Beginning her musical journey at the age of 3, Jamila has built a diverse and expansive career in the Southeast, specializing in piano, while also offering instruction in flute, voice, and guitar.

Her musical background spans a wide range of genres, including classical, R&B, gospel, and pop music, which informs her versatile teaching style. Jamila has collaborated with numerous artists, bands, choruses, and orchestras across the Southeast.

In the classroom, Jamila is known for her strong classroom management skills, fostering a positive and productive learning environment. She employs a mix of traditional and innovative teaching methods to engage students of all ages, ensuring that they not only develop technical proficiency but also a deep love and understanding of music. Her approach emphasizes creativity, discipline, and a strong work ethic.

Beyond teaching, Jamila continues to grow as a musician, actively working on her own music and expanding her career in the industry. She is passionate about nurturing the next generation of musicians, instilling both technical skill and artistic expression in her students.

Jennifer Hanna has been teaching voice and piano lessons for over 15 years. She is an early childhood music specialist and has been a teacher at Eclectic Music since 2007. She holds a Bachelor of Music in Vocal Performance from Millikin University and a Master of Music in Vocal Performance from Georgia State University. She continues to be an avid student and takes continued training in guitar, voice and advanced music education. Jennifer teaches music at St. James Preschool in Buckhead. She also directs the Cherub Choir at Peachtree Presbyterian Church in Buckhead, where she is also currently a staff singer.

Jennifer began studying piano at the age of 9, flute at age 11 and voice at the age of 13. As a child and teenager she enjoyed performing in recitals, musicals and choirs. She sang in the Ohio All State Choir and played flute in the Cincinnati Symphony Youth Orchestra. While an undergraduate at Millikin University, Jennifer performed in operas, including Pirates of Penzance, Down in the Valley, Die Fledermaus, and The Marriage of Figaro. In 2005, she moved to Atlanta to complete her Master of Music Degree at Georgia State University. She played the roles of Nicklausse in Offenbach’s Les Contes d’ Hoffmann and Harry in Benjamin Britten’s Albert Herring at GSU. She later professionally played the role of Mozart in the opera Wolfy at Theatre Decatur. Jennifer participated in the Harrower Opera Workshop at GSU and La Musica Lirica Opera Festival in Urbania, Italy, performing roles in opera scenes including Hansel and Gretel, Cosi fan Tutti, Louise, Alcina, Fastaff and The Mikado to name a few.

Jennifer takes a holistic approach to teaching music. She believes the process of learning to sing or play an instrument helps students to develop important life skills such as improved work ethic, self-confidence, optimism, faith, interpersonal and communication skills, and leadership potential. She keeps this in mind when working with each student. Jennifer teaches piano and voice to both children and adults. She teaches a variety of musical styles, including classical, pop, musical theater, rock, ragtime and jazz.

As a voice teacher, Jennifer focuses on building a strong technical foundation. Her goal is to help students to develop a strong, effortless, pleasing tone while communicating a meaningful thought, idea, or emotion. With her piano students, Jennifer strives to keep the learning process fun and rewarding. She continually uses new approaches depending on the unique interests and inherent gifts of the students. She often incorporates singing, rhythm sticks, bells, egg shakers, drums, ukulele and guitar in her lessons. Her goal is to help each student not only learn to read music, but also to play by ear and improvise. Jennifer encourages her piano students to sing, and her singers to play. Jennifer believes that just as playing an instrument makes us better singers, so does singing make us better instrumentalists!

Jeremiah Hobbs is a teaching artist and songwriter who grew up just down the road in Newnan, GA. Jeremiah is a former performer, who now lives for the education of the arts. He works for the Alliance Institute, bringing arts integration to public schools around the city, and owns a music and movement school in Newnan, Georgia with his wife, Julissa. He loves all kinds of music, and encourages confidence and perseverance in his classrooms.

As a teacher, Jeremiah wants to connect with his students, learn what motivates them, and structure lessons around what each student enjoys. He wants to get to know you so that he can encourage you to make the music that brings YOU joy!

When Jeremiah isn’t at the studio, you can find him at home with his beautiful wife and sweet little tot creating art, blowing bubbles, and making music as a family.

John is a professional saxophonist and music educator with over 15 years of performing and teaching experience on piano, saxophone, clarinet, and flute. He received his Bachelors of Music from Florida State University and obtained his Masters of Music from the Manhattan School of Music both for jazz saxophone performance.

During his time at MSM, he studied directly under many jazz legends and was fortunate to perform in some of the biggest jazz clubs in New York City. Over the years, between playing on cruise ships for a year, and moving between NYC, Miami, and Atlanta, John has had a lot of amazing musical adventures: from teaching summers in the Adirondack Mountains of Upstate New York, to playing lead alto for an international Broadway Tour, to holding a weekly Bossa Nova Brunch in South Beach Miami, and touring Canada with a NYC-based funk band. He’s got plenty of stories to tell, and more importantly, many life lessons to share!

As an educator, John is influenced by his work as a contemporary musician with conservatory training. Because of his education and varied performing experience, John puts the focus on practical, real-world techniques that are rooted in traditional methods. This way, you’re not only learning all the “classical” skills like reading music, analyzing theory, and technical mastery; you’ll also develop your ear so you can play without sheet music, you’ll learn about songwriting and improvisation so you can write your own music or jam with others, you’ll study current music styles/trends, so you can understand not only the foundations of music and how to play your instrument, but how to play music like today’s top performers, and how to have all the tools necessary to do anything you want musically!

Jordi Lara set foot on his musical path at the age of ten, picking up the cello for the first time in his school’s orchestra program. Since then, his passion for the instrument has only grown deeper as he’s explored beyond the world of classical music. While cello remains the staple of his career, he has dedicated practice to electric and upright bass, as well as tenor guitar. Jordi attended the University of Georgia where he earned his Bachelor’s in Cello Performance and a Minor in Jazz. Upon finishing his undergrad studies, he took to the Atlanta music scene, where he now resides as a sought-after performer, educator and studio musician. Jordi’s breadth of musical styles has equipped him to hold various roles in ensembles ranging from bluegrass and rock to jazz and world music.

Jordi is making his mark on the Atlanta music scene as an innovator of the cello, venturing outside of his classical foundation to take advantage of the instrument’s full range of melodic, rhythmic and harmonic capabilities. He has found his voice using a combination of traditional and extended techniques, occasionally employing electronics and amplification to expand his sonic landscape. Whether in his own music or that of others, Jordi believes in the spirit of serving music to its greatest potential.

This message is the same one he takes into teaching: to help his students serve the music and find the clearest way to express themselves. Jordi encourages his students to explore beyond the music of their classroom and hopes to inspire his students to branch out beyond the world of classical music, to break boundaries and to be creative. He encourages all of this while upholding the values of strong technique and passionate dedication. Jordi feels that the best way to grow in playing an instrument is to keep practicing and to keep loving music!

Josh Cowan is currently the Coordinator of Music and Worship Arts at Oakhurst Baptist Church in Decatur, GA. Josh began teaching private lessons while attending Texas Tech University, where he earned his Bachelor of Music in Education (2002). Following graduation, Josh moved to Houston, TX, where he started teaching full time as a middle school string orchestra director in the surrounding school districts. He moved to Atlanta in 2010 to finish his Master of Divinity at Candler School of Theology (Emory University, 2013) and has enjoyed continuing to teach privately, playing with several community and semi-professional ensembles, as well as staying active in church music.

Josh is originally from Texas and grew up in a family that loves making music! Of his earliest memories is singing in the childrens’ choir at church where his mother played the piano and his aunt played the organ. Josh’s family still gathers around the piano during holidays and other special events to sing and play music. His more formal training began in first grade on piano though he fell in love with the viola during a summer music camp experience after fourth grade. The viola has continued to be his primary instrument, and to that has been added trombone, bassoon, and bari sax! All these experiences have deepened Josh’s love of music and sharing it with others.

LaTonya Peoples was born and raised in Topeka, Kansas and began taking violin lessons at the age of five. At the age of sixteen she became a certified Suzuki Violin Instructor giving private lessons, and later graduated with a Bachelors Degree in Music Therapy from Howard University. LaTonya is a violinist, vocalist, DJ, songwriter, and the owner and operator of the Lpeop Recording Studio, LLC. where she writes, produces, and records music to be licensed for Film, TV, and video/gaming projects.

LaTonya has recorded and produced four original albums displaying a wide range in styles of music, including original songs, Jazz, Rock, Spirituals, Pop, Country, EDM, Dubstep, Singer/Songwriter, and Folk. She can be heard as a Violinist/Vocalist on recordings by India Arie, Co-Resonance (a pop/classical fusion string quartet), Ken Ford, Doria Roberts, JJ’s Swimming, and Left Eye Productions/TLC. And her music has been licensed by Love and Hip Hop, ‘How Black Mothers Say I Love You’, acclaimed Playwright Trey Anthony, and most recently, her vocal rendition of Wade In The Water was featured on ABC’s hit Television Series ‘Scandal’ – Season 6 / Episode 3.

In addition to her recording career, she has performed in ensembles opening for Gladys Knight, Michelle NDegeocello, Angelique Kidjo, and Alice Walker; and has performed with such organizations as Sister Harriet, Sistagraphy, KMC, ZAMI, Charis Books, ALCI, and The Feminist Women’s Health Center. She has toured with UniverSoul Circus, visiting 26 major cities as a featured Violinist and Vocalist, was a featured performer with the LA Women’s Fest, and traveled to Osaka, Japan to perform for the Kansai Music Conference. LaTonya has been featured on BET’s Jazz Central program with Hue, a Jazz Trio and has been heard on National Public Radio’s Wade in The Water Series featuring Sweet Honey In The Rock, produced by Author Sonja Williams.

LaTonya has given workshops and in-services on Songwriting, Jazz Improvisation, and Music Therapy, as well as classroom teaching experience as an Orchestra Director. She has also worked with several populations including Special Education, AIDS, and psychiatric patients as a Music Therapist.

Laura has been involved in music education in various capacities for the past 20 years. She holds her BA from Yale University with a major in history, but music has always been her passion; her most formative involvement in college was with her pop a cappella group Out of the Blue. Laura has taught piano, voice, and guitar lessons for many years, specializing in the intersection of singing and playing; many of her students are aspiring performers who learn to sing and accompany themselves.

When not teaching young musicians, Laura spends her time raising her 10- and 12-year-old boys and playing music with her husband in their duo “LB Collective” or with their full band; she also enjoys exercising, reading and playing volleyball.

As a native of Atlanta, trombone player Lovrick Gary III began his musical studies through the Atlanta Symphony Talent Development Program. As a fellow, he studied with Atlanta Symphony members Nathan Zgonc and Brian Hecht. He obtained a bachelor’s degree from the Schwob School of Music at Columbus State University, where he studied with Dr. Bradley Palmer. While a student at the Schwob School, Gary was named a finalist in the American Trombone Workshop National Solo Competition in 2017 Division I and 2019 in Division II.

Lovrick currently serves as the trombone instructor at Macalester College in St. Paul, Minnesota. Prior to this, he held a position as a fellow with the Minnesota Orchestra from 2021-2023. He has also performed several concerts with both the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra and the Minnesota Orchestra. Additionally, he’s had opportunities to be a part of multiple recording projects, including one in which he is featured in a quartet on Ash, the latest project of the New York Philharmonic’s associate principal trombone Colin Williams. Additionally, he can be heard on Columbus State University Trombone Ensemble’s recent album Full Tilt as well as the Minnesota Orchestra’s Listening Project.

Lovrick Gary III is a Performing Artist for S.E. Shires.

Costa Rican pianist Mario Jiménez is a passionate educator and performer with an impressive career spanning renowned stages, including Carnegie Hall and the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. Currently pursuing an Artist Certificate in Piano Performance at Georgia State University, Mario has earned recognition in prestigious international competitions, including the 2025 Pro-Mozart Society Competition and the 2024 Washington-Idaho Symphony Young Artist Concerto Competition. His performances range from masterclasses with renowned artists to sharing the stage with symphony orchestras, showcasing his versatility and dedication to his craft.

Mario’s teaching philosophy is centered around guiding students to express themselves through music. He uses a personalized, step-by-step approach, combining solid technique with creative exploration. His lessons are tailored to each student’s individual needs, helping them unlock their musical potential while fostering confidence and self-expression. As a graduate teaching assistant and former president of the Music Teachers National Association at the University of Idaho, Mario brings a wealth of academic experience and a deep commitment to music education.

With a background in both music and advertising design, Mario understands the importance of creativity and discipline in learning. His diverse experiences enrich his teaching style, ensuring students not only build technical skills but also develop a genuine love for music.

Dr. Paula is “a virtuoso saxophonist that possesses excellent technical attributes and a deep understanding of the music [she] performs” (Ovación). Based in Atlanta, Georgia she enjoys a career as a chamber musician, soloist and educator.

Her musical studies began on piano at age 8 and continued with the saxophone, flute and clarinet. She holds a B.M. from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, M.A. from the University of Missouri, Kansas City and a D.M.A. from the University of Maryland, College Park in saxophone performance.

As a Selmer-Paris Artist and Clinician she has toured and lectured throughout Argentina, Brazil, Bolivia, Canada, China, Croatia, France, Italy, Mexico, Peru, Scotland, Ukraine and the United States. She has shared the stage with Branford Marsalis and locally, she performs with the Sombra Suave, a chamber music group that features the music of South America.

Since 1995 she has taught students ranging in age from 4 to 64 in private studio, university and master class settings. Dr. Paula tailors each lesson to the needs of the student based upon their goals such as preparation for competitions, auditions and recitals or simply to play their favorite songs in an environment of curiosity and fun.

Rachel Ofotokun is a composer and pianist from Lilburn, Georgia. Rachel comes from a musical family and has been engaging with music and composition since age 6, starting with piano lessons and adding cello to the mix in middle school. She holds a bachelor’s degree in music composition and African studies from Emory University. Rachel enjoys classical, experimental, pop, jazz, gamelan, and afro-influenced music.

Lessons with Rachel are incredibly flexible and goal-oriented. She focuses on building (and reaching) long and short-term goals based on a student’s desires and working as a team to achieve them in the most fun way possible! Rachel believes music lessons should be an outlet and safe space where students can spend time pursuing something they want for themselves. As is our mission at Eclectic Music, Rachel works to decolonize the music classroom.

Outside of the studio, you can find Rachel crocheting, tending to her plants, redecorating her apartment, and sipping tea. She looks forward to making empathic connections with her students!

Rodrigo Suarez is an Atlanta-based guitarist and passionate educator dedicated to helping students of all ages discover the joy of music. A Magna Cum Laude graduate of Kennesaw State University, Rodrigo blends a strong academic foundation with nearly a decade of teaching experience. His background spans many diverse styles/disciplines including jazz, classical, rock, neosoul, r&b, pop, latin, and metal, giving his students a broad and creative approach to guitar.

Rodrigo’s lessons focus on developing solid technique, musical understanding, and authentic self-expression. He tailors his teaching to each student’s goals—whether that’s mastering fundamentals, preparing for performances, exploring improvisation and composition, or learning an appreciation for music and the culture it provides. Having studied under top mentors and performed across Atlanta’s music scene, Rodrigo brings both real-world experience and supportive guidance to every lesson.

Sarah comes from a long line of church musicians and grew up playing piano, singing in choirs, and letting loose in musical theatre. Along with working at Ztunes, she works in the music ministry at Peachtree Church in Buckhead where she directs the elementary and youth handbell choirs, assists with the preschool and elementary vocal choirs, and co-directs the middle and high school vocal choir. She has completed the Choristers Guild Institute, a three year summer intensive for children’s music educators.

She believes in developing a lifelong love of making music and always believes the process should be fun. In her free time, she enjoys cooking, pursuing various fiber arts hobbies, and cheering on her Atlanta sports teams. She is also a huge nerd who loves attending Dragon Con every year in costume.

Scotty Guenther is a musician artist based in the Virginia-Highland neighborhood of Atlanta. Growing up in Johns Creek, GA, Scotty took the stage at a young age, performing in plays, musicals, and music ensembles since he was 8 years old. He has spent the last 22 years honing his knowledge of music theory, music production, and collaboration, working on numerous projects for himself, other artists, and organizations. Scotty has a deep appreciation for each individual’s artistic voice, and hopes to spread his love of music through teaching.

As a teacher, Scotty values connection with each student, discovering their “why” for taking lessons, and developing a plan that is enjoyable and informative. His goal is to teach fun, memorable lessons that help students gain the skills they need to create and participate in the music they are passionate about.

Shannon has been studying and performing music for 32 years. She began studying when she was 5 and graduated with her bachelors of Music Performance from Cleveland State University in 1999. She immediately began teaching classical violin studies out of her home as well as at schools such as The Galloway School, The Lovett School, Sandy Springs Music, and out of her home. Though she believes classical studies is a necessary basis for the mastering of the instrument, she has a profound passion for weaving the voice of the violin into other genres. Shannon founded and fronted her own Atlanta based rock band, Dynagroove, for years. In addition to her teaching duties she currently performs with local rock bands, classical quartets, and as a soloist around Atlanta.

“I believe music is a vessel for self confidence, exploration, and communication. I have an insurmountable passion to introduce music to students that may not have anyone else in their lives to encourage them to explore the unknown, the less traveled. To encourage them to embrace their idealistic dreams and passions, that in fact, it is a gift.”

Sidney Johnson (MT-BC) has been a classically trained pianist since the age of 7. She studied piano with Dr. Owen Lovell at Georgia College and State University in Milledgeville. She graduated in 2022 with a Bachelor of Music Therapy as a piano primary. Sidney also plays guitar, percussion, and accordion. During her music therapy experiences, Sidney served clients with a wide variety of diagnoses in different settings and specialized in adaptive piano lessons. She also has a passion for pedagogical research and has presented at the National and Georgia Music Teachers Association (MTNA and GMTA) conferences as well as the National and Southeastern American Music Therapy Association (AMTA and SER-AMTA) conferences.

Currently, Sidney is a master’s student at Georgia State University. She is earning a Master of Music with a concentration in Piano Pedagogy, and is studying piano with Dr. Sergio Gallo. During her degree, Sidney has studied abroad and performed in Vienna and Paris at various recital halls and music conservatories. Sidney lives in Douglasville and has privately taught her own piano studio for three years. The goal through piano lessons is to help cultivate the student’s musical potential in an engaging and encouraging atmosphere. “Instilling a love of music through piano instruction builds a musical foundation, which will translate far beyond the world of music and into the daily routines of life.”

When she is not playing or teaching piano, Sidney loves hiking, traveling and adventuring (skydiving is the best!), reading mystery novels, and spending time with friends, family, and her dog Copper.

Stephanie began her musical studies at age 6 on piano and began studying trumpet at age 10. She attended the Jacobs School of Music at Indiana University where she received a Bachelor of Music Performance in Trumpet under the instruction of Prof. Joey Tartell. She continued her music studies at the University of Michigan under Prof. William Campbell, and received her Master of Music Performance in Trumpet in 2013.

Stephanie has performed professionally with a number of organizations, including the Saginaw Bay Symphony Orchestra, the Saginaw Choral Society, the Ann Arbor Symphony Orchestra, and the Detroit Symphony Orchestra. She has performed as a solo artist with the Dekalb Youth Symphony, and was invited to perform at the 2012 National Trumpet Competition. One of her most cherished accomplishments is the three seasons she spent performing with the Phantom Regiment Drum & Bugle Corps, an organization to which she credits much of her current musical knowledge and personal motivation. Stephanie enjoys and has experience playing in a variety of styles, including orchestral, concert band, jazz and commercial music and is constantly looking to expand her musical boundaries.

Stephanie makes her living as a freelance player and teacher, and regularly performs with groups such as The Atlanta 13, 120 East, The Son Jazzy Orchestra, and the Outfront Theater Company.

Stevie (they/them) is an Atlanta-based music teacher and multi-instrumentalist originally from Miami, Florida. Having played hundreds of shows throughout the past decade with various bands based in both in Miami and Atlanta, as well as producing several rock and metal albums, Stevie has acquired an extensive amount of real world experience playing live music of various styles including Rock, Metal, Pop, Hip-Hop, Funk, R&B, Bossa Nova, and Musical Theater. In addition to their live performance background, Stevie has 6 years of teaching experience through one-on-one lessons and leading summer music camps.

Stevie’s teaching style is adaptive and aims to create a positive and collaborative environment for students to develop their ability to express themselves through the language of music. Each lesson is focused around creating and acknowledging victories and growth, learning to embrace mistakes, and being resilient in the face of challenges.​

Suzanne Stroup is a graduate of Mercer University and an alum of Aurora Theatre’s AppCo Company. She has been teaching at the Aurora Theatre, MJCCA, Alliance Theatre, and more for ten years now, and can also been seen performing and directing around town. When Suzanne isn’t teaching or performing herself, she can be found in her house, trying to teach her cat Peggy how to sing musical theatre songs. So far, she has been unsuccessful.

Suzanne believes in process over product. If the process of learning isn’t a fun experience for the student, the product won’t shine. In her classes and lessons, she focuses on fundamentals, but never at the expense of fun.

Taylor began playing horn at age 12, and piano at age 14. He received a Bachelors Degree in Music Composition and a Masters Degree in Horn Performance from Georgia State University. He maintains a busy performing and teaching career throughout the Atlanta area.

As a freelance musician, Taylor has performed with the Atlanta Symphony, Charleston Symphony, Chattanooga Symphony, Rome Symphony, Atlanta Pops, and the Southwest Iowa Symphony, among others. He is also a member of Gate City Brass, a professional brass quintet which performs throughout the Atlanta area. In the summer of 2019 they recorded their first studio album, ‘Twas In the Moon of Wintertime.

As an instructor, Taylor has taught private lessons, masterclasses, and sectionals throughout the Atlanta area. He maintains a private studio of french horn and piano students of all levels. His students have gone to win state-wide competitions, place in All-State and other honor bands, perform with youth orchestras around Atlanta, and have been accepted into prestigious music programs at universities throughout the US. Taylor is passionate about private music instruction because he believes that a foundation in music enriches all other parts of your education and experiences, and instills an appreciation that you will take with you for the rest of your life.

When not performing, teaching, or practicing, Taylor enjoys reading, playing video games, going for long walks, and spending time with his husband, their cat Pistachio, and their dogs Peanut and Cashew.

Teresa Feliciano, originally from Puerto Rico, began her musical journey with the piano at age six and flute at nine. She earned her Bachelor of Music in flute performance from the Puerto Rico Conservatory of Music and later completed her Master of Music at Georgia State University. While studying, she performed with the Puerto Rico Symphony Orchestra and other respected ensembles.

Teresa has played professionally in Puerto Rico, Georgia, New York, and Washington, D.C. She has been teaching private lessons in flute and piano to students of all ages since 2004. She also leads flute sectionals in middle schools and high schools across the metro Atlanta area.

Teresa is passionate about inspiring a love for music and helping each student grow through music. She teaches at Ztunes Music, serves on the board of the Atlanta Flute Club, and performs with the Flûture flute quartet. Outside of music, she also works as a Spanish interpreter and translator.

Zhenyu, originally from China, began her piano journey at age 6. She received her B.S. degree in Business Management and B.A. degree in Music from SUNY-Stony Brook University in 2017. At Stony Brook University, she studied piano with Dr. Jacob DeHoyos and Dr. Pablo Lavendera. Continuing her musical education, Zhenyu furthered her education under guidance of Dr. Lora Deahl and Dr. Nataliya Sukhina at Texas Tech University, where she received Master of Music degrees in Piano Performance in 2019 and Piano Pedagogy in 2020. In 2025, she completed her Doctoral Degree in Piano Pedagogy from the University of South Carolina, where she studied with Dr. Phillip Bush.

Zhenyu has had the opportunities to share her music as both a soloist and chamber musician in the United States and Europe, performing at various venues. She has been honored with scholarships and awards during her academic and musical journey.

In addition to her musical pursuits, Zhenyu actively contributes to the music community as a member of MTNA and has presented at conferences, including MTNA conferences, NCKP, and SCMTA. Her dedication to her art and sharing of musical knowledge is a testament to her commitment to piano and pedagogy.