Our Team
Dedicated-Educated-Passionate
Adam Kestler Founder and Owner Adam Kestler is the founder and owner of Home Sweet Home Music Lessons. Adam is a Berklee College of Music graduate and a certified music teacher in the state of New Jersey. He worked for the Summit, NJ school system from 2008-2019. Adam has conducted and organized tens of thousands of private and group music classes for thousands of students over the past two decades, and is now happy to offer this convenient service to everyone. As a touring and studio guitarist, Adam has worked with The Marshall Tucker Band, Matt Mangano of the Zac Brown Band/John Mayer, Jon Herrington of Steely Dan, and John Platania of Van Morrison. He has released 5 original records globally and completed numerous national tours. As a member of the music industry, Adam helped launch artists such as Pink, Avril Lavigne, and Michelle Branch. Adam is currently the leader of the Adam Kestler Band, his project of original rock and acoustic music. 
Crystal
Voice and Piano Instructor Crystal holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree with a concentration in Theatre Performance from Kean University. She began singing very young, and began studying voice privately in 2008 from multiple teachers and in a multitude of styles including classical, jazz, pop, rock, soul, country, and every genre and decade of musical theatre. During her time at Kean, Crystal was able to study acting through song with Broadway performer Thom Warren (The Lion King), and be part of an audition workshop with Broadway performer Laura Osnes (Bonnie and Clyde, Cinderella). Since 2010 Crystal has and continues to perform in musicals all over the NY/NJ area, along with cabaret style shows in the NYC area. Favorite roles include Margaret White in Carrie: The Musical, Meg March in Little Women, Logainne in Spelling Bee, Urleen in Footloose, Annabel in Lucky Stiff, and Christina in the NJ Premiere of American Idiot which won a NJ Perry Award for Best Musical. Crystal also enjoys playing, teaching, and composing on piano. 
Matthew
Drum, Piano and Guitar Instructor Matthew is a musician pursuing a Bachelors of Music Degree in Jazz Studies with a concentration in drums from Mason Gross School of the Arts at Rutgers University. He has over 12 years of experience playing drums, piano and guitar which he also enjoys teaching. Matt is an alum of the NJPAC Jazz for Teens program. He currently studies at Rutgers with Victor Lewis and Robby Ameen. Matt has had the opportunity of playing venues such as House of Independents, Asbury Lanes, The Saint, Underground Arts, NJPAC, and Carnegie Hall. Matthew has experience playing music across myriad genres, such as jazz, rock, pop, latin, funk, and fusion. He is particularly inspired by Afro-Caribbean and Brazilian rhythms, and loves to fuse genres of music together. He has also played with a multitude of bands as both a sideman and a leader. Matthew is passionate about inspiring the next generation of young musicians. 
Benjamin
Guitar, Piano and Voice Instructor Ben has been immersed in music since birth, with a theater mom and a drummer dad. He picked up a guitar at the age of 3 and played in his father's bands throughout his childhood and teenage years. Starting in middle school, Ben participated in around 20 musical theater productions over six years. He earned Superior Medals at Thespian Festivals and received various awards for his singing and acting. Ben holds a Bachelor's Degree from Montclair State University. While in college, he joined the campus radio station, eventually becoming Station Manager. He also served as the Student Representative for all communications students across the United States. His deep knowledge of music became a cornerstone of his college experience, connecting him with numerous professional musicians. Today, Ben works full-time in music, embracing every adventure it brings. |
Alicia Williams Adminsitrative Assistant Alicia Williams holds a degree in Music History from the Esther Boyer College of Music at Temple University. Following her passion for vocal studies, she ventured to New York, where she earned her Masters of Music degree in Vocal Performance from the Conservatory of Music at Brooklyn College. Under the mentorship of Monica Harte & Eduardo Valdes, Alicia excelled in both traditional lyric soprano operatic repertoire and the development and production of classical contemporary music and composers. Alicia was a Resident Artist with Underworld Productions Opera and performed with Garden State Opera, New York Opera Forum, Satori Opera, & Metropolis Opera Project. Alicia appeared in Brooklyn College Opera Theater's productions, her favorite as Lady Billows in Benjamin Britten's Albert Herring. With Remarkable Theater Brigade Alicia participated in their annual Opera Shorts, a series of new ten minute one act operas by living composers, at Carnegie Hall's Weill Recital Hall. After the arrival of her second son, Alicia stepped aside from performing and dove into being a full time mom. Her three kids keep her busy, but Alicia keeps her vocal chords warm by singing with the Concord Singers & looks forward to joining the Home Sweet Home Music team! 
Karen Franklin
Executive Assistant Karen is excited to be part of the team and looks forward to the future with Home Sweet Home Music. In the past, she has worked as a consultant for AT&T in the international department giving classes in third world cultures and computer technology. From there, Karen moved on to launch her own calligraphy and jewelry business. On her off time, she loves painting and drawing, anything outdoors and listening to music. Spending time with her family is always on top of her list. 
Jeff
Piano, Bass, Guitar, Drum, Cello, and Ukulele Instructor Jeff holds a Bachelor of Music Degree in Classical Bass Performance from the John J. Cali School at Montclair State University and, in addition to being classically trained, is thoroughly steeped in virtually all musical traditions native to the U.S., including jazz, musical theater, hip hop, funk, soul, bluegrass, folk, and blues. He began playing electric bass in original rock bands in middle school, started playing and studying jazz and classical music and playing for musicals in high school, and continued playing in bands and performing in musicals while learning the guitar and piano and receiving more in-depth classical and jazz training throughout college. After college he began teaching lessons on guitar, piano, and bass regularly, continued performing consistently in groups of diverse genres from folk to fusion, and began playing services at his local church, studying old-school polyphonic music on the guitar, piano, and organ, while also becoming increasingly interested in composition and orchestration. A new musical, Wendy's Shadow, for which he contributed orchestrations and played bass, was awarded the 2016 NJ-ACT Perry Award for Best Original Musical. An ever-present nomad in the New Jersey musical world, Jeff's relentless quest to acquire and share an ever-broadening and deepening knowledge and understanding of music continues to this day. 
Daniela Piano Instructor Daniela is a bilingual piano instructor currently finishing her bachelor's degree at Rutgers University. Her love of music stemmed from a young age whilst attending concertos and learning piano for over 16 years. Over the course of those years, Daniela enrolled in the annual piano auditions affiliated with the National Guild of Piano and obtained a diploma of completion. She has received academic awards including the Early Bach award and the National Piano Playing Tournament. Moreover, she has played in master class under musical artist Martha Marchena at Kean University. Daniela performed and competed in music competitions at NJPAC, one of the largest performing arts centers in the country with three appearances on national television. She has worked as a private instructor for over six years and inspired many to embark on the same journey. Daniela hopes to fuel student’s passion, maintain discipline, and most importantly resonate with the music they play. |
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Emma
Voice and Piano Instructor Emma is currently pursuing her bachelor's degree in Music at MontclairState University. She began her love of performing as a dancer and competed across New Jersey and NYC from ages 10-16. She studied at the Art of Dance, NJ Ballet, NYC TapFestival, Broadway Dance Center, and did the Rockette Summer intensive twice. Emma performed with the Manhattan Girls Choir, with artists such as Steven Tyler, Idina Menzel, Billy Joel, and Bruce Springsteen. She then spent one year studying Musical Theater at Centenary University, before transferring to Montclair State. At MSU, she performed with the NJ symphony orchestra at the Prudential Center, The Great Basilica Cathedral, and Princeton University. Emma also performed Beethoven’s 9th at Carnegie Hall and in addition casted, produced, and costume designed the film, ‘The First Day’, that was chosen to premier at the Montclair Film Festival. Emma has also directed productions such as ‘A Christmas Carol’, ‘Tinkerbell’, ‘The 100 Dresses’, ‘The Wondrous Marvelettes’, ‘The 12 Dancing Princesses’, ‘Emma The Musical’, ‘High School Musical Jr..’, and ‘Legally Blonde Jr.’ She is tremendously grateful for her beloved voice teacher and renowned international opera singer, Karen Notare, whom she has been studying with for the past 9 years. Emma is truly excited to pass along her knowledge and passion for music and performing to her wonderful students! |
Julianna
Guitar, Piano and Voice Instructor Julianna is a multi talented teacher and musician who plays and teaches guitar, voice and piano. She earned her bachelors degree in Psychology with a concentration in Behavioral Neuroscience and a minor in Spanish. Julianna is currently a graduate student studying Clinical Mental Health Counseling with a specialization in Addictions Counseling. Julianna comes from a musical family and has 12 years of experience studying, performing and composing. She currently records and produces her own music. In Julianna’s musical household, her father taught her how to play the lefty acoustic guitar due to my love for Paul McCartney. She is vocally trained and has participated in a variety of choir competitions as well as performances in talent shows across the state of New Jersey. Julianna loves working with younger children and people of all ages. She is a passionate musician and hopes that her passion and love for music can inspire others to want to improve on their musical abilities. |
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William
Woodwind, Piano, and Guitar Instructor William is currently earning a degree in Music Education at Montclair State University. William is an instructor of woodwinds, piano, and guitar. He is well versed in teaching and performing various genres such as jazz, classical, rock, and pop. Through his own weekly private lessons as a kid, Will’s private instructor helped him realize his true love for music. This combined with his current studies solidified his goal to teach and play music professionally. William believes having one great teacher can make all the difference in the world for students interested in playing music. He has learned this first hand and hopes through his love of music, he can inspire his students the same way William’s teachers inspired him. |
Kyle
Piano, Saxophone, Guitar, Clarinet, and Flute Instructor Kyle is a graduate of Kean University where he earned a bachelor’s degree in Music Education graduating Summa Cum Laude. He began playing the saxophone/multiple woodwinds and guitar at the age of 12, and later learned to play piano. As a freelance musician and multi-instrumentalist Kyle performs in many different musical settings such as pit orchestras, jazz clubs, and pop/rock venues including the Morristown Performing Arts Center, and The Wellmont Theater. He is currently pursuing his Masters of Music in Jazz Performance degree at New Jersey City University (Jazz Saxophone, Flute, Clarinet). Kyle has studied with some of the world’s greatest saxophonists, Andy Fusco (Alto saxophonist in the Buddy Rich Big band), Walt Weiskopf (Saxophonist of Steely Dan), and Bob Malach (Saxophonist for Stevie Wonder/ Barbra Streisand). His intensive undergraduate and current graduate studies have formed him into a professional and versatile performer/teacher playing many different styles ranging from Jazz, Classical, to Pop music. Kyle has taught music in public and private schools for several years and his passion and dedication for music is directly reflected in each of his lessons. Kyle is determined to inspire all of his students and hopes that they can gain a love and appreciation for music forever. |
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Joseph
Guitar and Piano Instructor Joseph, also known as Jag, is a dedicated music educator and musician, as well as the frontman and guitarist of the band Tokens. Originally from the Philippines, Jag spent his first part of his life there before moving to the U.S. Here he completed his studies in California and New Jersey, graduating Summa Cum Laude with a degree in Music Business at New Jersey City University. He is both trained in guitar and piano, with a solid grounding in music theory. Jag is passionate about guiding students in their musical journey and finds fulfillment in seeing them develop both their skills and a true passion for music. 
Caleb
Guitar and Piano Instructor Caleb has long been immersed in music, participating in his mother’s early childhood music classes since he was a toddler. He picked up the guitar at age 5 and took lessons for nearly two decades until he completed his studies at Mason Gross School of the Arts, where he graduated Summa Cum Laude. While in college, Caleb studied jazz performance under the critically-acclaimed guitarist Dave Stryker, who has played with jazz greats such as Stanley Turrentine, Jack McDuff, and even Dizzy Gillespie. Caleb has experience playing a variety of genres such as folk, indie rock,R&B, and jazz. He has performed at Chris’ Jazz Café, Rockwood Music Hall,Pianos, and numerous other venues across New Jersey and New York City. Caleb has a love of composing original music and hopes to soon release an album. He is a patient mentor who listens closely to his students so that he can best guide them towards a meaningful connection with their art and instrument. Caleb believes music should be accessible for all to learn and makes it his goal to engage new musicians of all ages. |
Collin
Drum, Guitar and Piano Instructor Collin is a professional musician from Durham, North Carolina, whose passion for jazz music began during his high school years. His involvement with the Triangle Youth Jazz Ensemble provided him with opportunities to perform alongside master musicians such as Branford Marsalis and Christian Tamburr, shaping his early musical journey. These formative experiences inspired him to pursue further education at the Jacobs School of Music at Indiana University, where he performed with multiple groups both in and outside of the school environment. While studying under jazz drum faculty Sean Dobbins, Collin not only refined his drum set technique but also developed a deep passion for teaching. He believes in imparting more than just the technicalities of music, focusing on nurturing students' listening skills, sight reading abilities, and creative intuition. Collin is dedicated to helping students of all ages explore and develop these essential skills. Currently continuing his postgraduate journey in New York City, Collin is focused on expanding his performance and teaching career, bringing his expertise to a wide range of audiences through jazz, rock, and pop music. 
Jerry
Guitar, Piano, Drums, Bass and Ukulele Instructor Jerry is a music educator, songwriter, and performer with a passion for contemporary genres such as rock and pop, while also maintaining a deep appreciation for all styles of music. He enjoys teaching and playing a variety of instruments, including guitar, piano, drums, bass guitar, and ukulele. A New Jersey native, Jerry’s original solo project gained significant success, leading to multiple nationwide tours and millions of streams across top platforms. While pursuing his songwriting career, Jerry discovered a passion for mentoring and inspiring others to develop a love for music as deeply as he has. His teaching approach makes learning music engaging, rewarding, and enjoyable by tailoring lessons to each student’s individual taste, while also deepening their understanding of instrumental technique, music theory, and the elements that make their favorite songs truly stand out. |
Gustavo
Guitar and Piano Instructor Gustavo is a graduate of NJCU's Jazz Studies program, where he had the privilege of learning from renowned masters like Mark Whitfield, John Benitez, Gabriel Alegria, Jay Anderson, Winard Harper, and Garry Dial. He discovered his passion for music in high school when he picked up the guitar and fell in love with blues and folk music. With guidance from his band teacher, Gustavo found inspiration in pianist Bill Evans, an alumnus of his high school, which ignited his pursuit of jazz guitar. As a versatile musician, Gustavo is skilled in teaching guitar, piano, ukulele and bass guitar. He prioritizes his students and their passions when creating lesson plans, believing that music is something every student can learn to love and incorporate into their lives. |
Julia
Violin, Guitar, Piano and Voice Instructor Julia is a classically trained musician from NJ and a graduate of Colorado State University. She began studying music at Carnegie Hall when she was just 3 1/2 years old. Julia comes from a family of musicians and specializes in violin, guitar, piano and voice. She played violin in the New Jersey Youth Symphony as well as other chamber music groups. Julia is an active performer and artist performing at venues such as The Bowery Electric and The Nest. She enjoys composing original music and sharing her love of music with all of her students. |
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John
Trumpet and Piano Instructor John is a Jazz Performance Major currently studying at Montclair State University. John began playing trumpet in fourth grade in the Clifton Public School District. He has a very well rounded resume of performances, from classical solo works and being a member of the Clifton Mustang Band, to playing in several musicals and also playing jazz with big bands such as the One More Once Big Band and the Montclair State University Jazz Ensemble. John has performed with the likes of Arturo Sandoval, Steve Nelson, Marcus Printup, and Doreen Ketchens to name a few. With two performances at Lincoln Center as well as several performing arts centers in New Jersey, he has a great deal of unique and enriching experience to draw from. John also loves to work with his students to progress and excel. Having fun is his number one priority when teaching young people. 
Antonio
Piano and Violin Instructor Antonio studied music at the Manhattan School of Music and is the organist and choir director at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church. His music career includes accompanying choirs and ensembles at Carnegie Hall, the Sydney Opera House, and Lincoln Center. Antonio has received multiple awards for his superb accompaniment abilities and outstanding musicianship. Antonio was invited to perform at Lincoln Center as 3rd prize winner of the New York Artists International Competition. Antonio has worked with leading singers from Broadway shows including Hamilton and Spongebob. In addition to freelance performances, Antonio has accompanied Montclair State University vocal department theatre lessons regularly and is a private music instructor. Through hard-work and perseverance, Antonio believes every student can communicate a shared, universal joy for music and listeners alike. Antonio promotes foundational skills during his lessons and encourages musical independence by strengthening sight reading and emphasizing melody phrasing. 
Julie
Piano and Brass Instructor Julie is a professional musician and music educator based in the NJ/NYC area. A native of NJ, Julie grew up in Livingston and studied music at Mason Gross School of the Arts at Rutgers University where she was trained to be a professional trombonist and music educator. Julie began her musical studies at age 7 with piano, began trombone studies at age 9, and is a talented multi-instrumentalist with the strong ability to teach and play piano, trombone, trumpet, euphonium, french horn, tuba, and guitar. A passionate educator, Julie has spent the past 5 years teaching privately and has also worked as a music teacher in various public school districts. For the past 3 years, Julie has been the contracted trombonist at the College Light Opera Company in Cape Cod, where the company puts on a different musical production every week for 10 weeks each summer. While contracted in the orchestra, Julie had the pleasure of working with professional conductors who work on Broadway. Julie has performed with the Imani Winds, Paquito D'Rivera and Sheila E. She also had the esteemed pleasure of performing for Barack Obama. Julie has sat in various Broadway pits and will be attending NYU to begin a Master of Music degree. Julie very much looks forward to sharing her musical knowledge with her students! |
Ryan
Guitar and Piano Instructor Ryan is a graduate of William Paterson University where he earned a degree in Jazz Studies. Ryan attended the New York Jazz Symposium on a full scholarship where he studied under Carl Allen, Helen Sung, Patrick Cornelius and Rodney Jones. He also had the opportunity to go to Berklee College of Music on a partial scholarship for their Five Week Summer program. Ryan is a former student of the New Jersey Performing Arts Center Jazz for Teens program where he studied under the tutelage of such jazz luminaries as Mark Gross, Don Braden, Wayne Escoffery, and James Burton III. Through this program he has also been able to perform with jazz giants like Christian McBride and Paquito D’Rivera. Other than jazz, Ryan also has a background in blues and rock music. Ryan also enjoys teaching and playing piano, and sharing his knowledge and love for music with his students. 
Carla
Flute, Piano, Violin and Guitar Instructor Carla began her musical studies approaching them from the violin, flute, piano and guitar participating in several early childhood music programs that inspired her for the rest of her life. She attended the “Escuela de Música Popular de Avellaneda (Buenos Aires) the first Latin American school oriented to the academic study of Popular Music. Carla got involved teaching music in underrepresented communities and cultural centers in Buenos Aires. In 2010, Carla relocated to the US were she has developed a career leading and accompanying varied ensembles of world music. She has performed in the US, Europe and Argentina in collaboration with many artists with whom her goal was to build bridges of communication between cultures. In her artistic career as a composer, Carla has integrated several musical groups of varied genres and has taught numerous music workshops of world music as well as teaching and coaching music bands in elementary schools. She is currently based in the NJ/NY area and is dedicating part of her musical life to teaching music with the strong belief that everyone is music gifted and deserves the opportunity to embrace music as a tool to understand life through the joy of arts. 
Taylor
Piano and Drum Instructor Taylor is an alumni of William Paterson University where he earned a degree in Jazz Performance. His musical journey began at the age of 5 on piano and drums. Taylor has taught in a vast array of settings, from private lessons, to masterclasses and has worked with students ranging from age 2-73. Taylor also has an extensive performance track record playing international festivals as well as with grammy winning artists. Taylor has a wide array of teaching techniques in order to allow students to learn about styles of music, fundamentals, reading, songs, coordination, technique, and so much more. |
Erik
Guitar, Piano, Bass and Ukulele Instructor Erik is currently finishing his Bachelor’s in Music Education at New Jersey City University with a minor in Performance. Erik has many years teaching guitar, bass, piano, and ukulele for all ages. He has taught at North Bergen High School giving lessons to an array of students focusing both on the techniques of playing as well as music theory. Erik has guest lectured at NJCU on the pedagogy of bass and guitar. He has also played at many music festivals like the Upstate New York Classical Guitar Society, the Kean University Guitar-fest, as well as the Mannes Guitar Seminar. Erik’s mission is to share his love of music with his students so that they can find ways to express and navigate in a world that is constantly changing through the art of music. 
Laura
Voice and Piano Instructor Laura has been singing and playing piano since she was a young girl. She is a certified public school music teacher and currently teaches elementary general music, in addition to her many private voice and piano students. Inspired by her father who is a music teacher and song writer, Laura went off to Ithaca College where she received a BM in Jazz Studies. She is currently pursuing a MS in music education from Queens College. Laura specializes in genres spanning from classical to jazz to modern pop music. She sees great value in training her students to be versatile musicians like herself. Creativity is a major focus in Laura’s pedagogy and she encourages students to use music as a vehicle for their creative expression. She has been teaching private music lessons since high school. In addition, she has performed in states from coast to coast and frequently performs in NYC. Much like her students, Laura is always an active learner and continues to develop her educational philosophy and musical skill to provide the very best for her students. 
Kyle Guitar, Piano, Voice and Drum/Percussion Instructor Kyle is a graduate of Montclair State University with a degree in Music and Philosophy. He studied jazz guitar with Dave Stryker and performed in jazz ensembles directed by Steve Johns and Bill Moring. Kyle was fortunate to be a member of the MSU Chorale for two semesters. A busy performer, Kyle was a long-time member of both a handbell choir and praise band and continues to freelance for churches as a handbell ringer, praise band sideman, and solo performer. Kyle also enjoys playing and teaching piano and drums/percussion. In addition to fronting his own band, The New You, he formerly played bass in the alt-punk band, U Might Be Mine, and is the co-founding guitarist/bassist of Montclair-based indie pop band Jack Flowers & The Petal Tones. As a songwriter and composer, he has written for handbell choirs, praise bands, and dozens of original songs for The New You. Kyle is a certified tutor with the National Tutoring Association. As a teacher, he participated in Camp Eagle Hill's counselor-in-training program as a music instructor. Kyle was a supplemental instructor of writing and philosophy at the Center for Academic Success and Tutoring at Montclair State University There he was the TA for numerous philosophy, college writing and speech courses, lead writing workshops, tutored one-on-one and held supplemental instruction sessions on classic philosophical questions. 
Ryan
Guitar and Piano Instructor Ryan is currently earning a degree in Jazz Performance at William Paterson University. He began his musical journey with classical piano lessons starting at age 10. Listening to classic rock inspired him to pick up the guitar when he was eleven. Through transposing the music of the piano onto the fretboard of the guitar, as well as learning songs and solos by ear, Ryan has progressed a long way in his years of playing. In high school, he enrolled in NJPAC’s Jazz for Teens program, taking part in weekly jazz based study directed by notable saxophonist Mark Gross, and joined the program’s two top ensembles - the James Moody Jazz Orchestra, and the George Wein Scholars. Along with performing andjamming alongside fellow NYC area music students, Ryan had the opportunity to perform at the JazzÀVienne festival in Vienne, France, through the JazzUp program. Ryan is excited to continue to share and spread his love for music to students of all levels and ages, and for his students to discover a personal connection to the music they make and create. 
Joshua
Piano, Guitar and Saxophone Instructor My name is Joshua and I am a highly qualified and reviewed music teacher and tutor. I was selected for the NJPAC jazz band and played professionally throughout my college years while also servicing, tuning, and repairing instruments. I scored a 1480 on the SAT , and I am certified as a public school teacher. I have over a decade of experience in teaching and composing music. I have composed for video games and online content videos, contributed to books on music theory, worked with special needs children, and can teach you anything you would want to know about the art of music. I teach my students a combination of music theory as well as exploring playing songs. In addition, I introduce my students to songwriting and composition to nurture their creative spark. I am also a luthier and proficient in instrument repair. I am looking forward to working with you! |
Jared Trumpet and Piano Instructor Jared is a musician, composer, and educator in the New York/New Jersey area. He earned a bachelor’s degree. in Jazz Studies from Morehead State University and a masters degree from the Mason Gross School of the Arts at Rutgers University. Jared has years of experience teaching both privately as well as clinics through schools. He is well versed in many musical styles including jazz, classical, rock, funk, blues, salsa, and merengue. Jared has played at various festivals including the Cincinnati Blues Festival, Jersey City Jazz Festival, and the Newark Puerto Rican day Parade. He has also backed up artists such as Domingo Quinones, Lorna Luft and JD Allen. Jared is passionate about helping students of all ages and styles to be able to progress on their musical journey. 
Anthony
Guitar, Piano, Ukulele and Bass Instructor Anthony is currently finishing a degree in Music Education at New Jersey City University. Anthony has many years of experience teaching and performing guitar, piano, bass and ukulele. Anthony is a music producer, and sound engineer as well. Helping students navigate the complex language of music, Anthony makes learning fun by bringing in a fresh and current perspective to his private lessons. Anthony likes to incorporate past and current popular songs to spark an interest in music for young and upcoming musicians. “To me, music education is a way to teach others how to freely express themselves through the art of music. With so many different genres and cultural styles, music can help expand our perspectives on this world and the people in it. For those exact reasons, I take my time to make sure my students fully understand the concepts given in our lessons.” 
Wyatt Piano, Guitar, Bass and Voice Instructor Wyatt is a musician, bassist, guitarist, keyboardist, composer, arranger, and educator with a passion for sharing the joys of a musical life. With many years of teaching experience in private lessons, public school, ensembles, and classroom settings for all ages, Wyatt is equipped to adapt to the needs and interests of all of his students. Wyatt holds a B.M. in Piano Performance from William Paterson University with a license to teach NJ public school grades k-12 in all areas of music. Wyatt also has an A.A. in Electric/Upright Bass Performance. Wyatt’s performance credits cover a wide range of styles and instruments, having publicly performed on guitar, bass guitar, double bass, keyboards, drums, and voice. Some of Wyatt’s favorite styles to explore include jazz, rock, pop, r&b, soul, gospel, hip-hop, punk, metal, reggae/ska, folk, country, and classical. Wyatt can be seen performing in a number of ensembles and bands, local orchestras, musical theatre pits, event bands, and church bands all over North Jersey. When he isn’t performing, practicing, or teaching, Wyatt works as a studio musician, arranger, and music director for a number of songwriters and producers. 
Paul
Drum, Piano, Voice and Guitar Instructor Paul is a multi-instrumentalist specializing in drums/percussion, guitar, keyboard, and voice. He began playing music at age five when he received his first drum kit. Growing up in a musical family in metropolitan Detroit, he was exposed to many different musical styles including rock, jazz, classical, and various types of world music. By age sixteen, he was playing professionally in the Detroit area. Upon graduating high school, he received a scholarship to attend The New England Conservatory of Music (NEC) in Boston majoring in Jazz Studies. At NEC, he was a member of the Honors Ensemble in Contemporary Improvisation and studied with jazz greats like Bob Moses, Cecil McBee, Joe Morris, and Jerry Bergonzi. After graduating from college, he began teaching music lessons in Detroit and later New York City, New Haven, Seattle, and Washington D.C. He recently moved to New Jersey with his wife and two daughters, and he is excited about the musical opportunities that lay ahead here. He welcomes students of all ages and abilities. 
Marc
Woodwind, Guitar and Piano Instructor Marc is a graduate of Montclair State University, where he earned his Bachelor’s of Music in Schools and Community Settings. Raised in a family of musicians, Marc discovered his passion for music at an early age and picked up a variety of instruments, including clarinet, saxophone, and guitar. Marc has performed in numerous ensembles, varying in styles, including classical, rock, pop, and hip-hop. Additionally, Marc served as Hackensack High School’s marching band director for a number of years and still continues to work with the program as an instructor. Marc’s impactful music teachers throughout his youth is what drives him to give back to hopefully inspire someone the way his teachers did for him. |
Stephen
Drum, Guitar and Piano Instructor Stephen is a lifetime lover of music. He has been playing music professionally since 2014 starting in local venues and wedding bands in his home state of New Mexico. He studied drum set performance at Berklee College of Music and also enjoys playing and teaching piano and guitar. While in Boston he continued gigging and recording in studios. In 2022 Stephen began working and playing in Nashville. He began teaching there and hasn't stopped since. Currently he plays drums in Brooklyn based group Boys Go To Jupiter and Effy Marella. His passion for music and experience in the industry is what he strives to share with every student. 
Alejandro
Guitar, Piano, Drum and Bass Instructor Hola! My name is Alejandro. I’m a musical artist and educator. I was born in Miami and grew up in Argentina. I began teaching guitar at age 18 in my local community and continued to develop as an instructor in NYC, giving also keyboards, bass and drums classes. As a songwriter and performer I had the opportunity to record and play my own original music in major cities of the US and Europe like San Francisco, Austin, Nashville, London, Paris, Berlin and Barcelona. Combining my experience both as an artist and educator, I aim to provide tools to better equip ourselves and the ones around us, connecting at a human level through the language of music. 
Nico
Woodwind and Piano Instructor Nico is a saxophonist, woodwind doubler, composer, arranger, and piano teacher. Growing up in Elizabeth NJ, he began playing saxophone at 10 years old having been inspired by his father introducing him to vinyl and CDs of the great Miles Davis, Charlie Parker, John Coltrane, Carlos Santana, etc.. Nico is currently finishing his undergraduate studies at Montclair State University, with intent to present him and his craft to the world! 
Dale
Strings, Guitar, Piano, and Voice Instructor Dale is a passionate musician and dedicated educator who has been playing the violin since elementary school. Inspired by the guidance and encouragement of her own music teachers, she pursued a career in music education, earning a bachelor's degree from Montclair State University and the John J. Cali School of Music. Dale finds joy in working with musicians of all ages, particularly in helping her students express themselves through music. In addition to the violin, she enjoys teaching and playing the guitar, piano and vocal coaching, and has been actively involved in various music ensembles throughout her life. This fall, she will begin her master’s degree in Teaching Students with Disabilities at William Paterson University, furthering her commitment to inclusive and impactful music education. 
Justin
Brass, Piano, Guitar, Percussion and Voice Instructor After building a strong foundation in trumpet technique under Bryan Cusak of the Philadelphia Opera Company, Justin pursued a degree in Music Education and Jazz at Temple University. There, he studied trumpet in a conservatory-like environment under Robert Early of the Philadelphia Orchestra. Though secondary piano is a requirement for music education majors, Justin went far beyond the basics. As a pianist, he spent his high school free periods learning complex repertoire, including Brahms’ Rhapsody in G minor and Mozart’s Sonatina in C. He also began teaching himself steel-string guitar, eventually mastering a range of folk techniques from strumming to five-finger fingerpicking. For the next 17 years, Justin taught general vocal music and lived abroad in China and Taiwan, where he spent a decade teaching both English and music. Throughout this time, he continued to perform professionally in various bands and jazz combos. His lifelong passions for music, learning, and teaching have shaped his work with students ranging in age from 4 to adult learners. His teaching philosophy is always student-centered and often refreshingly unconventional. Justin is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Instructional Design at Commonwealth University of Pennsylvania. He lives with his wife, Judy, and their three-year-old daughter. |
Noelle
Voice and Piano Instructor Noelle is a graduate of Montclair State University and the John J. Cali School of Music, where she earned a Bachelor's Degree in Music Education and a Master's Degree in Teaching, with Music and Special Education certifications. Noelle has been passionate about music, particularly vocal music, since she was extremely young and was inspired by her high school choral director to become a music educator. She is currently employed by Passaic Public Schools as a musical theater teacher. Besides teaching, Noelle is an enthusiastic vocalist and has been trained in both classical and contemporary music. Some of her most memorable performances as a soloist and a choral singer include the NJ Performing Arts Center, Carnegie Hall, Richardson Auditorium in Princeton, Radio City Music Hall, and Madison Square Garden. Noelle enjoys working with students of all ages and believes that music has the ability to positively impact lives in many aspects. She is excited to help her students express themselves through music. 
Michaelangelo
Guitar, Piano, Bass and Ukulele Instructor Michaelangelo is currently finishing his Bachelors Degree in Music Education at New Jersey City University. He has a concentration in classical guitar while also playing jazz, rock, metal, and blues. Michaelangelo is a multi-instrumentalist that also plays and teaches piano, bass and ukulele. Michaelangelo has played in master class seminars in New York under professional artists like Eduardo Fernandez, João Luiz, and Yenne Lee. Michaelangelo has been teaching privately for over 4 years. He believes in helping and molding the future musicians of today and giving them hope and aspirations to peruse music if not only as a career but as a life long passion. 
Nik
Piano, Percussion, Brass and Strings Instructor Nik is a dedicated music educator currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Music Education at Montclair State University, with a focus on percussion. A classically trained pianist for over 15 years, he has broadened his expertise to include teaching piano, drums, brass, and string instruments. As a performer, Nik has been part of several ensembles, some of which have performed at prestigious venues like Carnegie Hall. His diverse musical background allows him to connect with students of all skill levels and interests. In the classroom, Nik creates a supportive and engaging learning environment where students feel encouraged to express their individuality through music. His teaching approach emphasizes both technical development and creative exploration, ensuring students not only grow as musicians but also cultivate a lifelong passion for music. 
Jeremy
Woodwinds, Piano, Brass, Guitar and Drum/Percussion Instructor Jeremy is a full time instrumental music teacher for the Kearny public schools in Kearny, NJ. After joining the band in fifth grade, Jeremy went on to graduate from Millburn High School and then to earn his degree Music Education at Case Western Reserve University where he graduated cum laude. During his time at Case, Jeremy was fortunate enough to study clarinet under Daniel Gilbert, formerly of The Cleveland Orchestra and saxophone from Grammy Award Winner, Greg Banazak. Jeremy has been afforded several tremendous opportunities in a variety of settings and genres over the course of his career. This includes, concert band, orchestra, jazz ensemble as well as several other small groups and combos including the original funk-rock septet Blue Food independently releasing their full-length album Engines in 2013. In his current teaching position, Jeremy provides regular weekly instruction for all winds and percussion to over 100 elementary students in Kearny. He has founded multiple new ensembles including elementary guitar and keyboard ensembles as well as a musical theater program. Jeremy has felt first hand the positive impact that music and performance can have on so many parts of life and can’t wait to continue to share this experience with students of all ages. 
Sebastian
Piano Instructor Sebastian holds a Bachelor's degree in Music from New Jersey City University, with a concentration in classical piano. He spent a year studying abroad in Seoul, South Korea, deepening his engagement with the piano and classical music. Raised in a musically inclined family, Sebastian began piano lessons at the age of six and has been immersed in the world of music ever since. Having studied with a diverse array of instructors, he values flexibility in his teaching approach. With vast experience as a private instructor, Sebastian customizes each session to meet the individual needs of his students, fostering a lifelong appreciation for music. |