Teaching Artists
Our students learn from the best, with 70 professionally trained, inspiring, committed, paid teaching artists teaching lessons, conducting ensembles, and transforming lives at The People’s Music School.
Carmen Abelson
carmen.abelson@peoplesmusicschool.org
Carmen Abelson
Violin Teaching Artist
Alejandra Aquino
alejandra.aquino@peoplesmusicschool.org
Alejandra Aquino
Program Associate and Flute Teaching Artist
Alex Armstrong, Bassoon Teaching Artist
alex.armstrong@peoplesmusicschool.org
Alex Armstrong, a virtuoso bassoonist, transcends musical boundaries with the rich and resonant tones of the bassoon. Raised in Portland, Texas and nurtured by a deep passion for music from an early age, Alex embarked on his musical journey with the bassoon as his chosen instrument, after mistaking it for a bass clarinet in the 6th grade.
Alex’s remarkable artistry has been cultivated through extensive formal education and a dedication to continuous improvement. He earned his Bachelor’s degree in Performance Studies from Texas A&M University, where he studied the interplay between music and theater arts. Following this, Alex pursued further musical excellence by completing a Master’s degree in Orchestral Studies at Roosevelt University, refining his technique and musical expression under the tutelage of Dennis Michel of the Chicago Symphony and Lewis Kirk of the Chicago Lyric Opera.
Over the years, Alex has had the privilege of performing with prestigious orchestras and ensembles, including the New World Symphony, the Brazos Valley Symphony, and is the principal bassoonist of the Chicago Cosmopolitan Orchestra. His versatility as a musician has allowed him to seamlessly transition between classical, contemporary, and experimental genres, showcasing the bassoon’s incredible versatility.
Alex’s passion for music extends beyond the stage. He is committed to making classical and contemporary music accessible to diverse audiences, believing that music has the power to inspire, heal, and unite people from all walks of life. In his time away from the instrument, he enjoys experimenting in the kitchen, hiking with his friends, and visiting all of the wonderful museums Chicago has to offer.
B.A. Performance Studies, Texas A&M University, 2021
M.M Orchestral Studies, Roosevelt University, 2023
Work:
Alex Armstrong
Bassoon Teaching Artist
Joel Block, Percussion Teaching Artist
joel.block@peoplesmusicschool.org
Joel Block is a professional drummer and percussionist with over 20 years of musical experience. His variety of performance history gives him a unique musical toolbox to work from. Outside of performances and teaching, Joel enjoys bird watching, reading, spending time outside, and researching the origins of American country, folk, and blues music. His studio follows the principle that when you show up on time and play in time, you’ll have a great time!
BM, Music Performance, Percussion – Michigan State University
Joel Block
Percussion Teaching Artist
Rachael Botz, Violin Teaching Artist
joel.block@peoplesmusicschool.org
Joel Block is a professional drummer and percussionist with over 20 years of musical experience. His variety of performance history gives him a unique musical toolbox to work from. Outside of performances and teaching, Joel enjoys bird watching, reading, spending time outside, and researching the origins of American country, folk, and blues music. His studio follows the principle that when you show up on time and play in time, you’ll have a great time!
BM, Music Performance, Percussion – Michigan State University
Rachael Botz
Violin Teaching Artist
Natalie Butler
Natalie Butler grew up in Miami, FL and tried studying voice, violin, and cello before deciding upon the clarinet as her primary instrument.
Natalie received her Bachelors of Music Education from Florida State University and shortly thereafter moved (in the middle of winter, no less) to Chicago to begin her career as a music educator. She took a break from teaching to pursue and receive her Masters of Music from Northwestern University and later successfully completed the process to become a Nationally Board Certified Teacher in Early Adolescence through Young Adulthood Music.
Natalie spent over thirteen years teaching general music and conducting bands for students in grades pre-K-12 in the Chicago Public Schools while continuing to study clarinet privately and performing both clarinet and voice. In 2013 Natalie joined the team at The People’s Music School. Throughout her career Natalie has conducted, presented, and published her research on the national and international levels.
Natalie is honored to serve our amazing People’s community of students, families, and faculty and proud to serve alongside our dedicated staff.
Natalie Butler
Chief Program Officer, Wind Ensemble Conductor and Theory Teacher
Anna Carlson
anna.carlson@peoplesmusicschool.org
Anna Carlson
Violin and Viola Teaching Artist
Nico Carter
nico.carter@peoplesmusicschool.org
Nico is a composer and pianist who trained at Oberlin Conservatory under Lewis Nielsen and Josh Levine. He has studied composition and theory with John Orffe of Alarm Will Sound, and jazz/blues with Robin Eubanks and Andrew Lawrence. Nico has written for film, musicals, and composes beats for transient artists in Chicago. Nico was the winner for the MTNA Young Artists Composition contest for Pennsylvania for his piece, Invoice.
Degrees:
Bachelor’s of Music
Links: Compositions
Nico Carter
Piano and General Music Teaching Artist
Kathryn Cederborg
kathryn.cederborg@peoplesmusicschool.org
Originally from Northern California, Kathryn is a clarinetist, flutist, saxophonist, and teacher currently working and performing throughout the Chicago area.
Her love for teaching and mentoring students of all levels emerged through a college internship with The People’s Music School – where she currently resides as the Program Coordinator for Uptown Academy, as well as a teaching artist in music theory, clarinet, and the Transform wind ensemble director at the Albany Park site. Additionally, she is an Instructor of Applied Woodwinds at South Suburban College in South Holland, IL.
In 2020, Kathryn completed a Master’s of Music in Clarinet Performance at Baylor University, where she studied with Jun Qian and Richard Shanley. She earned a Bachelor’s of Music Education with a certificate in Music for Social Change in 2017 at North Park University, studying with Ralph Wilder.
Kathryn currently lives in Chicago with her guinea pig, Peach. She enjoys running along Lake Michigan, and attending live concerts throughout the city.
Kathryn Cederborg
Program Coordinator and Clarinet, Flute, and Theory Teaching Artist
Ethan Clay
Cello Teaching Artist
Tae Corbin
Voice Teaching Artist
Fabian Correa
Fabian is an active performer and educator in the Chicago Area. He has appeared with the Milwaukee Symphony, Lansing Symphony, West Michigan Symphony, Illinois Philharmonic, Chicago Philharmonic, among others. He believes that rigorous music education provides life changing skills that extend far beyond performing proficiency. Fabian loves playing and watching soccer during his free time.
B.M in Percussion Performance – Northwestern State University of Louisiana, 2019
B.S in Industrial Engineering and Technology – Northwestern State University of Louisiana, 2019
MM in Percussion Performance – University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 2021
Professional Diploma in Orchestral Studies – Roosevelt University, 2023
Fabian Correa
Percussion Teaching Artist
Jamaal Crowder
Flute, Saxophone, and Clarinet Teaching Artist
Katelyn Curtin
General Music Teaching Artist
Christopher Dammann
Bass Teaching Artist
Kelly Dennis
kelly.dennis@peoplesmusicschool.org
Kelly Dennis is a Chicago-land freelancer, music educator, and non-profit administrator who specializes in data analysis. Kelly has been a lifelong musician and grew up playing the trumpet and piano. She studied trumpet at DePaul University School of Music and went on to pursue her masters in non-profit management at Roosevelt University. Kelly believes that music education should be accessible to all and is passionate about creating equity and inclusion in the music industry.
Degrees:
Master of Non-Profit Management – Roosevelt University
Data Analytics Certification – General Assembly
B.A. – DePaul University School
Kelly Dennis
Senior Manager of Student Data and Systems, SLAM Chamber Coach and Trumpet Teacher
Laura Duggan
laura.duggan@peoplesmusicschool.org
Laura Duggan is a violinist originally from Tacoma, Washington. She is currently working on a Performance Certificate from DePaul University where she also completed a Master of Music degree in violin performance. She received her Bachelors of Music degree in violin performance from Lawrence University in Appleton, Wisconsin. When she isn’t teaching or performing, you can find her running, reading, or spending time with her orange cat named Clementine.
Degrees:
M.M. in Violin Performance
B.M. in Violin Performance
Performance Certificate in Violin Performance
Laura Duggan
Ensemble Teaching Assistant and Violin Teaching Artist
Heather Dunn
Heather is an active performer in classical, folk, and jazz ensembles, and has been teaching cello for over a decade. She recently moved to Chicago from Olympia, Washington. Always looking for new ways to play the cello, she loves to inspire others to see where music can take them.
BA English, University of Puget Sound
Various workshops with Natalie Haas, Alisdair Frasier, Rushad Eggleston
Heather Dunn
Cello Teaching Artist
Anatolia Evarkiou-Kaku
Flute Teaching Artist
Josef Fischer
Violin and Viola Teaching Artist
Ariel Garcia
ariel.garcia@peoplesmusicschool.org
Ariel Garcia was born and raised in Chicago’s La Villita neighborhood where at the tender age of eight, he began his formal training on the violin. Ariel holds degrees from DePaul University, the University of Nebraska, and the University of Wisconsin. He has had extensive performance experience with orchestras such as the Civic Orchestra of Chicago, the Illinois Symphony Orchestra, and the Madison Symphony Orchestra. Ariel is also an avid chamber musician. He is a founding member of the Music of the Americas Ensemble (MAE), a Chicago based ensemble consisting of classically trained Latino musicians from all over the Americas.
Ariel Garcia
Senior Manager of Back of the Yards and Program Initiatives, Teaching Artist
Karlyn Gehring
Karlyn is a violin teacher and multi-instrumentalist who grew up amid a vibrant music scene in Chicago’s Ravenswood/Uptown neighborhood. She is a Chicago Public Schools alum and began her violin studies as a young child at Northwestern University’s Music Academy. Karlyn teaches private music lessons, performs classical violin for weddings and events, and performs with local indie, rock, and experimental music groups. She is also a licensed social worker and supports communities with improving communication skills and engaging in restorative community healing. Running, spending time in nature, and sharing food and laughter inspire her music and community-focused endeavors.
Oberlin College, BA
University of Chicago, AM
Karlyn Gehring
Violin Teaching Artist
Omkara Gil Guaraco
Cello Teaching Artist
Amber Gillani
I have taught and performed in a variety of bands and orchestras for 20 years ranging from chamber groups and community ensembles to touring musicals and a pipe and drum band.
When I’m not working, I enjoy rock climbing, birding and bird photography, and taking my dog to the beach. I also enjoy listening to podcasts, audiobooks, and reading.
Bachelor’s of Music in Music Education, New York University
Masters of Arts in Music and Music Education, Columbia University (in progress)
Professional Educator’s License (IL)
Initial Teaching License (NY)
Amber Gillani
String Ensemble Conductor
Simon Gomez
simon.gomez@peoplesmusicschool.org
Simón Gómez Gallego is an active percussionist, timpanist, and educator based in Chicago, IL. He holds the position of Principal Timpanist for the Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra, South Bend Symphony Orchestra, and Rockford Symphony Orchestra, and is a percussionist with the Chicago Philharmonic Society. In addition, Simón directs the percussion ensemble for the Chicago Youth Symphony Orchestras and teaches at the Chicago Scholarship Program of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and The People’s Music School while maintaining a private studio in Chicago’s north side.
Simón has performed with orchestras across the United States, including the Chicago Milwaukee, Atlanta, Detroit, Indianapolis and Charlotte Symphony Orchestras as well as the Lyric Opera of Chicago and Grant Park Orchestra. Simón’s educational journey began at the Instituto Musical Diego Echavarria in Medellin, Colombia, and culminated in degrees from the University of Miami and DePaul University. He was also a Civic Fellow with the Civic Orchestra of Chicago and received fellowships at the Aspen Music Festival and School.
Post Master’s Certificate in Percussion Performance – DePaul University
MM in Percussion Performance – University of Miami
B.M in Percussion Performance – University of Miami
simongomezgallego.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/simon-gomez-gallego-4a20b36b/
Simón is endorsed by Sabian Cymbals, Ludwig – Musser Instruments, and is a JG Percussion Young Artist.
Simon Gomez
Percussion Teaching Artist
Raquel Gonzalez
Raquel is a musician, strings educator, and creative techie based in Chicago.
She performs collaboratively with various community ensembles throughout Chicago, and does recording session work with local musical acts. As a soloist, she incorporates electric violin and looping into improvised and written music.
Bachelors – Music Industry Studies from University of Colorado Denver Winter 2017
Linktree
Instagram
Sonic Creations for Violin & Lyra
Bandcamp
Substack Newsletter & Blog
Raquel Gonzalez
String Ensemble Conductor
Lidanys Graterol
Cellist Lidanys Graterol discovered her passion for the cello at the age of eight, at the Ateneo de Coro in Falcón, Venezuela. She began her studies as a part of José Antonio Abreu’s System of Youth and Children’s Orchestras of Venezuela, known as “El Sistema.”
Ms. Graterol was the first prize winner in the 2021 International Grande Music Competition, which award included performing in New York City at Kaufman Music Center- Merkin Concert Hall. Winner of the 2020 CCPA SOLO Competition, Graterol performed as Soloist the Dvorak Cello concerto at Symphony Center, Chicago, with CCPA Symphony Orchestra. In 2022 she was part of the Pacific Music Festival, taking place in Sapporo, Japan and got coaching from members of the Berlin Philarmonic and Vienna Philarmonic; in 2023 she toured in Germany with Schleswig Holstein Music Festival Orchestra.
She studies cello performance at the Chicago College of Performing Arts at Roosevelt University where she studies with Richard Hirschl. Lidanys Graterol is member of the Civic Orchestra of Chicago and an affiliate artist with Guarneri Hall NFP, and performs on a cello by Charles, J.B. Collin Mezin courtesy of Darnton & Hersh Fine Violins and Guarneri Hall NFP in Chicago.
Bachelor of Music- Cello Performance at Roosevelt University
Lidanys Graterol
Cello Teaching Artist
Elena Grijalva
elena.grijalva@peoplesmusicschool.org
Originally from Southern California, Elena Grijalva is a Latinx trombonist who teaches and freelances in Chicago.
She has held positions such as the Academy of Music Performance Coordinator with the Chicago Philharmonic, Artistic and Production Assistant for the Grant Park Music Festival and Program Coordinator for the Chicago Metamorphosis Orchestra Project. Working with these organizations has led Elena to have a passion for music administration. Being a Program Manager for the The People’s Music School has furthered her growth and dedication to create impassioned communities through the joy of music. Elena holds a Master of Music degree in Performance from the University of Wisconsin Milwaukee and a Bachelor of Music degree in Performance from Lawrence University’s Conservatory of Music. Elena has participated in summer programs such as the Philadelphia International Music Festival, where she received the Young Artists in Residency Award, and Aspen Music Festival and School. She enjoys playing a wide range of genres and has showcased that in her first album entitled MOSAICO; which was released in October of 2020.
Elena Grijalva
Greater South Side Program Manager and Low Brass Teaching Artist
Danielle Guilmette
Danielle is originally from Southern California, CA. She has performed as a soloist and in ensemble in the U.S. and internationally. Danielle is passionate in teaching music to enhance creativity and build community relationships.
Bachelor’s degree in flute performance from Roosevelt University
Master’s degree in flute performance from DePaul University
Danielle Guilmette
Flute Teaching Artist
Ajanette Guzman-Perez
Hello my name is Ajanette Guzman. I was born and raised on the South Side of Chicago in the Brighton Park Neighborhood. I discovered my passion for music while attending Thomas Kelly High School where I learned to play the Baritone/ Euphonium. I recieved my Bachelors of Music Education from Vandercook College of Music. I started my teaching career at George Washington High School where I taught Band and verious levels and General Music. I am currently the Band Director at Back of the Yards College Preparatory. My goal in life is to bring music and overall joy to every individual I have the honor of working with.
Bachelor’s of Music Education
Ajanette Guzman-Perez
Low Brass, Euphonium, Trombone Teaching Artist
Mark Haworth
mark.haworth@peoplesmusicschool.org
Mark freelances all around Chicago, performing everything from opera to polka. In his downtime, he likes going for walks, reading, and trying new recipes from the internet.
Degrees:
M.M. – DePaul University
B.M. – Oklahoma State University
Performer’s Certificate – DePaul University
Mark Haworth
Brass Teaching Artist
Miro Hernandez
miro.hernandez@peoplesmusicschool.org
As a percussionist and teaching artist who moved to Chicago from North Texas, Miro Hernandez has performed with many groups of varying genres, from classical and jazz, to funk and Latin-fusion. Being new to the Midwest, he is now working with a few new groups and his own solo work which incorporates the vibraphone with a looper and various other percussion instruments. During his free time, Miro loves playing beach volleyball, camping, and taking his two bunnies to the park.
Miro Hernandez
Band Director, Percussion Teaching Artist, and Theory Teaching Artist
Dan Hickey
Mr. Dan is a clarinetist and woodwind doubler based in Chicago, IL. After moving to Chicago in 2015, he fell in love with the city’s musical theater scene and now performs in pit orchestras all over town, including for the Griffin Theatre Company’s Jeff Award-winning production of “Ragtime” (premiering a new arrangement of the score for 2 pianos and clarinet). Currently, he’s developing a workshop for students that combines 3 of his passions: the interpersonal connection of chamber music, the “yes, and!” philosophy of improv comedy, and the fulfillment of working with young artists.
Bachelor of Music and Performance Certificate – DePauw University; Master of Music – DePaul University
Dan Hickey
Clarinet Teaching Artist
Sam Hight
Saxophone Teaching Artist
Jonathan Hodges
jonathan.hodges@peoplesmusicschool.org
Jonathan Hodges
Violin Teaching Artist
Sierra Hovey
Voice Teaching Artist
Sarah Jenkins
Sarah Jenkins
Voice Teaching Artist
Jack Kartsotis
jack.kartsotis@peoplesmusicschool.org
With a passion for all kinds of music, Jack Kartsotis is a clarinetist with a diverse portfolio of performance experience. Originally from Dallas Texas, Jack’s musical background, ranging from full orchestras and wind ensembles, to chamber music and solo recitals, has served him in becoming a versatile performer as well as educator.
Jack currently holds the position of 2nd clarinetist with the Owensboro Symphony in Kentucky, and lives in Chicago, Illinois where he is a Teaching Artist and Program Coordinator at The People’s Music School.
Degrees:
M.M. in Clarinet Performance – Indiana University
B.M. in Clarinet Performance – University of North Texas
Jack Kartsotis
Program Coordinator and Clarinet Teaching Artist
Eleanor Kirk
ellie.kirk@peoplesmusicschool.org
Eleanor Kirk is an experienced orchestral, chamber, and solo musician from Evanston, Illinois. She served as guest Principal Harpist with the Grant Park Symphony Orchestra for the 2022-2023 season, and holds the position of Principal Harpist with the Illinois Symphony Orchestra. Highlights from the past year include guest appearances with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Lyric Opera of Chicago, Minnesota Orchestra, and Detroit Symphony Orchestra. A passionate educator, Eleanor’s students have received top honors at the Midwest Harp Competition, Illinois American String Teachers Association Concerto Competition, and the Greater Chicago Chapter of the American Harp Society Competition. In her free time, she enjoys snuggling with her two cats, gardening, and knitting (old lady activities only)!
Ellie Kirk
Harp Ensemble Conductor, Harp Teaching Artist
John Lauler
John Lauler
Double Bass Teaching Artist
Fabricio Lock Sotomayor
Guitar Teaching Artist
Istvan Loga
istvan.loga@peoplesmusicschool.org
Istvan Loga is a GRAMMY® award-winning violist based in Chicago. From hip-hop recording sessions to classical concert halls and from NPR’s Tiny Desk to the teaching studio, Istvan is known as much for his extraordinary musicianship as for his versatility.
Degrees:
Istvan Loga
Stephanie Londoño
Uptown Academy Program Manager and Voice Teaching Artist
Vanessa Lopez
Vanessa Lopez is a Mexican-American flutist and piccoloist with a strong passion for music education equity. She currently teaches with The People’s Music School at Uptown Academy, Ravinia Festival’s “Sistema Ravinia” orchestral program, and runs a private flute studio. She is the Flute Fellow with Dubuque Symphony Orchestra and performs with orchestras across the country, including Lyric Opera of Chicago, Wisconsin Chamber Orchestra and Knoxville Symphony Orchestra.
As a first-generation college graduate from California’s central valley, Vanessa is a firm believer that her own education and success is a result of the organizations and individuals who made music available to her, and she feels driven to provide that same opportunity to others. In her free time, she edits a magazine, practices yoga, plays video games with family, and likes to bake delicious treats for any event possible.
MM in Flute Performance – Carnegie Mellon University
BA in Flute Performance and Minor in Mathematics – UCLA
Vanessa Lopez
Flute Teaching Artist
Larissa Mapua
Larissa Mapua
Viola Teaching Artist
Bethany McKnight
Piano Teaching Artist
Elijah Medina
Bass Teaching Artist
Krystal Miranda
Clarinet Teaching Artist
Emily Munn-Wood
emily.munn.wood@peoplesmusicschool.org
Emily Munn-Wood
Cello Teaching Artist
Oliver Munoz
Violin and Viola Teaching Artist
Adam Nelson
French Horn Teaching Artist
Rossman Palfrey
Guitar Teaching Artist
Amanda Perez
Amanda Perez
Viola Teaching Artist
Anna Perkins
anna.perkins@peoplesmusicschool.org
Anna Perkins is a violinist, fiddler, and educator from the Chicago area who is passionate about strengthening community, imagination, storytelling, and joy with listeners, collaborators, and students through a blend of classical and folk fiddling traditions.
Anna is a two-time Fulbright award recipient and a graduate of St. Olaf College. She has recently received an Artist Diploma with Distinction from The Orchestra of the Americas’ OAcademy, and performs with several area orchestras including Symphony 847, The Kenosha Symphony, and The Racine Symphony, where she also works as Personnel Manager. She is also Lead Administrative Strings Teacher and Violin/Viola Instructor at Sistema Ravinia, a Senior Ambassador at The Benedetti Foundation (UK), and an active member of Chicago’s Scottish fiddling community.
Her recent projects include presenting a chamber music concert “Folk Music & the Art of Arrangement,” touring central Mexico with Sinfónica Azteca, and attending Alasdair Fraser’s Valley of the Moon Scottish Fiddling School for the second time. In her free time, she loves creative journaling, going on morning walks, and reading long fantasy and sci-fi novels.
Anna Perkins
Orchestra Conductor and Violin Teaching Artist
An Phan
an.phan@peoplesmusicschool.org
An Phan
Piano Teaching Artist
Alex Piela
Wind Ensemble Conductor
Kenthaney Redmond
Flute Teaching Artist
Megan Robbins
Prior to teaching at The People’s Music School, Megan Robbins held the position of principal oboe in the Sarajevo Philharmonic Orchestra from 2011-2017. Dr. Robbins completed a Doctor of Musical Arts degree in oboe performance at Northwestern University and holds a Master of Music degree in oboe performance and literature from the same institution.
In her free time, Megan enjoys learning languages, gardening, and spending time with her family.
DMA- Northwestern University
MM- Northwestern University
BA- Johns Hopkins University
BM- Peabody Conservatory
Megan Robbins
Senior Manager of Learning and Teaching and Oboe Teaching Artist
Allison Rye
Oboe Teaching Artist
Hugo Saavedra
hugo.saavedra@peoplesmusicschool.org
Hugo Saavedra is a Trombone member and fellow at the Civic Orchestra of Chicago, as well as 2nd Trombone in the Kalamazoo Symphony.
Degrees:
MM – Northwestern University
BM – Universidad Nacional de Colombia
AD – Roosevelt University
Hugo Saavedra
Trombone Teaching Artist
David Sands
david.sands@peoplesmusicschool.org
In addition to his role as Senior Manager of Artistic Engagement, “Mr. David” brings many years of teaching experience to The People’s Music School. He holds bachelors and masters degrees in cello performance from DePaul University, where he now serves as adjunct faculty. He served as assistant principal cello of the Civic Orchestra of Chicago, and has also appeared on the Chicago Symphony Orchestra’s contemporary chamber music series MusicNOW. David has served as a clinician of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and led masterclasses at DePaul and North Park University. His private students have performed on WFMT’s Introductions and participate in vigorous programs such as The National Youth Orchestra of Los Angeles, The Chicago Chamber Music Festival, and the inaugural cohort of The Chicago Music Pathways Initiative. In his spare time, David can be found baking or singing barbershop quartets with himself.
Degrees:
MM Cello Performance – DePaul University
BM Cello Performance – DePaul University
Executive & Performance Leadership Certificates – Cornell University
David Sands
SLAM Orchestra Conductor, Cello Teaching Artist, and Chamber Coach
Jade Santos
Jade Santos
Voice Teaching Artist
Adam Shohet
Trumpet Teaching Artist
Henry Sparks
Low Brass Teaching Artist
Nyle Taylor
nyle.taylor@peoplesmusicschool.org
Nyle Taylor is the founder of Music Man LLC, Assistant Band Director for The Peoples Music School Greater South Side, and the Director of Bands at Von Steuben High School in Chicago, Illinois. An alum of the Von Steuben band program, Nyle now attempts to give back the holistic music education that creates habits for success and enriches lives. Since receiving his bachelor’s degree from VanderCook College of Music, Mr. Taylor has been featured in newspapers, magazine articles, national publications, and has been nominated and winner of awards for his work in music education.
Degrees:
Nyle Taylor
Assistant Band Director, Saxophone Teaching Artist
Michael Thompson
michael.thompson@peoplesmusicschool.org
Clarinetist Michael Thompson currently serves as The People’s Music School’s Instrument Inventory Coordinator and as a clarinet faculty member. As a freelance performer and teacher in the Chicago area, Michael eagerly seeks out opportunities to share his music with audiences and students alike.
Though having grown up in Petersburg, KY, Michael has been a member of groups nationwide, including the Civic Orchestra of Chicago, the University of North Texas Wind Symphony, the Fillmore Wind Band, and the Hot Springs Festival Orchestra.
As a finalist in the 2019 George Papich Chamber Music Competition Competition, participant in the 2020 Fresh Inc contemporary music festival, and member of several international chamber music collaborations, Michael has had an equally varied career in small ensembles and solo performance.
With interests stretching outside of the realm of western classical music, Michael performed for two years with the UNT Chinese Music Ensemble, playing dizi (bamboo flutes), sheng, and Beijing Opera-style percussion.
Not only an accomplished performer, Michael served as an Undergraduate Research Fellow at the University of North Texas and received Second Prize in the 2019 North Texas Music Entrepreneurship Competition. He received his Bachelor of Music and minor in Spanish from the University of North Texas and Master of Music from DePaul University.
Michael Thompson
Instrument Inventory Coordinator and Clarinet Teaching Artist
Felipe Tobar
felipe.tobar@peoplesmusicschool.org
“Creativity is connected to the core of the arts, and it is a very important part of what inspires humanity to create objects, machines and solve practical problems.”
“Great ideas are born and developed through a creative process, and incorporating improvisation from early stages of music education can help students to develop that creativity. Playing and learning diverse repertoire can be a great way to engage with the students, when they see themselves represented and they identify with the composer, music can be more accessible for them.”
Felipe Tobar
Learning and Teaching Associate and Violin & Viola Teaching Artist
Lena Vidulich
lena.vidulich@peoplesmusicschool.org
Violinist/violist Lena Vidulich is an adventurous and versatile performer based in Chicago. A tireless advocate for new music, she is also able to move fluidly between the worlds of orchestral music, rock, improvisation, and musical theater. She is a regular member and guest performer of many ensembles such as earspace, Amalgama, Quartet121, Talea Ensemble, and the Louis Moreau Institute. Lena holds a Bachelor of Music from Northwestern University and received her master’s degree in contemporary performance at the Manhattan School of Music. She is also a teacher of the Alexander Technique (m.AmSAT) and has been on faculty at the Riverside Initiative for the Alexander Technique, the American Academy of Dramatic Arts NYC, and Alexander Technique Training in Chicago (ATTiC).
Alexander Technique Teacher Certification – Riverside Initiative for the Alexander Technique
M.M. – Manhattan School of Music
B.M – Northwestern University
Lena Vidulich
String Ensemble Conductor
Luis Vivas
Luis Vivas
Violin Teaching Artist
Wesley Woodward
wes.woodward@peoplesmusicschool.org
Wesley is a versatile musician who is comfortable performing all genres of music. As a freelancer Wesley has recently performed with the Chicago Center for Contemporary Composition, DuPage Symphony, Kenosha Symphony, Erie Chamber Orchestra, and was recently appointed to a trumpet position with Genuine Brass Quintet In addition to his passion for trumpet Wesley is an advocate for new music. Wesley was a premiering soloist for Kevin McKee’s Centennial Horizon for Solo Trumpet and Wind Ensemble (2017). Additionally Wesley commissioned 3 Divertimenti for Wind Orchestra by Luigi Zaninelli, which he conducted the premier in 2017. His most recent commission, Impromptu for Solo Trumpet, was premiered in March of 2020.
Outside of The People’s Music School Wesley currently is on faculty at South Suburban College where he teaches applied trumpet, conducts the Wind Ensemble, and teaches music coursework. Wesley is also the affiliated trumpet instructor at the University of Chicago.
Outside of music Wesley loves to hike and travel with his wife, Maria, and spend time with their cats Lily and Poppy.
M.M. – Roosevelt University
B.M. Instrumental Performance, Trumpet – Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania
Wesley Woodward
Trumpet Teaching Artist