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
Evgenia Alekseeva
Evgenia.Alekseeva@peoplesmusicschool.org
I am an award-winning and a third-generation musician with extensive experience performing in Europe and the U. S. In addition to my performance career, I have been teaching music for over eight years, sharing my passion and expertise with students of all levels. Beyond music, I enjoy practicing yoga and going to the theater, finding inspiration in the arts both on and off the stage.
Bachelor and Master of Music Performance (Saint-Petersburg Conservatory, DePaul University)
Evgenia Alekseeva
Piano Teaching Artist
Alejandra Aquino
alejandra.aquino@peoplesmusicschool.org
Alejandra Aquino
Program Associate, SLAM 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
Emily Beisel
Emily.Beisel@peoplesmusicschool.org
“Emily Rach Beisel is a Chicago-based improviser, composer, educator, curator and woodwind specialist. Beisel is known for visceral performances blending extended vocal and instrumental techniques with analogue electronics. Their solo album Particle of Organs is described as “”Operatic, wild and dark, showcasing the raw power of the body and the instrument, weaving together sounds that are both corrosive and tender.””
As a curator, Beisel seeks to increase the visibility and involvement of femme, trans and nonbinary artists in the creative performance community. They founded the Pleiades Series at Elastic Arts, presenting monthly performances, community-based free improvisation sessions and a biennial PleiadesFest.
Beisel is passionate about teaching and loves working with students of all ages. They hold teaching positions in Chicago including Harold Washington College, Oak Park School of Music, the Chicago Academy for the Arts as well as their private studio – Beisel Woodwind Studio.
Beisel holds a Master of Music degree from Northwestern University, is a member of the American Federation of Musicians Local 10-208 and is honored to be a 2024 3Arts Awardee in Music. “
Master of Music: Northwestern University
Emily Beisel
Woodwind Teaching Artist
Briana Belding Peck
briana.belding@peoplesmusicschool.org
Briana Belding-Peck is a cellist and handbell musician who lives in the
Kenwood neighborhood in Chicago. She studied at the University of
Missouri-Columbia, graduating with a Bachelor of Science degree in
Music Education. Briana has taught both elementary general music
and 5th-12th grade orchestra in the Columbia Public Schools
(Columbia, MO), and cello with the Youth Orchestra of the Lower Ninth
Ward in New Orleans, LA. Briana has directed and performed
throughout Missouri, Louisiana and Chicago. She currently is a
member of Chicago Bronze, an auditioned community handbell
ensemble that performs throughout the Chicagoland area. In her free
time, Briana enjoys exploring the city, training for races and spending
time with her family and goldendoodle.
B.S. Music Education, University of Missouri-Columbia
Briana Belding Peck
Cello Teaching Artist and String Ensemble Conductor
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
Anya Brumfield
Anya.Brumfield@peoplesmuscischool.org
Anya Brumfield is an emerging violin artist in Chicago. She received her bachelor’s in violin performance in 2020 at the Jacobs School of Music as a student at Indiana University where she studied with string pedagog Mimi Zweig. In the Spring of 2022, Anya became a member of D-Composed; an all black chamber collective that aims to celebrate blackness through the lens of classical musicians. As a freelance musician, Anya enjoys performing different styles of music. In her spare time she likes to spend time with friends and family and research art and history.
Indiana University Jacobs School of Music – Bachelors in Music and Violin Performance
Anya Brumfield
Violin Teaching Artist
Farlanda Buchannon
Farlanda.Buchannon@peoplesmusicschool.org
Born and raised in Auburn, AL, Farlanda Buchannon discovered a love for the arts through choral music and Southern gospel. A University of Alabama at Birmingham graduate in Music (Voice), he is a nationally recognized clinician, adjudicator, choreographer, and conductor who has taught choir at all levels. In 2023, he earned Best Choreographer from the Chicago Reader and works with competitive show choirs across the United States, also serving as a clinician at major show choir camps. Farlanda believes choral education rooted in diverse literature builds community and creativity, and he’s committed to empowering students from all backgrounds through music. Farlanda loves to travel and spend time with his wife Julianne and cat Ruthie.
Bachelor of Arts (Voice)
https://www.farlandabuchannon.com/
Farlanda Buchannon
Voice Teaching Artist, Choir Ensemble Conductor
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
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 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
Hsuan Chen
Violin Teaching Artist, String Ensemble Teaching Asst.
Raquel Coleman
raquel.coleman@peoplesmusicschool.org
Born and raised in the music communities of Oklahoma and Texas, Raquel Coleman found her place in the world behind a harp. Forging her way to the Windy City, Raquel performs and teaches in Chicago. Her passion for the harp is expressed through her work with pedagogy, academia, and community building. Raquel believes the harp should be available to everyone, while still honoring the instrument’s incredible unique elegance and history.
B.M. Harp Performance at The University of North Texas
M.M. Harp Performance at Northwestern University
Raquel Coleman
Harp Teaching Artist
Tae Corbin
tae.corbin@peoplesmusicschool.org
With over a decade of experience in performance and teaching, I have had the privilege of working with youth and adults from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds and varying learning levels. My roots run deep in Detroit, and while I primarily focus on teaching voice, I also compose, produce, and engineer sound. I most recently participated in a Grammy award winning album. I adore of all kinds, Live long and prosper.
Bachelors in Music
Tae Corbin
Voice Teaching Artist
Diego Correa
diego.correa@peoplesmusic school.org
Diego Correa
Trombone 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
Christopher Dammann
christopher.dammann@peoplesmusicschool.org
Christopher (he/him) is a composer/bassist who has gigged persistently in the Chicago scene and nationally since the late, great saxophonist Fred Anderson gave him a monthly gig at the Velvet Lounge in 2009. He considers himself indebted to the generosity and knowledge of those he collaborates, studies and performs with, including Jim Baker, Steve Hunt, Avreeayl Ra, Vincent Davis, Brian Sandstrom, Edward Wilkerson Jr, Mike Reed, Jon Irabagon, Mabel Kwan, James Davis and Brian Gephart.
He is currently working on a new quintet project with an expected release in 2026 on Shifting Paradigm Records. Other recent works include his 2025 self-titled sextet recording on Out of Your Head Records and sketches, the latest album from his group Restroy. He is a 2025 Creative Catalyst grant recipient and has recently received positive press from The Wire Magazine, Downbeat and the Chicago Tribune.
B.M. Northwestern University
M.M. Columbia College Chicago
www.christopherdammann.com
Christopher Dammann
Double 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, Trumpet Teaching Artist
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
Violin & Viola Teaching Artist
Arlecia Ebert
Arlecia.Ebert@peoplesmusicschool.org
Arlecia Ebert is a Chicago based classically trained vocalist and music educator. As a recent graduate from DePaul University with a Bachelor of Music in Vocal Performance, she specializes in many vocal styles including opera, musical theater, jazz, and R&B. She recently curated and performed a self-titled recital, Black Opera In White, for the opening of the new Elijah Muhammad House Museum in Chicago. This is Ms. Ebert’s first year with The People’s Music School as a Voice Teaching Artist and she is very excited for the year!
Bachelor of Music in Music Performance (Voice) from DePaul University School of Music
Arlecia Ebert
Voice Teaching Artist
Anatolia Evarkiou-Kaku
Flute Teaching Artist
El Faussane
el.faussane@peoplesmusicschool.org
El Faussane
Cello and String Ensemble 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 Program Initiatives and String Ensemble 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
omkara.gil.guaraco@peoplesmusicschool.org
Omkara Gil Guaraco
Cello Teaching Artist
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
Israel Grande
israel.grande@peoplesmusicschool.org
Moved to Chicago to study Music Education at VanderCook College of Music on Viola. There I participate in our string ensembles, choir, band, mariachi, and etc.. Teaching wise, I have given back to my community through working with non profit programs, One City (violin), Libros de La Luna (guitar), and have been able to serve as a music theory tutor. Last year I got to work at the String Ensemble Conductor, and get to continue my love for General Music this year. Outside of music, I love long walks, city views, and I am a big foodie — never missing out on a sweet treat.
Music Education at VanderCook College of Music (in process)
Israel Grande
General Music Teaching Artist
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
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
Terry Henderson II
Voice and String Ensemble 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
SLAM Program Manager, Jazz and Wind Ensemble Conductor, Percussion 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
Jonathan Hodges
jonathan.hodges@peoplesmusicschool.org
Jonathan Hodges
Violin Teaching Artist
Sarah Jenkins
sarah.jenkins@peoplesmusicschool.org
With a BA in Vocal Music Education, 3 years of CPS teaching, and other private lesson experience, Sarah enjoys bringing music to students of all ages and abilities. She is also currently a music specialist at a Montessori school along with teaching private voice and piano lessons in Lisle, IL. When not teaching, Sarah enjoys adorning her home with countless plants or playing indie video games.
B.A. Vocal Music Education w/Vocal Performance
Sarah Jenkins
Voice Teaching Artist, Discover Choir Director
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
Clarinet 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, Choir Conductor 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
Ralph Maranon
ralph.maranon@peoplesmusicschool.org
Raphael Marañon, also known as Ralph, is a Filipino- American musician, educator, and administrator. He in recent year he can be seen performing around the Midwest and the Philippines. As a performer he can be seen performing a wide range of music such as Classical music, Contemporary music, pop, and musicals. As a teacher he believes that the learning processes is two way street, where the teacher and student/ young person are constantly learn from each other.
Outside of music he can we seen re exploring Chicago, wandering into nature, and reading books on the CTA.
BM in Cello Performance, Roosevelt University
MM in Cello Performance, Western Michigan University
Ralph Maranon
Cello Teaching Artist
Bethany McKnight-Kamau
bethany.mcknight@peoplesmusicschool.org
A native of Michigan, Bethany has been playing the piano for more than 30 years. She began her teaching career while finishing her Bachelor’s degree at Western Michigan University and has worked with piano students of all ages for more than 15 years. After completing her Master of Music degree in Piano Pedagogy at Michigan State University, Bethany moved to Chicago, where, in addition to raising her 3 children, she has been working as a teacher and accompanist. She joined the faculty of The People’s Music School in 2020, where it has been her privilege to share her love of music and learning with young people from around the city. In addition to her work at People’s, Bethany has most recently been collaborating with friend and mentor, Dr. Yu-Lien The on a research project aimed at promoting the work of composers from traditionally underrepresented backgrounds and to provide this research as a resource for piano students and educators.
BA in Music, Western Michigan University
MM in Piano Pedagogy, Michigan State University
Bethany McKnight-Kamau
Piano Teaching Artist
Elijah Medina
Bass Teaching Artist
Eric Monge
Eric.Monge@peoplesmusicschool.org
Eric Monge is an accomplished pianist whose performances include solo recitals, orchestral appearances and world premieres of Latin American works, all across Costa Rica, Spain, and the United States. His work unites performance, pedagogy, and research, with a focus on expressive interpretation and the development of strong aural and theoretical skills in his students. As an educator, he has taught piano at renowned institutions including the National University of Costa Rica, where he also assisted in all harmony and theory courses. He is a laureated pianist, having earned distinctions in international competitions such as the Villahermosa Festival, Música del Siglo, and the Washington International Piano Competition.
Outside of his professional activities, he enjoys sharing time with his family, savoring coffee, and exploring music through vintage vinyl records.
Bachelor’s Degree in Music Performance and Piano Pedagogy – Universidad Nacional de Costa Rica, 2024
Licentiate in Music Teaching – University of West London, 2023
Music Theory, Grade 8 – University of West London, 2022
Music Theory, Grade 5 – The Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music, 2018
Eric Monge
Piano Teaching Artist
Emily Munn-Wood
emily.munn.wood@peoplesmusicschool.org
Emily Munn-Wood is a cellist and teacher based in Chicago. Her principal teachers were Astrid Schween and Stephen Balderston. Emily has been a member of the Peoria Symphony Orchestra since 2019. She is an alum of the national service program AmeriCorps and is an active volunteer with RefugeeOne, a refugee resettlement agency in Chicago.
BM in Cello Performance, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Commonwealth Honors College
MM in Cello Performance, DePaul University
Emily Munn-Wood
Cello Teaching Artist
Oliver Munoz
Violin and Viola Teaching Artist
Stephon Owens
Trumpet Teaching Artist
Rossman Palfrey
Guitar Teaching Artist
Amanda Perez
Amanda Perez
Viola Teaching Artist
Helder Perez-Vierra
helder.perez@peoplesmusicschool.org
Helder Perez is a Mexican-American tubist based in Chicago. He is an active freelance musician and educator all over the Chicagoland area. As a musician he is active in both Classical and Mexican-Regional music and can be heard playing with various ensembles. When he is not performing or teaching, Helder enjoys his free time listening to live music, drinking coffee and playing soccer.
Bachelors or Musical Arts from Roosevelt University
Helder Perez-Vierra
Tuba and Low Brass Teaching Artist
An Phan
an.phan@peoplesmusicschool.org
An Phan
Piano Teaching Artist
Kenthaney Redmond
kenthaney.redmond@peoplesmusicschool.org
B.M. Jazz and Contemporary Music Studies (Roosevelt University)
M.M. Global Jazz (Berklee College of Music)
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
Adam Shohet
Trumpet Teaching Artist
Henry Sparks
Low Brass Teaching Artist
Bryan Tamayo
bryan.tamayo@peoplesmusicschool.org
Bryan Tamayo is a Chicago based music educator. Aside from teaching General Music at People’s Music School, he also teaches in CPS as a high school music teacher. Outside of teaching, Bryan is a singer and has performed in various places including: Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Ireland and more! Bryan values spreading his passion in music and firmly believes in the transformative power that music holds. Besides music, Bryan has a deep love for photography and his cat Jiji.
Bachelors in Music Education
Bryan Tamayo
General Music 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
Wind Ensemble Conductor, Saxophone Teaching Artist
Sam Taylor
Sam.Taylor@peoplesmusicschool.org
Sam Taylor is a 3x Downbeat Award winning saxophonist, composer and educator based in Chicago after spending almost a decade in New Orleans. Originally from South Florida, Sam has performed with International artists such as The Temptations, Chicago, and Marcus Roberts as well as New Orleans jazz legends Jason Marsalis, Roland Guerin, Kermit Ruffins, Wess ‘Warmdaddy’ Anderson, Ashlin Parker and Steve Masakowski. In Chicago, Sam has a year round residency at Andy’s Jazz Club with The ‘Mario Abney Quintet’ every other Tuesday night.
•BA in Music from Florida State University
•MM in Jazz Saxophone Performance from DePaul University
Sam Taylor
Saxophone Teaching Artist
Jonathan Thomas
jonathan.thomas@peoplesmusicschool.org
Jonathan is currently a music educator and horn player living in Rogers Park, Chicago with his wife and two cats. As a performer, Jonathan particularly enjoys performing new music and commissioning new works for the French Horn and has played in a wide variety of ensembles including professional orchestras, wind ensembles, jazz bands, free improvisation ensembles, new music ensembles, a wide variety of chamber ensembles, and Michigan Marching Band. As a teacher, Jonathan enjoys teaching and working with all grade/ability levels and spends time working as a band director, with previous experience in elementary music education.
When not working, Jonathan enjoys exploring the arts and food scene of the city, going to coffee shops, running and biking along the lakefront, cooking, dancing with his wife, Diana, and is itching to get back into ceramics.
BM in horn performance: University of Michigan, BM in music education: University of Michigan, MM in horn performance: DePaul University
Jonathan Thomas
French Horn 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
Development 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, String Ensemble Conductor 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
John Wambach
john.wambach@peoplesmusicschool.org
John Wambach is a sought-after trombonist and instrumental music teacher whose prior students have been accepted to acclaimed college music programs like The University of North Texas, Berklee College of Music, and Temple University. John taught a variety of music subjects, including jazz band, concert band, orchestra, guitar, percussion ensemble, and general music, at Montgomery County Public Schools in Maryland before moving to Chicago in 2023.
Master of Music, DePaul University; Bachelor of Music and Bachelor of Music Education, The University of Maryland
John Wambach
Wind Ensemble Conductor & Low Brass Teaching Artist
Gloria Wide
Gloria.Wide@peoplesmusicschool.org
Gloria Wide is a violist, educator, and arts professional with a passion for community-centered programming and inclusive representation in the arts. She has experience as both a bookseller and program coordinator, where she managed events, facilitated workshops, and supported dynamic arts and literary spaces. A graduate of the University of Wisconsin–Madison (Viola Performance, Certificate in African American Studies) and Duquesne University, Gloria’s most memorable performance was playing with Stevie Wonder in Pittsburgh in 2024. She brings creativity, organization, and a people-first approach to every project, fostering spaces where literature, music, and community intersect.
Bachelor of Music in Viola Performance from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, Master of Music in Viola Performance from Duquesne University, and Artist Diploma from Duquesne University.
Gloria Wide
Viola Teaching Artist and String Ensemble Teaching Assistant
