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Ken Stanton Music has a vast musical instruction program with over 90 teachers company wide. Our instructors are professionals who love what they do and provide the best level of instruction anywhere. Please click on your preferred Ken Stanton Music store below to see our list of instructors for that location.
If you have any questions concerning our instructor program
Marietta Instructors Chris Schmitt - Recording ArtsChris Schmitt has been teaching guitar, bass, drums, keys, and engineering since 1995. He received his Recording Arts and Engineering Degree with honors in 2007 from The Florida Institute of Recording School and Technology in Orlando. He was hired as lead instructor and promoted to Program Director for the F.I.R.S.T. School, where he was responsible for writing the school's curriculum. Chris has dozens of musical and production credits in TV, film, website, commercial, and radio. He has produced over 20 albums for various artists and musicians ranging from rock to gospel. He is heavily involved in his students’ projects and is always willing to go the extra mile to ensure his students’ success. Chris was a national finalist and was the winner of the entire southeast region for best solo guitar performance. Chris is currently working with Jon Wagner on an upcoming CD release. Warren Peterson - Guitar
Warren received his Bachelor of Music in music education from Kennesaw State University with emphasis in classical guitar and voice. A former choral and general music teacher at Palmer Middle School in Cobb County, Mr. Peterson has been a local, private guitar instructor since 2001. He has performed in numerous master classes with Adam Holzman, Petar Jankovic, Peter McCutcheon, and David Leisner. He has played with several blues and rock bands in the Atlanta area and currently performs with Wes Faulkner and Nacho’ Daddies.
Matt Wade - Guitar, Electric Bass, Ukulele
Mr. Wade received a Bachelor of Arts degree in music performance from Armstrong University where he graduated with honors. Matt has over fifteen years of teaching experience and has taught at the university level. He is well versed in all styles of guitar including rock, blues, jazz, country, soul, and classical. Matt has performed at Carnegie Hall and has toured with members of the Grammy winning group Sugarland. He performs regularly with various blues, rock, and jazz groups throughout the Southeast, and has attained numerous recording credits.
Anthony Waite - Guitar
Mr. Waite received a Bachelor of Music degree from Georgia State University where he graduated with honors. He has been teaching for over 13 years in a variety of styles including rock, jazz, R&B, fusion, and folk music. Tony performs with various local groups and keeps a touring schedule with his fusion band, Adams Township.
Russell Eldridge - Guitar
Russell Eldridge graduated with honors from the Atlanta Institute of Music in 2001. He was immediately invited to teach a class in Odd Meter and did so until 2006. Russell has been teaching at Ken Stanton Music since February of 2002. He started learning guitar after first hearing the band Metallica in 1989. His education spans all genres of music and he enjoys teaching jazz, blues and classical, but his specialty is rock and metal including teaching technique, how to solo, and songwriting. While in the band Manic, Russell opened for Helloween and Anthrax. He also played MTV’s Headbanger’s Ball Tour. He played with Delusional Mind as the singer and guitarist for two years and recently formed the band Severity. In October 2010, he acted as a judge for the Reflections musical composition entries for the PTSA Arts Contest for the East Cobb and Marietta Middle Schools.
Eddy Cowley - Electric Bass, String Bass
Mr. Cowley attended the Bass Institute of Technology (AIM) where he studied with Clark Sullivan and Lyn Deramus. Eddy has taught for Ken Stanton Music since 1998 and has performed with the Albany Symphony, The Drifters, The Coasters, The Platters, and Rich Little. Eddy has performed in the Spoleto Festival as well as many musical theater productions. He has over 25 years of performance experience.
Evan Hodges - Electric Bass, String Bass
Evan Hodges started singing and playing piano at the age of five. It wasn’t until the age of fifteen that Evan discovered the electric bass, and he became passionate about the instrument. After high school, he received a full scholarship to Jacksonville State University to focus on music. Once at JSU, the acoustic bass became his principle instrument. After accomplishing his potential, Evan decided to relocate to Georgia State University to continue his education as a senior. Evan is currently working and teaching professionally in Atlanta. He is on the bass faculty at a bilingual associates college, Instituto Canzion, and he acts as the coach for a weekly jazz combo at a private high school. Evan is a freelance musician who has regular gigs and is currently working on his first all-original, modern jazz record. Evan Hodges teaches electric bass in all styles and acoustic bass in the styles of jazz, classical, and rockabilly.
Shelia Harris - Bass Guitar, Trumpet
Sheila Harris is currently the Director of Bands at Lindley Middle School in Cobb County. This is her second year at Lindley Middle and her 14th year as a professional educator. Prior to her appointment at Lindley, Mrs. Harris taught high school band in Florida, Marietta City schools, and Troup County schools. In addition to her duties and responsibilities at Lindley, she serves as a worship musician playing bass guitar at Liberty Church in Marietta and Worship with Wonders Church in Kennesaw. Mrs. Harris earned both her Bachelor of Education and Master of Education degrees at the University of North Florida in Jacksonville, Florida. Mrs. Harris is a newlywed with two beautiful stepdaughters. She loves teaching, photography, going to the beach and playing bass guitar.
Jeremy Frasier - Drums, Percussion
Mr. Frasier received his Bachelor of Music in music education from Kennesaw State University. He studied under John Lawless at KSU and master drummer Kofi Ansa from the University of Ghana before teaching in local Cobb County schools for nine years. Jeremy has also spent time in Edinburgh, Scotland performing with the Kennesaw State University Storytellers during the annual Fringe Festival (world’s largest arts festival). He teaches all styles including orchestral percussion, drum set, rudimental drumming, and world percussion with a specialty in rudimental drumming and orchestral percussion. He played percussion in "John & Jen" produced by Serenbe Playhouse in its inaugral season. ArtsCriticAtl.com said the performance was supported by, "an excellent three-piece band." Jeremy is a member of the Percussive Arts Society and the Delta Epsilon Iota academic honor society. Visit his website at www.jeremyfrasierpercussion.com
Omar Martinez - Drums
Omar Martinez was born in Buenos Aires, Argentina where he studied and began his recording career early on, touring with several bands of different styles including pop, Latin, traditional Jazz, big band, and bop. After moving in 1982, he studied at Georgia State University and AIM, where he graduated with honors. Over the years, Omar has performed in Atlanta with a variety of bands ranging in styles from pop to jazz. He also has recorded several CDs and performed at the Montreux Jazz Festival and the Atlanta Jazz Festival. Most recently, Omar has been keeping busy heading up his own musical group, “Tango Belt,” and performing around the region as well as working as a freelance drummer.
Phillip Smith - Drums, Hand Percussion, Mallet Percussion
Phillip Smith received his bachelor’s degree from the University of Tennessee, his master’s degree from the University of Memphis, and has studied privately with Peter Erskine, Ed Soph, and Jeff Hamilton. Phil has taught at Ken Stanton Music for the past 16 years. He has performed with many international artists including: Dianne Schuur, Tierney Sutton, James Williams, George Coleman, and Marvin Stamm. Phil is a veteran of several domestic and international concert tours with various artists. He has appeared on many commercial recordings, TV and radio jingles, movie soundtracks, and full-length CDs which culminated with a Grammy award. Phil teaches all aspects of classic and contemporary drumming including styles and techniques using sequences, click tracks, and loops/software. Lessons with mallets and hand drumming are also available. He is an endorsing artist for Bosphorus Cymbals, Regal Tip Sticks and Brushes, and Aquarian Drum Heads. Phil also maintains a regular gigging and recording schedule including his own online studio.
Lynne Barimah- Piano
Lynne studied with Edna Smith from age 7 to 17 and attended University of West Georgia. She has been teaching since age 15 and has been with Ken Stanton Music for the past 27 years. She has been playing professionally since she was 9 years old. She teaches all styles of music, beginning with classical. Other than teaching, at present, she plays for her church (Bethel UMC), parties, receptions, and weddings.
Vicki Stoddart - Piano, Keyboards
Mrs. Stoddart received a Bachelor of Science degree with a major in music and a minor in psychology from Eastern Michigan University. She has 30 years of teaching experience including teaching piano/keyboard, theory, Yamaha Music for Kids, musical beginnings, and general music. Mrs. Stoddart began playing piano at age four. By age six she was performing in public recitals. She wrote music for plays with a children's theater group at Florida Jr. at Jacksonville (FCCJ) when she was fourteen years old, as well as accompanied the group as they performed in various Florida cities. She teaches students from age four to adult in any style and at any level. Classical music is her specialty. Mrs. Stoddart also has experience playing keyboard in a college jazz band as well as in many church praise bands. She is currently writing a teaching method book for piano/keyboard students. LeNelle Boyd - Piano, Keyboards
Ms. Boyd received her Bachelor of Music degree from the University of Chattanooga and has taught since 1953. She has served as President of the Metro Atlanta Music Teachers Association and as President of the North DeKalb Chapter of the Georgia Music Teachers Association. LeNelle is involved in church music and performs for various functions in the metro Atlanta area.
Cary Machado - Piano, Keyboards
Ms. Machado enrolled in the renowned Falcon Conservatory, under the direction of Senior Falcon (a respected European maestro), at the age of 7. She began playing piano at the Second Baptist Church in Havana, Cuba at the age of 15. At age 20 she received a degree in Elementary Education and master’s in music. She has been teaching music for over 40 years in both private settings and in establishments like Ken Stanton Music, where she has been teaching since 2004. She teaches in the classical style, as she was trained, because she believes, "music is forever; it grows and matures with the musician." Her training in elementary education makes me a particularly effective instructor for young students with a love of music, and for parents looking to instill a love of music in their children.
Katie Holland – Bassoon, Oboe
Ms. Holland received a Bachelor of Music degree in music education from Tennessee Technical University and a Master of Music in performance from Stony Brook University. Katie’s graduate work included Chinese, Cuban and Bluegrass styles. She actively freelances in the area and has been involved with groups such as the Atlanta Ballet, Nashville Opera, and the Ashville Symphony. Katie has been teaching since 2002 and, with her background, can teach students of any age or experience level.
Jonathan Shire - Oboe
Mr. Shire is a graduate of Kennesaw State University with a Bachelor of Music degree in music education. He is state certified and performs with the Cobb Symphony and North Fulton Community Band. Jonathan has over twenty years’ teaching experience.
Lester Walker - Trumpet, Trombone, Baritone, Euphonium, Tuba
Lester received his Bachelor of Music degree from the University of Alabama and his Master of Music degree from Georgia State University. His former teaching experience includes numerous positions at the secondary and university levels. He has composed, arranged and produced for television and radio music soundtracks. He is currently active in film, television, radio, and theatrical productions. Mr. Walker has performed with several symphonies in the Southeast and has been on stage with many of today’s music giants including Michael Brecker, Bela Fleck, Dave Matthews, The O’Jays, The Temptations, REO Speedwagon, and many others. One of the most diversely skilled artists on today's music scene, Lester combines blazing classical technique with a traditional jazz style.
Christopher Watkins - Trumpet
Christopher Watkins, a native of Marietta, Georgia, began playing trumpet at the age of 11. He received a Bachelor of Music degree in trumpet performance from Louisiana State University and recently completed a Master of Music degree in trumpet performance at the Manhattan School of Music. His teachers include Mark Gould, Brian McWhorter, Brian Shaw, and James West. He was a semifinalist for the National Trumpet Competition in 2004 and again in 2006. Chris has performed with the Baton Rouge and Cobb Symphony as well as the Baton Rouge Theater Company. He also performed on the premier of John Musto's opera, "Later that Same Evening," in New York, December 2008. Tim Crump - Clarinet, Flute, Saxophone
Tim Crump began his studies at Georgia State University, pursuing a Bachelor of Music in jazz studies. His principle teachers were Mace Hibbard (jazz saxophone) and Sarah Ambrose (flute). He is currently finishing his Bachelor of Music in saxophone performance at Lee University where his principle teachers are Alan Wyatt (jazz saxophone) and Brenda Moye (classical saxophone). He has taught music since the age of 16. Many of his students have performed in honor bands and received high marks at solo and ensemble competitions. He is comfortable teaching and performing on many instruments including saxophone, clarinet, and flute, and he is versed in many styles from concert music to jazz to funk. Though devoting the majority of his time to completing his education and teaching, Tim continues to perform throughout the Chattanooga and Atlanta areas.
Jason Passmore - Saxophone, Clarinet, Flute
Mr. Passmore studied extensively at Georgia State University, receiving his Bachelor of Music in jazz performance in 1998 and his Master of Music in jazz studies in 2000. He studied with Sam Skelton (saxophone, clarinet, and flute), Robert Haley (saxophone), and Les Nicholas and Alexander Khrykhosky (clarinet). Mr. Passmore has 15 years' experience as a private teacher and 8 years' experience as a public school teacher of elementary band, orchestra, and general music. He received his teacher certification in 2004. He has played with the Cobb and Rome Symphony Orchestras, and also performed with Debbie Gibson, Conrad Herwig, Chris Potter, and various jazz, rock, and Latin bands around the Southeast. Mr. Passmore is an experienced composer/arranger and continues his studies through the online Berklee School of Music.
Randy Hunter - Saxophone, Clarinet, Flute
Randy Hunter has been a full-time private instructor and performing musician for more than twenty years. After studying music education at Valdosta State College, he began teaching saxophone, flute, and clarinet at Ken Stanton Music in 1985 with focus on the development of fundamental skills such as tone quality, reading skills, and technical fluency. Jazz studies are also included when appropriate. Randy has recently accepted the position of Artist Affiliate, Instructor of Jazz Saxophone at Emory University. As a self-publisher, Randy has established an educational series of jazz etudes, duets, and combo books entitled “Complete Jazz Styles.” Books from this series have been endorsed by jazz legends Randy Brecker, Joe Lovano, and Bobby Shew. These books are available through Ken Stanton Music. Visit Randy's website - www.randyhunterjazz.com. Paul Scanling - Saxophone, Clarinet, Flute
Paul Scanling received his Bachelor of Music Education degree from Florida State University in 1996 and a Master of Music degree from Georgia State University in 2003. Mr. Scanling has taught in the public schools of Florida, Georgia and at The Lovett School. He started studying music when he was five years old and picked up the flute after hearing it played in church. Having most recently taught at the middle school level, Mr. Scanling is very familiar with beginning band methods and approaches. Having also taught at the high school, college, and adult community level, he is comfortable teaching more advanced students as well. Mr. Scanling is currently the Music Director and Principal Conductor of The Atlanta Concert Band (www.atlantaconcertband.org), he rehearses the Atlanta Swing Orchestra (www.atlantaswing.com), and is the Orchestra Director at Northside United Methodist Church of Atlanta. Please visit his website at: www.paulscanling.net
Bob Lewis - Trombone, Baritone, Euphonium, Flute
Mr. Lewis received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Music Education from Berry College. He has taught privately since 1990 and has performed with the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, the Atlanta Symphony Pops, Ray Charles, Natalie Cole, Tony Bennett, Ella Fitzgerald, Tom Jones, Harry Connick Jr., Gary Bartoas, and Michael and Randy Brecker. Bob has also recorded with Isaac Hayes, Matchbox 20, Howard Tate, and the SOS Band. He currently plays in the Crown Pointe Community Church Praise Band.
Ronald Palmer - French Horn Ronald Palmer received a Bachelor of Arts in music degree from Kennesaw State University. His teachers were Robert Pruzin, the late William "Bill" Hill, Peter Witte, and Brice Andrus of the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra. With more than forty years of playing and teaching experience, he plays in all genres and in all venues from recitals and concerts to symposiums, master classes, studio recordings, trade shows, jazz bands, orchestras, and theater and opera productions. Ronald played the horn with the Cobb Symphony from 1989 to 1996 and has been teaching at Ken Stanton Music since 2000. Presently, he plays the horn with the Westside Winds, a teaching ensemble for developing students and adult amateur players, the East Cobb Horizons band, the Band of America in Atlanta, and the “new” City of Marietta Orchestra. Ronald is also a member of the Atlanta Horn Club and the International Horn Society.
Paul Hedman - Violin, Viola, Suzuki
Mr. Hedman received a Bachelor of Music degree, with honors, from the University of Southern Mississippi. He has studied with William Star and Oliver Steiner. Paul is certified in all ten volumes of Suzuki Violin Curriculum. He is a member of the Suzuki Association of America and American String Teachers Association. Mr. Hedman has over twenty-five years' teaching and performance experience. He is the founder of the Paul Hedman String Quartets.
Cynthia Rennick - Violin, Viola, Beginner Cello
Ms. Cynthia Rennick received a Bachelor of Music degree from Olivet College, completed course work toward a master’s from Michigan State University, and has over 20 years’ teaching experience with orchestra in public and community schools. She has been playing violin since the fourth grade, and started cello and viola in junior high. She has performed in a number of orchestras including West Shore Symphony, Battle Creek Symphony, Monroe Symphony, and South Arkansas Symphony. Ms. Rennick has directed musical theatre productions. She is able to teach any style once the basic performance skills have been mastered. She can train violinists from beginners to advanced, and can teach violists and cellists in beginning to intermediate skill levels.
Domenico "Nico" Hueso - Violin, Viola
Domenico is currently working on his Bachelor of Music degree in performance from Kennesaw State University with Cathy Lynn. Mr. Hueso has studied with Juan Ramirez, Francisco Caban, Henry Hutchinson, Ramon Negron, and Susanna Han. He has also participated in several music festivals in Spain, the Pablo Casals Chamber Music Festival in Prades, France, Festival International de Huapango Panuco, in Mexico, Musica de Camera para Ninos, FOSJA in San Juan, Puerto Rico, GMEA All College Orchestra 2011 as Principal violist, and also performed orchestrally in China at the Central Conservatory in Beijing and the People's Theatre in Xi'an. Mr. Hueso performed in master classes with the Pacifica Quartet, and Chilingirian Quartet in Chamber music. He has also performed in events for the Confucius Institute of China, the Atlanta Symphony Guild, the Georgia Music Hall of Fame, and the inaugural Kennesaw State University’s “Viola Day”. Along with freelancing in multiple genres, Hueso enjoys the art of improvisation and performing chamber music with his colleagues. Audrey Williams - Cello
Audrey has attended the SC Governor's School for the Performing Arts, the USC School of Music, and the Duke University School of Music. She studied cello privately under Dr. Robert Jesselson and Dr. Fred Raimi. Audrey has over 20 years' performance and 15 years' teaching experience. She has made appearances with various groups at Carnegie Hall and as a featured soloist, performing such works as the Haydn Concerto in C and the Lalo Concerto. Audrey has played at The Tyler Perry Studios in Atlanta and with the Dekalb and Cobb Symphonies. She is a founding member of the Atlanta Camarada String Ensemble.
Kimberly Rosquist - Voice
Kimberly received her Bachelor of Music degree in vocal performance from Kennesaw State University and her Master of Music in vocal performance from Georgia State University. She has performed in multiple operas with the Atlanta Opera and numerous lead roles with the Capitol City Opera. She is currently working with a new company, Opera South. Ms. Rosquist has over ten years of private teaching experience and over two years of teaching experience at the collegiate level. Kimberly brings to her students a solid technique instilled in her by Drs. Richard and Ann Alderson.
Jackie Miron - Voice
Ms. Miron earned her Bachelor of Music degree in vocal performance along with studies in piano and guitar from The Manhattan School of Music in New York. She studied under Ellen Repp of the New York City Opera, trained in the Feldenkrais and Dalcroze methods of music and movement, and studied acting at the Stella Adler Studio. Ms. Miron is an accomplished singer having performed in opera, musical theatre, cabaret, pop music, and commercials. Her cabaret show toured throughout the Northeast. Ms. Miron has been teaching children and adults for over 20 years in New York and Atlanta in private vocal studios and schools. Her students have performed in commercials, musical theatre, movies, and on Broadway. She also specializes in teaching audition techniques and works well with special needs children. Ms. Miron has a holistic teaching approach that enhances performance quality while protecting and maintaining good vocal health. Ms. Miron’s love for music and singing inspires her students to develop their skills and a lasting passion for music.
Barry Edelson - Guitar
Mr. Edelson studied formally at the State University level in New York and the Manhattan School of Music with concentrations in performance and composition. Barry has over twenty years of playing and teaching experience including gigs with his own bands as well as being a first call session guitarist and arranger for many demo studios in the New York area. He teaches all styles at all levels from beginner (basic skills) to the aspiring professional (theory and improvisation) with concentrations in classic rock, jazz and blues. In addition to teaching full time in West Cobb since it opened six years ago, he runs learning clinics for disadvantaged children and tutors existing bands in building performance skills.
Matt Wade - Guitar, Electric Bass
Mr. Wade received a Bachelor of Arts degree in music performance from Armstrong University where he graduated with honors. Matt has over fifteen years of teaching experience and has taught at the university level. He is well versed in all styles of guitar including rock, blues, jazz, country, soul, and classical. Matt has performed at Carnegie Hall and has toured with members of the Grammy winning group Sugarland. He performs regularly with various blues, rock, and jazz groups throughout the Southeast, as well as attaining numerous recording credits.
David Northrip - Guitar, Bass, Ukulele
Mr. Northrip is an active professional guitarist and bass guitarist, clinician and private instructor with extensive experience on the concert stage, recital hall, recording studio, and instructor’s chair. He has played, and enjoys playing and teaching, virtually all styles of music. He began studying the guitar in 1992 at the age of twelve, and went on to study classical guitar with Carl Purdy at Georgia Southern University. David’s approach to teaching combines traditional methodology with a highly individualized system of lesson planning tailored to achieve the goals of each student. His primary goal as a teacher is to promote a lifelong relationship with music through dedication and good old-fashioned fun!
Harris Kendrick - Guitar, Mandolin
Harris grew up in Kennesaw, Georgia, honing his skills in the Atlanta blues and rock scenes. By the age of 15 Harris was composing original tunes and leading his own band, performing in the styles of great guitarists such as Duane Allman, Jimi Hendrix and Trey Anastasio. Harris left Atlanta to study jazz guitar performance at Berklee College of Music in Boston, where he was immersed in the music of jazz greats like Wes Montgomery. Continuing his career in Minneapolis, Harris studied and performed with lauded jazz guitarist Paul Renz, played in several local variety bands and taught private lessons. While working for The Podium, a premiere acoustic guitar shop, Harris developed a passion for flatpick and bluegrass guitar. Harris takes great pride in meeting students at varying levels of skill, taste and interest, from beginner to professional. He develops lesson programs that allow students to have fun and meet their goals. Using music that his students appreciate as a vehicle for exploration of music theory and technique, Harris hopes to foster a lifetime relationship with music and guitar playing for every student. Please visit www.harriskendrick.com.
Luke Johnson - Banjo, Mandolin, Fiddle & Upright Bass
Mr. Johnson studied at Columbus State University and is currently pursuing a Music Education degree at Kennesaw University. Luke has studied with Dr. Robert Rumbelow, Don Strand and Dr. John N. Culvahouse. Mr. Johnson has performed with a variety of groups including Alive, The Larry Stephenson Band, CSU Jazz Orchestra, and CSU’s and KSU’s Wind Ensembles. He received the John Phillip Sousa award for musical excellence in 2000. Luke is equally at home with the classics, bluegrass, country, jazz, and contemporary music. Mr. Johnson maintains an active performance, clinician, and teaching schedule.
Jack Watson - Drums
Mr. Watson is a professional drummer and educator with years of experience on stage, in the studio, and in the classroom. He began studying and playing the drums at the age of eleven and was performing by age thirteen. Jack had many great teachers including Cheney Brannon of Gainesville, GA, Steve Djeka of Durango, CO, and Phil Smith of Marietta, GA. In 2005, he completed his Bachelor of Arts undergraduate studies at Fort Lewis College in Durango, CO. He graduated Summa Cum Laude and holds a degree in the humanities with a primary concentration in Philosophy, a secondary concentration in Music, and a Minor in Religious Studies. He is the current touring drummer with Atlanta’s Blueground Undergrass and The Mosier Brothers. He thinks that diversity is important when studying music and is knowledgeable and experienced in many different styles of music. He expects hard work and dedication from his students, but his attitude is all about fun and being positive.
Trevor Roberts - Drums, Percussion
Mr. Roberts studied with Berklee College of Music's Dr. Arvin Scott and Keith Krotser. He has completed additional studies at the University of Georgia. Trevor has several years of drumset performance experience as well as Drum & Bugle Corps experience. He is a percussion instructor for several area schools.
Ben Taylor - Drums
Mr. Taylor has extensive formal training in a variety of styles of music. He held the drum position in the top band at the Greensboro, North Carolina John Coltrane School of Jazz from age fourteen to eighteen. He earned a scholarship to the Berklee College of Music in 12th grade. He attended the University of North Carolina at Asheville before moving to Atlanta to attend Kennesaw State on a full scholarship where he studied classical percussion. Ben has twelve years teaching experience from middle school, high school, private and clinic settings. He has performed with and recorded for many artists. He is first call studio drummer for Atlanta Multi-Platinum studios: ZAC studios and Music House studios. He is currently a songwriter and drummer for the group IOZ. Mr. Taylor’s strengths are his extensive experience and variety of styles. His passion for teaching matches his passion for writing and performing.
Erica Ransbottom - Cello
Ms. Ransbottom received a Bachelor of Cello Performance from Georgia State University where she studied with Pamela Devenport and Martha Gerschefski. She is the former principal cellist of the Atlanta Symphony Youth Orchestra, and has participated in many music festivals and master classes. Ms. Ransbottom is currently a guest string clinician at various schools in Cobb County, and performs around the Atlanta area. Ms. Ransbottom has thirteen years of playing experience and eight years of teaching experience. She is currently completing her Suzuki pedagogy training.
Ronald Palmer - French Horn
Mr. Palmer received a Bachelor of Arts in music degree from Kennesaw State University. His teachers were, Robert Pruzin, the late William "Bill" Hill, Peter Witte and Brice Andrus of The Atlanta Symphony. He has more than forty years of playing and teaching experience, and plays in all types of genres and venues from recitals and concerts to symposiums, master classes, studio recordings, trade shows, jazz bands, orchestras, and theater and opera productions. Ronald played the horn with the Cobb Symphony from 1989 to 1996, and has been teaching at Ken Stanton Music since 2000. Erik Minkkinen - Trombone, Euphonium, Baritone, Tuba, Trumpet
Mr. Minkkinen received a Bachelor of Music Education degree from the University of North Texas. He studied trombone under William Hill, Bobby Burgess, Eddie Clark, Mike Bogle and Vern Kagarice. Mr. Minkkinen has performed with various ensembles and church groups as well as musical theater. He is currently the Director of Bands at Sandy Springs Middle School. He has been teaching trombone for over ten years, and is the author of two books.
Lester Walker - Trumpet, Trombone, Baritone, Euphonium, Tuba
Mr. Walker received his Bachelor of Music degree from the University of Alabama and Master of Music degree from Georgia State University. He was formerly on the music faculty of Florida A & M University and Benedict College. He has composed, arranged, and produced for television and radio music soundtracks and is active in film, television, radio and theatrical productions. Mr. Walker has performed with several symphonies in the Southeast and has been on stage with many of today’s music giants including Michael Brecker, Bela Fleck, Dave Matthews, The O’Jays, The Temptations, REO Speedwagon and many others. One of the most diversely skilled artists in today’s music scene, Lester combines blazing classical technique with a traditional jazz style.
Bill Van Dyke - Saxophone, Clarinet, Flute
Mr. Van Dyke received a Bachelor of Arts in jazz studies and a Master of Education from Auburn University. He studied under Bob Richardson, Dr. Ann Knipschild, Bob Newnan, and Dr. Bob Greenleaf. Bill has taught for over twenty years, with several students making All State and Honor Bands. He has worked with Cooper and Lindley Middle Schools' saxophone students for several years. Bill also currently teaches Elementary band at The Paidea School in Atlanta. Mr. Van Dyke is most recently heard with The Night & Day Quartet.
Kevin Chaney - Violin, Viola
Mr. Kevin Chaney received his Bachelor and Master of Music Performance degrees from Georgia State University under the tutelage of Tania Maxwell Clements, Christos Galileas, and Michael Palmer, a student of Robert Shaw and founder of the Atlanta Symphony Youth Orchestra. While in attendance at Georgia State, he participated in several master classes hosted by prestigious musicians, including John Halloway and the Atlanta Chamber Players. Kevin started violin at the age of 11 in the Cobb County Public School system. During this time, he performed with local orchestras, including the Cobb Symphony and Dekalb Symphony. In 2005, Kevin was accepted on scholarship to participate in the 2005 Eastern Music Festival. Mr. Chaney has also toured as a contracted violinist with International Concert Management, including a 2009/10 tour of China. Kevin Chaney is currently studying with David Arenz, Principal Second Violinist of the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra.
Stephanie Ng - PianoStephanie Ng is currently completing her degree in piano performance with Professor David Watkins at Kennesaw State University. She began playing piano when she was 10 years old and studied at the Moscow Conservatory in Moscow, Russia. She made her first orchestral appearance when she was 13, playing Rachmaninoff's Second Piano Concerto with the Ludwig Symphony Orchestra. In December 2008, she performed Dvorak's Second Piano Quintet with the Halcyon Quartet in the Midwest Clinic in Chicago. In 2009, she performed Chopin's First Piano Concerto with the Atlanta Community Symphony Orchestra as a winner of the 35th Annual ACSO Ruth Kern Young Artists Concerto Competition. Most recently, Stephanie was selected as the recipient of the Emanuel Ax Piano Scholarship in honor of Dean Joseph Meeks. She has performed in many master classes with internationally acclaimed artists including Robert Henry, Marianne Jacobs, Roberto Plano, and Orion Weiss. In addition to playing classical music, she plays piano for several local theatre production companies. Some musicals she has played in include Fame, Little Shop of Horrors, and Once Upon a Mattress. You can learn more about Stephanie and listen to her play at www.stephaniengpiano.com. Kyley Smith - Piano
Ms. Smith received a Bachelor of Arts degree in piano performance from the University of Tennessee in Knoxville. She studied under Dr. Northington, Faye Adams and Dr. Christy Lee. Kyley received pedagogical training while attending the University of Tennessee. Ms. Smith has over fourteen years of teaching experience with more than 800 students. Kyley is a certified teacher in the Suzuki method. She specializes in classical, beginning jazz, theory, composition, and music history. Kyley has experience with all levels of instruction up to the age of eighteen and has students that participate in annual recitals. Kyley emphasizes an enjoyable learning experience.
Ivana Sri - Violin, Piano
Ms. Sri attended the Yamaha School of Music in Surabaya. She began to study piano at the age of five. Ms. Sri moved from Singapore to the United States where she graduated from McEachern High School. Ivana received a Bachelor of Arts degree in music performance from Kennesaw State University where she studied under David Watkins. She has participated in many concerts and competitions and won numerous prizes and awards.
Becky Swann - Piano
Ms. Swann received a Bachelor of Science degree in music ministry from Atlanta Christian College with a major in piano and a minor in voice. She also received a Music Education certificate from the State University of West Georgia. Becky has been teaching private piano and voice lessons for over ten years and has been with Ken Stanton for six years. She has specialized training in teaching three to five year olds as well as class piano at various ages and levels. Becky interned with Anita Renfroe, a Christian comedian, author, singer, speaker and songwriter, and was named assistant producer on the album Come Away. Becky began playing and established a love of music at the age of two. Ms. Swann is a sixth generation teacher in her family and is currently an elementary school music teacher in Paulding County.
Kimberly Rosquist - VoiceMs. Rosquist received her Bachelor of Music degree in vocal performance from Kennesaw State University, and a Master of Music in vocal performance from Georgia State University. She has performed in multiple operas with the Atlanta Opera and numerous lead roles with the Capitol City Opera. She is currently working with a new company, Opera South. Ms. Rosquist has over 10 years of private teaching experience and over two years of teaching experience at the collegiate level. Kimberly brings to her students a solid technique instilled in her by Drs. Richard and Ann Alderson.
George Price - GuitarMr. Price studied music at the University of Oregon, Oregon Tech and Lane Community College. George studied with Howard Roberts and Gary Hagberg.
Rick Laser - Guitar, Ukulele
Mr. Laser attended the University of Hawaii. He has over fifteen years of teaching and professional performing experience. He has twelve years of experience as a recording artist and session player. Rick teaches lessons for all levels of rock, alternative, blues, metal etc.
Russ Rodgers - Electric Bass
Russ Rodgers has been playing bass guitar professionally for over 30 years and has studied with Jimi Haslip of the Yellow Jackets, Oteil Burbridge, John Patitucci, Trip Wamsley, Ted Howe, and Kevin Bales. Russ founded the Bass Program at The Atlanta Institute of Music in 1985 and still serves as Bass Director. He has been teaching private lessons at Ken Stanton Music for the past ten years. He also does bass instructional videos for The Watch & Learn Company as well as online private instruction for long-distance students. For the last five years, Russ has been the house bass player at The Ritz Carlton Hotel in Buckhead with the Dan Lawrence Trio featuring jazz vocalist, Theresa Hightower as well as actively freelancing around the Atlanta area with many of Atlanta’s finest artists. He invites students to take advantage of his twenty-five years' teaching experience at our Roswell Location. For more information on Russ’s credentials, and some free video sample lessons, check out his website at russrodgersbassguitar.com
Jeff Macko received a Bachelor of Music degree in music performance from Loyola University, New Orleans. He has been a drum/percussion instructor at KSM since 2002. He has also coached percussion sections for local elementary, middle and high schools. Jeff teaches all styles of drumming including rock, pop, jazz, classical, marching, orchestral, rudimental, hip-hop, heavy metal, double-bass, Latin, and more. Some of the artists Jeff has had the privilege of playing for include Ray Charles, Regis and Kathy Lee, and Tony Bennett, among many others. He currently performs as a freelance musician in the Atlanta area. Michelle Hedges - Trumpet, Trombone, Euphonium, Baritone, Tuba, Piano, French Horn
Ms. Hedges received a Bachelor of Arts in trombone performance from Southeast Missouri State University. She has performed with the Georgia State Jazz Band, Kenny Rogers’ Orchestra, and the International Youth Wind Orchestra in Valencia, Spain. Michelle currently plays trombone in the Sentimental Journey Orchestra. She has been a private music teacher since 1985. Visit her studio Facebook page!
Eva Hizown - Piano
Eva Hizown started playing piano at the age of 6 in Riga, Latvia, where she graduated Jazeps Medins Music Collage with honors. In 2000, she had a piano concert tour in Vienna, Austria. She got her piano performance degree at Georgia State University where she studied with Dr. Geoffrey Haydon. She was a chosen soloist in the Honors Recital at GSU. She was a finalist in Margaret A. Guthman piano competition. Eva was a first prize winner at the MTNA piano competition in 2008 where she competed in the Southern Division representing GA State. Eva started teaching, at the age of 15, at the Good News Christian Music Studio in Riga, Latvia. Eva has 15 years of teaching experience and teaching is her life’s passion, especially now that among her students are her four-year-old son and three-year-old daughter.
Randy Hunter - Saxophone, Clarinet, Flute
Randy Hunter has been a full-time private instructor and performing musician for more than twenty years. After studying music education at Valdosta State College, he began teaching saxophone, flute, and clarinet at Ken Stanton Music in 1985 with focus on the development of fundamental skills such as tone quality, reading skills, and technical fluency. Jazz studies are also included when appropriate. Randy currently holds the position of Artist Affiliate, Instructor of Jazz Saxophone at Emory University. As a self-publisher, Randy has established an educational series of jazz etudes, duets, and combo books entitled “Complete Jazz Styles.” Books from this series have been endorsed by jazz legends Randy Brecker, Joe Lovano, and Bobby Shew. These books are available through Ken Stanton Music. Visit Randy's website - www.randyhunterjazz.com.
Paul Scanling - Saxophone, Clarinet, Flute
Paul Scanling received his Bachelor of Music Education degree from Florida State University in 1996 and a Master of Music degree from Georgia State University in 2003. Mr. Scanling has taught in the public schools of Florida, Georgia and at The Lovett School. He started studying music when he was five years old and picked up the flute after hearing it played in church. Having most recently taught at the middle school level, Mr. Scanling is very familiar with beginning band methods and approaches. Having also taught at the high school, college, and adult community level, he is comfortable teaching more advanced students as well. Mr. Scanling is currently the Music Director and Principal Conductor of The Atlanta Concert Band (www.atlantaconcertband.org), he rehearses the Atlanta Swing Orchestra (www.atlantaswing.com), and is the Orchestra Director at Northside United Methodist Church of Atlanta. Please visit his website at: www.paulscanling.net
Domenico "Nico" Hueso - Violin, Viola, Classical Guitar
Domenico is currently working on his Bachelor of Music degree in performance from Kennesaw State University with Cathy Lynn. Mr. Hueso has studied with Juan Ramirez, Francisco Caban, Henry Hutchinson, Ramon Negron, and Susanna Han. He has also participated in several music festivals in Spain, the Pablo Casals Chamber Music Festival in Prades, France, Festival International de Huapango Panuco, in Mexico, Musica de Camera para Ninos, FOSJA in San Juan, Puerto Rico, GMEA All College Orchestra 2011 as Principal violist, and also performed orchestrally in China at the Central Conservatory in Beijing and the People's Theatre in Xi'an. Mr. Hueso performed in master classes with the Pacifica Quartet, and Chilingirian Quartet in Chamber music. He has also performed in events for the Confucius Institute of China, the Atlanta Symphony Guild, the Georgia Music Hall of Fame, and the inaugural Kennesaw State University’s “Viola Day”. Along with freelancing in multiple genres, Hueso enjoys the art of improvisation and performing chamber music with his colleagues.
Audrey Williams - Cello, Piano
Audrey has attended the SC Governor's School for the Performing Arts, the USC School of Music, and the Duke University School of Music. She studied cello privately under Dr. Robert Jesselson and Dr. Fred Raimi. Audrey has over 20 years' performance and 15 years' teaching experience. She has made appearances with various groups at Carnegie Hall and as a featured soloist, performing such works as the Haydn Concerto in C and the Lalo Concerto. Audrey has played at The Tyler Perry Studios in Atlanta and with the Dekalb and Cobb Symphonies. She is a founding member of the Atlanta Camarada String Ensemble.
Jackie Miron - Voice
Ms. Miron earned her Bachelor of Music degree in vocal performance along with studies in piano and guitar from The Manhattan School of Music in New York. She studied under Ellen Repp of the New York City Opera, trained in the Feldenkrais and Dalcroze methods of music and movement, and studied acting at the Stella Adler Studio. Ms. Miron is an accomplished singer who performed in opera, musical theatre, cabaret, pop music, and commercials. Her cabaret show toured throughout the Northeast. Ms. Miron has been teaching children and adults in private vocal studios and schools in New York and Atlanta for over 20 years. Her students have performed in commercials, musical theatre, Broadway, and movies. She also specializes in teaching audition techniques and works well with special needs children. Ms. Miron has a holistic teaching approach that enhances performance quality while protecting and maintaining good vocal health. Ms. Miron’s love for music and singing inspires her students to develop their skills and a lasting passion for music.
Matthew Smart - Harmonica
Matthew Smart picked up the harmonica in his freshman year of college. His influences are heavily steeped in the blues greats like Muddy Waters, Howlin’ Wolf, and Little Walter. A few years ago, he picked up singing to go along with his harp. You can see him beltin’ out tunes every Thursday night at Darwin’s Blues Jam in Marietta.
Matthew’s harmonica style is very simple: big tone, strong vibrato, sweet bends, and a few riffs borrowed from the greats. Matthew has been teaching the harmonica for six years in Atlanta, GA. In addition to teaching, Matthew has also been a corporate trainer for more than eight years.
Dan Owenby - Banjo
Mr. Owenby holds a Bachelor of Science degree in mechanical engineering and a Master of Business Administration. During the late 1970s and early 1980s, he performed on stage with Travis Tritt and various bluegrass bands as a banjo player. He has been teaching banjo at Ken Stanton Music since 2009 and he works with middle school and high school bands/ensembles when a banjo is required for a part. Contrary to popular opinion, bluegrass banjo is not hard to play. "Claw hammer" style (picks on thumb, index, and middle fingers) is the most popular style of bluegrass banjo playing, and that is what he teaches.
Tony Burdo - Guitar
Mr. Burdo studied jazz guitar with Chris Buzzelli at Bowling Green State University in Ohio. He graduated from Lee University in Cleveland, Tennessee with a Bachelor of Music Education. He has been performing and teaching for over 30 years and he teaches general music in the Cherokee County School District. He has performed and shared the stage with many artists in the Christian Music Industry and is fluent in many styles of electric and acoustic guitar playing/instruction. Tony currently performs and records with his wife, Michele, in an acoustic duo, and is active with other projects.
Mark Cook - Guitar
Mr. Cook received a bachelor's degree in industrial technology from Indiana State University. Beyond his studies, he has over twenty three years' teaching and performing experience. Mark is the winner of four JP Folks Music Awards: Best Album of the Year for 2001, 2002 and 2005; Best Rock Instrumental for 2005. He has produced four CDs and is currently working on a fifth. Mark's music has been used on several TV and feature films, and can be heard on XM Satellite. Mr. Cook currently plays with two bands including his own, Cook-n-Blues.
Russell Eldridge - Guitar
Russell Eldridge graduated with honors from the Atlanta Institute of Music in 2001. He was immediately invited to teach a class in Odd Meter and did so until 2006. Russell has been teaching at Ken Stanton Music since February of 2002. He started learning guitar after first hearing the band Metallica in 1989. His education spans all genres of music and he enjoys teaching jazz, blues and classical, but his specialty is rock and metal including teaching technique, how to solo, and songwriting. While in the band Manic, Russell opened for Helloween and Anthrax. He also played MTV’s Headbanger’s Ball Tour. He played with Delusional Mind as the singer and guitarist for two years and recently formed the band Severity. In October 2010, he acted as a judge for the Reflections musical composition entries for the PTSA Arts Contest at the East Cobb and Marietta Middle Schools. Sal Gentile - Guitar, Electric Bass, Mandolin
Mr. Gentile attended Queens College and has played for over forty years. Mr. Gentile has been teaching at Ken Stanton Music for more than three years. He has played with Don Rickles, Jimmie Rodgers, B.B. King, Rosemary Clooney, Lester Lanin, Herb Tassin, Bill Clifford and Dick Stabile Orchestra's. Mr. Gentile has been featured in the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, Guitar Player Magazine, Creative Loafing, and Just Jazz Magazine. Sal began playing guitar at age 13; he studied with Joe Monk and Howie Morgen. He teaches all styles of music, but specializes in jazz. Mr. Gentile has had the privilege of playing for General Colin Powell. While playing at the Hilton Hotel, the "Godfather of Soul," James Brown, decided to sit in. Sal is currently appearing at Pricci, Veni Vidi Vici, and the Buckhead Club.
Luis Mendez - Guitar, Ukulele
Mr. Luis Mendez attended ARS Nova School of Music. He studied with Gonzalo Mico, Tony D'Leon, Roldan Pena, and Sal Gentile. He also studied music theory with Jose Salazar and classical guitar under Cesar Garcia. Luis began playing cuartro (baritone ukulele) at age seven and guitar at age twelve, inspired by the groups of the '60s and '70s. He has been teaching diverse genres of music including rock, jazz, pop, country, blues, and classical for over 20 years; the last five have been at Ken Stanton Music. He has performed with several groups in a variety of styles and currently plays with country rock band High Noon and Latin Jazz band Nova Sound.
John Ward - Guitar
Mr. Ward holds a Bachelor of Music in performance from Kennesaw State University where he studied classical guitar under Mary Ackerman. He played and toured with the band Grave Danger in the late ‘80s and early ‘90s, and currently plays in the metal band Severity. He has done studio work for Earbubbles Productions and he taught guitar lessons for five years at Mars Music before coming to teach at Ken Stanton Music.
Alex Mattingly - Bass Guitar
Mr. Mattingly studied music theory with Berkeley theorist Dr. Marshall Tuttle and studied bass guitar technique with Adam Nitti. He has over a decade of experience on guitar and bass, and five years' experience teaching bass guitar. He has recorded eight albums with various bands and has played hundreds of gigs in the Kennesaw/Marietta/Atlanta area. He plays rock/jazz fusion and has extensive experience teaching many diverse genres of music including rock, jazz, pop, country, and heavy metal.
Mark Letalien - Drums
Mark Letalien graduated with honors from the Percussion Institute of Technology (PIT) in Los Angeles, where he studied with several noted instructors, including Ralph Humphrey, Steve Houghton, and Joe Porcaro. Mark then moved to the South where he landed several house gigs in the Northwest Florida area, performing five nights a week for over eight years. During that time, he continued to teach and study privately with renowned instructor Jim Chapin as well as Chris Adams, the acclaimed Co-Author of “The New Breed II.” Since relocating to the Atlanta area, he has continued to play and teach on a regular basis. Recent playing highlights include performing with Grammy winner Shelby Lynne for her London performances, being a founding member of and performing for four years with Colonel Bruce Hampton and the Quark Alliance, and currently being a member of the world music group Insonnia. He enjoys teaching several styles, including rock, jazz, Latin and Afro-Cuban music. For over twenty years, Mark has maintained his passion for music, drumming, and education. Please visit his Web site at www.learndrumslive.com.
Greg Roman - Drums, Mallet Percussion, Hand Percussion
Greg Roman received his Bachelor of Music in Music Education from Kennesaw State University in 2008. He is currently the Head Band Director at Mt. Bethel Christian Academy and has been teaching percussion at various schools and privately for 15 years. Greg studied under Master Percussionist and Principle Timpanist of the Cobb Symphony Orchestra, Mr. John Lawless, at KSU. Playing and teaching percussion is and has been a passion of Greg’s since he started playing at age 10. He chose percussion to be challenged and to experience all the different instruments that make up the percussion family. Greg teaches all styles including, but not limited to, band and orchestral, marching band, drum set (including rock, funk, pop, and jazz,) and various styles of hand drumming. He is a percussionist with the Cobb Symphony Orchestra, a member of the Suburban Jazz Band, and Caption Head for the Flowery Branch High School Drum-line and Front Ensemble.
Steven Walker - Drums/Percussion
Mr. Steven Walker received a Bachelor’s Degree in Music Education with an emphasis in Percussion in 2001, a Bachelor’s Degree in Percussion Performance in 2006 from Kennesaw State University and he is currently pursuing a Master’s in Jazz Studies at Georgia State University. He studied under John Lawless and Justin Varnes. Mr. Walker has been teaching studio lessons for over 15 years. He continues to perform actively, hold clinics and record often. He works in all genres of music, but most frequently in Rock, Pop and Contemporary.
James Poteat - Piano, Trombone
James attended Kennesaw State University and has studied or worked with Dr. Marshall Tuttle, Peter Witte, Colin Williams, Joseph Alessi, and Fyodor Cherniavsky among others. James has six years of experience as a private music instructor, four at KSM Woodstock, and has performed in an enormous variety of situations as conductor or on piano, trombone, and euphonium. James has taught students ranging in age from 4 to 74 and is equally comfortable in the worlds of popular and classical music. He also has eight years of experience as a music theory tutor and considers this area of study to be his specialty. James has been commissioned to compose and arrange for a number of individuals and groups and continues to work on similar projects. Visit his website at: www.musical-intentions.com.
Jorge Alvarez - Piano, Keyboards
Mr. Alvarez attended the Escuela Superior de Musica. He received Bachelor of Arts and Master of Arts degrees from Georgia State University. Jorge teaches in a range of styles from Suzuki Method and traditional piano to lessons in composition and electronic keyboards. Mr. Alvarez is leader of his own band.
Eva Hizown - Piano
Eva Hizown started playing piano at the age of 6 in Riga, Latvia, where she graduated Jazeps Medins Music Collage with honors. In 2000, she had a piano concert tour in Vienna, Austria. She got her piano performance degree at Georgia State University where she studied with Dr. Geoffrey Haydon. She was a chosen soloist in the Honors Recital at GSU. She was a finalist in Margaret A. Guthman piano competition. Eva was a first prize winner at the MTNA piano competition in 2008 where she competed in the Southern Division representing GA State. Eva started teaching, at the age of 15, at the Good News Christian Music Studio in Riga, Latvia. Eva has 15 years of teaching experience and teaching is her life’s passion, especially now that among her students are her four-year-old son and three-year-old daughter.
Penelope Williams - Piano
Ms. Williams is an accomplished jazz musician with 30 years of musical experience and a Master of Music degree from Georgia State University. During 1999-2004, Penelope was the Programs and Events Director for Georgia State University School of Music. She held the position of Music Minister at Unity North Atlanta Church from 2005 to 2009 and she founded the New Thought Music Choral Festival, which hosted 180+ singers, from 2006 to 2008. Currently, she acts as Music Director of Spiritual Living Center Atlanta. Penelope has performed for President Jimmy Carter, Marianne Williamson, Deepak Chopra, Wayne Dyer, and acted as jazz musician in performances at The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, and select venues nationwide. She served on the Women's Caucus Chair of Int'l Association for Jazz Education from 1997-2004 and on the Board of Governors of the Nat'l Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences from 2002 through 2004. Luke Rabun - French Horn
Mr. Rabun received his Bachelor of Music in music education from Kennesaw State University in 2009. He taught horn in a master class setting to middle school students in Cobb County for two years. Luke has studied with Atlanta Symphony hornists Brice Andrews and Tom Witte, and has performed with the KSU Orchestra and Wind Ensembles multiple times at the Georgia Music Educators Association conference in Savannah. In addition to these concert performances, Mr. Rabun marched with the Glassmen, Carolina Crown Drum and Bugle Corps, and was a soloist for both groups. He has over 15 years' experience playing horn and over 10 years' experience playing Mellophone, the marching band equivalent to the horn.
Jeremy Cope - Trumpet
Jeremy Cope is a native and current resident of Acworth, Ga. Once he received his high school diploma and fine arts seal from Woodland High School, he began his study of trumpet and music education at Valdosta State University. After three years of study, he left to attend Kennesaw State University where he was able to study trumpet under Jennifer Marotta and her husband Tom Wooten (principle chair of ASO). Some important professors Jeremy studied under include: Sam Skelton, Mike Walters, Tom Gibson, Laurence Sherr, and many more influential names. Jeremy has received his Bachelor of Arts degree in music education and currently performs keys/trumpet for various jazz combos. He is also an on-call freelance trumpet player throughout the Atlanta area for any genre of music. John Howard - Trumpet
Mr. Howard received a Bachelor of Music from the University of Cincinnati and completed master's studies at Indiana University School of Music. John has studied with Larry Black, John Rommel, and Marie Speziale. Mr. Howard was trumpet instructor at the Johnson Ferry Conservatory and has taught private lessons for over four years.
Sean Truelove - Trombone, Euphonium, Tuba, Trumpet
Sean Truelove received his Bachelor of Arts in music education from Jacksonville State University in 2005 and Master of Arts in music with an emphasis in trombone performance from the University of Iowa in 2008. He has played in master classes and clinics with Scott Hartman, Joe Allessi, Nitzan Haroz, Stephan Sanders, Douglas Wright and Milton Stephens. Some of his performance experiences include: Rome Symphony Orchestra, Cedar Rapids Symphony, Quad Cities Symphony, Eastern Iowa Brass Band, Atlanta Concert Band as well as solo recitals at Wartburg College, University of Iowa, and Jacksonville State University.
Randy Hunter - Saxophone, Clarinet, Flute
Randy Hunter has been a full-time private instructor and performing musician for more than twenty years. After studying music education at Valdosta State College, he began teaching saxophone, flute, and clarinet at Ken Stanton Music in 1985 with focus on the development of fundamental skills such as tone quality, reading skills, and technical fluency. Jazz studies are also included when appropriate. Randy currently holds the position of Artist Affiliate, Instructor of Jazz Saxophone at Emory University. Randy authors an educational series of jazz etudes, duets, and combo books entitled “Complete Jazz Styles.” Books from this series have been endorsed by jazz legends Randy Brecker, Joe Lovano, and Bobby Shew. These books are available through Ken Stanton Music. Visit Randy's website at www.randyhunterjazz.com
Jason Passmore - Saxophone, Clarinet, Flute
Mr. Passmore studied extensively at Georgia State University, receiving his Bachelor of Music in jazz performance in 1998 and his Master of Music in jazz studies in 2000. He studied with Sam Skelton (saxophone, clarinet, and flute), Robert Haley (saxophone), and Les Nicholas and Alexander Khrykhosky (clarinet). Mr. Passmore has 15 years' experience as a private teacher and 8 years' experience as a public school teacher of elementary band, orchestra, and general music. He received his teacher certification in 2004. He has played with the Cobb and Rome Symphony Orchestras, and also performed with Debbie Gibson, Conrad Herwig, Chris Potter, and various jazz, rock, and Latin bands around the Southeast. Mr. Passmore is an experienced composer/arranger and continues his studies through the online Berklee School of Music.
Cynthia Rennick - Violin, Viola, & Cello
Ms. Cynthia Rennick received a Bachelor of Music degree from Olivet College, completed course work toward a master’s from Michigan State University, and has over 20 years’ teaching experience with orchestra in public and community schools. She has been playing violin since the fourth grade and started cello and viola in junior high. She has performed in a number of orchestras including West Shore Symphony, Battle Creek Symphony, Monroe Symphony, and South Arkansas Symphony. Ms. Rennick has directed musical theatre productions. She is able to teach any style once the basic performance skills have been mastered. She can train violinists from beginners to advanced, and can teach violists and cellists in beginning to intermediate skill levels.
Jonathan Wright - Violin
Mr. Wright studied primarily with Jun-Ching Lin of the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra and Oliver Steiner of the Eastman School of Music in Rochester. Jonathan started playing violin at age 5, performing professionally at age 13, and teaching at Ken Stanton Music at 18. He has had the opportunity to perform with many celebrated artists including Christina Aguilera, Phil Collins, Josh Groban, and others. In May 2004, he had the honor of playing for President Bush, during his visit to Atlanta, which led to an invitation to perform at the G8 Summit later that year. Mr. Wright has performed on over a dozen domestic and international tours as a contracted violinist with International Concert Management. He specializes in teaching classical and beginning fiddle to all ages. Jonathan maintains an active teaching and performing schedule in Atlanta and surrounding cities.
Audrey Williams - Cello
Audrey has attended the SC Governor's School for the Performing Arts, the USC School of Music, and the Duke University School of Music. She studied cello privately under Dr. Robert Jesselson and Dr. Fred Raimi. Audrey has over 20 years' performance and 15 years' teaching experience. She has made appearances with various groups at Carnegie Hall and as a featured soloist, performing such works as the Haydn Concerto in C and the Lalo Concerto. Audrey has played at the Tyler Perry Studios in Atlanta and with the Dekalb and Cobb Symphonies. She is a founding member of the Atlanta Camarada String Ensemble.
Pamela Holloway - Oboe, English Horn
Pamela Holloway holds a Bachelor of Music in oboe performance from Columbus State University. She is currently working towards her Master of Music in oboe performance as a graduate assistant at Georgia State University. Pamela studied oboe and English horn with Atlanta-area oboist, Cristen Bell, Utah Symphony oboe and English hornist, Holly Gornik, San Francisco Symphony oboe and English hornist, Russ Deluna, and is currently studying with Dr. Lara Dahl, Professor of Oboe at Georgia State University. She has also performed with area orchestras including Lagrange Symphony, St. Luke Orchestra, and Columbus Ballet Orchestra to name a few. In addition to her musical studies, Pamela also enjoys gardening, reading, writing, and training her two German Shepherd dogs, Tex and Henry. Pamela resides in Woodstock, Georgia with her husband, cellist Daniel Holloway.
Amy Newcomb - Voice
Mrs. Newcomb received a music education degree with an emphasis in vocal performance from Kennesaw State University. Amy has been teaching for several years and performing professionally for over seven years. She has performed with the Atlanta Youth Jazz Orchestra, Press Play, and several other groups and ensembles. Amy has performed with well-known artists Bill Watrous, Bobby Shew, Sam Skelton, and Trey Wright. She is the leader of the Amy Newcomb Quintet.
Micah Boswell - Drums
Micah Boswell is a graduate of the Atlanta Institute of Music. He has several years of performing and studio experience covering multiple genres of music. Micah has taught private lessons to students with diverse styles and playing ability. He has also performed with the national touring act Kainos. Lee Tylor Edwrds - Drums
Lee Tylor began to play professionally, with a country and classic rock band called 5th Wheel, at the age of 7 years old. He opened for country music legends The Charlie Daniels Band, Kathy Mattea, and John Anderson before he turned 15. Lee Tylor toured the U.S. several times with a handful of different bands, received radio play, and made several television appearances such as Fox 5’s Good Morning Atlanta, Budweiser’s True Music and Comcast’s Bands on Demand. While living in New York, Los Angeles, and Nashville, Lee Tylor made a name for himself as an incredible session player. While attending the Atlanta Institute of Music, he completed his first drum method book called “How to be A Drum Star.” He performs live at his home in Atlanta with several local acts such as The Nathan Morgan Trio, award-winning Ashley Rivera and Emily McCannon, Luke Carter, The Elizabeth Reed Ensemble, The Walton County Symphony Orchestra, and he is the service drummer for the Brookwood Baptist Church. Don Lee - Drums, Percussion, Saxophone
Don Lee received a Bachelor of Music degree from the University of Georgia with a concentration in percussion and woodwinds. At UGA, he studied percussion with Thomas McCutchen, saxophone with Kenneth Fischer, and double reeds with William Davis. He also studied concert percussion with Paul Yancich of the Cleveland Conservatory and drum set with Bill Wilder of the Atlanta Symphony. Don has been a band director for over 20 years in schools in Atlanta and New York City, teaching elementary, middle, and high school bands. He performs in the orchestra at John’s Creek Baptist Church and tours the country with Atlanta’s number one party band: Band X. Don teaches all styles on drum set as well as marching and concert percussion. He specializes in rock and jazz styles, snare and mallet percussion, and All-State preparation for percussion and saxophone.
Jon Batt - Guitar
Mr. Batt brings a varied teaching and performance background to students at Ken Stanton Music. He is a former school music director as well as an honors graduate with a degree in music education from Wichita State University. He has provided private and group guitar instruction for children and adults for over 25 years. He is familiar with many musical styles with specialties in rock, country, finger-style, music theater, sight reading, and music theory. He has worked with assorted bands, performed with groups backing various headliners, and is presently rehearsing with a rock/country group as well as working on solo projects. Tim Bowen - Guitar/Electric Bass/Mandolin/Banjo
Mr. Bowen attended the Musician’s Institute of Technology in Los Angeles after studying privately with Jerry King in 1984. He has been teaching music professionally since that time and has been performing since 1977. Mr. Bowen has experience performing at night clubs, weddings, corporate parties, hotels and lounges, festivals, and concert venues with a variety of musical acts.
Justin Gorun - Guitar
Mr. Gorun attended Berklee College of Music and graduated from Middle Tennessee State University with a degree in Recording Industry. Justin is currently working on a Master of Arts in the field of Special Education. Justin has taught guitar for 20 years, having worked independently and for Drummer's Institue of Georgia and Georgia State University's Neighborhood Music program. He is also one of the faculty sponsors for the Five Forks Middle School Rock Band, and he also taught recording classes for Mars music. Mr. Gorun teaches all styles of music, but specializes in blues, rock, and R&B. His current projects include an acoustic duo named "The Pompatus of Love," and a pop/rock cover band.
Drew Lloyd - Guitar, Bass Guitar
Drew Lloyd is a graduate of the Atlanta Institute of Music and is currently pursuing his Bachelor of Music Performance degree from Clayton State University. He has been a student of Todd Markey, Donovan Stokes, Russ Rodgers, and Gary Wilkins. Drew has been teaching music for eight years throughout the Atlanta area and middle Georgia. He has performed with Wycliffe Gordon and Christopher Crenshaw of the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra and the Theodore Croker Big Band and Quintet. Beginning at age 12, he involved himself with school jazz bands, later participated in the Governor's Honors Program of Georgia, and went on to pursue music in college. Drew teaches all styles including jazz, rock, funk, Latin, bluegrass, Celtic, and classical. He is co-founder and current member of the gypsy quartet Caravan of Fools, and a 5-year member of the touring Celtic group Mickle-a-do. Drew currently performs and records as a freelance bassist and guitarist throughout the Southeast.
Alonso Padron - Guitar, Bass GuitarAlonso has gleaned his music education from an array of sources. Initially, he began studying privately with Steve Dukes here in Atlanta. He then furthered his music education at The University of Georgia and studied privately with Rick Beato, a renowned former jazz professor at The New England Conservatory in Boston. Alonso has 26 years of playing experience and has performed with various rock, pop, soul, and Latin groups in the Atlanta area. He has also done session work in various settings such as GPTV, Barclasion Music in Brandon, Florida, and with various artists. He has also recorded two CDs of original music. Alonso has 18 years of teaching experience and teaches in the styles of rock, pop, metal, blues, folk, classical, Spanish and Latin. He is also adept at teaching soloing, improvising, finger-style, theory, sight-reading, ear-training, and composition as well as electric bass from beginning through intermediate levels. Visit his website at: www.alonsopadron.com Michael Mieske - Violin, Viola, Cello, String Bass, Guitar, Ukulele
Mr. Mieske received a Bachelor of Arts in music education from Central Michigan University and a Master of Music from Georgia State University. Michael records and performs locally in many styles. He has over twenty years of teaching experience. Thomas Trotter - Voice
Thomas Trotter has sung in venues ranging from Lincoln Center in New York City to the Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris, France. In a 20-year professional career he has performed with many opera companies and orchestras across the U.S. and in Europe, including New York City Opera, Pittsburgh Opera, Washington National Opera, Atlanta Opera, Pittsburgh Opera, Glimmerglass Opera, and Florida Grand Opera, among many others. He has interpreted over 40 roles on the stage and has received rave reviews for his performances. In addition, he has sung as tenor soloist with orchestras across the country in over 20 pieces, specializing in unusual repertoire such as Carmina Burana and Britten’s Serenade for Tenor, Horn, and Strings. Mr. Trotter has also been active as a teacher since his return to the Atlanta area almost four years ago. In that time, his students have achieved much success, including Governor’s Honors Program, All-State Chorus, and college scholarships at Berry College, Piedmont College, and Shorter University.
Roger Bice - Piano, Voice
Mr. Bice received his BME and MA from Eastern Michigan University and has been teaching music for 37 years both in the classroom and as a private instructor. He has taught students from preschool to adults at various music schools in Cobb and Gwinnett counties. Mr. Bice began studying piano at age nine and has just begun his 50th year as a pianist. His first T.V. performance was in his home city of Detroit, M.I., when he was in sixth grade. He has performed concerts across the southeast, recorded two CDs, been a recording studio musician, and was an accompanist at Liberty University while on their music faculty. Along with his love of classical music, Mr. Bice loves the area of sacred music (traditional and contemporary), pop music, and Broadway and movie showtunes. Along with teaching, he uses his piano skills in church leading worship music weekly.
Jacquelyn Miller - Piano
Ms. Miller earned a Bachelor of Music Education from Mars Hill University. She has over thirty years' teaching experience. She teaches all abilities ranging from beginner piano to advanced. Ms. Miller emphasizes varying genre ability as well as technical facility.
Michelle Shoultz - Piano/Baritone
Michelle Shoultz received a Bachelor of Music Education from the Minnesota State University Moorhead in 2003, and a Bachelor of Arts in human services from the University of Minnesota, Morris, in 1998. Piano was her main instrument. Mrs. Shoultz now has over eight years of experience teaching private piano lessons and has taught at Ken Stanton Music since 2009. She has completed two college courses in piano pedagogy, the study of how to teach piano. Mrs. Shoultz recently moved to Georgia from the beautiful state of Minnesota where she taught general classroom music in public schools for five years. Teaching beginning musicians is Mrs. Shoultz’s specialty.
Elitza Petkova Campos - Piano, Clarinet
Ms. Campos received a Bachelor of Music Performance from Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge, Louisiana while studying with renowned professor Steve Cohen. Elitza has performed with the LSU Wind Ensemble and Woodwind Quintet as well as in various musicals and competitions. She has been a music teacher for two years, taught 4th-5th grade classroom students for six years, and private music lessons for 9 years.
Ashley Freeman - Cello, Piano
David Sebastian - Violin, Viola, Cello
David Sebastian is currently pursuing a double major in Music Education and Performance at Emory University. He has had the privilege of studying under Dr. Gregory Pritchard, Rita Kingsley, and Kenny Lambert. David has also had the opportunity to perform with Gwinnett County's Youth Symphony Orchestra, the Annual International Conductor's Workshop in Macon, the Brookwood Philharmonic Orchestra, and the Libera Strings Ensemble. His years of experience in teaching include not only private lessons, but he is the Orchestra Director of Conyers Church of God Private School. David teaches primarily classical, but also teaches jazz, Celtic fiddling, and improvisational music. As a teacher, David's goal is to simply motivate and assist his students in achieving their every musical ambition.
Katie Holland - Bassoon, Oboe
Ms. Holland received a Bachelor of Music Education from Tennessee Technical University and her Master of Music Performance from Stony Brook University. Katie’s graduate work included Chinese, Cuban, and bluegrass styles. She actively freelances in the area and has been involved with groups such as the Atlanta Ballet, Nashville Opera, and the Ashville Symphony. Katie has been teaching since 2002 and can teach students of any age or experience level.
Lenise Bostic - FluteLenise Bostic graduated from Florida A&M University where she attended on a full music scholarship. She studied with Jeanne Carere and Denine Mathis and has been teaching flute for 10 years in her private studio. Every student she has taught has made the district honor band. Also, after a full year of study during their senior year, all have been awarded full music scholarships from the college of their choice. Lenise is currently a member of the Atlanta Flute Choir and has been performing with the flute choir for six years, performing all over Atlanta and, most recently, at the Piccolo Spoleto Festival in South Carolina. She first started playing the flute in the fifth grade and never stopped playing. She specializes in teaching musicianship which includes all styles of music.
George Uterhardt - Trumpet, Trombone, Baritone, Euphonium
Elizabeth Tuininga - French Horn
Elizabeth Tuininga earned her Bachelor of Music in applied music French horn from the Eastman School of Music in 2006 from the studio of Peter Kurau. She has also studied with Scott Brubaker of the NY Metropolitan Opera Orchestra and David Cribbs of the London Symphony Orchestra. She has been teaching private horn lessons since 1997 and has performed with groups such as the Eastman Wind Ensemble, Eastman Philharmonia, Eastman Horn Choir, Eastman New Jazz Ensemble and the North Jersey Brass Quintet. Elizabeth is also proficient on the natural horn, which is a classical period instrument that has no valves and relies exclusively on the lips and the "bell hand" to make all the different pitches! Elizabeth primarily teaches classical styles of music though she also can teach big band jazz for those hornists who are fortunate enough to find such opportunities. Aside from teaching, Elizabeth is currently the music director at her church and plays with various chamber groups.
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