Johnstonbaugh's Virtual Lessons

Many members of our highly qualified teaching staff offer virtual lessons. Click the link below to see which teachers we have for each instrument family.

Woodwinds - Flute, Oboe, Clarinet, Saxophone


Daniel Muller

Focus Area: Woodwinds
Instruments: Saxophone
Rate: $30 per 30 minute lesson
Locations: Allison Park, Virtual

Federal Criminal
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PA Child Abuse
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A native of Cleveland, Ohio, Daniel Muller moved to southwestern Pennsylvania in 2016 to pursue graduate studies at Duquesne and Carnegie Mellon Universities, where he studied classical and jazz saxophone with James Houlik, Keith Young, and Mike Tomaro. As both a soloist and chamber musician, he has won local competitions at CMU and the Pittsburgh Concert Society and placed as a quarterfinalist in the Fischoff National Chamber Music Competition. Dedicated to shining light on overlooked and forgotten subjects, Daniel has also presented music history lectures at the Navy Band International Saxophone Symposium and the Osher Institute for Lifelong Learning, delving into the lives of Jewish composers during World War II, as well as the history of wind instruments and ensembles. Endlessly passionate about learning, Daniel strives to encourage his students to look deeper for beauty in the world around them and to share their knowledge with others. His interests also include foreign languages, art, and birdwatching.


 

Shelly LeFebvre

Focus Area: Woodwinds
Instruments: Flute
Rate: $22.50 per 30 minute lesson
Locations: Virtual

Federal Criminal
History Record Check

PA Child Abuse
History Check

PA Criminal
History Check

Shelly LeFebvre's Student Shopping Page

Shelly LeFebvre earned a Bachelor of Music degree, magna cum laude, in music education from Westminster College in New Wilmington, PA, studying flute with David P. Tessmer, and a Master's Degree in Library and Information Science (School Library Certification), summa cum laude, from the University of Pittsburgh. Shelly also has state certification in Preschool-Grade 4 classroom teaching. She has been the fourth grade teacher at Our Lady of Fatima Catholic School in Hopewell, PA for the past two years. Prior to her position as fourth grade teacher at Our Lady of Fatima, she was the music teacher at the school (grades PreK-8) for four years. Shelly has spent the past seventeen years teaching fourth grade in the classroom (2 years) as well as instrumental, vocal, and general music (15 years) in Catholic and public schools throughout Western Pennsylvania. Shelly has taught beginning, intermediate, and advanced flute and piccolo students of all ages, including adults, at Johnstonbaugh's Music Centers virtually (2 years) and at their former physical store in Bridgeville, PA (13 years), as well as Sweetwater Center for the Arts in Sewickley, PA (5 years). Several of her students have earned top ranks in their school ensembles and have been selected for various honors ensembles, including PMEA instrumental ensembles and PYPO, as well as a student earning a collegiate music scholarship.

Shelly has served as principal flutist of the North Pittsburgh Symphonic Band and has played flute and piccolo with the Edgewood Symphony Orchestra, Stage 62 musical theater pit orchestra, and North Pittsburgh Woodwind Quintet. She has played flute actively for area church services and Masses, musical theater productions, and weddings, and is currently the flute/woodwind coach and an assistant conductor at her alma mater West Allegheny School District's annual elementary summer band camp. Please visit her studio website at www.slflute.webs.com.

All clearances are up to date.

 

Amanda Sage

Focus Area: Woodwinds
Instruments: Flute
Rate: $28 per 30 minute lesson
Locations: Virtual, Allison Park, Golden Mile

Federal Criminal
History Record Check

PA Child Abuse
History Check

PA Criminal
History Check

Amanda Sage is a flutist and private teacher from the Pittsburgh area. She has served as principal flute with the Pittsburgh Philharmonic, principal flute and second flute/piccolo with Undercroft Opera, as well as performed with the Edgewood, Westmoreland, and Johnstown Symphonies. She also performs in various solo, chamber, and larger ensemble roles in a variety of venues throughout the Pittsburgh area, including the newly formed Bel Suono Ensemble of which she is a founding member. An advocate of early music and historical performance, Amanda also plays the baroque flute. She has performed in masterclasses for baroque flutists Kim Pineda, Janet See, and Barthold Kuijken.

As an educator, she has nearly 12 years of experience in private instruction, along with her many years of experience teaching both instrumental and general music (K-12). Amanda's students have experienced success in passing auditions for various middle and high school honor level ensembles, as well as colleges and universities for those who decide to pursue a music career. In addition to her private studio, Amanda serves as adjunct flute instructor at Mercyhurst University, as well as adjunct faculty lecturer in music at West Virginia Northern Community College.

Beyond music, Amanda is a Certified Personal Trainer and Corrective Exercise Specialist through the National Academy of Sports Medicine. Amanda has presented workshops on the topic of performance health for musicians at several different events including the annual Mid-Atlantic Flute Convention, the annual National Flute Convention, and the Flute Society of Greater Philadelphia's annual Flute Fair. Amanda received a Bachelor of Music degree in music education from Seton Hill University, and a Master of Music degree in flute performance from Duquesne University in Pittsburgh, PA.


 

Renate Sakins

Focus Area: Woodwinds
Instruments: Oboe
Rate: $25 per 30 minute lesson
Locations: Virtual

Federal Criminal
History Record Check

PA Child Abuse
History Check

PA Criminal
History Check

Renate Sakins received her B.M. from Temple University, and attended Carnegie Mellon University in the M.M. degree program. Her teachers were Louis Rosenblatt and Cynthia DeAlmeida. Ms. Sakins is currently oboist and associate director of the Renaissance City Winds, principal oboist with the Westmoreland Symphony, and 2nd oboist with the Akron Symphony. She has appeared twice as soloist with the Westmoreland Symphony and was featured on WQED’s “Performance in Pittsburgh”. For two seasons she was co-principal oboist of the New World Symphony in Miami Beach, Florida under music director Michael Tilson Thomas. She has performed with the Pittsburgh, Columbus, Wheeling, Harrisburg, and Delaware Symphonies, at the Blossom and Cape May Music Festivals and has toured in Canada, Japan, and throughout Europe. Ms. Sakins is an adjunct instructor at Washington and Jefferson College, teaches at Pittsburgh’s Center for the Musically Talented, Carnegie Mellon Pre-College, and maintains a private teaching studio. Students Ms. Sakins has taught have been accepted as music performance and music education majors at the Cleveland Institute of Music, Oberlin College, Carnegie Mellon University, Duquesne University, Indiana University (Bloomington), and Temple University. Ms. Sakins was born in Chicago and earned a B.S. in Medical Technology before pursuing music performance.


 

Janice Coppola

Focus Area: Woodwinds
Instruments: Clarinet, Saxophone
Rate: $27 per 30 minute lesson
Locations: Virtual

Federal Criminal
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PA Child Abuse
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PA Criminal
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Janice Coppola received her B.M. and M.M. from the Cleveland Institute of Music and also attended the North Carolina School of the Arts (UNSCA) for high school. Her teachers have included Bob Listokin, Theodore Johnson, Leon Russianoff, and William Blount, as well as John Mack for chamber and solo music.

Ms. Coppola is currently performing as a klezmer soloist and freelance musician not only in the Pittsburgh area but in many other states. She has performed with and founded three klezmer ensembles in the Pittsburgh area - The Hot Matzohs, Klezlectic, and Eastern Watershed. Janice has also been one of the music directors at Temple Sinai for eight years, directing the Temple Sinai Band who perform for first Friday Shabbat. As a soloist, Janice has performed with the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra, The Preservation Hall Band, the River City Brass, the Northern New Jersey Baroque Orchestra, and The Edgewood Symphony.

Janice has been on the Gateway to the Arts Roster for over a decade with varying programs focused on klezmer and music of the immigrants in Pittsburgh. Her current program is "Bubbe Tells A Tale" with Barbara Russell. Janice is also affiliated with Musician’s With A Mission (MWAM) in Pittsburgh, performing for the city’s elderly and infirmed. She is also a ringer with area school districts for their annual musical productions.

As an instructor, Janice has taught clarinet, saxophone, and flute privately for over two decades. She is currently an instructor at the Johnstonbaugh Music Center in Allison Park, PA, as well as the Boys and Girls Club in Carnegie, PA. Her teaching specialties not only include structure for beginning pupils but coaching for more advanced students for competitions, as well as college and ensemble auditions. An additional specialty is her knowledge of klezmer music, which has gained her a reputation as a class instructor with the Temple Emmanuel and Beth El Temple in the South Hills.


 

Rachael Stutzman Cohen

Focus Area: Woodwinds
Instruments: Clarinet and Saxophone
Rate: $30.25 per 30 minute lesson
Locations: Virtual

Federal Criminal
History Record Check

PA Child Abuse
History Check

PA Criminal
History Check

Rachael Stutzman is a passionate performer and avid teacher of music. She currently holds the position of Second Clarinet with the West Virginia Symphony Orchestra, and frequently performs with the Richmond Symphony Orchestra and the Sarasota Orchestra. Previously, Rachael held the position of Bass Clarinet with the Kansas City Symphony. She has also performed with such prestigious orchestras as the Pittsburgh Symphony, Pittsburgh Opera, Aspen Music Festival, and Britt Festival Orchestra and been led under the batons of Christoph von Dohnanyi, Gerard Schwarz, Tito Munos, and James Gaffigan. Rachael is proud to be a founding member of the Trillium Ensemble, Pittsburgh’s only flute, clarinet, and piano trio. Trillium allows Rachael to explore her enthusiasm for musical collaboration and support new music. The trio performs contemporary music across the Pittsburgh region and works with budding student musicians from middle school to college age. She has premiered works by Fernando Benadon, Federico Garcia, Mattew Heap, Mark Fromm, Scott Steele, and David Bennett Thomas. At the university level, Rachael has taught at Slippery Rock University (PA) as well as given masterclasses at Truman State University (MO) and the University of South Florida. She received her BFA and MAM from Carnegie Mellon University, where she studied with Thomas Thompson of the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra. Rachael has also studied with Ron Samuels, Dick Page, Dennis Smylie, and Paul Demers. When Rachael is not performing, she enjoys cooking with her husband and long-distance running.

 

Scott Albert

Focus Area: Woodwinds
Instruments: Saxophone
Rate: $28 per 30 minute lesson
Locations: Virtual, Allison Park

Federal Criminal
History Record Check

PA Child Abuse
History Check

PA Criminal
History Check

Scott is an elementary band director at Shaler Area Elementary School. His duties include directing the 4th, 5th and 6th grade bands as well as teaching some of the 4th and 5th grade strings. He is currently in his 13th year at Shaler.

Scott has been teaching clarinet and saxophone lessons at Johnstonbaughs since 2008. He has had many successful students from Deer Lakes, Fox Chapel, Hampton, Pine-Richland, and Shaler. Many of the junior high and senior high students Scott has worked with have been accepted into Alle-Valley honors band as well as PMEA festivals.

Scott teaches all grade levels of saxophone from beginners in 4th grade to high school students. Scott also teaches beginning and middle school level clarinet lessons.


 

Mike Menzietti

Focus Area: Woodwinds
Instruments: Saxophone
Rate: $27 per 30 minute lesson
Locations: Virtual, Golden Mile

Federal Criminal
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PA Child Abuse
History Check

PA Criminal
History Check

Michael is currently pursuing a Doctorate in Saxophone Performance from the University of Maryland in College Park where he was awarded a graduate Jazz Assistantship. During his time at the University of Maryland, Michael will be studying saxophone with Chris Vadala and Albert Regni. Michael has been teaching private lessons for 10 years and has 5 years of public school teaching experience. Michael has studied with saxophonists Steven Mauk, Keith Young, Curtis Johnson, and Chris Hemingway. He is a 2008 graduate of Ithaca College receiving a Master's Degree in Saxophone Performance and is a 2005 graduate of Indiana University of Pennsylvania with a bachelor’s degree in Music Education.

Brass - Trumpet, F Horn, Trombone/Low Brass

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Matt Pienkowski

Focus Area: Brass
Instruments: Trumpet
Rate: $29 per 30 minute lesson
Locations: Virtual, Golden Mile

Federal Criminal
History Record Check

PA Child Abuse
History Check

PA Criminal
History Check

Matt is currently the principal trumpet for the Washington Symphony. A graduate of West Virginia University and Carnegie Mellon University, Matt’s previous teachers include Neal Berntsen, George Vosburgh, John Winkler, David Hickman, and Paul Weber. Matt has maintained a trumpet studio since college and has had great success with his students placing in various orchestras and bands. Matt has performed all over the area playing with orchestras such as Wheeling, West Virginia, and Canton, Ohio. Recently married, Matt spends his free time lifting weights and with his wife, Christina.


 

Molly Zebell

Focus Area: Brass
Instruments: French Horn
Rate: $25 per 30 minute lesson
Locations: Virtual

Federal Criminal
History Record Check

PA Child Abuse
History Check

PA Criminal
History Check

Southwestern Michigan native Molly Zebell is a dedicated advocate for new and lesser known solo horn and chamber music and an active orchestral musician. She is currently performing as a member of the contemporary music ensemble NAT 28, based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, which strives to give the highest standard of performances of pieces both standard and new, but in evocative and innovative ways. Molly Zebell began her formal music education at Western Michigan University, where she received her Bachelors of Music in French Horn Performance under the guidance of Dr. Lin Foulk. Molly discovered a wealth of contemporary and non-standard horn literature during her undergraduate studies and became passionate about exploring the full range of horn repertoire, with works such as the Reinecke Clarinet and Horn Trio and Hindemith’s Horn Quartet as examples. This led her to the studio of prominent horn and choral composer, Dr. Paul Basler at the University of Florida. There, she pursued a master’s degree in Horn Performance with an emphasis on contemporary and 20th century recital repertoire, including Francois Poulenc’s Elegie, Yehuda Yannay’s “Hidden Melody” for Horn and Cello, and Primitive Modern for horn and tape by James Beckel. While at the University of Florida, she served as Principal Horn of orchestras and bands, and was honored with the opportunity to perform in the school’s endowed graduate chamber music program. Other noted orchestral horn appointments include the Orlando Philharmonic, Ocala Symphony, and the Gainesville Orchestra. Her enthusiasm for inspiring children to pursue music in all its forms is evident in her master classes for children, showcasing the history of the horn and small folk instruments. She has enjoyed teaching beginning students in her private studio as well as serving as a sectional teacher at Howard Bishop Middle School.


 

Amy Kuehn

Focus Area: Low Brass
Instruments: Trombone, Baritone/Euphonium, Tuba.
Rate: $25 per 30 minute lesson
Locations: Virtual, Golden Mile

Federal Criminal
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PA Child Abuse
History Check

PA Criminal
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Amy is originally from Northeast Ohio where she had the privilege to be an instrumental music teacher in the Parma City School District. During her tenure she held the position of High School Director of Bands, Assistant Director of Bands and director of Middle School/Elementary Bands.

As a private studio instructor, she encourages all her students to become active and productive members in their school ensembles while always continuing to focus on their individual musical development. She customizes lessons to suit each student's needs, ability levels and musical endeavors. Students that choose to pursue participation in enrichment ensembles are provided with the guidance necessary to prepare the required music and to have a positive experience. Beyond their school music programs her students achievements include membership in the Seton Hill Honors Band, Westmoreland County Honors Bands, All-Ohio State Fair Band, Cleveland Youth Wind Symphony, OMEA Honors Bands, Collegiate Honors Bands and participation in adjudicated events.

While teaching in Ohio she enjoyed performing with professional and civic ensembles. These ensembles include: Emperors of Swing, Gabriel's Horns, Seasonal Brass, The Cleveland Symphonic Winds, The Lakeland Community College Bands, The University of Akron Summer Brass Ensemble and various school/civic theatres. She is currently principal Euphonium with the Westmoreland Symphonic Winds and is performing locally with various civic ensembles including the Musicians Concert Band of Butler, PA.

Her academic history includes a BA of Music Education from Cleveland State University and an MA of Music Education from the The University of Akron. She studied trombone with Jim Taylor and Ed Zadrozny and studied Euphonium with Jim Taylor, Tucker Jolly and most recently Dr. Zach Collins.

Amy teaches three days a week in person and online through Johnstonbaughs Music Center. She is accepting students of all ages and ability levels for Euphonoium, Tuba and Trombone studies. In addition to performing she enjoys spending time cycling, hiking and cooking.

 

Ryan Moser

Focus Area: Brass
Instruments: Trombone / Low Brass
Rate: $28.50 per 30 minute lesson
Locations: Virtual, Allison Park

Federal Criminal
History Record Check

PA Child Abuse
History Check

PA Criminal
History Check

Ryan is a native of Pittsburgh having attended the Shaler Area School district. He attended the Indiana University of Pennsylvania as a Music Education major, and following graduation moved to Boston, Massachusetts. While in Boston, Ryan taught elementary and middle school band in the Brookline Public Schools. He also had the opportunity to study with Gabriel Langfur (bass trombone) of the Rhode Island Philharmonic and Vermont Symphony Orchestra. A short relocation to Columbus, Ohio allowed Ryan to work as a recruiter for The Ohio State University School of Music.

Strings - Violin, Viola, Cello

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Rachel Waldron-D'Abruzzo

Focus Area: Orchestral Strings
Instruments: Violin, Viola, Cello, Piano
Rate: $27 per 30 minute lesson
Locations: Virtual, Allison Park

Federal Criminal
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PA Child Abuse
History Check

PA Criminal
History Check

Rachel Waldron-D'Abruzzo's journey with the cello began at the age of eight, and since then she has been teaching and performing throughout the Pittsburgh area. Ms. D’Abruzzo’s education includes a Bachelor’s degree in Music from Duquesne University, where she studied with Mikhail Istomin from the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra and Paula Tuttle from the Pittsburgh Opera and Ballet. She graduated with her Master's degree from Duquesne University under the tutelage of Adam Liu of the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra. Ms. D’Abruzzo has performed in a variety of church venues, as well as concert series such as Bach, Beethoven, and Brunch. She has also performed in various string and piano ensembles throughout the Pittsburgh area.

When she isn’t performing, she teaches a variety of string and piano students throughout the Pittsburgh area. Many of her students have gone on to pursue music degrees with cello being their main focus. Ms. Waldron-D'Abruzzo has performed as a section cellist in a number of orchestras such as Johnstown, Westmoreland, Washington, and Butler. She has also performed in several summer festivals including the CLAZZ music festival (Arcidosso, Italy) and the Aruba Symphony Festival (Oranjestad, Aruba).


 

Olga Taimanov

Focus Area: Orchestral Strings
Instruments: Violin and Viola
Rate: $35.25 per 30 minute lesson
Locations: Virtual, Golden Mile

Federal Criminal
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PA Child Abuse
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PA Criminal
History Check

Olga Taimanov is a native of Leningrad and attended the Special Music School for Gifted Children in Leningrad, Russia. She graduated from Leningrad State Conservatory and earned her Artist Diploma from Duquesne University. Mrs. Taimanov has held numerous orchestral positions, such as Principal Violist of St. Petersburg Chamber Orchestra "Mozarteum", Principal Violist of the State Symphony Orchestra "Klassica", and Associate Principal Viola of the Israel Kibbutz Chamber Orchestra. Mrs. Taimanov’s orchestra experience also includes performances with the world renowned Leningrad Philharmonic Orchestra and the Israel Philharmonic Orchestra.She has performed under such great conductors as Zubin Mehta, Kurt Masur, Lorin Maazel, and Y. Temirkanov.

Mrs. Taimanov’s chamber music experience includes performing at many international chamber music festivals such as "Abu-Gosh" in Israel, "Villa Music" in Germany, "The White Nights" in Russia and "Goetehanum" in Switzerland. Mrs. Taimanov has received awards including winner of the Pittsburgh Concert Society Competition in 2001 and being nominated for the National All-American Scholar Collegiate Award in 2002. Mrs. Taimanov continues to be an active performer and teacher. Her busy schedule includes solo, chamber, and orchestral performances. In the past she performed with numerous orchestras around Pittsburgh, including Pittsburgh Opera as well as the Wheeling Symphony and Three Rivers City orchestra in WV. She is a former member of Erie Philharmonic, currently an associate member of the Columbus Symphony Orchestra, and a faculty member at Carnegie Mellon.

Percussion & Drum Set

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Justin Kelly

Focus Area: Percussion
Instruments: Percussion, Drum Set
Rate:
$32 per 30 minute lesson
$44 per 45 minute lesson
$57 per 60 minute lesson
Locations: Allison Park, Virtual

Federal Criminal
History Record Check

PA Child Abuse
History Check

PA Criminal
History Check

Justin Kelly is a drummer and percussionist performing and teaching the Pittsburgh area. After picking up the sticks for the first time in 5th grade, Justin went on to attend Carnegie Mellon University and Manhattan School of Music, studying with members of the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra, the New York Philharmonic, and Metropolitan Opera. Justin is equally at home playing in an orchestra, a jazz trio, or a recording studio, and can be seen doing all three in venues across the city. In addition to drumming, Justin enjoys writing, DJing, and an occasional game of chess.

Piano

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Melinda Plowman

Focus Area: Piano
Instruments: Piano
Rate: $25 per 30 minute lesson
Locations: Virtual, Golden Mile

Federal Criminal
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PA Child Abuse
History Check

PA Criminal
History Check

Melinda Plowman is a graduate of Clarion State University with a graduate study at Indiana University of PA. She is a trained classical pianist with extensive performance experience. She has taught piano privately for Larry Cervi School of Performing Arts, Murphy’s Music Studio, and Open Door Christian Academy. She is an accomplished accompanist for the Kiski Area High School and Junior High School Choirs. She previously accompanied Highlands, Leechburg, Apollo Ridge, and St. Joseph’s High School Choirs. Melinda has also accompanied several musicals, including: The Wizard of Oz, Footloose, Hello Dolly, Camelot, and My Fair Lady. She has also accompanied the Natrona Heights Rotary Club Concerts.


 

Cara Remaley

Focus Area: Piano
Instruments: Piano
Rate: $25 per 30 minute lesson
Locations: Virtual

Federal Criminal
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PA Child Abuse
History Check

PA Criminal
History Check

Cara, a Pittsburgh native, has been interested in music her whole life. Beginning with the flute at age 9, she took private lessons and played in her school's band and church's orchestra. After beginning the piano in high school, she decided to pursue her passion of music at Grove City College, where she graduated with a Bachelor's Degree of Music in 2011. During college, she played in Orchestra, Wind Ensemble, Concert Band, Flute Choir, and Flute Quartet. Upon graduation, Cara began teaching private flute and piano lessons, which she currently teaches at Johnstonbaugh's Music Center, averaging 20-30 students.

Beginning in 2013, Cara began her freelance performing career at local nursing homes in the Greater Pittsburgh Area. Currently, she performs at 25-30 nursing homes per month including assisted living, dementia care, and independent living facilities.

She also performs for Weddings Ceremonies and Cocktail Hours, Funeral/Memorial Services, and Special Events such as Art Shows, Anniversary Dinners, Phipps Conservatory, and Kentuck Knob.

In her spare time, Cara enjoys running, being involved with her church, and spending time with her fiance Philip and her 2 nieces.

Cara began working for Duquesne University's City Music Center in September 2019.

Cara is also a substitute flute player for the Edgewood Symphony Orchestra.

Rachel Waldron-D'Abruzzo

Focus Area: Orchestral Strings
Instruments: Violin, Viola, Cello, Piano
Rate: $27 per 30 minute lesson
Locations: Virtual, Allison Park

Federal Criminal
History Record Check

PA Child Abuse
History Check

PA Criminal
History Check

Rachel Waldron-D'Abruzzo's journey with the cello began at the age of eight, and since then she has been teaching and performing throughout the Pittsburgh area. Ms. D’Abruzzo’s education includes a Bachelor’s degree in Music from Duquesne University, where she studied with Mikhail Istomin from the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra and Paula Tuttle from the Pittsburgh Opera and Ballet. She graduated with her Master's degree from Duquesne University under the tutelage of Adam Liu of the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra. Ms. D’Abruzzo has performed in a variety of church venues, as well as concert series such as Bach, Beethoven, and Brunch. She has also performed in various string and piano ensembles throughout the Pittsburgh area.

When she isn’t performing, she teaches a variety of string and piano students throughout the Pittsburgh area. Many of her students have gone on to pursue music degrees with cello being their main focus. Ms. Waldron-D'Abruzzo has performed as a section cellist in a number of orchestras such as Johnstown, Westmoreland, Washington, and Butler. She has also performed in several summer festivals including the CLAZZ music festival (Arcidosso, Italy) and the Aruba Symphony Festival (Oranjestad, Aruba).

Voice

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Daphne Alderson

Focus Area: Voice
Instruments: Voice
Rate:
30 minute lesson: $30
45-minute lesson: $40
1 hour lesson: $50
Locations: Virtual

Federal Criminal
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PA Child Abuse
History Check

PA Criminal
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Daphne Alderson’s diverse career as lyric contralto includes opera, cabaret, oratorio, and chamber music. Her voice has been described as, “Haunting and mesmerizing.” Ted Sohier, (WQED-fm, Pittsburgh). In duo with accordionist Vladimir Mollov: “An original, unique artist in Pittsburgh, or anywhere ...beautiful renderings of French songs and Piaf,” (Pittsburgh City Paper, Andy Mulkerin). A passionate champion of cabaret genre, combined with theater has forged a unique path in the classical music scene. Stravinsky’s opera farce, MAVRA is a return to her roots in opera and a whole new exploration of the Russian repertoire. This production will be relaunched in the Fall of 2021.

The 2020 season held several new projects: THESE DAYS, Pittsburgh Festival Opera’s 2020 Festival, Cerverii Circus: Satie Souvenir (Lake George Summer Festival), Daphne and Dietrich, and Lenya In The Light...the world of Lotte Lenya. The Lenya and Dietrich programs are commissioned from Pittsburgh Festival Opera’s summer festival seasons.

Ms. Alderson debuted the role of Older Alice in Opera Theater of Pittsburgh’s acclaimed premiere of Gilda Lyons/Tammy Ryan’s: A NEW KIND OF FALLOUT, called “Haunting and memorable.”(Pittsburgh Tribune Review). Other PFO appearances include her celebrated, “Piaf at Carnegie Hall, 1956.” Her Madame Armfeldt in Sondheim’s A Little Night Music garnered: “Luscious, dark tones, an accomplished rendering.” (Pittsburgh Tribune Review and City Paper for Opera Theatre of Pittsburgh SummerFest). Other roles include Mere Jeanne in Pittsburgh Opera’s acclaimed production of Poulenc’s DIALOGUES OF THE CARMELITES, Microscopic Opera’s FANTASTIC MR. FOX (Agnes), Thomas Albert’s LIZBETH (Abby Borden) and the world premiere of NIGHT OF THE LIVING DEAD (Helen Cooper). Other recent credits include AINADAMAR with Quantum Theatre and Miss Baggott in Benjamin Britten’s LITTLE SWEEP.

A Hallelujah at Love Café is a celebration of new versions of the folk rock movement that Leonard Cohen helped to create. It also features songs of Joan Baez, Joni Mitchell and Judy Collins, moving her intimate contralto into a new realm:

Daphne and the St. Michel Chamber Band is a fusion of chamber music and folk/pop with John Marcinizyn, guitarist, Elisa Kohanski, cellist and accordionist Vladimir Mollov. Her latest recording, JOAN OF ARC was released world-wide: Piaf chansons and Leonard Cohen ballads. Ms. Alderson toured extensively through the Eastern U.S. in Songs That Oscar Taught Me, a cabaret style tribute to Oscar Hammerstein and All Hear, All Judy, the songs of Judy Garland, and A Girl In Paris, World War II...arranged by Douglas Levine.

A concert tour with Philadelphia based pianist Norma Meyer: WE REMEMBER...THE INNER LIFE OF ANNE FRANK (Carnegie Hall in Carnegie), featured works by Mahler, Poulenc, Weill and Michael Cohen’s stunning “I REMEMBER.” Her most recent recital of the French chansons of Debussy, Hahn and Faure in Philadelphia was featured in MauriceRiver Concerts.

Her duo with guitarist John Marcinizyn toured through parts of Central and South America, as musical ambassadors for the Institute for Shipboard Education. The Piaf concerts for the Pittsburgh Symphony’s Paris Festival hailed, “Not to be missed!” (Mark Kanny, Pittsburgh Tribune Review). Notable collaborations include Chatham Baroque, Bricolage Theater and IonSound Project. As private voice teacher and director of opera studies, she is emeritus faculty as Associate Professor of Voice and Opera at Seton Hill University, now actively maintains a private studio and is part of new faculty at Pittsburgh’s Johnstonbaugh Music School. She lives in Pittsburgh with husband John Marcinizyn and a striped cat named Viola.


Nicole Grillo

Focus Area: Vocal
Instruments: Voice
Rate: $30 per 30 minute lesson
Locations: Golden Mile, Virtual

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PA Criminal
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Nicole Grillo is a private teacher and performer in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. She holds her certification in vocal performance from the Curtis School of Music in Philidelphia, Pennsylvania, and her performing arts certification from New York University in New York, New York. She is working on her PHD from Los Angeles University and starting a new course at the Community College of Allegheny County. Nicole has taught at various places with children and adults of all ages. Her experience ranges in multiple genres of music. Some include Broadway, Classical and Opera to Country and Pop. Nicole started in music at an incredibly early age, and it has always been her passion. In middle and high school, Nicole was first-chair violinist and a soprano in the choir. She was involved in the PMEA concerts and performed at various theatres as well. Nicole’s main goal is to help students obtain the knowledge they will need in the industry and continue to prepare for auditions to get into the music school of their dreams and help people find passion and joy in their work. In her free time, Nicole enjoys helping with animals, baking, and spending time with friends and family.

 

Liz Rishel

Focus Area: Voice
Instruments: Voice
Rate: $25 per 30 minute lesson
Locations: Virtual

Federal Criminal
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PA Child Abuse
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PA Criminal
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Liz Rishel, a native of the Pittsburgh area, graduated with a Bachelors degree in Music Education from Duquesne University and regularly performs roles for Coloratura Soprano. She recently played Frasquita in Undercroft Opera’s Carmen, and Lady Psyche in The Pittsburgh Savoyards 2013 Production of Princess Ida.

In October of 2010, she and artistic partner Bonnie Bogovich composed, produced and performed their own original multi-media opera entitled Evenings in Quarantine: The Zombie Opera, which Rishel also costumed. Funded by generous grants from the Sprout Fund and the Heinz Endowments, the opera enjoyed remarkable success during it’s first sold-out run, prompting encore performances for two more consecutive seasons.

Liz also recently had the pleasure of costuming Opera Theater’s production of the Frank Lloyd Wright opera biography, The Shining Brow, which was performed in their annual Summerfest and also at Falling Water.

When she is not teaching or performing, Rishel frequently sews for business or pleasure, occasionally working with independent filmmakers and cosplayers. Her favorite roles include Mabel (Pirates of Penzance), The Five-Year-Old (The Proposal), and Antonia (Man of LaMancha).

Guitar

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Mark Antonich

Focus Area: Guitar
Instruments: Guitar
Rate: $30 per 30 minute lesson
Locations: Virtual

Federal Criminal
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PA Child Abuse
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PA Criminal
History Check

Mark Antonich preaches his love of guitar and music in many places. He is an adjunct faculty member in the music departments of Westminster College, Thiel College, and Waynesburg University. ln addition to his guitar duties at these schools, he also teaches jazz improvisation, guitar master classes, group guitar class, and guitar ensemble.

Born and raised in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Mark received his undergraduate degree in music from the University of Pittsburgh and a master's degree in music theory from Duquesne University. He also graduated from the Guitar lnstitute of Technology in Los Angeles, California. While studying at the Guitar lnstitute in Los Angeles, Mark was voted one of the Outstanding Students of the Year. Los Angeles studio guitarist, Tommy Tedesco, presented him with a brand new ovation guitar as his award. ln phoenix, Arizona, Mark also had the opportunity to attend and perform in masterclasses with jazz guitar legends, Howard Roberts, Herb Ellis, and Barney Kessel.

As a guitarist, Mark is a freelance musician throughout the tri-state area of Pennsylvania, Ohio, and West Virginia. He has worked in the pit bands for numerous shows and musicals such as Grease, working, Godspell, Bye Bye Birdie, and The Trailer Park Musical. ln 2007, Mark toured and performed with, "The New Holidays" vocal group. That same year he recorded and contributed musical arrangements to the Holidays newest CD, "Why Do Fools Fall ln Love." The CD was released throughout the United States by the independent record label, "Collectible Records" and received extensive airplay on many oldies radio stations.

Mark is currently performing and recording as a founding member of the Westminster Faculty Jazz Quartet. They perform many concerts throughout the area while conducting master classes and seminars at schools in the Pennsylvania/Ohio region.

Matt Korbanic

Focus Area: Guitar
Instruments: Guitar, Bass guitar, Ukulele
Rate: $27 for 30 minute lessons
Locations: Virtual, Allison Park, Golden Mile

Federal Criminal
History Record Check

PA Child Abuse
History Check

PA Criminal
History Check

“Exceptional talent with virtuoso technique” writes Mike Cimballa, music critic and violinist with the Charlotte Symphony of his lyrical interpretations of his music. Born and educated in Pittsburgh, Matthew Korbanic has earned a masters degree in classical guitar performance from Carnegie Mellon University. Some of his noted teachers have been Dr. Nathan Davis, James Ferla, and Joe Negri. As a player on the newly innovated 8 string “Brahms” style guitar by Paul Galbraith, he has toured the east coast and mid-west and has received grants to study with Mr. Galbraith. He has been a return performer with the Three Rivers Arts Festival, the Pittsburgh Opera, and the Pittsburgh Arts Council. As a soloist and as a member of a flute and guitar duo, he has been presented live on WQED-FM in Pittsburgh. He has released a CD of original guitar compositions through his own record label titled “Orbit”. Click here to visit his website.


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Act 33/34

Federal Criminal History Record Check, PA Child Abuse History Check, PA Criminal History Check:

This means that the teacher has received Act 33/34 Clearances from the State of Pennsylvania. Act 33/34 Clearances are designed to ensure that people who work with children have a record clear of child abuse and crime. All schools in Pennsylvania require that teachers and school staff have Act 33/34 Clearances. In June of 2005, Johnstonbaugh’s Music Centers implemented a policy that all new teachers are required to have Act 33/34 Clearances.

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