John O'Leary

John O’Leary

is a professional saxophonist and music educator with over 15 years of performing and teaching experience on piano, saxophone, clarinet, and flute. He received his Bachelors of Music from Florida State University and obtained his Masters of Music from the Manhattan School of Music both for jazz saxophone performance.

During his time at MSM, he studied directly under many jazz legends and was fortunate to perform in some of the biggest jazz clubs in New York City. Over the years, between playing on cruise ships for a year, and moving between NYC, Miami, and Atlanta, John has had a lot of amazing musical adventures: from teaching summers in the Adirondack Mountains of Upstate New York, to playing lead alto for an international Broadway Tour, to holding a weekly Bossa Nova Brunch in South Beach Miami, and touring Canada with a NYC-based funk band. He’s got plenty of stories to tell, and more importantly, many life lessons to share!

As an educator, John is influenced by his work as a contemporary musician with conservatory training. Because of his education and varied performing experience, John puts the focus on practical, real-world techniques that are rooted in traditional methods. This way, you’re not only learning all the “classical” skills like reading music, analyzing theory, and technical mastery; you’ll also develop your ear so you can play without sheet music, you’ll learn about songwriting and improvisation so you can write your own music or jam with others, you’ll study current music styles/trends, so you can understand not only the foundations of music and how to play your instrument, but how to play music like today’s top performers, and how to have all the tools necessary to do anything you want musically!

INSTRUMENTS.

Band Coaching, Clarinet, Composition, Flute, Music Theory, Piano, Saxophone, Songwriting, Woodwinds, Audition/Performance Prep.

STYLES.

Jazz, Rock, Pop, Blues, Funk, R&B, Soul, Brazillian, Classical

REQUIREMENTS.

Students all ages & abilities welcome!

CONNECT.

TESTIMONIALS.

"His teaching style balances fun and productivity perfectly"

- Jessey

“‘John Woodwinds’ was a great mentor. He taught me a lot about saxophone, jazz performance, and theory."

- Louis

"He was fun, helpful, and renewed my interest in music"

- James

"John is an amazing teacher who has helped me hone in on my skills on tenor sax and build confidence in playing jazz music and improvising."

- Jess

"I loved working with John because he made me feel confident and excited about music and my passion for jazz"

- Rebecca

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Alek Gayton

Alek Gayton

has been playing music for as long as he can remember. Learning music through his family's music collection and playing on his grandmother's piano. By the time he was old enough to play drums he had immersed himself in all things music, playing in ensembles at school and forming his first band in the 7th grade, playing shows in the local punk rock scene.

Since those early experiences he has been performing and recording professionally, earning his B.A in Music from Eastern Washington University and his M.M in Jazz and Improvised Music from the University of Washington.

Over the last decade Alek has performed locally and nationally with a wide variety of artists. His flexible playing style has led to a wide range of performance opportunities, including playing with Le Grotto, Delvon Lamar, The Bob Curnow Big Band, Ernie Watts, Mike Stern and the Seahawks Drumline. These opportunities have led to performances at notable events such as Monterey Jazz Festival's Next Generation, South by Southwest, The New Orleans Jazz Festival, MNF on ESPN and several US and West Coast tours. His drumming can be heard on the Erina song Home, which is featured on HBO’s Cherish the Day.

As an educator, Alek possesses the flexibility to teach to each individual student. Every student has different interests and goals. He believes in giving students the opportunity to explore and create on their instrument, while focusing on strong fundamentals. He additionally puts emphasis on learning songs and playing along with music, while learning about the history of the band or artist with his students. (Alek loves music history!)

INSTRUMENTS.

Drums (kit), Melodic Percussion, Digital Composition, Piano, Percussion, Audition/Performance Prep, Band Coaching

STYLES.

Soul, R&B, Jazz, Pop, Folk, Rock

REQUIREMENTS.

Students 7 and up — all skill levels & abilities welcome!

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TESTIMONIALS.

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Tyler Parker

TYLER PARKER

(originally from Naperville, IL) is an experienced cellist and piano player whose musicianship led him to a full ride study at Florida State University. Tyler's teaching style focuses on the form and technique of the student.

Tyler believes that “music is constantly evolving with us. Therefore, we should evolve how we teach music”. In that spirit, he works with students to feel the music they are playing and expands to fit the needs and styles of each individual. 

Outside of the studio, you can find Tyler continuing his journey as a forever learner as a student of meditation and music engineering.

INSTRUMENTS.

Cello, Piano, Music Theory, Music Production, Digital Composition, and Audition/Performance Prep.

STYLES.

Classical and Modern Pop.

REQUIREMENTS.

Tyler accepts piano students of all levels and Intermediate cello students!

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TESTIMONIALS.

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Andy Zabinski

Andy Zabinski

is an energetic performer and enthusiastic educator with over a decade of experience. He holds both a bachelor's and master’s in violin performance as well as a master's degree in music composition. Andy is a natural born educator who deeply cares about each person in his studio. 

In his lessons, Andy carefully zeroes in on what resonates with the learner. He strongly believes that a positive relationship between teacher and student is just as important as the material being studied. Andy balances hard work with fun, keeping students engaged and interested!

When Andy isn’t teaching, you can find him refining his cooking skills and studying astronomy. And fun fact - he once performed with Taylor Swift on TV!

INSTRUMENTS.

Violin, Fiddle, and Mountain Dulcimer.

STYLES.

Classical, Rock, Blues, Pop, Jazz, Bluegrass, and Country.

REQUIREMENTS.

Students of all ages and abilities welcome!

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TESTIMONIALS.

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Jeremiah Hobbs

JEREMIAH HOBBS

is a teaching artist and songwriter who grew up just down the road in Newnan, GA. Spanning almost a decade now, Jeremiah’s teaching experience started with summer camp (he’s already become an Eclectic Music camp fave) and includes guitar, musical theatre, sports, and art! 

Jeremiah’s career has taken him to New York and back! During his stint in the Big Apple, he wrote a musical that was accepted into the New York Musical Theatre Festival in 2015. 

As a teacher, Jeremiah wants to connect with his students, learn what motivates them, and structure lessons around what each student enjoys. He wants to get to know you so that he can encourage you to make the music that brings YOU joy! 

When Jeremiah isn’t at the studio, you can find him at home with his beautiful wife and sweet little tot creating art, blowing bubbles, and making music as a family.

INSTRUMENTS.

Guitar, Bass, Ukulele, Songwriting, and Melodic Percussion.

STYLES.

Pop, Rock, Folk, and Musical Theatre.

REQUIREMENTS.

Students all ages & abilities welcome!

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TESTIMONIALS.

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Rachel Ofotokun

Rachel Ofotokun

is a composer and pianist from Lilburn, Georgia. Rachel comes from a musical family and has been engaging with music and composition since age 6, starting with piano lessons and adding cello to the mix in middle school. She holds a bachelor’s degree in music composition and African studies from Emory University. Rachel enjoys classical, experimental, pop, jazz, gamelan, and afro-influenced music. 

Lessons with Rachel are incredibly flexible and goal-oriented. She focuses on building (and reaching) long and short-term goals based on a student's desires and working as a team to achieve them in the most fun way possible! Rachel believes music lessons should be an outlet and safe space where students can spend time pursuing something they want for themselves. As is our mission at Eclectic Music, Rachel works to decolonize the music classroom. 

Outside of the studio, you can find Rachel crocheting, tending to her plants, redecorating her apartment, and sipping tea. She looks forward to making empathic connections with her students!

INSTRUMENTS.

Piano, Playground, Cello, Songwriting, Compositon, Digital Composition, Music Production, Music Theory.

STYLES.

Classical, Experimental, Pop, Rock, Jazz.

REQUIREMENTS.

Students all ages & abilities welcome!

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TESTIMONIALS.

Coming Soon!

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Taryn Antrobus

Taryn Antrobus

joins us from Nashville by way of Cleveland. She has had a love for music from a very young age and grew up in an extremely musical environment. After studying Music Business & Entertainment Industry studies, Taryn fell in love with the art of songwriting and performance. She is actively releasing her own music and honing her craft on stage, in the studio, and in songwriting circles.

In her lessons, Taryn promotes a unique learning environment where she focuses on the student's individual needs for their musical development. She believes that teaching opens two avenues - one for the student to expand their mind and form an appreciation for music and one for the teacher to be reminded of why they fell in love with music in the first place. Taryn recognizes that there are equal opportunities for growth for her and her students, both working to recognize potential change in themselves. 

When she’s not performing, writing, or teaching, you can find Taryn experimenting in the kitchen, cozying up with a good book, or enjoying the outdoors. Taryn is excited to help her students nurture their creativity and pursue their natural passion!

INSTRUMENTS.

Guitar, Voice, Piano, Songwriting, Ukulele, Playground, Audition/Performance Coaching, Percussion, and Drums.

STYLES.

Pop, Indie, Singer/Songwriter, Folk, Rock, Americana, R&B, and Soul.

REQUIREMENTS.

Taryn works best with students age 7 and older!

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TESTIMONIALS.

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Hannah Lake

Hannah Lake

is an actor, singer, dancer and teaching artist who loves plants, yoga, and of course, music! She always strives to be kind and encouraging to every young artist - just as her very first piano teacher was to her. Hannah believes that hard work and a can-do attitude are more important than talent alone.

As a teacher, Hannah loves activating the imagination, especially when playing and working creatively with young students. She recognizes that children have a super power in exploring the world with reckless, joyful abandon! Hannah strives to incorporate that into her lessons in any way possible and aims to have her students smiling and giggling so that they feel empowered and open to learn (and keep learning)!

Aside from teaching and performing, Hannah loves to get creative in all forms, including painting, baking, cooking, and photography!

INSTRUMENTS.

Voice, Piano, Ukulele, Playground.

STYLES.

Musical Theatre, Pop, Country, Rock.

REQUIREMENTS.

Students all ages & abilities welcome!

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TESTIMONIALS.

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Guy Strauss

Guy Strauss

has over 20 years of professional experience as a touring musician and session drummer for various major label and independent artists. He has been an educator for over 15 years, teaching private lessons as well as music classes at Academe Of The Oaks where he serves as the Music Department Chair. Guy shares his passion for music and his real world experience of being an active working musician with his students. Lessons focus on independence, technique, notation, rudiments, musicality and song based learning. 

As a performer Guy has appeared on film soundtracks and has played internationally opening for acts such as Elvis Costello, Muse, Cheap Trick, The Fray, The Wallflowers, The Cranberries, Blur and many others.

Guy holds an Associate of Arts Degree from Miami Dade Community College, and completed the certificate program at Drummers Collective in NYC. He has studied with many prominent drummers including Steve Rucker (University of Miami Professor , and Bee Gees drummer), Mike Clark (Herbie Hancock), Marvin ‘Smitty’ Smith (Tonight Show Band).

Guy’s goal is for lessons to be fun, educational and practical. His students will learn about rhythm, counting, reading standard notation, technique, independence, time keeping skills, dynamics, feel, song form, ear training and general musicianship. We will explore these concepts through written exercises, rudiments, books, and of course by playing along to songs. Once the student has developed a solid foundation, the focus will shift to more of the students personal musical interests and goals.

INSTRUMENTS.

Drums, percussion, piano, music production and band coaching.

STYLES.

Rock, pop, funk, R&B, jazz, blues, and world music.

REQUIREMENTS.

Ages 7 and up, all skill levels.

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TESTIMONIALS.

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Ian Payne

Ian Payne

has been a musician for most of his life. He began taking piano lessons when he was seven and has continued his studies ever since. In high school, he played piano and electric bass in numerous rock, jazz and bluegrass groups. He also sang in choirs and a capella groups, and acted in a number of musicals with local Atlanta theater companies. Ian went on to receive his BA in Jazz Studies from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in May of 2021. At UNC, he played piano in the University Jazz Combos and electric bass in the Carolina Bluegrass Band for four consecutive semesters.

Today, Ian is an experienced jazz and pop/rock pianist, and a practiced bassist and singer. He has been teaching piano, bass, voice, and other instruments for the past three years. When Ian isn’t teaching lessons, he is touring or recording as the keyboardist and singer for the Atlanta-based rock act, Frute. In addition to being the band’s keyboardist and singer, he is also one of their mixing engineers and producers. He has mixed and mastered much of the material off of Frute’s studio albums and is knowledgeable in the field of music production.

Ian believes that allowing a student to pursue and explore their own interests is one of the most important aspects of music instruction. He likes to begin lessons with new students by asking what they would like to learn and what their goals are. He then spends some time in each lesson practicing material chosen by the student to make the lessons fun and engaging. Alongside this student-chosen material, he assigns material based upon the student's strengths and weaknesses to improve their skills and technique.

Ian typically dedicates a portion of a lesson to material that the student is interested in, a portion to material which Ian believes will be beneficial, and then dedicates some time to discussing or practicing exercises to advance their technique, aural skills, and knowledge of music theory. During lessons, Ian always offers positive encouragement for the student. Furthermore, he tries to exhibit his passion and infinite interest in music which he hopes will rub off on the student and inspire a parallel interest.

INSTRUMENTS.

Guitar, Electric Bass, Piano, Songwriting, Instrument and Singing

STYLES.

Jazz, Rock, Bluegrass, Pop, Funk, Other Contemporary Genres (Singer/Songwriter, Folk, Blues

REQUIREMENTS.

Students all ages & abilities welcome!

CONNECT.

TESTIMONIALS.

"Ian is very knowledgeable and personable. He allows me the opportunity to
learn at my pace while still challenging me to achieve the goals that we
have set forth. I am loving the progress we are making. Would recommend to
everyone, and am looking to continue working with him in the future for
more lessons."

- Drayton

"Ian is an amazing instructor. He has been working with my four year old
son. Ian is so patient and gentle. He is flexible and works soo well with
my toddler. My son is learning songs and enjoys playing the piano. The
homework assigned is easy for us parents to follow and help my young son."

- Dana

"Ian is knowledgeable and enthusiastic. He is willing to listen to my
desires & goals and cater the lessons to my needs."

- Linda

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Ethan Heyenga

Ethan Heyenga

has spent most of his life making music, since he first touched his family's upright piano at the age of four. Growing up as an only child with two dogs and an endless parade of cats for company, he would amuse himself for long periods of time by improvising scores to imagined films or listening to his parents' CD collection, where Bach and Beethoven bumped elbows with the Beatles, Ray Charles, Bob Dylan and Miles Davis.

He often tricked his first piano teacher into playing a piece for him once to demonstrate, listening and learning by ear- he didn't like reading music, and found it easier to learn that way. He would also change notes in pieces he knew, wondering what it would sound like if it were done differently. In middle school, he picked up the saxophone, discovered jazz, and found a new outlet for the creative impulse in improvisation.

A teenage love affair with jazz led to Berklee College of Music and six years spent in Boston, rehearsing and gigging with brilliant musicians and teachers, studying jazz and Celtic music and beginning to write and produce songs. Since leaving Boston in 2017, Ethan has finished five EPs of his own and helped his students record and release a combined three EPs, plus ten or so singles.

Ethan believes that improvisation and composition are essentials for all musicians- analogous to speaking and writing for natural languages. A system of education that fails to develop those capacities in musicians is almost worthless- the same as teaching children to do nothing but recite essays and poems. If the idea is to set someone up for a musical life, they need to be able to follow their ears and express their own ideas.

With that in mind, Ethan aims to help each student develop a project-based practice that includes all four arts of music- improvisation, composition, arranging and performance/interpretation- and the "fifth art," listening. The idea is for each student to become a creative, thoughtful and self-sufficient musician who can fold music into their life and their life into their music- a defender of humanity- and to smile and laugh the whole way through.

INSTRUMENTS.

Guitar, Saxophone, Piano, Songwriting and Voice

STYLES.

Jazz, rock, pop, folk, classical (piano), the various "indie" styles

REQUIREMENTS.

Students ages 6 and up

CONNECT.

TESTIMONIALS.

"I have studied saxophone, jazz piano/theory, and songwriting with Ethan for over 2 years, and he is the best music instructor I've ever had. He cares so much about his students and helps us thrive. Not only is Ethan my teacher, he is a friend and a mentor."

-Isabelle, student (age 17)

"It is not hard to find a teacher who teach your child music notes, piano hand position, and all the theories. But it took me a long time to find Ethan who also teaches my child to feel music, express his feelings through music, and how to enjoy having music in his life."

-Chelsea, parent of Remy (age 6)

"Of all the instructors I have ever had, there has never been one that I felt cared about my growth as a musician as much as Ethan. Not only did he help my growth as a saxophonist, but myself as a musician and enjoyer of music as an art. He helped me find what I wanted to sound like and the music I wanted to make."

-Ethan, student (age 18)

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William Sandberg

William Sandberg

is a multi-instrumentalist and composer. He can always find a way to make music with whatever is available, whether it's an instrument or not (though he has a lot of instruments too). Whether a violin, a cereal bowl, or the sounds of summer cicadas, it's all an instrument to him. He's a fan of musicians like Chris Thile, Imogen Heap, Hiromi Uehara, Motoro Faam, Muse, Prokofiev, Andy Akiho, and so many more!

William graduated with a Masters in Music in Composition from the University of Wisconsin - Madison. He is an active composer and performer and has stumbled into performance opportunities in Tokyo, Seoul, and Taipei, as well as intentionally in the continental US. He especially loves collaborating with other musicians and sharing in his passion for music with everyone he meets. He likes to tell stories with his music, starting from a core emotion. He loves to listen to his listeners' interpretations of his music, creating their own stories from his music based on their own experiences.

William wants to inspire a love of music and encourage exploration and experimentation in each of his students. He started violin when he was 5 years old taking lessons from a strict Russian teacher because his mom told him to. This granted him a strong technical foundation. However, when he was given an electric guitar at the age of 15, he discovered his own love for music. William's goal as a teacher is to provide the structure and technical skills he learned from his classical training; not as restraints, but as support in guiding his students' on their musical journeys.

INSTRUMENTS.

Electric and Acoustic Guitar, Mandolin, Piano, Violin, Viola, Cella, Electric Bass, Ukulele, and Voice

STYLES.

Folk, Rock, Jazz, Indie, Pop, Metal, Classical, and Contemporary

REQUIREMENTS.

Students of all ages & abilities welcome!

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TESTIMONIALS.

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Archie O'Neal

Archie o’neal

owns too many basses. How many basses can one person possibly need? One, sure; two, why not; but four? Such a bass hog! Save some for the fishes. And the worst part is that he also spends so much time playing and teaching drums/percussion, guitar, piano, mandolin, accordion, and clarinet that he can't even play his basses all the time. Think of all those beautiful instruments collecting dust while he fritters away his time on the other instruments. What a waste! But until Archie grows several more arms, that's just the way it's going to be. 

Archie grew up listening to the Beatles and still does, sometimes, but also gets down to Tigran Hamasyan, Fiona Apple, System of a Down, Michael Franks, Debussy, and much more. He has written, recorded, and produced many albums himself and with bands, and one of his favorite listener responses to his music is: "But... why?"

The most important thing to Archie as a teacher is that his students enjoy playing music and feel both comfortable and inspired to pursue any musical interests that catch their ears. He is a music theory nerd, so with students who are interested in the whys, he fosters discussions of how what they're playing now relates to what they've played before and music as a whole. With students who just love playing, he poses new challenges every lesson and tries to give some sense of direction in developing technique (while also sneaking a little theory in).

INSTRUMENTS.

Piano, accordion, mandolin, electric guitar, acoustic guitar, drums, upright bass, electric bass, band coaching.

STYLES.

Rock, Jazz, Pop, Metal, Bluegrass, Funk, Folk

REQUIREMENTS.

Students of all abilities, ages 6 and up.

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TESTIMONIALS.

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Jimmy King

Jimmy King

There is a distinct difference between musicians who play for profit and musicians who play for the passion of the craft. Jimmy King is a musician who fits solidly in the latter category. He discovered music in middle school as a way to follow in his brother’s footsteps, but he ended up carving out a niche for himself that shows not only his musical style but demonstrates his passion in a way that moves his audience every time he picks up his instrument.

Jimmy, a well-known Atlanta-based musician, earned his Bachelor’s of Arts in Music/Trumpet Performance from Morehouse College and his Master’s degree in Jazz Studies from Georgia State University. He has performed and recorded with Angie Stone, PJ Morton, Monica, Mary J. Blige, John Legend, David Banner, and Janelle Monae, among a host of other artists. Currently, Jimmy and his trumpet are gracing the world on tour behind Grammy-award winning artist Bruno Mars, with whom he has been working for over eight years.

Jimmy's teaching style is simple. Meet you where you are and challenge you to new heights. He believes that no matter your life goals there are a lot of great life lessons that can be learned from playing an instrument. He will always encourage his students to know its okay to make mistakes, giving up is not an option and that you always strive for your best.

INSTRUMENTS.

Trumpet.

STYLES.

Jazz, Classical, Soul, Funk, Pop and Rock.

REQUIREMENTS.

Students all ages & abilities welcome!

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TESTIMONIALS.

Jimmy is an exceptional teacher, both in technique and his ability to relate to me, and calm me down when I get frustrated. Just a really great guy, and an awesome teacher!

-Xavier, Adult Eclectic Music Student

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Kathleen Lang

Kathleen Lang

Kathleen studied classical piano from the age of 6 through high school. She also loved singing and ballet. In college, she changed her focus from piano to musical theater. Right after college, she enjoyed many years of singing and dancing professionally in musical theater productions, in theme parks and on cruise ships. She's been very fortunate because music has always been a major part of her life. She's been teaching with Eclectic Music since 2009 and has built many long-standing relationships with students and their families.

The best way to describe Kathleen's teaching style is a combination of thoroughness and patience. Since more advanced skills are built on the building blocks of basic skills, she makes absolutely sure the basics are understood and mastered before moving on. Everyone learns differently, and she loves to figure out the best way to approach concepts for each individual student.

INSTRUMENTS.

Piano, Voice, & Audition/Performance Preparation.

STYLES.

Classical, Pop, Musical Theatre, & Rock.

REQUIREMENTS.

Kathleen loves beginners aged 6 and above. She also has a lot of experience with more experienced students, perfecting music-reading and dynamic skills.

CONNECT.

TESTIMONIALS.

“Three years ago we were introduced to Kathleen Lang. What a blessing she has become. I’m not sure what I would have done without her during the middle school years. She is not only an amazing piano teacher she is also a true friend to my daughter. An adult she can confide in, one who listens and cares about her wellbeing. Over the years, my daughter has had a typical love hate relationship with learning to play the piano. All of that stopped when she began to play with Kathleen. Now that she’s in high school and her schedule has become pretty hectic, she has dropped several activities but, the one thing that she is still personally committed to are her lessons with Kathleen. It’s SOOO much more than just playing the piano. “

Holly, Parent of Gigi, 15, student for three years.

“When I was first interested in learning to play the piano I decided I wanted to take lessons. I had a very close friend who was just learning as well, and she recommended me to Kathleen. I am so infinitely grateful I decided to take lessons from her because not only did she prove to be an exceptional teacher, but also an exceptional friend for me and my family. That was almost 9 years ago. Today, because of Kathleen, music is a very big part of my life. She taught me musicianship, and the joy of being able to play an instrument and participate in the art of creating music. I would recommend her as a teacher to absolutely anyone of any age wanting to learn to play the piano. She is patient, kind, and incredibly sweet. Kathleen is one of those teachers you will never forget, because she is truly one of a kind. “

- Owen (student for 7 years), age 17

“Kathleen has been teaching my son for six years, from the time he was seven years old. Her intuitive style and also her structure enabled him to grow into the musician he is today. Kathleen is patient, knows what he can do and holds him accountable. Over the years they have developed a true rapport that is exactly what you want with a music teacher who is one of the only teachers who can have a long term teaching relationship with your child. He has continued beyond the five year promise we originally set thanks to Kathleen's influence and ability to help him discover his own love for the piano. "

- Krista, Parent of Ari

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Sarah Dempster

Sarah Dempster

is a Playground teacher with Eclectic Music. She has been singing since she could talk and draws on her strong background in choral music, musical theatre, and piano when working with students. Along with working at Eclectic, Sarah also sings in the Chancel Choir and the Chamber Chorale at Peachtree Presbyterian Church, as well as mentors the youth choir and handbell groups. Additionally, she runs theatre summer camps with City of Sandy Springs, working with students ranging from preschool to high school. In her free time she is a hobby costumer and can frequently be found bent over her sewing machine, replicating costumes from her favorite movies and television shows.

Above all, Sarah believes in developing a lifelong love of making music, because everyone has the ability to be a musician. She prioritizes making lessons a fun and stress-free environment to allow her students to discover a passion for both understanding and making music. She also takes into account the unique strengths and learning styles of each student, as well as their goals for the program, to ensure they develop the foundational tools necessary to keep making music.

INSTRUMENTS.

Playground.

STYLES.

Playground, Pop, Classical, Musical Theatre

REQUIREMENTS.

Students all ages & abilities welcome!

CONNECT.

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Libby Nation

LIBBY NATION

is a versatile music educator, teaching a multitude of instruments and skills with Eclectic Music and an internationally touring multi-instrumentalist and singer. She has performed at Carnegie Hall, Ryman Auditorium, Wembley Stadium, The Hollywood Palladium, The Ellen Show, The Late Show with David Letterman, The Jay Leno Show, Late Night with Conan O’Brien, and concerts throughout Europe, Japan, and China. She currently performs as guitarist, mandolinist, pianist/keyboardist, and vocalist with the Chuck Nation Band.

Libby is passionate about helping students discover the joy of learning music through lessons that benefit for a lifetime. Her creative teaching methods, success rate with so many students and their families, and her ability to impart joy in learning have made her a favorite, in-demand teacher at Eclectic Music since 2011.

Libby believes that regardless of age, experience, or aptitude, all students can enjoy learning and gain a level of satisfaction on a musical instrument. The learning plan is tailored for each student’s individual interests and needs. The learning environment is comfortable enough for students to ask questions, take on new challenges, build confidence, and learn at an enjoyable pace.

INSTRUMENTS.

Acoustic Guitar, Piano, Voice, Electric Bass, Mandolin, Ukulele, Songwriting, Band Coaching.

STYLES.

Jazz, Blues, Bluegrass, Country, Folk, Americana, Pop, Rock, Singer/Songwriter.

REQUIREMENTS.

Students all ages & abilities welcome!

CONNECT.

TESTIMONIALS.

"Libby has been incredibly inspirational for our daughter. The level of confidence, passion, and drive that our daughter portrays is tremendous. Libby has an amazing way of connecting with children to pull out the best of them as individuals. Libby is truly a part of our daughter's love of music and she holds a dear place in not only our daughter's heart but our hearts as well.”

- Jenna and Ryan, parents of ukulele & voice student, age 8

"Libby has a unique talent for teaching teenagers and knows how to challenge her students. She's really helped my daughter discover the joy of playing piano without the pressure of being perfect. As a result, my daughter's mastery of piano has improved dramatically—she is confident and really enjoys playing, which is a priceless gift.”

- Elizabeth, parent of piano student, age 16

"Ms. Libby has unique teaching methods as well as tailored techniques for the young mind. As a result, my 6 year old, has a pure joy for piano and doesn't see lessons nor practice as a chore or bore but enjoys her daily practice (without reminders, I must say) and weekly lessons with Ms. Libby.  Not only is it Ms. Libby's integration of games, technology balanced with some traditional teaching, it's her sweet, humble, patient and fun spirit that makes her an amazing instructor for kids of all ages!”

- Melissa, parent of piano & voice student, age 6

"I have had several music teachers over the years, but Libby Nation is the best. By far.”

- Dennis, adult mandolin & bass student

"Libby is the best voice teacher I've ever worked with! There is so very much to singing, and I never feel judged or afraid to sing anything. Singing is such a fun thing to do. Libby is so super talented, patient, and kind. It's a pleasure to study under her!”

- Beth, adult voice & guitar student

"Having been impressed with the progress my son was making in his training with Libby, I saw the opportunity to pick up the guitar and begin playing again.”

- Pete, adult guitar student

"Without Libby our children would have lost interest in lessons years ago.”

- Meg, parent of piano students, ages 8 and 9

"We consider Libby to be a part of our family. She has worked with our three kids (ages 8, 10, 12) since the oldest was 6. Libby is an amazing musician who can play anything! She helps your child find the instrument that best suits him or her and in the process challenges them and builds their self confidence. You will not find a finer teacher anywhere!!”

- Jane, parent of piano, guitar, drums, & bass students, ages 8, 10, 12

TIME TO LEARN MORE!

Laura Benjamin

LAURA BENJAMIN

is a teacher of piano, voice, and guitar with Eclectic Music and has been involved in music education in various capacities for the past 15 years. She holds her undergraduate degree from Yale University with a major in history, but music has always been her passion; her most formative involvement in college was with her pop a cappella group Out of the Blue. Laura has taught piano, voice, and guitar lessons for many years, specializing in the intersection of singing and playing; many of her students are aspiring performers who learn to sing and accompany themselves. When not teaching young musicians, Laura spends her time raising her 4- and 6-year-old boys and playing music with her husband in their duo “LB Collective” or with their full band; she also enjoys running, biking and playing volleyball.

Laura tries to meet her students where they are at, so they can work together to figure out goals and strategies for attaining those goals. She really enjoys working with students who enjoy playing and singing, either piano or guitar. She is also willing to teach a chordal approach to instruments, especially for singers who really want to learn to accompany themselves effectively, although she will also try to throw in some solid music-reading and theory as well.

INSTRUMENTS.

Piano, Voice, Guitar, Band Coaching.

STYLES.

Singer/Songwriter, Pop/Rock, Musical Theatre, Jazz, Country, Beginner Classical.

REQUIREMENTS.

Students all ages & abilities welcome!

CONNECT.

LISTEN.

TIME TO LEARN MORE!

Julia Metry Johnson

JULIA METRy Johnson

is a Voice, Piano and Playground teacher with Eclectic Music, as well as an opera singer based in Atlanta that performs locally and globally. She was most recently seen in Atlanta as Violetta Valery in Verdi’s La traviata with Capitol City Opera. Ms. Metry made her debut in Italy aslo as Violetta Valery (La Traviata) with the Mediterranean Opera Studio Festival in Caltagirone, Sicily. While in Sicily, she also performed the role of Suor Genoveffa (Suor Angelica) and in concert. Ms. Metry made her NYC debut as Pamina (Die Zauberflöte) and had the privilege to sing in concert at Carnegie Hall.

She has performed other various roles including: Leïla (Les pêcheurs de perles) and Musetta (La bohème) with Capitol City Opera; Estelle (The Stronger) and Lucy (The Telephone) with Marble City Opera of Knoxville, TN; Julie Jordan (Carousel) with Opera Breve Vocal Institute; Clorinda (La Cenerentola) with Festival of International Opera of the Americas; and Mrs. Nordstrom (A Little Night Music) with Harrower Opera.

Julia received her Master of Music degree in Vocal Performance from Georgia State University in 2014 where she performed the roles of Mary Warren (The Crucible), the Governess (The Turn of the Screw), and Amy March (Little Women). Ms Metry received her Bachelor of Arts in Music, Vocal Performance degree from Auburn University in 2012. While at Auburn, she was seen as Fanchette (Marriage by Lantern Light) and in scenes including the title role in Armide, Susanna (Le nozze di Figaro), Cunegonde (Candide), Frasquita (Carmen), and Carroll (Very Warm For May).

A highly versatile performer, Ms. Metry was a cast member with the Walt Disney World Company for just under 7 years as a parade and character performer. Originally from Marietta, Georgia, Ms. Metry currently resides in Atlanta where she teaches with Eclectic Music, sings in the chorus with the Atlanta Opera, sings in the choir with Passion City Church, and helps out with Grady High School Theatre.

Julia teaches mainly voice and piano and has also been trained in Playground style teaching with Eclectic Music. She loves to watch students discover the joys of playing and understanding music! Because Julia has had the opportunity to sing all over the USA and internationally, she is able to pass along the training, guidance and wisdom she has received to her students. She teaches all styles of singing from a classical approach. When a student has a healthy foundation, it increases the longevity of the voice and allows students to do things with the voice they didn't even know could be done! She also believes singing is so much more than good technique and having a pretty voice, but also understanding the character and truly performing the pieces.

INSTRUMENTS.

Voice, Piano, Playground.

STYLES.

Musical Theatre, Classical, Pop, Country, Contemporary Styles.

REQUIREMENTS.

Students all ages & abilities welcome!

CONNECT.

TESTIMONIALS.

"I love working with Julia because not only is her own voice impressive and inspiring enough to motivate me to work as hard she does, but she knows my voice so well and in such detail. She can hear the tiniest differences that I myself even have difficulty identifying, and immediately knows what to say to help me fix any tension or problems I may be having. Not only is she a wonderful teacher, but she’s immensely fun to be around! Despite the fact that I’m learning more about my voice every minute in her lessons, they feel less like work and more like chatting with a knowledgeable and talented friend about singing."

-Alice, Eclectic Music student

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Bennett Walton

BENNETT WALTON

is a guitar, bass, mandolin, songwriting, ukulele and band coaching instructor with Eclectic Music! Bennett's passion for music began in their family's living room, listening to their mother's record collection that included a wide range of classics such as Aretha Franklin, Fleetwood Mac, and the Beatles. When they would sing along, dance to the beat, or bang on their old piano unceremoniously, they felt a connection with those old songs that they had found in few other places. One of their favorite things of all was the rare occasion when their grandfather would strum his dusty guitar and sing lovely folk melodies and silly songs; at these times Bennett knew that this, more than anything, was what they wanted to do. Later, they joined the church choir and played handbells to develop their understanding of music. In 2001, Bennett received their first electric guitar; it was then that they felt that they finally had an instrument that was truly theirs.

From 2005 to 2009 Bennett attended the Savannah College of Art and Design where they focused on theatre and earned a BA in Film and Television. At SCAD, they fostered their interest in the narratives we use to spark empathy and explore new perspectives through various mediums. Upon returning to Atlanta, they found a way to bring their passion for narrative and their love of music together by playing guitar for professional musicals in town; they have performed in the band for musicals such as Spring Awakening, Rent, Freaky Friday, A Light in the Piazza, and many others. In 2014, Bennett took the next step in their music career by attending the Atlanta Institute of Music, where they developed their musical talent, dove deeper into music theory, and learned to tell their stories through their six string while capturing a solid understanding of the recording process. They left AIMM in 2016 with an Associates Degree in Music & Technology and a renewed fire to give music their all and spread the love and joy of music through teaching and live performance. When they are not teaching, you can find them in their studio rocking out, with their band or on their own.

Bennett’s teaching style can best be described as adaptable, low key, and centered on engendering a passion for music as a whole. With much of their early instruction being of a self-taught or informal nature, they prefer to listen to the needs of the individual student as opposed to following a strict lesson plan. Learning to play an instrument requires a certain level of dedication, patience, and practice, but first and foremost it should be enjoyable! Bennett works with each student to zero in on the aspect of music that excites them to pick up their instruments, fitting their lessons to their musical taste. Whether they are interested in becoming a six-string shredder, a strumming singer-songwriter, or simply looking for a hobby to further enrich their lives, Bennett is ready to help them along.

INSTRUMENTS.

Guitar, Electric Bass, Band Coaching, Songwriting, Mandolin, Ukulele.

STYLES.

Pop, Rock, Blues, Jazz, Musical Theatre.

REQUIREMENTS.

Students all ages & abilities welcome!

CONNECT.

LISTEN.

TIME TO LEARN MORE!