Meet The Teachers

Ressa has been making music since age 3, starting piano by ear before adding vocal training, ukulele, and songwriting to her skillset. She later served as a full-time worship leader and brings that heart and experience into her teaching.

Her lessons are fun, engaging, and tailored to each student. Ressa helps beginners and intermediate players build skills, express themselves, and make music they’re proud to play and share

Aaron Allen is a passionate music educator with a background in composition, music theory, and multi-instrumental instruction.

He studied at the University of North Carolina–Chapel Hill, where he honed his skills in teaching, performance, and composition. Now pursuing music conducting at the University of North Florida, he continues to refine his teaching approach.

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With a bright, engaging personality, Aaron is great with kids and excels at making music fun.

His enthusiasm and creativity help students build strong musical foundations while fostering a lifelong love for learning

Caleb Fesco is a dedicated musician and educator with a warm, encouraging, and patient teaching approach. Passionate about helping students develop a love for music, he finds joy in seeing concepts click for his students.

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With years of experience as a drumline member for the Jacksonville Jaguars, Caleb has performed for thousands of fans at NFL games and private events.

In addition to guitar and percussion, he has a strong background in music production, helping students explore both performance and creativity.

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Caleb’s approachable and supportive nature makes learning music fun and rewarding for students of all ages.

Mike has been studying piano for 10+ years. He has been with Musician Makers for 4 years and also works as the Director of Music for St. Patrick’s Episcopal Church. Mike has traveled around the country playing piano in multiple bands and in many worship communities! He has a gift for teaching and helping his students find their inner creativity.

"I love what I do, and can’t wait to share the gift of piano with everyone!"

Emily has been performing since she was very young, in ministry and academic settings. Although Emily’s primary instrument is voice, she is also experienced in playing piano and acoustic guitar.

Emily began her study of singing at Douglas Anderson School of the Arts. She continued her studies at Florida State College at Jacksonville and Jacksonville University, where she earned a Bachelor’s degree in Music Education. She has also earned her Master’s degree in Music Performance at Lee University in Cleveland, TN.

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Emily has been with Musician Makers for over a year now, and is beloved

by all her students

Upbeat, patient, and genuinely great with kids, Tanner makes lessons fun while building real skills.

He started young on piano and composition, performed with the Bradenton Symphony and Sarasota Youth Orchestra, and now brings that stage experience into every lesson.

Tanner holds an A.A. in Music Performance & Composition (Magna Cum Laude) and an A.S. in Music Technology & Production.

His teaching blends clear fundamentals (reading, rhythm, technique) with creativity (improv and songwriting), plus simple practice plans parents can track.

My name is Tommy Strube. I've been playing bass for 11 years, drumset for 10, and guitar for 9. I've been in multiple bands—from my dad’s rock band, jazz
bands, and drum lines to my current punk rock band.

I played with my church band throughout my upbringing and still do when I visit home. I love music more than anything and cherish the opportunity to work for Musician Makers to help
share my gift with many others!

Jonah is a Music Technology major at the University of North Florida with a strong background in guitar, piano, and drums.

He first picked up guitar from his dad as a kid and has been growing his love of music ever since. Jonah is passionate about teaching and believes every student should experience the same joy and confidence that music has given him.

His lessons are fun, encouraging, and designed to help kids build skills that will last a lifetime.

Olivia is a passionate vocalist and music educator with a Bachelor of Music in Voice and Music Technology from the University of North Florida, graduating summa cum laude.

With years of performance experience in opera, chamber, and contemporary ensembles, she brings both classical training and modern creativity to her teaching. Olivia is especially confident working with voice students, including those preparing for musicals and productions, and also offers beginner to intermediate piano lessons.

She has a strong background in songwriting, audio engineering, and live performance, and has worked as a section leader, lead vocalist, and AV technician. Olivia loves helping students discover their own musical voice and confidence.

Andrew Coyle is a dedicated percussionist and music educator with a strong foundation in both performance and teaching.

Andrew began his musical journey in fifth grade and continued developing his skills throughout high school before pursuing music at the collegiate level. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Percussion Performance from the University of Arizona, where he refined his technical ability, musicianship, and overall musical understanding.

After college, Andrew moved into private instruction and quickly discovered a deep passion for teaching. He finds working with students to be both rewarding and impactful, bringing patience, clarity, and enthusiasm to every lesson.

Andrew specializes in drums and piano, focusing on strong fundamentals, musical confidence, and an engaging, student-centered approach. He tailors each lesson to the individual student’s goals and learning style, helping them build skills while enjoying the learning process.

With a background as both a performer and educator, Andrew is committed to creating a positive, encouraging environment where students can grow musically and develop a lifelong appreciation for music.

Emilee is a junior at University of North Florida for a Bachelor’s Degree in Music, specifically vocal performance! She also attended Jacksonville University for training in Musical Theatre Voice, Acting, and Dance! For high school, she's a Douglas Anderson School of the Arts alum for Musical Theatre performance.

She's been singing and performing since she was very young and loves Sharing her love of music with everyone! She has 2 years of teaching experience and has background in teaching various styles such as Musical Theatre, Pop music, and Classical music. Emilee wants to build technique and confidence in her students while having fun!
 

My name’s Dominik and I’ve been a guitar player for 10 years now! I started on a cheap ukulele I got off the internet and taught myself daily for many years before seeking out lessons from a mentor. I then spent several years as a worship guitarist at Melody Church in Live Oak, Fl. playing as often as 5 days a week being the campus’ only guitar player!

While volunteering in church, I got into music production and picked up mixing front of house, as well as producing/mixing songs my church created/covered.

Now, I’m here at Musician Makers inspiring a new generation of creators and chasing a Bachelors of Music Production and Technology at the

University of North Florida.

I am a third-year music performance major with a focus on Jazz Studies, currently enrolled at Jacksonville University. Before moving to Jacksonville last summer, I taught as an independent teacher in my hometown of Ocala, Fl, during which I developed quite a passion for sharing my love of music through teaching.

I like to take a very practical approach to teaching, working with the student on the specific musical tools and techniques needed to reach their goals. Being self-taught for most of my musical journey, I also understand how important it is to be genuinely engaged and interested in the music you are learning to play. This is why I seek to foster an environment of discovery, curiosity, and enjoyment within the learning process.

My performance experience includes playing piano in jazz big band and small group ensembles throughout my time in college, as well as various gigs around my community. I also currently serve as a musician and singer for my church.

In my spare time I love exploring and being involved in the local jazz/music scene in Jax.

Jarvis is a dedicated and accomplished music teacher with a passion for inspiring his students to reach their highest potential.

Music has been a part of Jarvis's life since his grandmother introduced him to it and he began playing for church. With piano and guitar as his main instruments, he has developed exceptional skills in time management, music theory, lesson planning, arranging music, group and individual instruction, and instructional strategies.

Jarvis graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Music from Trinity Baptist College in Jacksonville, FL. He has studio teaching experience since 2021, where he has been teaching at Wind of Change Academy in Jacksonville.

In addition to his teaching experience, Jarvis has many years of experience playing live music and is highly respected in his community. His ability to effectively engage a wide range of students and to foster a positive learning environment, along with his commitment to his students and his passion for music, is evident in his teaching, making him a beloved teacher by all his students.

Victoria Vazquez is a music educator and performer currently completing her Bachelor of Music Education at the University of North Florida. She has been involved in music since childhood and began playing piano at the age of 8.

With a strong background in percussion, piano, and voice, Victoria is a percussion primary student who studies under Dr. Andrea Venet. She has performed with UNF's Wind Symphony and Percussion Ensemble and has served as principal percussionist for the UNF Orchestra.

Victoria has extensive teaching experience in local elementary, middle, and high school programs. She is an active member of the Percussive Arts Society (PAS) and the National Association for Music Education (NAfME).

With her energetic, encouraging personality, Victoria fosters a supportive environment where students feel comfortable taking risks and building confidence through music. Her teaching style is student-centered, focusing on fundamentals while keeping lessons fun and engaging.

Stav is a versatile pianist and passionate music educator with nearly a decade of teaching experience.

Having studied classical piano in France under the guidance of Laurent Boukobza, an internationally renowned and competition-winning pianist, Stavdny has honed a foundation of technical excellence and artistic expression.

Stavdny’s musical versatility spans a variety of styles, including classical, jazz, gospel, pop, and contemporary genres, allowing him to connect with a diverse range of audiences and students.

As a dedicated instructor, he has taught students aged 4 to 70, adapting his teaching approach to meet their unique needs and goals. Whether teaching music theory, reading sheet music, or playing by ear, Stavdny inspires his students to develop confidence and creativity in their musical journey.

With a rich background as both a performer and an educator, Stavdny is committed to sharing the transformative power of music with learners of all ages.

My name is Violet Kitchen and one of my greatest passions is music!
I did 7 years of vocal training with a focus on musical theater. During that time I also worked with classical music in Italian, German, and French!

I took piano lessons for 8 years and it is definitely one of my favorite hobbies!

I recently moved to Florida from Ohio, where I was part of the Marysville Swingers Unlimited Show Choir, and my high school marching band as a saxophone.

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I am so excited to be a part of the Musician Makers team being able to teach and inspire kids as I pursue my degree in Child Psychology at the University of North Florida! 

Sherryl Cochran-Shaffer is an Army Veteran who has enjoyed playing piano from a very young age. She began accompanying in junior high school and prior to moving to Jacksonville in 2017, she was staff accompanist at Cowley College in Arkansas City, near her hometown of Wichita, Kansas.

She is currently playing solo piano performances, is one of the keyboardists for Parker's Lab Band, and a percussionist with the First Coast Pops Orchestra.

I am a music performance major at the University of North Florida with 2 years of teaching experience. I began my teaching journey at a local music store in Venice, Florida, where I developed a passion for helping students learn guitar at all levels!

My teaching style is personalized to each student's interests and skill levels, ensuring a fun and engaging learning experience.

When I'm not teaching or studying, I enjoy jamming with friends and exploring Jacksonville's vibrant music scene. Music has the power to unite and inspire, and I love sharing that passion with my students.

Garret Kaplan is a devout educator. He enjoys teaching piano, music literature, composition, production, and improvisation. He has over 5 years of teaching experience.

Garret has 9+ years of experience performing piano. He doesn’t associate with genre, exploring everything including classical, jazz, and rock in his performances. Lately, he has been interested in exploring 20th century French music and works by underrepresented composers.

Garret is currently a student at the University of North Florida, working towards a Master’s Degree in Piano Performance.

He is a student of Dr. Gary Smart and Dr. Erin Bennett, with past mentorship from Dr. Joshua Tomlinson, and Micheal Taylor. He is a two time winner of the University of North Florida Piano Playoff.

He’s performed in masterclasses with esteemed pianists such as Clayton Stephenson, Alon Goldstein, Luba Poliack, Bryan Wallick, and more.

Garret is also a composer and producer working in various genres. His style ranges from Contemporary Classical Music, to EDM and Jazz Pop.

Chris was initially trained in piano since age 6, he has been playing guitar since he was 12. Throughout his teens, Chris was in multiple church bands and even lead for his high school chapel band.

 When he moved to Jacksonville in 2012, one of his first jobs was teaching guitar for an elementary after care program. He has been teaching with Musician Makers for over 6 years! 

"I have a passion for teaching and love passing on knowledge to those who want to learn!"

Jacob has been playing guitar since 2005, and was trained classically for 8 years. Two of those years were at Douglas Anderson School of the Arts where he also studied music theory and piano. He has 10+ years of live performance experience and has been with Musician Makers for 4 years. He has experience teaching people of all ages, and believes that music should be fun!

Bella started teaching herself guitar in 2016 and quickly fell in love with it. Attending a fine arts high school, she studied classical-style guitar and music theory for 4 years.

Bella has continued her music studies at the University of North Florida, majoring in Music Technology and Production. Bella's motivation for music comes from an eagerness to understand it and create her own.

Writing and producing music is Bella's favorite hobby. She plays guitar, bass, and piano in numerous bands outside of school. 

Although Bella loves writing and producing as a creative outlet, she finds working with kids rewarding and hopes to teach elementary school music after graduation.

Austin founded Musician Makers in 2016 after years of teaching guitar on his own. He now has over 18 years of teaching experience.

His passion is to infuse music education with fun and creativity, and encourages all of our students to make their own music. He has coached many students as they publish their own music, offering recording sessions and production services as well. 

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When he isn't running the company or teaching, Austin is a live musician and plays all around Jacksonville on the weekends, a volunteer worship leader at his church, and a music producer with multiple published projects.