Private Lessons
Alex D.

Alex D. has been teaching music for over a decade now and teaches all ages and styles. Alex's teaching career started at Sam Ash Music Stores in Indianapolis, 17 years ago, where he taught for 7 years. He also has 2 years of lessons from a Juilliard graduate/instructor. Alex has gone to great lengths to make a comprehensive digital reference note guide and video lessons, which he uses as his lesson plan. Alex's lessons focus on popular songs and the songwriting techniques that cemented them in history, and as lessons go on, Alex also focuses on chord construction, unique voicings, modes, and diatonic harmony. His goal is to help his students get the most out of their lessons and time, all while also having fun and exploring their own creativity!
Monday at Berkley Arts Academy
Tuesday at Berkley Arts Academy
Friday at Berkley Arts Academy
Sunday at Berkley Arts Academy
Andrew S.

Andrew S.’s lifelong relationship with music began at just four years old in Amarillo, Texas, where he first discovered the piano while tagging along to his sister’s lessons. This early curiosity evolved into a rich, decades-long career spanning performance, ministry, and education. At age twelve, he began a 27-year tenure as a church musician under the mentorship of Mrs. Harvey, eventually mastering the organ and conducting major seasonal productions with full orchestras. Andrew’s academic journey was equally dynamic, taking him from playing a tuba that was taller than he was on a college scholarship, to graduating with honors in Piano Performance and pursuing graduate studies in Choral Conducting. Throughout his life, ensembles and the piano bench provided a vital sense of belonging and a profound means of personal expression.
Ultimately, Andrew discovered that his truest calling was helping others find that same sense of belonging. As a schoolteacher and instructor, he shifted his focus from his own accolades to the breakthroughs of his students—whether that meant leading a full-school production of Hello, Dolly!, guiding an eighth-grade choir to superior contest scores, or watching second graders giggle as they found their high voices for the first time. Today, he still carries the foundational lessons of his mentors, striving for the perfect measure, maintaining his daily practice, and looking forward to whatever musical chapter comes next.
Monday at Berkley Arts Academy
Saturday at Berkley Arts Academy
Brenon H.

Brenon H. is a lifelong performer whose passion for music has shaped his identity through countless voice recitals, competitions, and musical theater productions. Currently a student at the University of Michigan-Dearborn, Brenon balances his rigorous academic pursuits in physics and on-campus laboratory research with his creative work as a band vocalist. For Brenon, music is more than an art form—it is an essential tool for personal balance. He is dedicated to demonstrating how music can enrich and benefit the lives of others just as it has his own.
Wednesday at Berkley Arts Academy
Thursday at Berkley Arts Academy
Friday at Berkley Arts Academy
Danny T.

Danny T. has been teaching guitar since 2002 and has worked with students of all ages and skill levels. With over 35 years of playing experience, he specializes in helping students build strong musical foundations through a practical, engaging approach that combines technique, theory, and real-world musicianship. In addition to teaching, Danny has experience in performance, composition, recording, and improvisation across a variety of musical styles. His goal is to help students develop confidence, creativity, and a lifelong enjoyment of music.
Wednesday at Berkley Arts Academy
Saturday at Berkley Arts Academy
Hsiu-Ling W.

Hsiu Ling W. received solid classical music training from an early age, specializing in piano and violin. She graduated at the top of her class from the Department of Music Education at Tainan University, Taiwan, and was awarded the Phi Tau Phi Honor Scholarship upon faculty recommendation. She later earned a Master’s degree in Music from National Taiwan Normal University, further advancing her professional training. With more than 10 years of piano and 5 years of violin teaching experience, she accepts students of all ages and helps them build strong technical skills as well as a deep understanding of music. She has taught at elementary schools in Taiwan, including gifted music programs, general music classes, and choirs, and has guided her students to win awards in regional and national choir competitions. She has a diverse musical background. She is self-taught on the guitar, has performed as a keyboardist in a high school rock band, and has volunteered as a piano accompanist for a church children’s choir, performing a wide range of musical styles, including classical, jazz, and folk music.She is passionate about helping students build confidence and a solid musical foundation. In her free time, she enjoys listening to classical music, visiting museums, hiking, and participating in scouting activities with her son.
Monday at Berkley Arts Academy
Tuesday at Berkley Arts Academy
Thursday at Berkley Arts Academy
James H.

James H.’s lifelong passion for music is backed by years of dedication, from commanding the drum kit since 2013 to taking the musical theater stage since 2016. Currently studying music at Henry Ford College, he plans to transfer to Eastern Michigan University to complete his degree in Music Education. When he's not making music, James enjoys video games and relaxing with his four beloved cats. He looks forward to inspiring the next generation of musicians, just as his own teachers inspired him.
Tuesday at Berkley Arts Academy
Thursday at Berkley Arts Academy
Sunday at Berkley Arts Academy
Lonnell L.

Lonnell L. is a Metro Detroit-based percussionist and educator who brings a wealth
of real-world experience to his private lessons. A graduate of Wayne State University’s
Music program, Lonnell’s journey began in the church and has since evolved into a
versatile career spanning modern rock, jazz-fusion, and session work.
As an active member of the Detroit music scene, Lonnell’s teaching is deeply informed
by his life as a working musician. He specializes in helping students of all levels master
the essentials—timing, technique, and reading—while keeping lessons focused on
individual goals. Whether you’re picking up sticks for the first time or preparing for the
stage, Lonnell empowers his students to find their own unique voice and play with
confidence.
Tuesday at Berkley Arts Academy
Sunday at Berkley Arts Academy
Narjis A.

Narjis A. is a musical theater performer and aspiring voice educator currently studying
Musical Theater and Vocal Performance/Pedagogy. She plans to continue her education by
pursuing a doctorate in vocal pedagogy and is passionate about helping singers of all ages
develop confidence, healthy vocal technique, and a deeper connection to music. Through her
experience in theatrical productions, summer camps, and volunteer teaching opportunities,
including serving as a student assistant choir teacher and working with casts in multiple
productions, she has developed a strong foundation in music education and mentorship. Outside
of music, Narjis enjoys spending time outdoors, connecting with friends, and finding inspiration
in everything she does.
Friday at Berkley Arts Academy
Nick V.

Nicholas V. is a trumpet teacher and player in Southeast Michigan that
performs regularly with local Symphony Orchestras, Theatre Pit Orchestras, and
as a free lance musician in Big Bands and small chamber orchestras. He works
with several local brass programs including Armada High School, Armada Middle
School, Dakota High School, L’anse Cruese High School, and Stoney Creek High
School in addition to teaching his own small private trumpet studio. He has taught
and performed professionally for over a decade while having studied at Oakland
University under the instruction of Gordon Simmons and Dr. Amanda Ross. When
not rehearsing or performing Nick enjoys golfing, hiking, and reading.
Monday at Berkley Arts Academy
Friday at Berkley Arts Academy
Sunday at Berkley Arts Academy
Savannah M.

Savannah M. is a dedicated music educator, vocalist, and pianist who has been immersed in music since childhood, beginning as a singer in church, a competitive vocalist and pianist, and later as a performer in musical theatre productions. She is currently pursuing a degree in Vocal Music Education with a minor in Musical Theatre at Wayne State University, where she also serves as Vice President of the NAfME Collegiate chapter and holds multiple leadership roles within the music department. Savannah brings much experience from teaching in classrooms and camps, leading choirs, and performing as a hired vocalist. Outside of teaching, Savannah is a passionate visual artist and painter, advocate for fitness and self care, and a big sports fan—especially of the WNBA.
Saturday at Berkley Arts Academy
Thane H.

Thane H. has nine years of experience playing piano, producing music, and DJing. He studied music production/audio engineering at Soundscape Recording Studio and Wayne State University, and piano with DSO pianist Robert Conway. He's taught music privately for three years (longer informally), including two years at the Center for Performance Arts and Learning. As Thane of Earth, he produces electronic dance music, has released music on the WiddFam label, and recently performed at two festivals. He also produces hip hop for Detroit artists. Outside of music, Thane enjoys history, gardening, gaming, and nature. He plans to continue teaching, releasing music, and performing.
Thursday at Berkley Arts Academy
Jeff M.

Jeff M. has been a guitar, electric bass, upright bass, and ukulele instructor since 2003.
Jeff has a BM from the Berklee College of Music and a MA from New York University. Jeff has
been involved in the music business for over 30 years and has had a variety of experiences that
include: recording, performing, touring the U.S. and Europe, jingle writing, music editing, film
scoring and composing. He composed music jingles for advertising and was a music editor for
the animated series "Pokemon".
As a teacher Jeff’s goal is to help his students reach their full potential as musicians and help
them find their own musical identity while having fun in a relaxed positive environment.
Tuesday at Berkley Arts Academy
Lily H

Lily H. has been surrounded by music her whole life, and would love to share what she's learned through her own musical journey with you! She knows that music is a lifelong passion for so many, and she is excited to nurture that passion for her students. Lily is currently pursuing her Bachelor of Music in Instrumental Music Education and Performance at Oakland University; teaching since 2018 and performing in various orchestras since 2013. In violin and viola lessons, Lily utilizes various materials such as Suzuki, Essential Elements, and more, ensuring that students receive a well-rounded education focusing on fundamentals and technique. Along with these methods, she gives her students the choice to select pieces that they are interested in learning. She motivates students by providing encouragement, feedback, and celebrating when they reach their goals! If you're looking for an instructor with contagious enthusiasm, and a love for all things music, look no further than Lily Holifield! With her as your guide, you will go far!
No timeslots available at the moment.
Austin O.

Austin's musical journey began at eight with a bass guitar, launching a multi-decade exploration across numerous instruments, styles, and techniques. By fourteen, he was playing paid gigs, from local bars to Ford Field. While rooted in rock and metal guitar, his current playing incorporates jazz, country, R&B, fusion, and more, though he remains a "shredder" at heart. For the past few years, Austin has also been teaching privately and with the Detroit public school system. Beyond music, Austin is a visual artist, having studied Illustration at Kendall College of Art and Design and having his artwork published. He believes creative expression fosters innovation and adaptability in all aspects of life.
Tuesday at Berkley Arts Academy
Wednesday at Berkley Arts Academy
Thursday at Berkley Arts Academy
Friday at Berkley Arts Academy
Christina M.

Christina M. loves to play the guitar, sing, write songs, and play piano. She has been writing music since she was five, and she has led worship and sung in the choir at her church since she was 8. She is well-versed in music theory due to over 7 years of teaching at The School of Music at Wayne State. Christina desires to pass on the gift of music to others. Christina is a self-taught producer and recording artist who releases her music under her artist name "Steena". Christina graduated with her Bachelor's of Arts in Psychology in December 2024 and is currently a Master's Student at Moody Theological Seminary. getting her degree in Christian Counseling to eventually be a therapist. Christina loves boba and trying out new restaurants with her friends.
Tuesday at Berkley Arts Academy
Thursday at Berkley Arts Academy
Mike T.

Mike T. is a graduate of McNally Smith College of Music with a bachelor's degree in guitar performance. He has been teaching students of all ages and skill levels for 15 years and loves helping people reach their musical goals. He has performed a variety of styles of music while playing on cruise ships and in Detroit area cover bands. His favorite types of music are rock, jazz, blues, and funk. When he isn't playing music or teaching, Mike enjoys bicycling, spending time outdoors, and hanging out with his wife, Katy, and their dog, Willie.
Monday at Berkley Arts Academy
Nick M.

Nicholas Masters is a jazz pianist and educator who recently returned to Metro Detroit after fifteen years in the New York City jazz scene. An alumnus of William Paterson University with a degree in jazz piano performance, Nicholas has spent over a decade touring and performing with legendary jazz figures, including a ten-year residency with Winard Harper & Jeli Posse.
With over ten years of private teaching experience, he is passionate about creating a fun, productive, and encouraging learning environment for students of all ages. Nicholas works exceptionally well with children and young adults, focusing on building a strong musical foundation through ear training and theory while tailoring his approach to meet each student's unique goals. He is dedicated to helping his students discover their own musical voice and preserving the authentic jazz art form. When he isn't performing or teaching, he enjoys exploring the evolving music scene in Detroit.
Monday at Berkley Arts Academy
Wednesday at Berkley Arts Academy
Thursday at Berkley Arts Academy
Friday at Berkley Arts Academy
Saturday at Berkley Arts Academy
Carys R.

Carys R. is a senior Vocal Performance major at Oakland University with 15 years of piano experience. She has received superior voice and piano ratings, including winning 2nd place at NATS Upper Classical Voices division. Recently, she played the role of Alcina in Oakland University’s opera Alcina. She has been in numerous musical theatre productions, including Wendy in Peter Pan: a Musical Adventure, Maria in The Sound of Music, and Dorothy in The Wizard of Oz. She is also the assistant music director at Camp O’ Fun and a Princess Performer with Part of Your World Princess Company. She has performed as many princesses, including Cinderella and Rapunzel! She can help you achieve your musical dreams, whether that be learning your favorite piece on the piano, singing like a Disney princess, or singing/playing Broadway hits. Some of her favorite composers are Chopin, Joplin, Elton John, Alan Menken, and Andrew Lloyd Webber. When she’s not performing or teaching, she loves crafting, enjoying the outdoors, and spending time with her cats and dog, who are all named after Disney characters!
Monday at Berkley Arts Academy
Friday at Berkley Arts Academy
Sunday at Berkley Arts Academy
Sean M.

Sean M is a passionate and versatile music educator who brings over a decade of live performance experience and three years of dedicated teaching to students of all ages. He has worked with young beginners as well as adults, teaching guitar, bass, piano, and ukulele in a fun, approachable way designed to build confidence and creativity.
In addition to his teaching career, Sean has performed as a solo looping artist throughout Metro Detroit for over 10 years, blending guitar, bass, synthesizers, drums, and vocals into dynamic one-man-band performances. He has been a resident musician at the Village of Rochester Hills for the past five years, entertaining diverse audiences with both original songs and pop covers from the 1980s to today.
Sean holds degrees from Oakland Community College, where he excelled in music theory and piano, and from Oakland University, where he completed his Bachelor’s degree in Graphic Design while studying guitar under Professor Bret Hoag. His well-rounded background fuels his passion for helping students grow both musically and creatively.
Sean’s teaching is also informed by his experience working for over five years in early childhood education, giving him a patient and nurturing approach with younger students. Additionally, his personal commitment to self-development includes training through Tony Robbins’ programs, where he cultivated strong leadership and communication skills. He brings this positive mindset into his lessons, helping students of all backgrounds discover and fulfill their musical potential.
Sean believes in meeting students where they are and encouraging progress through supportive and personalized instruction. As Tony Robbins says, “Progress equals happiness.” Sean’s mission is to make learning music an exciting and fulfilling journey for every student.
Monday at Berkley Arts Academy
Tuesday at Berkley Arts Academy
Wednesday at Berkley Arts Academy
Lana R.

Lana R. began playing piano at the age of five, and music has been a meaningful part of her life ever since. Over the years, Lana has participated in competitions and performed in small gigs, experiences that helped shape her love for performing. Through years of experience in playing the piano and performing in bands and orchestras, Lana built her confidence and love for teaching. Lana has now been teaching for four years, and working with students has become one of the most rewarding parts of her musical journey.
She strives to create lessons that are enjoyable, while also being structured. She truly loves seeing her students grow not just in skill, but in confidence and self-expression. Lana describes her goal as helping each student build a strong foundation while also developing a genuine appreciation for music. She believes learning an instrument should feel fun, inspiring, and empowering, and is committed to supporting each student at their own pace!
Tuesday at Berkley Arts Academy
Niko M.

Niko M. is a music teacher with over 10 years of experience teaching in a mix of one-on-one, group, and classroom settings. He holds a BA in Music Education and an MM in Percussion Performance. He began his teaching career in Michigan, then spent 2 years teaching in Alabama before returning to his native state. Currently he teaches middle school band and orchestra in Westland, MI.
Niko has studied many styles of percussion including drumset, classical/orchestral, Afro-Cuban, East & West African, Caribbean, marching, and contemporary. He is excited to help students find their unique percussive voice and grow as musicians and citizens.
No timeslots available at the moment.
Sean D

Sean D. has grown a love for teaching and performing music. He has taught music for 4 years at several academies including Grosse Pointe Music Academy and Guitar Center, and before that was a lead mentor at School of Rock for 6 years. He has been playing the guitar and bass for 11 years and the piano for 7 years. He will give insight on how to make playing your instrument easier, and tries to make sure every student walks out comfortable with what they learned. He hopes to bring more new people into playing music!
