Meet the nuvo teaCHERS
Lesley MacTavish
Director of NUVO Music School
Saskatchewan-native Lesley MacTavish has always loved music. She has a degree in piano performance and was a Western Canada Competition winner. She quickly became passionate about teaching and seeing a love for music grow in her students. Lesley taught in several schools and completed an education degree.
12 years ago, she took the leap to start NUVO Music School. Today, NUVO has approximately 25 teachers and serves hundreds of students and families across the South Surrey & White Rock areas.
Lesley considers her most important role in NUVO Music School to be a “Placement Specialist” finding the right teacher for you or your child. Matching the right teacher and student makes all the difference in ensuring a positive learning experience.
Piano Teachers
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Cary Chow
Masters Degree in Piano Performance
B. of Music Degree in Piano Performance
Pianist Cary Chow has performed concerts in North America, Europe, and China. The breadth of his repertoire extends from J.S. Bach to Franz Liszt to George Crumb and beyond. At age 11, he first performed a concerto with orchestra in a program including John Ogden; at 16, he made his New York debut at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in a special series inaugurated by Andre Watts. Since that time, he has been a soloist with various orchestras in concerti ranging from Bach through Rachmaninov. He has collaborated with many renowned instrumentalists such as Shauna Rolston, Mosche Hammer, Jonathan Cohler, and Mark Nuccio. As a member of contemporary music ensembles, he has performed and premiered many recent works by Sir Peter Maxwell Davies, Gilles Tremblay, and Derek Bermel.
Cary Chow has studied with Winifred Scott Wood, Rena Sharon, and Robin Wood at the Victoria School of Music and with renowned pedagogue Christopher Elton and the Royal Academy of Music in London, England. He holds graduate degrees and diplomas in Piano Performance. Until 2006, he has taught at the University of Victoria and the Victoria Conservatory of Music; from 2004-06, he was Collaborative Artist in Residence at the Morningside Music Bridge program in Calgary. He has also appeared on several occasions as the Guest Professor at Conservatories in Beijing and Guangzhou, China.
Cary has 2 commercially available solo CDs: the first, Rachmaninov’s Piano Sonata #1 and Variations on a Theme of Corelli; the second, and independent release entitled ‘Zirkus’ features Schumann’s Carnaval and Kreisleriana. He has also recorded for the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation for both radio and television.
Cary currently plays in a French horn/ piano duet with David Cooper, Principal Horn of the Dallas Symphony Orchestra, with whom he released a CD in 2012 featuring works by Madsen, Hindemith, Dukas, and Bozza. They are currently recording a second CD. He also appears as a guest musician with Avant Chamber Ballet, a company devoted to reuniting original choreography, live music and unique repertoire.
Cary especially loves to start beginners on their musical journey, and tailors his approach to their age, personality and intended goals. With young children, he utilizes fun rhythmic games, marching, clapping, perhaps imaginary drums, and little singing challenges, anything that will engage and hold their focus. For adults, he tends to adopt a somewhat more analytical approach, akin to an engineer showing someone how a piece of machinery functions. He is a firm believer that the early stages of musical education are establishing good habits, focus, discipline and creating little, step by step, attainable goals. With some fundamental skills in place, the student is enabled to progress and fully enjoy their musical experience.
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Dessy Didova
Piano Pedagogy Diploma, RCT
14 solo recitals
Symphony Orchestra in Plovdiv, Bulgaria
Dessy teaches children ages 4 to adult with a positive and enthusiastic approach. She believes in providing engaging and enjoyable lessons, inspiring students to be the best they can. In addition to the RCM exam curriculum, Dessy enjoys teaching popular, Jazz, Latin repertoire as well as songwriting and arrangements. She is looking forward to meeting all of her new families for the upcoming school year.
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Eleanor Liu
ARCT - Piano
I have been studying piano formally since the age of 4. While it was initially not my decision to begin playing, I immediately became fascinated with the world of music and music theory and decided to continue pursuing my studies in music.
After obtaining my ARCT, I moved to teaching and found that I loved introducing kids to the concepts and creativity in music that I myself enjoyed so much. I believe that while it is important to maintain dedication and stay diligent in musical studies, having fun and loving what you do is essential to achieving success.
I was born and raised in Vancouver, and am currently studying at the University of British Columbia. I am fluent in both English and Mandarin and have experience working with people of all ages. I hope to establish and nurture the love of music in all of my students.
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Hyun Joo Lee
Bachelor of Music, Piano
Throughout University, I regularly performed in different recitals, mastered in different classical musical periods including romantic and classical eras, and was a member of the University ensemble during my undergraduate years. I was also a church choir pianist for most of my adult years.
In my 16 years of teaching, I have taught all ages from pre-school children to young adults, although my passion lies in teaching early education as I enjoy helping students build a solid foundation that help make great strides in their musical careers. I like to focus on intrinsic and conditioning exercises, sight and tone training, piano techniques and different kinds of music concepts/genres. I enjoy customizing my lessons to each student’s personality and musical goals, incorporating humor, patience, and compassion in my teaching.
Seeing the lightbulb go on when a student understands and enjoys music is what I love about teaching. I aspire to make my lessons enjoyable and exciting for students as I help guide their musical journey.
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Jennifer De La Vega
B. of Education with Honours (UBC)
Band Director for Surrey Public School District
Music Director for ensembles and Orchestras for Centro de Artes Musicales (Mexico)
Ms. de la Vega graduated with honors from the Universities of British Columbia and Cambridge England. Her love of teaching comprises a focus on piano, singing, music theory (reading/writing), wind, brass & percussion instruments including Orff. She enjoys using all styles of music as tools to learning, from classical and jazz to popular to rock.
With over 25 years of teaching experience and Jenni’s enthusiastic teaching approach, her students develop a love of music and a wide skill set. She understands the importance of music in one’s life and guides students to express themselves in their own unique way.
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Annie Lu
RCM: ARCT Piano Performance
· Has experience preparing students for RCM examinations for practical/theory/history exams.
University of British Columbia: Bachelor of Education - Secondary Music '22
· Music Teacher in Surrey District
McGill University: Bachelor of Jazz Trumpet Performance '21
· Minor in Music Education
Annie Lu is Vancouver-based classically trained pianist and jazz trumpeter/composer.
She began playing piano at the age of 4 and acquired her RCM ARCT: Piano performance at the age of 18. With 6+ years of experience teaching students from the age of 5-18, she design lessons that support different learning personalities - providing adequate challenge and satisfaction in learning music. She has helped many students prepare for RCM Piano practical/theory/history examinations.
Over the past few years, she’s participated and received honorable mentions in many festivals including TD Vancouver Jazz Festival, BCMEA honor band, Idaho Jazz Festival, TD Ottawa Youth Summit, Montreal Jazz Festival des Jeunes and many more.
She has had the honor to share the stage and play alongside Ambrose Akinmusire, John Hollenbeck, Greg Cohen, Paul Nedzela, Terri-Lynn Carrington and Jean-Michel Pilc.
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Lisa Hanson
AVCM in Piano Victoria Conservatory of Music
RCM Certified Piano Teacher (Advanced Specialist)
Lisa teaches beginners to advanced students. She has taught the Suzuki method, Classical, Popular, and Blues styles of music. Her RCM exam students achieve high marks on their practical and theory exams. She teaches a variety of styles in an enthusiastic manner making lessons fun and engaging. She strives to teach each student in the way that they learn best.
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Sydney Abrey
Degree: Major in Music & Minor in History
Diploma in Music: Major in Piano & Saxophone
B. of Education Degree (Trinity Western)
My qualifications are the Royal Conservatory of Music Level 10 Piano, Advanced Theory (Harmony, History, and Rudiments). Also, I was accepted on the spot at Capilano University for my Diploma in Music, Major in Piano and Saxophone and later I was accepted into Simon Fraser University for my Bachelors, Major in Music and Minor in History.
My philosophy of teaching comes from people who taught and inspired me including David V., Mary Abrey, Terry Abrey, and Aleah Cassidy.
Aleah Cassidy is a life-long friend who profoundly inspired me with her generous and contagious enthusiasm, energy, and musical prowess. She loved music and loves dancing to modern pop and of course listening to Lady Gaga, a favorite of ours. My love of the piano was motivated and catalyzed by Aleah. She taught me to love the music and love the rhythm. I have been honored to pass that enthusiasm on to other students
David V. taught a class I took in music theory at Capilano University. He possessed the rare gift of remembering how it to teach others the subjects and was remarkably skilled at easily understanding music theory. He really listened to students and was able to discern their level of understanding. Learning was fun because David clearly enjoyed learning! His teaching conveyed his own proficiency in a subject while relishing the call-and-response we would have during her lectures. Each student’s participation was rewarded with her thoughtful and deliberate responses; one came away with answers that were clear and illuminating. David is also a Royal Conservatory Examiner which allowed us to learn the materials a lot more in-depth compared to other lectures in music. David always gave very detailed instructions and detailed information about certain music and how to approach the music with confidence.
Mary and Terry are my parents who started me in piano lessons when I was young, the age 5. They instructed me to continue playing music and saw me strive greatly in music and thought let’s keep our daughter in this. So, I continued to play and with their support, I was able to play different types of music and achieve many goals with the support of my family.
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Jamie Pambrum
Bachelor of Music (UVic)
Jamie is a well rounded musician and a patient teacher who enjoys working with students of all ages and experiences. Her musical journey began at the age of five when her parents introduced her to the piano. She was immediately drawn to music, and at the age of nine, started taking piano lessons with a focus on pop music. In the sixth grade, Jamie picked up the flute to join the school band and found a new appreciation of music in band and orchestral instruments.
In 2012, Jamie began teaching private lessons with a focus on teaching piano. Jamie tailors her lessons to each student's specific interests and goals to keep them motivated and excited to continue learning and playing. She particularly enjoys working with beginners who are just starting music - whether they are 6 or 60 - and enjoys working with multiple genres of music, including pop, jazz, and classical. She believes that music is for everyone, whether you hope to pursue music professionally or want to learn for fun.
Jamie completed her Bachelor of Music at the University of Victoria where she played as principal flautist and piccolo in numerous ensembles. Throughout her degree, Jamie continued teaching private lessons and playing piano, and has experience accompanying her woodwinds students. She is currently learning how to play the cello for her own enjoyment and to continue her personal musical growth journey.
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Alexandra Braun
Bachelor of Music in Piano Performance (University of Tulsa)
Master of Arts in Music and Culture (Carleton University)
Vocal Training (University of Tulsa)
RCM Teacher: Beginner to Advanced, all levels / Over 10 years RCM Teaching Experience
Born in Langley, British Columbia, Alexandra started playing piano at the age of 4, already displaying musicality and an understanding of pitch and rhythm. This expanded into her also exploring the clarinet and voice. Shortly after graduating high school, she moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma ,where she received her Bachelors of Music in Piano Performance from the University of Tulsa in 2012. During her studies there, she was initiated into the Sigma Gamma chapter of the Sigma Alpha Iota International Music Fraternity for Women in 2010, receiving the 2012 Sigma Alpha Iota Collegiate Award. In the fall of 2011, the University of Tulsa had their grand opening of the Roxana Rosza and Robert Eugene Lorton Performance Center. Alexandra was chosen to represent the University by performing for the local Channel 6 News in Tulsa. She was one of two students who was awarded the Miriam Spindler-Lynch Outstanding Piano Student Award for 2011 – 2012. In 2013 she moved to Ottawa, Ontario, where she received a Master of Arts in Music and Culture from Carleton University in 2015. After a brief stint in California, Alexandra moved back to Canada in December of 2016 and has been teaching in the lower mainland area ever since.
Alexandra teaches piano, voice, and clarinet. She teaches RCM students as well as students interested in more popular music. She teaches all levels; beginners to advanced. In addition to this, she has a basic understanding of both French and German and has teaching experience with students on the spectrum.
Her teaching approach is kind and supportive and each lesson is tailored to each individual student as everyone has their own unique way of expressing themselves through music.
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Nina Charlamov
Bachelor of Music (Moscow State University)
Certified Kelly Kirby Music Program Instructor
Nina Charlamov is a professional and highly accomplished piano teacher. Nina feels that teaching music is a profound responsibility to nurture students, bringing music expression, creativity, healing, and personal transformation into her students’ lives. Her warm, supportive, and approachable style of teaching helps students gain confidence and makes lessons enjoyable.
Nina has extensive experience working with children on the autism spectrum and special needs. She teaches all ages, beginners to advanced; popular to classical including RCM.
With over 20 years of teaching experience, Nina believes that love is the golden key in the learning process. Nina tailors lessons based on her students’ individual needs, learning ability and diverse cultural background.
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Flor Torres
Bachelor of Music (Alfonso X el Sabio University)
Music Associate’s Degree (Center of Musical Studies Castilla)
Bachelor of Music (National Conservatory of Music)
Flor is an excellent and caring music teacher, originally from Spain. She has many years of teaching experience in piano, cello and theory of music; with more than 15 years of professional teaching in Europe.
In her professional career, she has prepared her students for Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music (ABRSM) in partnership with the Royal Academy of Music, Royal College of Music, Royal Northern College of Music and Royal Conservatoire of Scotland. Her students have studied for Rock School Grade Music Exams, Trinity College London Practical and Music Theory examinations, many with distinctive results.
She has three Bachelor's degrees: Bachelor of Music, Music Associate Degree, specializing in teaching piano and Bachelor of Musicology. She has also studied piano and cello with the Russian Academy of Teachers. In Canada she has prepared students for all levels of tests for the Royal Conservatory of Music. She has worked in La Probetta Rock School of Music; one or the best Rock schools in Spain. Her students have appeared on television, newspapers and on the Cadena Ser radio station. They have been interviewed for their incredible music level and participated in the renowned tv show, La VOZ Kids (The Voice for Kids) in Spain.
“Teaching music is my passion and I try my best with my students. I love working with students of all ages and experiences. I have collaborated with musicians around the world and participated in international festivals. l have played concerts in different parts of the world like Berlin, Mexico, Venice and Madrid. My students, concerts and my individual playing have been appreciated by critics in newspapers and on television.”
“I intend to apply all of my experience to improve and assist students with their learning, understanding and appreciation of the art of piano. I look forward to meeting the students of NUVO Music School.”
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Tricia Chua
ARCT : Piano Performance
Hello! I'm Tricia Chua, I currently major in Behavioral Neuroscience at Simon Fraser University which has shown me the psychological and cognitive processes behind learning piano.
I continuously learn piano after obtaining my Royal Conservatory of Music ARCT Piano Performance Diploma as the journey has taught me not only the struggles but the beauties and joys of refining my musical skills! In addition, RCM has taught me many techniques and ways to approach music through exposure to different genres of music that demands a plethora of techniques. Music is more than just listening to sounds, it's also appreciating the amount of time the composer and performer put into the work of art they so kindly show to us.
Through my 13 years of actively learning piano through the RCM program I have qualified and competed in the provincial semi-finals as well as obtained scholarships from the Kiwanis Music Festival and the South Surrey Festival during my intermediate and senior RCM levels. I have earned first class honors with distinction in RCM exams and have completed all RCM exams from level 4 to ARCT. Helping others reach their potential is what gives me the most joy in teaching, nurturing their skills not only as a teacher but also as a friend gives me the most joy.
As an RCM teacher I prepare students well for exams by
-choosing appropriate repertoire suited to each student and planning a varied program for RCM exams that highlight the skills of each student
- developing solid technique (I am especially skilled at teaching technically demanding pieces despite smaller hands), and refining technique.
-knowledge of posture and body physiology and its relationship to piano through study of the Alexander Technique.
-providing a great number of different practice techniques so that students can efficiently and effectively master their pieces.
-encouraging students to try and solve problems themselves and have them think independently and actively learn.
-knowing the psychology behind learning and the cognitive aspects of learning the piano.
- further refining and polishing pieces for RCM 9 and 10 students to a performance level.
-rewarding students for accomplishments.
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Lorena Orozco
National Music Conservatory (Mexico City) : Composition, Piano & Orchestration
CIEM (Centre for Research and Music Studies) : Contemporary Music Course
Lorena is a Mexican-Canadian music composer.
She has taught piano and music theory to children and youth for more than thirty years and believes that learning the secrets of music is always a joy!
As a composer she has written music for all kinds of ensembles, even two operas. The second one was produced last summer in the main opera theatre in Mexico City.
She cares a lot about each student and always listens to their needs. For example: some children want to learn to read the notes and rhythms or even compose little pieces, while others like to learn the chords and accompany themselves at the piano and sing!
Lorena teaches beginners to advanced, all genres from popular to classical to exam preparation for RCM exams. As well, she is able to transform any piece students want to play, adapting it to their level; an important skill to keep students engaged and progressing.
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Taras Luka
Masters Degree in Musical Arts : Odessa National A.V.Nezhdanova Academy of Music (Odessa, Ukraine)
Bachelor Degree in Musical Arts : Odessa National Academy of Music
Taras Luka was born in Ukraine and moved to Canada in January 2023
In 2017 Taras graduated from the Odessa National Music Academy in Musical Arts. During his studies at the conservatoire, he mastered the piano, trumpet, accordion & composition.
Along with his strong classical foundation, he has pursued his interest in jazz and jazz culture, performing closely with the best jazz musicians of Ukraine. His students have the privilege of studying with an expert in a variety of genres.
In 2019-2020 he was asked to join the orchestra of the Odessa Opera House as a soloist, composer and arranger. During the tour around Europe in more than 30 cities, the program included compositions for orchestra and solo accordion, as well as arrangements of famous world hits. He also performed at the opening of the international Odessa Jazz Festival, with his own album for accordion and jazz quintet consisting of 8 compositions. This album was played many times at the most beautiful concert halls of Ukraine and Europe.
In 2020 he wrote the music to the musical-detective "Romeo and Juliet" for the Luhansk Music and Drama Theatre and this was nominated for Best Musical Performance at IV All-Ukrainian Theater Festival-Awards “GRA" (Theatre Oscar) and received rave reviews from theater critics in Ukraine. The following year his arrangement of the composition "Matrics" for rock-group and symphonic chamber orchestra of the Odessa Philharmonic was performed at the closing of the Odessa International Film Festival.
The "Taras Luka Project" showcased Taras’ own compositions with the album “Part of the Journey" debuting in 2023.
NUVO Music School is thrilled to have Taras on staff providing his expertise in piano, trumpet, accordion and composition.
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Shevani Nall
Diploma RCM in Vocal Teaching: ABRSM RCM
Piano: Training with Miles Black, renowned Canadian Jazz Pianist
Associate Degree in Liberal Arts
PIANO LESSONS
Shevani has studied with the renowned jazz piano, Miles Black. With this training and along with her Tamilian, Chinese and Portuguese roots & world travel, Shevani has developed a style all her own. With a focus on self-expression, Shevani includes song writing, playing by ear, improvisation and note reading in her lessons.
VOCAL LESSONS
Shevani focuses on breath management, pitch coordination, resonance, control and maintenance. These basic principles are key to strong vocal delivery. Students learn how to manage and regulate airflow with vocal exercises that encourage a beautiful smooth and resonant tone throughout one’s range. Shevani’s vocal lessons teach students how to calibrate vocal tone to project fully, freely, and beautifully. Students learn how to optimize and play with the sounds of their own voice to express their own authentic self.
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Tami Chua
Grade 10 : RCM
ARCT: pending
Hi! I'm Tami. I am currently an IB diploma student. I enjoy teaching piano to children and youth of different ages. Through my musical journey, I received first-class honors with my RCM 10 Piano Certificate and a scholarship from the South Fraser Music Festival.
I have been studying piano for 11 years and am currently pursuing the ARCT diploma.
I am very knowledgeable about the RCM system as I have progressed though the levels myself and helped others by preparing mock RCM exams guiding students to success in their piano exams.
I welcome all ages and levels and especially love beginners; creating a solid foundation to express and progress!
I love travelling, painting, and meeting new people.
I am excited to meet new piano students here at NUVO.
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Lively Taylot
Music Diploma in Piano (Capilano University, N. Vancouver)
Diploma in Piano Performance (BCCM - Burnaby, BC)
Bachelor of Music Education (Capital Normal University, China)
Lively Taylot is a well-rounded music teacher who has specialized in piano and vocal teaching for the past 20 years. She received her Bachelor of Music Education from China, a Music Diploma in Piano from Capilano University in BC and a Diploma in Piano Performance from BCCM in Burnaby, BC.
Lively has received many awards for her music teaching and choir direction throughout her 17- year career teaching music in public schools.
She believes music belongs to everyone and contributes to the health of the mind and body. She hopes to motivate and inspire students to progress and do their best under her guidance.
Voice Teachers
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Britt Bailey
Musical Theatre -AMDA (New York City)
The Professional Actor’s Lab (Toronto) : Film acting
Kodaly (Early Childhood Music with honours) Certificate through The Royal Conservatory of Music (RCM).
Bachelor of Performing Arts with Honours through Capilano University, Douglas College and Langara (jointly).
Originally from a small town in Alberta, Britt grew up performing in local community theatre and music festivals and honing her skills as singer, actor, dancer, piano and trumpet player. It was there in her hometown that it became clear that the arts would play a large role in her life. At the age of 17, she left home for the neon lights of Broadway to study music theatre at the prestigious American Musical and Dramatic Academy (AMDA) in New York City. Upon graduation she went on to work steadily in regional theatre and summer stock throughout the states, performing such roles as Gypsy Rose Lee in “Gypsy”, Marty in “Grease” and understudying the lead of Lola in “Damn Yankees”. In 2006, Britt relocated to Toronto where she continued to train taking film acting classes at The Professional Actor’s Lab as well as study voice and dance. It was here she received a certificate in Kodaly (Early Childhood Music with honours) through The Royal Conservatory of Music (RCM). Throughout her four year stint in Toronto, Britt’s span of work included commercials, music videos, film/tv as well as many gigs around the city as a jazz, pop and musical theatre singer. Her western Canadian roots have brought her back to the west coast of Canada, where she obtained a Bachelor of Performing Arts with Honours through Capilano University, Douglas College and Langara (jointly).
Teaching Approach
As a teacher and coach, I focus on instilling a strong vocal technique first and foremost. I emphasize the importance of a solid vocal foundation which will allow for you to have many years of enjoyment using your voice, without harm to your instrument. I use all kinds of genres and repertoire to ensure you are continuously changing and challenging yourself. Any of the songs and cuts we work on can be used in audition scenarios as well.
What makes my approach to coaching unique is that I stress an equal importance on finding the truth and meaning behind what you are singing and help you to communicate that honestly through the music. I will help you to discover yourself through the lyrics and music, and assist you in bringing the performance alive by applying your own personal life experience to what you are saying in the song. A successful vocalist knows how to bring an audience into their world by involving them on a subliminal level. Believe it or not, this is not magic! It can be learned. “A technically talented singer with a wonderful voice can move an audience. That same technically talented singer, when shown the techniques of acting and stagecraft, can touch, move and inspire an audience.” This is the very difference that I can offer you as your coach.
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Alexandra Braun
Bachelor of Music in Piano Performance (University of Tulsa)
Master of Arts in Music and Culture (Carleton University)
Vocal Training (University of Tulsa)
RCM Teacher: Beginner to Advanced, all levels / Over 10 years RCM Teaching Experience
Born in Langley, British Columbia, Alexandra started playing piano at the age of 4, already displaying musicality and an understanding of pitch and rhythm. This expanded into her also exploring the clarinet and voice. Shortly after graduating high school, she moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma ,where she received her Bachelors of Music in Piano Performance from the University of Tulsa in 2012. During her studies there, she was initiated into the Sigma Gamma chapter of the Sigma Alpha Iota International Music Fraternity for Women in 2010, receiving the 2012 Sigma Alpha Iota Collegiate Award. In the fall of 2011, the University of Tulsa had their grand opening of the Roxana Rosza and Robert Eugene Lorton Performance Center. Alexandra was chosen to represent the University by performing for the local Channel 6 News in Tulsa. She was one of two students who was awarded the Miriam Spindler-Lynch Outstanding Piano Student Award for 2011 – 2012. In 2013 she moved to Ottawa, Ontario, where she received a Master of Arts in Music and Culture from Carleton University in 2015. After a brief stint in California, Alexandra moved back to Canada in December of 2016 and has been teaching in the lower mainland area ever since.
Alexandra teaches piano, voice, and clarinet. She teaches RCM students as well as students interested in more popular music. She teaches all levels; beginners to advanced. In addition to this, she has a basic understanding of both French and German and has teaching experience with students on the spectrum.
Her teaching approach is kind and supportive and each lesson is tailored to each individual student as everyone has their own unique way of expressing themselves through music.
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Shevani Nall
Diploma RCM in Vocal Teaching: ABRSM RCM
Piano: Training with Miles Black, renowned Canadian Jazz Pianist
Associate Degree in Liberal Arts
PIANO LESSONS
Shevani has studied with the renowned jazz piano, Miles Black. With this training and along with her Tamilian, Chinese and Portuguese roots & world travel, Shevani has developed a style all her own. With a focus on self-expression, Shevani includes song writing, playing by ear, improvisation and note reading in her lessons.
VOCAL LESSONS
Shevani focuses on breath management, pitch coordination, resonance, control and maintenance. These basic principles are key to strong vocal delivery. Students learn how to manage and regulate airflow with vocal exercises that encourage a beautiful smooth and resonant tone throughout one’s range. Shevani’s vocal lessons teach students how to calibrate vocal tone to project fully, freely, and beautifully. Students learn how to optimize and play with the sounds of their own voice to express their own authentic self.
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Lively Taylot
Music Diploma in Piano (Capilano University, N. Vancouver)
Diploma in Piano Performance (BCCM - Burnaby, BC)
Bachelor of Music Education (Capital Normal University, China)
Lively Taylot is a well-rounded music teacher who has specialized in piano and vocal teaching for the past 20 years. She received her Bachelor of Music Education from China, a Music Diploma in Piano from Capilano University in BC and a Diploma in Piano Performance from BCCM in Burnaby, BC.
Lively has received many awards for her music teaching and choir direction throughout her 17- year career teaching music in public schools.
She believes music belongs to everyone and contributes to the health of the mind and body. She hopes to motivate and inspire students to progress and do their best under her guidance.
Guitar & Drum Teachers
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Steffen Sidiropoulos
Degree: Licensed Professional Musician and Instrumental educator for Jazz and popular Music FMW Music Academy (Frankfurt, Germany)
Internship: Audio Engineer (Sky radio, Kasse, Germany)
Studies in Musicology: Goethe University (Frankfurt, Germany)
At the age of eight, I came across the legendary solos of Brian May in the “Queen” CD collection of my father. I was so fascinated that I picked up the solos on a cassette from all songs and listened to them again and again. My mother finally applied for me to have guitar lessons.
Over the last ten years I have played in various jazz and rock bands and have toured throughout Europe with my Band “GoRampage”. I have taught Rock Band Programs to children in Germany and now for NUVO, teaching them the skills needed to play and perform well in a rock band.
I studied music in Germany and I have a recognized Degree as a musician and instrumental music teacher from Germany. (Jazz Guitar Performance Diploma)
I give lessons to students of all types: beginners and advanced players at all ages. I have been teaching all kinds of Rock, Metal, Jazz, Pop and other genres for over 8 years.
In my classes, I would like to promote the personal abilities of the students. All students are different. Once a student has discovered the fun of music, the teacher becomes a person to support, like an adviser. Then the student usually finds his own way and the music will probably accompany him forever throughout life.
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Erland Wenn
Vancouver Community College Diploma Program
Erland is a well-qualified teacher and active well-known performer in the music scene in BC. Erland easily adapts teaching methods to students with a variety of learning styles, guiding students with a kind, supportive approach.
His students often play in our community and student recitals and Erland is always there with his positive energy cheering everyone on!
His students often comment on his fabulous sense of humor, making lessons fun and engaging. His enthusiasm for playing the guitar inspires his students to do their best.
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Chris Hill
Jazz Music Program: Capilano College (1.5 years of study)
Chris was born in Montreal Quebec and moved to BC when he was five. Soon after, his love of music surfaced. His mother played jazz piano and his father played British invasion guitar mixed with the blues. So from an early age Chris had plenty of influences to choose from. When he was nine years old, his brother gave him a fretless bass and he received more guitars from his parents for birthdays over the next few years, including a fender Stratocaster when he turned 16.
After playing in bands during high school, Chris attended Capilano University where he studied jazz. Following university, he played professionally in live studio situations for the next 20 years.
He then switched from studio work to teaching and has been giving lessons for the last six years. Chris takes great pleasure introducing people to music, watching them develop their skills and talents and hearing the tangible results.
NUVO Rock Band
Chris developed his musical ear very early. From the age of nine he was learning songs off the radio and from his favorite albums. After his time at Capilano University Chris immediately got a gig with a band playing guitar and didn’t stop touring and playing locally in various bands on various instruments for the next 15 years. Chris’s broad experience with different musicians audiences and musical styles makes him a great fit for the rock band program. He has experience on guitar vocals keyboards bass and drums. Also having been a member of different bands he has an idea as to what works as far as arrangements go not to mention how to keep morale up and energy high.
Piano
Chris has always loved playing the piano ever since he could reach the keys… His mom played jazz standards and learned studied classical masters and was especially fond of Chopin. Chris would always be nearby listening. Later on he would learn pop songs and then after taking piano at Capilano University he got into jazz standards and composing on the keyboard. Chris’s teaching style accentuates individual expression in the form of improvisation so that a student doesn’t just learn a song but learns how to express themselves within the song .
Chris finds it very satisfying to teach students how to take a song and make it their own while still being faithful to the original version.
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Greg Jackson
Having played drums for over fifteen years (and with other musicians for just as long), I can stand by the fact that performing with others is the ultimate experience one can achieve in their musical career. Combining five years of percussion instruction with the success of rock band classes taught through local music schools, I look forward to bringing students together to discover their collaborative strengths, customize songs that they enjoy and-maybe even- write their own original material. Participation with other musicians incorporates skills from in-home lessons as well as essential new ones, such as collaborative dynamics, improvisation, songwriting and many more. Above all else, music should be fun (we “play” our instruments, after all!) and the rock band experience is the best place to truly explore how fun it can be.
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Noel Rambo
Jazz Guitar Professional Certification (Berklee) & Digital Music Production (Langara College)
I have successfully attained a Professional Certification in Jazz Guitar from the distinguished Berklee College of Music. Concurrently, I am immersed in a specialized curriculum in Digital Music Production at Langara College, further honing my expertise in the ever-evolving landscape of music technology.
During my studies with Berklee, I had the privilege of being nurtured under the tutelage of a select group of guitar virtuosos. This immersive experience instilled in me a profound appreciation for pedagogical rigor and a deep-seated commitment to the pursuit of musical excellence. The exacting standards set during my tenure at Berklee have established an exceptionally high benchmark for my musical education.
Beyond the confines of academia, I am also an active touring musician, engaging with diverse audiences across varied locales. This practical exposure has not only enriched my artistic sensibilities but has also imbued me with a profound understanding of the dynamic interplay between performer and audience.
Furthermore, my dedication to music education spans over a decade, encompassing learners of all ages. This extensive experience has equipped me with a nuanced understanding of both theoretical and practical methodologies tailored to individual learning styles, fostering a nurturing environment conducive to musical growth.
In tandem with my formal education, I have avidly explored the realms of Critical Listening and Music Production Analysis as part of my electives at Berklee. These disciplines have equipped me with the sense to dissect and appreciate music on a profound level, discerning nuances in arrangement, timbre, and production techniques. Such skills are integral in crafting music that resonates deeply with listeners.
My musical inclinations are diverse, encompassing a solid appreciation for genres such as jazz, blues, classical, rock 'n' roll, neo-soul, RnB and pop. This eclectic palate not only informs my compositional style but also underscores my versatility as a performer and producer, allowing me to traverse a wide spectrum of musical expressions with finesse and authenticity.
In choosing to embark on a musical journey with me, you're not only gaining access to a wealth of knowledge and experience, but also a mentor deeply committed to nurturing your unique musical voice. Together, we'll forge a path that celebrates the rich tapestry of genres, blending tradition with innovation, and ultimately crafting music that resonates on a profound level. And, of course, we'll primarily have fun along the way, because the joy of making music is at the heart of our shared endeavor. I look forward to embarking on this creative odyssey with you, where the transformative power of music awaits.
Woodwind, Brass, Strings Teachers
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Jennifer De La Vega
B. of Education with Honours (UBC)
Band Director for Surrey Public School District
Music Director for ensembles and Orchestras for Centro de Artes Musicales (Mexico)
Ms. de la Vega graduated with honors from the Universities of British Columbia and Cambridge England. Her love of teaching comprises a focus on piano, singing, music theory (reading/writing), wind, brass & percussion instruments including Orff. She enjoys using all styles of music as tools to learning, from classical and jazz to popular to rock.
With over 25 years of teaching experience and Jenni’s enthusiastic teaching approach, her students develop a love of music and a wide skill set. She understands the importance of music in one’s life and guides students to express themselves in their own unique way.
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Annie Lu
ARCT Piano Performance
Music Degree - Jazz Trumpet Performance & Minor in Music Education (McGill University)
Annie Lu, 21 years old, is an up and coming Vancouver-based jazz trumpeter/composer and classically trained pianist currently studying in McGill University.
Over the past few years, she’s participated and received honorable mentions in many festivals including TD Vancouver Jazz Festival, BCMEA honor band, Idaho Jazz Festival, TD Ottawa Youth Summit, Montreal Jazz Festival des Jeunes and many more.
She has had the honor to share the stage and play alongside Ambrose Akinmusire, John Hollenbeck, Greg Cohen, Paul Nedzela, Terri-Lynn Carrington and Jean-Michel Pilc.
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Sydney Abrey
Degree: Major in Music & Minor in History
Diploma in Music: Major in Piano & Saxophone
My qualifications are the Royal Conservatory of Music Level 10 Piano, Advanced Theory (Harmony, History, and Rudiments). Also, I was accepted on the spot at Capilano University for my Diploma in Music, Major in Piano and Saxophone and later I was accepted into Simon Fraser University for my Bachelors, Major in Music and Minor in History.
My philosophy of teaching comes from people who taught and inspired me including David V., Mary Abrey, Terry Abrey, and Aleah Cassidy.
Aleah Cassidy is a life-long friend who profoundly inspired me with her generous and contagious enthusiasm, energy, and musical prowess. She loved music and loves dancing to modern pop and of course listening to Lady Gaga, a favorite of ours. My love of the piano was motivated and catalyzed by Aleah. She taught me to love the music and love the rhythm. I have been honored to pass that enthusiasm on to other students
David V. taught a class I took in music theory at Capilano University. He possessed the rare gift of remembering how it to teach others the subjects and was remarkably skilled at easily understanding music theory. He really listened to students and was able to discern their level of understanding. Learning was fun because David clearly enjoyed learning! His teaching conveyed his own proficiency in a subject while relishing the call-and-response we would have during her lectures. Each student’s participation was rewarded with her thoughtful and deliberate responses; one came away with answers that were clear and illuminating. David is also a Royal Conservatory Examiner which allowed us to learn the materials a lot more in-depth compared to other lectures in music. David always gave very detailed instructions and detailed information about certain music and how to approach the music with confidence.
Mary and Terry are my parents who started me in piano lessons when I was young, the age 5. They instructed me to continue playing music and saw me strive greatly in music and thought let’s keep our daughter in this. So, I continued to play and with their support, I was able to play different types of music and achieve many goals with the support of my family.
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Milan Milosovic
Doctor of Musical Arts in Clarinet Performance (UBC)
Milan Milosevic has earned his Doctor of Musical Arts in clarinet performance at the University of British Columbia. Recently, Milan received the British Columbia Arts Council Award, the UBC Faculty of Graduate Studies Research Award, and the UBC Graduate Award for Academic Excellence. Milan is a representative and endorsed artist of Légère Reeds, Canada. He was invited as a guest lecturer and at scholarly conferences, including the world premiere performance of commissioned work for the Jackson State University, The University of British Columbia, The Capilano University, Zagreb University, Croatia, and Ljubljana University, Slovenia.
He currently performs with the international Synergia 4 ensemble and VICO Orchestra. His recent performances in collaboration with Deutsche Gramophone and IGM artists in Zadar and Dubrovnik Summer Music festivals received high critical acclaim. Milan performed frequently as a visiting soloist, and the ensemble member with the Vancouver New Music Society, Redshift Music Society, and Virtuosi Concert Series. He performed as Principal clarinet and Bass clarinet with Victoria Symphony and Vancouver Symphony Orchestra.
Milan is currently holding the clarinet position in the Vancouver Inter-Cultural Orchestra (VICO) and he has served as Director of Music Department and the clarinet instructor at Vancouver College for 14 years. Before his doctoral studies at UBC, he held an Associate Principal clarinet position with the Belgrade Philharmonic Orchestra. During his 10 years with the orchestra, he served as an artistic director and Principal clarinet of the Belgrade Philharmonic Woodwind Ensemble, and the International Woodwind Quintet Synergia 5. He was a featured soloist and ensemble performer at the Groundswell, Contemporary Music Series and New Music Festival with the Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra. Milan Milosevic has been a featured performing artist in numerous CBC Radio 2 National Broadcast performances, including the numerous TV and Radio broadcasts in Slovenia, Croatia, and Serbia.
The International Clarinet Association journal The Clarinet CD review committees praised his scholarly articles on extended clarinet performance techniques and reviews on the featured album Pearls & Yarn (2005) and the Pearls & Thrills (2017) as eclectic, ground-breaking and innovative. On another recording project, his Brahms & Beethoven recordings were cited as Lush and seductive...expressive & well controlled...mellow throughout the instrument’s range. The International Clarinet Association journal The Clarinet selected and published his academic article on the extended clarinet ornamentation techniques in June of 2017 quarterly issue of the magazine. His scholarly article contributions were selected in the finals of the International academic article competition in 2017. Milan is a featured artist of Summit Records, Arizona & the Chromadisc Publishing Company, Canada.
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Flor Torres
Bachelor of Music (Alfonso X el Sabio University)
Music Associates Degree (Center of Musical Studies Castilla)
Bachelor of Music Degree (National Conservatory of Music)
Flor is an excellent and caring music teacher, originally from Spain. She has many years of teaching experience in piano, cello and theory of music; with more than 15 years of professional teaching in Europe.
In her professional career, she has prepared her students for Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music (ABRSM) in partnership with the Royal Academy of Music, Royal College of Music, Royal Northern College of Music and Royal Conservatoire of Scotland. Her students have studied for Rock School Grade Music Exams, Trinity College London Practical and Music Theory examinations, many with distinctive results.
She has three Bachelor's degrees: Bachelor of Music, Music Associate Degree, specializing in teaching piano and Bachelor of Musicology. She has also studied piano and cello with the Russian Academy of Teachers. In Canada she has prepared students for all levels of tests for the Royal Conservatory of Music. She has worked in La Probetta Rock School of Music; one or the best Rock schools in Spain. Her students have appeared on television, newspapers and on the Cadena Ser radio station. They have been interviewed for their incredible music level and participated in the renowned tv show, La VOZ Kids (The Voice for Kids) in Spain.
“Teaching music is my passion and I try my best with my students. I love working with students of all ages and experiences. I have collaborated with musicians around the world and participated in international festivals. l have played concerts in different parts of the world like Berlin, Mexico, Venice and Madrid. My students, concerts and my individual playing have been appreciated by critics in newspapers and on television.”
“I intend to apply all of my experience to improve and assist students with their learning, understanding and appreciation of the art of piano. I look forward to meeting the students of NUVO Music School.”
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Taras Luka
Masters Degree In Musical Arts & Bachelor’s Degree in Musical Arts (Odessa National A.V. Nezhdanova Academy of Music ; Odesa, Ukraine)
Taras Luka was born in Ukraine and moved to Canada in January 2023
In 2017 Taras graduated from the Odessa National Music Academy in Musical Arts. During his studies at the conservatoire, he mastered the piano, trumpet & composition.
Along with his strong classical foundation, he has pursued his interest in jazz and jazz culture, performing closely with the best jazz musicians of Ukraine. His students have the privilege of studying with an expert in a variety of genres.
In 2019-2020 he was asked to join the orchestra of the Odessa Opera House as a soloist, composer and arranger. During the tour around Europe in more than 30 ciities, the program included compositions for orchestra and solo accordion, as well as arrangements of famous world hits. He also performed at the opening of the international Odessa Jazz Festival, with his own album for accordion and jazz quintet consisting of 8 compositions. This album was played many times at the most beautiful concert halls of Ukraine and Europe.
In 2020 he wrote the music to the musical-detective "Romeo and Juliet" for the Luhansk Music and Drama Theatre and this was nominated for Best Musical Performance at IV All-Ukrainian Theater Festival-Awards “GRA" (Theatre Oscar) and received rave reviews from theater critics in Ukraine. The following year his arrangement of the composition "Matrics" for rock-group and symphonic chamber orchestra of the Odessa Philharmonic was performed at the closing of the Odessa International Film Festival.
The "Taras Luka Project" showcased Taras’ own compositions with the album “Part of the Journey" debuting in 2023.
NUVO Music School is thrilled to have Taras on staff providing his expertise in piano, trumpet, accordion and composition.
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