Our Instructors are the best!

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We ensure that only the best instructors become Bold Music instructors by thoroughly vetting every candidate against our core values and their music ability, guaranteeing that they are an excellent fit for our Bold families.

Our white-glove matching process ensures that we match you and your family with the best instructor for your goals and schedule.

Take a look at all our instructors and if you’re ready to get started simply click below!

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The Hiring Process

  1. Application Review/Screening
  2. Core Values Exercise
  3. Live Interview with Bold Management Team
  4. Performance/Proficiency Review
  5. Mock Lesson
  6. Reference Reach Out
  7. Background Check
  8. Final Review and Offer!

Meet Our Instructors

Phillip Hill
Phillip Hill Portrait

Meet Phillip Hill!

Phillip performed with Opera Carolina among other opera/musical theater companies before obtaining a masters degree in Music Performance from UNCG. He has spent his post-graduate career dedicating himself to his students. Regardless of age or gender, he always works with each individual to help them achieve their goals in a way that works for them. He understands that there is no one way to teach, and each lesson should be individually tailored to the student’s style of learning.

Why I Became A Musician

In High School I wasn't cast in my school's production of "You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown", so I started taking voice lessons. My teacher at the time was so enthusiastic about singing that it instilled a life-long passion in me and now I hope to spread that joy to others!

My Memorable Musical Experience

After I graduated college, one of the church directors I often worked for wrote a set of songs specifically for me and my voice. It was an unforgettable experience with a 3-night run of recitals, and it was also my first professional recording experience!

A fun fact about me is...

I have a very spoiled cat 🐈.

My advice to someone starting to learn music is...

Be patient with yourself. It's okay (and encouraged!) to make plenty of mistakes on your journey to being a pro!!

Nadya Stratton
Nadya Stratton Portrait

Meet Nadya Stratton!

Nadya is a classically trained flute and piano player who also has great improvisational skills and experience teaching all styles of music!

Why I Became A Musician

I can feel the music and connect with my audience when I improvise with the flute. I knew I would play forever.

My Memorable Musical Experience

Performing on stage with Nestor Torres, a Latin/Jazz Grammy flute player.

A fun fact about me is...

I enjoy golfing with my family during the summer and skiing in the winter.

My advice to someone starting to learn music is...

Enjoy every moment of it. Learn with positivity and patience.

Drizzie Burston
Drizzie Burston Portrait

Meet Drizzie Burston!

Hi, My name is Drizzie and I love to teach! One of my favorite things about teaching is being able to help people reach their untapped potential. I always strive to meet students where they are so that they have fun in the process of learning and grow as a musician!

Why I Became A Musician

Passion drives me to be a musician but the inspiration comes from the people around me. Friends, audiences, and colleagues reminding me of the gift I have and to never give up.

My Memorable Musical Experience

I went to Vicenza Italy to preform my first Opera and it was astonishing!

A fun fact about me is...

I am a local professional opera, and love playing chess in the park on a nice Saturday afternoon!

My advice to someone starting to learn music is...

You are enough and YOU CAN DO HARD THINGS! Learning music can be very emotional and it is easy to give up but the more you remind yourself of these 2 things it will give you strength enough to keep going.

Jeffrey Foster
Jeffrey Foster Portrait

Meet Jeffrey Foster!

Combining my expertise as a multi-instrumentalist with my professional background in educational research and leadership, I offer a unique and holistic approach to teaching music. I view music as a powerful gift that inspires excellence, and I am dedicated to helping every student experience that magic. I am passionate about using my diverse skills to foster a lifelong love for the arts.

Why I Became A Musician

I come from a family of musicians; it was in my blood and all around me.

My Memorable Musical Experience

My most memorable musical moment was performing a duet with the best Grandma in the world.

A fun fact about me is...

In addition to my work in music and leadership, I am a published author with a PhD focused on urban education. I love finding the parallels between the structured world of writing and the creative flow of a musical performance.

My advice to someone starting to learn music is...

Trust the process, have fun, and tap into creativity.

Louis Pino
Louis Pino Portrait

Meet Louis Pino!

Louis Pino is a drummer, percussionist, and composer whose work explores time, theatricality, and technology. He regularly performs with his band Duo Cichorium, collaborating with dancers, poets, puppeteers, and game designers on multimedia works. An active educator, Pino has taught drums for over ten years, working with students ranging from age 4 to 60 years old.

Why I Became A Musician

Ever since I was a child, I was constantly tapping on different surfaces (much to the frustration of my school teachers). I started learning piano at 6 years old but desperately wanted to try playing drums. Once I got the sticks in my hand, I knew this was going to be the rest of my life.

My Memorable Musical Experience

Early in my career, I found myself performing in a percussion ensemble, playing in a rock band, sitting in an orchestra, gigging with a wedding band, and teaching lessons, all in one weekend. That variety has stuck with me ever since as one of the best parts of being a musician.

A fun fact about me is...

I have recurring dreams where I'm Spider-Man.

My advice to someone starting to learn music is...

My advice to someone starting to learn music is to explore every avenue and genre you can. Try new things, play with different people, and just aim to be a little bit better every day.

Mckeila Ortiz Glaum
Mckeila Ortiz Glaum Portrait

Meet Mckeila Ortiz Glaum!

Mckeila Ortiz Glaum is a passionate singer and music educator who brings over ten years of piano experience, five years of classical vocal training, and active performance work to her teaching. She specializes in piano and voice and loves building a warm, student-centered space where musicians can grow with confidence.

Why I Became A Musician

I grew up surrounded by music, from choir rehearsals to playing piano at home, and over time, I realized how deeply it connects people and how meaningful it felt to be part of that experience. That blend of expression, community, and purpose is what inspired me to make music-making a meaningful part of my everyday life.

My Memorable Musical Experience

One of my most memorable moments was performing with Opera Carolina for the first time and seeing students’ faces light up during the show. It reminded me how powerful and joyful music becomes when it’s share, and why music education matters so deeply.

A fun fact about me is...

I have performed in 8 operas.

My advice to someone starting to learn music is...

Give yourself permission to grow at your own pace and enjoy the process. The small, consistent steps matter more than perfection.

Yahyah Corbett
Yahyah Corbett Portrait

Meet Yahyah Corbett!

Yahyah is a trumpet/piano player and music instructor with a strong background in jazz and performance. He loves helping students build confidence, develop their musical skills, and discover the joy of playing music in a fun and supportive environment.

Why I Became A Musician

I grew up in a house that had either an instrument or a stereo in every room, so all day I was surrounded by all types of music. I started playing the Trumpet at 10 and I was hooked!

My Memorable Musical Experience

Meeting and playing for the late Dolly Parton. Winning the 2023 Jack Rudin Collegiate Jazz Championship. Performing in the 2011 Tournament of Roses Parade.

A fun fact about me is...

I love hosting musical tea parties.

My advice to someone starting to learn music is...

My advice is to remember that you are learning a new skill which can be very difficult. Do not get frustrated, just practice. If you think you've practiced enough, practice some more!

Jacin Prevatte
Jacin Prevatte Portrait

Meet Jacin Prevatte!

I have a degree in music from Winthrop University where I focused on voice, piano, and audio production. I was classically trained for opera all 4 years of college as well as for musical theatre and jazz. I’ve been singing and performing musical theatre for over 10 years. I have also been teaching private lessons and performing in gigs around Charlotte for the last 4 years, both of which include a variety of repertoire from the 50s to today.

Why I Became A Musician

I come from a family of musicians and I always gravitated towards performing. I love singing and making music, and I’ve loved it for as long as I can remember!

My Memorable Musical Experience

My senior recital for college was pretty memorable! I spent all year preparing for it and it included a variety of songs from Handel to Ella Fitzgerald to Sarah Bareilles. I even included one of my original songs, “Swap Keys”.

A fun fact about me is...

I love to help my students with songwriting!

My advice to someone starting to learn music is...

We will always have more to learn, so it’s never too late to start learning! Practice makes progress, and everyone is capable of getting better!

Yuxin Chen
Yuxin Chen Portrait

Meet Yuxin Chen!

I’m currently pursuing my DMA degree at UNCG! I have 10 years k-12 piano teaching experience.

Why I Became A Musician

Saw someone play on the stage and loved how inspired they looked performing!

My Memorable Musical Experience

My last recitals final moments. The experience of finishing something you’ve been preparing for a long time.

A fun fact about me is...

I still get nervous when I on the stage.

My advice to someone starting to learn music is...

Listen, sing and enjoy it!

Patrick Carr
Patrick Carr Portrait

Meet Patrick Carr!

My initial background started on blues and rock from the 60’s and 70s, but throughout the years I’ve grown my interest in other genres through the various projects I’ve been a part of such as jazz, country/Americana, folk, metal, CCM, and even early music from medieval and Renaissance periods. I also love writing music, whether it’s contributing parts to a song my band is working on to creating full songs of my own.

Why I Became A Musician

My dad lent me a copy of the fourth Led Zeppelin album and I remember hearing "Black Dog" for the first time; I just thought it sounded so cool and all I could think about was how much I wanted to learn how to play it. Not too long after that, I got my first guitar and that became my main focus since then.

My Memorable Musical Experience

Probably the most memorable moment I have from my time as a musician was recording in Nashville. I was able to track electric guitar parts in the same studio used by artists like Alison Krauss and Dan Tyminski. A close tie may also be performing at the House of Blues in Myrtle Beach, which was where I also saw the Black Keys as my first concert.

A fun fact about me is...

I've been to Japan twice now.

My advice to someone starting to learn music is...

Focus on gaining a strong foundation on technique and rhythm in the beginning as it will set you up for success when learning more advanced music, but also don't forget to have fun and keep an open mind for creativity.

Jonathan Gutierrez
Jonathan  Gutierrez Portrait

Meet Jonathan Gutierrez!

I have played instruments since I was nine years old. I taught myself to play a couple of instruments. I started out learning drums, then quickly moved to guitar and bass. Ever since I have been blessed to be able to play on a live stage with good friends and I love to teach others who wish to achieve that dream as well!

Why I Became A Musician

Many bands inspired me to become a musician. I always loved music so much that hearing it wasn’t enough. I wanted to learn how to play it, this progressed me into becoming a musician.

My Memorable Musical Experience

My most memorable musical moment is the first time I went on tour with my band. I went to cities I have never been to before and got to play at them. It was an experience I truly never thought I’d get to live and I am super grateful for it!

A fun fact about me is...

I love to cook.

My advice to someone starting to learn music is...

Keep going! It will can be a little frustrating at the start. But once you learn your first chord or even a song, it is a very fulfilling feeling.

Mars Licciardi
Mars Licciardi Portrait

Meet Mars Licciardi!

I have them very blessed to have had a 30+ year career Music performing teaching writing. One of my expectations for myself is to pass the torch to the new generation of musicians teaching is a very big part of who I am as a man and as a mentor and artist.

Why I Became A Musician

I came up in the Chicago music scene in the early 90s when there were thousands of bands and I remember being nine years old and watching a Rush video and wanting to be that good.

My Memorable Musical Experience

I’m blessed to still have a lot of musical memories with current gigs performing around the Pacific Northwest with some of the finest venues, but some of the most incredible musicians and people.

A fun fact about me is...

My first band I played in was a hair metal band and have the pictures to prove it!

My advice to someone starting to learn music is...

If it is truly in your heart, never quit!!!

Kal Baynes
Kal Baynes Portrait

Meet Kal Baynes!

I started my journey in music at three years old when I was gifted my first keyboard. Through the years, my passion led me to audition then attend Penn-Griffin School for the Arts with a concentration in classical piano performance. I started my piano instruction career while in high school and have continued to grow as a musician by focusing on classical and musical theatre repertoire.

Why I Became A Musician

Music was a constant in my household growing up. My parents used to play Diana Krall every evening over dinner. I vividly remember the exact feeling of the house vibrating and connection it fostered among my family.

My Memorable Musical Experience

My audition for the performing arts high school I attended. The mix of intense nerves and pure joy when I started playing showed me how transformative music education truly is.

A fun fact about me is...

I have four cats, all of which love to try to sit on the piano as I play and practice.

My advice to someone starting to learn music is...

Listen as much as you play. Don't rush the basics. And consistency beats long lessons.

Robert Gabbitas
Robert Gabbitas Portrait

Meet Robert Gabbitas!

Robert is a composer, pianist, conductor, and clarinetist from Salt Lake City, Utah working in the Atlanta area. Robert holds a Bachelor’s Degree from Utah Valley University, graduating in 2024 with Academic Honors and awarded the Dean’s Award for Outstanding Music Graduate.

Why I Became A Musician

I've always loved music's ability to connect people together. Through music I hope to spread more compassion in a world that desperately needs it.

My Memorable Musical Experience

I had the opportunity to play Mahler's 2nd Symphony with over 100 other musicians to a sold-out hall of over 1000 people. It was a concert I'll never forget!

A fun fact about me is...

I've gone rollerblading three times in my life and every time I've broken a bone!

My advice to someone starting to learn music is...

Small steps every day are better than big leaps every once in a while.

Inyoni N’Kosi
Inyoni N’Kosi Portrait

Meet Inyoni N’Kosi!

Hello! My name is Inyoni N’kosi, and I’ve been teaching private music lessons in the greater Atlanta area since 2016.
I earned my music degree from Florida State University, with a minor in Japanese and a focus on Music in Special Education.
If I could go back to school, I’d add ethnomusicology to my degrees.

Why I Became A Musician

My grandmother was my biggest inspiration for being a musician. Her eager and adamant support always keep me happily practicing. I still play the last song she ever got to hear me play to honor her memory.

My Memorable Musical Experience

My most memorable musical moment was writing a piece of piano music with one of my students. It was about dragons, and we are moving on to our third piece together. And the dragons come from the book series I used when I had the privilege of being his reading tutor.

A fun fact about me is...

I've had a wonderful career as a performing musician and as a bard!

My advice to someone starting to learn music is...

Pick a reason to love it, and never lose sight of it. Learn the fundamentals of the skill before trying to master it. Trust the process.

Joseph “Jay” Riedel
Joseph “Jay” Riedel Portrait

Meet Joseph “Jay” Riedel!

Jay Rydel has been a freelance musician since 2015. Often playing over 100 gigs a year, he performs pop, rock, blues, jazz, R&B, country, folk, funk, soul, hip-hop, and more. Today he focuses on writing, recording, and producing his original music as well as collaborating with other artists and musicians. He started releasing his own music in 2020.

Why I Became A Musician

Feeling the excitement and nerves of performing as a young kid on piano. Jamming with my friends as a teenager (one of them being Bold Music’s co-founder George Ramsay). The process of creating and writing music is my favorite thing in the world.

My Memorable Musical Experience

Seeing D’angelo and the Vanguard at the Ogden Theater in Denver.

A fun fact about me is...

I have chickens.

My advice to someone starting to learn music is...

Have fun. Play through mistakes. Rhythm is the most important thing. Understand the difference between practicing and learning. Play music with others.

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