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

Anthony Winkelman
Anthony Winkelman Portrait

Meet Anthony Winkelman!

Musician for 20 years, classically and jazz trained on keyboards, specializing in rock, blues and jazz on guitar and bass with experience on brass and percussion in wind and jazz bands.

Why I Became A Musician

Passion is my biggest drive to be a musician. Figuring out a new song/piece and hearing a song come together is my favorite part of music, and seeing others find it as well fills me with joy.

My Memorable Musical Experience

My most memorable music moment was playing bass at a summer camp when I was 9-ish, it was my first time really playing live. The set list included everything from funk to three days grace.

A fun fact about me is...

I spent six years in the Army doing cybersecurity.

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

Stick with it and make practice a regular part of your routine.

Jackson Cini
Jackson Cini Portrait

Meet Jackson Cini!

I studied music at college and have been playing professionally for over ten years. I play various genres of music across the East Coast with my band and other groups.

Why I Became A Musician

From the moment I started playing at a young age, music was fun. I was inspired to chase the feeling you get playing music with others.

My Memorable Musical Experience

Playing a sold-out show for my band's debut album release.

A fun fact about me is...

I have played with a member of the Duke Ellington Orchestra!

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

Listen lots! Music is a language best learned by ear.

Bryanna McKeon
Bryanna McKeon Portrait

Meet Bryanna McKeon!

I began my musical journey at 11 in my school band playing flute. In undergrad I majored in music education. I have experience in a classroom setting as well as having taught private lessons on flute and piano for 4 years.

Why I Became A Musician

Listening to my favorite musicians growing up!

My Memorable Musical Experience

Playing at the college band directors association as principal flute for UNCC wind ensemble.

A fun fact about me is...

I’ve learned almost every instrument!

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

Playing music is hard! It’s okay to make mistakes.

Erica Wright
Erica Wright Portrait

Meet Erica Wright!

Dedicated teacher with 30 years experience teaching students of all ages and skill levels. I am passionate about inspiring a love for piano and highly skilled at using each student’s accomplishments to stimulate self-motivation, encourage independence and, above all, create a desire to continue learning.

Why I Became A Musician

My mother had a piano in our home from the time I was born. I was always drawn to it and enjoyed performing songs for the family!

My Memorable Musical Experience

My most memorable musical moment is playing my senior recital in college. The energy I felt was electric and knowing the audience was all there to listen to me energized my playing.

A fun fact about me is...

I love to grow tomatoes!

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

Understand that it will be a challenge. Commit yourself to regular practice and stay connected to the music YOU love.

Dave Spencer
Dave Spencer Portrait

Meet Dave Spencer!

I have been playing and teaching music for almost 50 years! I play a dozen instruments and sing, and have 3 local bands in Raleigh.

Why I Became A Musician

Has to be seeing the Beatles on Ed Sullivan.

My Memorable Musical Experience

Playing Jazz Fest and the World's Fair in New Orleans.

A fun fact about me is...

Just bought a sitar - trying to play some scales!

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

Play every day, and keep it fun.

Georgette Class-peters
Georgette Class-peters Portrait

Meet Georgette Class-peters!

Georgette Class-Peters is an award-winning singer-songwriter, vocal coach, and educator with over 10 years of experience helping students discover the power of their voice. A Ghana Music Awards winner who has performed alongside artists like Ne-Yo and Keri Hilson, she brings both professional artistry and heartfelt mentorship to every lesson. Her mission is to empower singers to grow in confidence, skill, and authentic expression through faith and music.

Why I Became A Musician

I used to have a serious stutter. And then I realized that when I was singing, I was not stuttering by the time I became adept at speaking. I realize that music was a love that I could not shake. It was a spark that changed my life and saved it in so many instances.

My Memorable Musical Experience

When I won a Ghana music award as well as singing back up for some of my favorite artists.

A fun fact about me is...

I love coffee.

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

Consistency is key! Trust the process keep practicing every day and you’ll become a better musician day by day. Before you know it you’ll love your voice more than ever.

Kay Millward
Kay Millward Portrait

Meet Kay Millward!

I’m a lifelong pianist and experienced teacher who loves helping students reach that “I can actually play this!” moment. I keep lessons relaxed, supportive, and centered around music each student is excited to learn. My goal is to make playing piano feel fun and doable for anyone.

Why I Became A Musician

I grew up surrounded by musicians, like my piano teacher/alto/cellist mother, pianist/tenor father, and piano teacher/drummer/composer/producer brother. I couldn't help but be inspired by the creativity and musicality of my wonderful family.

My Memorable Musical Experience

When I was 10, I sat down at the piano in front of a crowd of parents to perform my recital piece. I started playing, but I just couldn't get past the first couple of bars. I knew that piece so well, but my fingers all of a sudden forgot. Luckily, I also had a Scott Joplin piece memorized that I decided to try instead, and my fingers remembered that one just fine. In the end, Scott Joplin turned out to be more of a crowd pleaser than Bach probably would have.

A fun fact about me is...

I love knitting!

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

Find a song you really want to know how to play, whether that be the Succession theme song or Pagliacci. Set that goal and work towards it!

Melissanthi Guthold
Melissanthi Guthold Portrait

Meet Melissanthi Guthold!

I am a Greek-American classical soprano with a B.A. of Music, and I have been involved in many opera productions throughout the years, the most recent of which was the Berlin Opera Academy’s Cendrillon. I love nurturing young minds and watching students explore their own musicality. My approach to vocal technique relies on proprioception and experimentation, so I will use these concepts to tailor lessons to fit each individual singer’s instrument.

Why I Became A Musician

In short, the feelings that music elicits. There is something indescribable about the human condition that can only be expressed with music, and I knew I needed to dedicate my life to that thing. I have never felt so emotional, thoughtful, and enraptured as when I listen to a powerful piece of music.

My Memorable Musical Experience

In Mozart’s Der Schauspieldirektor I had to honor of performing the title role Madame Herz, A.K.A. the most flamboyant diva of all time. The role was just so pompous and joyful. This was also the role that encouraged me to lean into the acting side of opera.

A fun fact about me is...

I can teach you how to make tiny origami stars.

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

It’s okay to sound really terrible. It can be discouraging when you cannot immediately see progress, but you cannot make a beautiful sound without many, many ugly sounds preceding it. I had to practice for 10 years before I ever liked the way I sounded. My advice is to never give up. Even if progress is slow, the value of being immersed in music is immeasurable, nonetheless.

Eric McClam
Eric McClam Portrait

Meet Eric McClam!

Eric is a dedicated musician and music educator who attended Claflin University as a Music Education major with a concentration in Voice. His passion for music and education drives him to work closely with young musicians, helping them develop their talents and pursue their dreams. Beyond guiding students toward their goals as performers, he values the opportunity to grow alongside them on their musical and life journeys. Eric’s mission is to inspire the next generation to find their voices and skills—both in music and in life.

Why I Became A Musician

What inspired me to become a musician? Honestly, it started with my love for how music makes people feel. Growing up, I saw how powerful it was—how a song could change someone’s mood, bring people together, or give somebody confidence they didn’t know they had. Over time, I realized I wanted to be part of that. Being a vocalist, working with kids, mentoring, and helping others grow just made it even clearer: music isn’t just something I do, it’s part of who I am. Seeing people light up when they learn something new, or when they connect with a song—that’s what really inspired me and keeps me going every day.

My Memorable Musical Experience

Performing at Carnegie Hall.

A fun fact about me is...

I love to Bowl.

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

My advice to someone starting to learn music is this: Start with patience and passion. Don’t worry about being perfect right away—focus on building good habits, listening carefully, and practicing consistently. Surround yourself with music that inspires you, ask questions when you don’t understand something, and celebrate every bit of progress, no matter how small. Music is a journey, and the more you stay open, curious, and committed, the further it will take you.

Benjamin Pearson
Benjamin Pearson Portrait

Meet Benjamin Pearson!

I am a seasoned multi-instrumentalist with over 16 years of piano experience, alongside guitar and bass expertise. My repertoire spans classical, jazz, hymns, and contemporary Christian music, shaped by years of performing for local churches, gospel choirs, and live shows across Charlotte, NC and Williamsburg, VA. I majored in music at the College of William & Mary and love to share my love for music through teaching, conversation, and demonstration.

Why I Became A Musician

My mom inspired me. She grew up playing the bagpipes and piano and initially taught me piano.

My Memorable Musical Experience

In high school I sang Wellerman with two of my best friends for a talent show. We walked off the stage thinking we bombed and were pretty hard on ourselves but when the awards were being announced, we received 2nd place. It's memorable because it taught me not to be too critical of my own ability and skillset; if I work hard, practice, and pour myself into a performance, it will be evident.

A fun fact about me is...

I know Morse code!

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

You are not bad, you're inexperienced. Even the best musicians started as beginners. Time + practice = skill.

Chloe James
Chloe James Portrait

Meet Chloe James!

I first started playing guitar when I was 8 years old after being exposed to music through my parents and guitar hero and rockband. Music is an outlet that has provided me with so many opportunities such as traveling, meeting lifelong friends, and making art that can be shared with people.

Why I Became A Musician

Hearing bands like Pink Floyd, The Cure, and I enjoy a variety of musical styles such as alternative rock, punk, shoegaze, electronic, jazz, classical, and more!

My Memorable Musical Experience

Touring the east coast with my band True Lilith in 2023.

A fun fact about me is...

I have a band named True Lilith!

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

Be, patient, stay dedicated, and always look for inspiration!

Matthew Johnston
Matthew Johnston Portrait

Meet Matthew Johnston!

I was self-taught on the guitar until I went to Winthrop University for Guitar Performance with a focus on Jazz. After college, I began teaching privately and playing gigs in the Rock Hill and Charlotte area. I’ve had the opportunity to play as a soloist, duo, trio, and even with a 40-piece orchestra. I now teach Elementary Music to Pk-5th grade students, as well as, play gigs as they arise. I also started a Youtube channel, Tune Time with Mr. Johnston, to help create kid-friendly resources.

Why I Became A Musician

I've always known music was my passion and knew I wanted to be involved in it in any way that I could. Neither of my parents are musicians so I've had to make and find my own path. My inspiration comes from wanting to always work hard at whatever I do and I feel that music gives my life focus.

My Memorable Musical Experience

Getting to play in downtown Nashville at Tootsies with a country band. Releasing an album with my band. Playing at the Blumenthal Theater with a 40-piece orchestra for 3 sold out shows.

A fun fact about me is...

I have a twin brother.

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

Listen to what you want to play all the time. Find someone who inspires you on your instrument and try to learn all their ideas as best as you can. Take every opportunity you can to play live.

Shane Burbage
Shane Burbage Portrait

Meet Shane Burbage!

Shane is a multi-instrumentalist with years of experience and a Music Degree from UNC Asheville. He specializes in Music Theory and Music History and loves using his knowledge and passion to teach and jam with students. Shane has experience directing and leading different age groups. Shane’s favorite way to teach music is to find patterns and connections within songs emphasizing universal elements like rhythm, dynamics, and note direction.

Why I Became A Musician

Playing music with my friends growing up! You don't have to be a seasoned pro to start jamming with your best buds...it's a great way to start feeling the music and the sense of community it provides 🎵.

My Memorable Musical Experience

Seeing Radiohead cover Neil Young's "Tell Me Why" at the Hollywood Bowl.

A fun fact about me is...

I have an IMDB page.

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

Keep your ears open! Your ears are your best teacher, so figuring out how to better listen to things like melodies, chord progressions, and song structure can super charge your improvement!

Nicholas Woehrle
Nicholas Woehrle Portrait

Meet Nicholas Woehrle!

I am a musical veteran of 20 years on the drumset. I have played as a freelance drummer for bands throughout Columbia sc and fort Mill SC. As of 2026, I have been teaching percussion for 5 years!

Why I Became A Musician

Queensryche - my favorite band!

My Memorable Musical Experience

Seeing ZZ top at Red Rocks, Colorado during a thunderstorm.

A fun fact about me is...

I will obsess over an album to the point where I will learn the entire album on drums.

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

Instead of practicing your instrument, PLAY your instrument!

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.

Danielle Skalsky
Danielle Skalsky Portrait

Meet Danielle Skalsky!

Danielle graduated with a Bachelors’ degree in Opera Performance from the University of Southern California. She toured with VOX Lumiere’s Phantom of the Opera throughout Canada, Portugal and the United States. She worked as a production singer on board Princess Cruise Lines, where she discovered her joy for teaching. Danielle had the privilege of coaching students in Middle, and High Schools and directing an after-school musical program and continues to enjoy teaching new talent and providing performance opportunities.

Why I Became A Musician

It was just always apart of me. I couldn’t not do it!

My Memorable Musical Experience

Singing in the Ordway theater in St. Paul Minnesota and singing the national anthem at Dodger’s Stadium.

A fun fact about me is...

I’m a mom.

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

Get into the Habit of practice.

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