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

Matt Cairns
Matt Cairns Portrait

Meet Matt Cairns!

Matt Cairns is a native of Edinburgh, Scotland and studied at the prestigious London College of Music. He has a bachelor’s degree in music performance and a master’s degree in music management. Throughout his career, he has performed professionally both in bands and as a vocal and guitar soloist. Most recently, he toured as a headline act on several major cruise lines, performing a blend of pop, rock and traditional Celtic music from his homeland. He has previously taught private guitar lessons in his hometown in Scotland, and he enjoys mentoring aspiring guitarists of all ages. He and his wife, moved to Charlotte in 2020, and joined Bold Music in 2024 with the goal of providing top-tier guitar education to students in the South Charlotte area.

Why I Became A Musician

Music was always something I was naturally good at and I found community through playing in bands as a teenager. The feeling of playing live with friends was magic and I wanted to keep doing that for as long as possible.

My Memorable Musical Experience

Playing my first headline show in the giant cruise ship theatre.

A fun fact about me is...

I've played music on 7 continents!

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

Have patience, it's a long road. Try to enjoy every little improvement you make.

Benjamin Faye
Benjamin Faye Portrait

Meet Benjamin Faye!

I’ve been a gigging and recording musician since 2003. I have a wide range of experience as a music director, songwriter, and engineer. Currently, I play in two bands: Bass with the alt folk group Logan & The Misadventure, and guitar in the upcoming 80’s cover band Boombox Legends.

Why I Became A Musician

In around 1995, I saw an episode of The Secret World of Alex Mack, a classic Nickelodeon show from the mid 90's where the main character started a band. I thought it was the coolest thing in the world. And from that moment on, I knew it was what I wanted to do.

My Memorable Musical Experience

My most memorable music moment was getting the opportunity to play the historic Trocadero Theatre in 2012 in my hometown of Philadelphia.

A fun fact about me is...

I have perfect pitch!

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

Give yourself grace and don't compare. Everyone is starting from a different place with a different learning style. It's not a competition. Music is supposed to be fun!

Brittany Winans
Brittany Winans Portrait

Meet Brittany Winans!

I began my musical journey with piano lessons at the age of 5 and have been doing some form of music ever since then! In 2019, I received my music degree in Vocal Performance at Winthrop University. When I’m not teaching, you can find me making music with my husband or singing in non-profit choirs in the Charlotte area!

Why I Became A Musician

My mother is a classically trained pianist and organist; she is easily the reason I am a musician! Growing up, I saw her playing music every day at church and at home. She is still enjoying her art and still inspires me.

My Memorable Musical Experience

My most memorable music moment would have to be my senior voice recital in college. I sang over an hour of solo music by composers Debussy, Mozart, Schumann, and more! The recital was entirely memorized and it took over a year of practice and preparation.

A fun fact about me is...

in the morning I teach yoga and in the afternoon I teach music!

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

Have fun and be patient with yourself. It is good to learn music you know, but you should also be open to new music and expand your horizons!

Brad Steed
Brad Steed Portrait

Meet Brad Steed!

Lifelong musician with a passion for spreading the joy and personal growth that comes with learning an instrument. I firmly believe the skills and discipline learned through the pursuit of music resonates with all other aspects of life.

Why I Became A Musician

Hearing my grandfather playing the piano as a child.

My Memorable Musical Experience

Finishing my first self-produced album!

A fun fact about me is...

Peanut butter is my favorite food!

Ben Bourne
Ben Bourne Portrait

Meet Ben Bourne!

Ben is a multi-instrumentalist who has been performing live in the Charlotte area for close to 20 years, both as a solo artist and a band member. He currently hosts weekly full-band improvisational nights (jam sessions) and also performs live as a guitarist, keyboardist, and vocalist with his band that plays regularly throughout the southeast.

Why I Became A Musician

My oldest sister introduced me to a lot of music that I still listen to today, and when she began to learn guitar, it was inevitable that I'd want to follow after her. I started playing guitar when I was twelve, after she was kind enough to show me how to play a Michelle Branch on her nylon stringed classical guitar. But I ultimately wanted to play pop-punk music like my first favorite band, New Found Glory, and that was where I initially gravitated.

My Memorable Musical Experience

My first time going on tour. I played drums at the time, and we went from NC out to Austin, TX for South by Southwest. It was always a dream of mine to travel with music, and I made lifelong friends and musical collaborators in the process.

A fun fact about me is...

I refer to myself as a chronic hobbyist; my interests span very far and I love to tinker with anything from plants to cars to electronics repairs.

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

Identify the artists, songs, or styles of music that motivate you to want to learn to play, and focus the majority of your efforts there. There are countless paths to learning music, but the one that works best for you is the one that keeps you picking up your instrument not because you feel you should, but because you have a desire to.

Catarina Sanchez
Catarina Sanchez Portrait

Meet Catarina Sanchez!

I started out playing saxophone in middle and high school, then joined choir in high school and decided I wanted to teach. At WCU I was apart of the marching band, symphonic band, concert choir and chamber choir. Now, I play piano and sing whenever I get the chance to, teach as much as I can, and learn every day.

Why I Became A Musician

When I was young, my oldest brother was a trombone player and encouraged me to learn an instrument. When I got older, I just absolutely loved the feeling of creating and sharing beautiful music with a group of people.

My Memorable Musical Experience

Singing Poulenc's Gloria with my college choir and a visiting orchestra from New York.

A fun fact about me is...

I love to sew and crochet.

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

Get your fingers on the instrument, or sing, as much as possible. Even if it's for 5 minutes!

Lisa Weber
Lisa Weber Portrait

Meet Lisa Weber!

Lisa Weber has been teaching in and around the Charlotte area for over 13 years. She specializes in piano, voice, guitar and composition. She earned her Associate of Fine Arts Degree in Music at Central Piedmont Community College. There she specialized in classical piano and voice, while also studying guitar, composition, and audio engineering. She is currently teaching, composing and continuing her education. Lisa’s main interests now are to assist others in developing their own talents and passion for music.

Why I Became A Musician

I loved watching musicians on television during early childhood, and asked for a keyboard at the age of 5. I absolutely love seeing others explore their own musical journey!

My Memorable Musical Experience

It's hard to choose just one!

A fun fact about me is...

I have a Great Pyrenees named Izzy!

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

Consistent practice is key! The more you practice, the more you become familiar with your instrument. We all learn differently, and I believe that offering lessons customized to your learning style and interests is essential. Be patient with yourself and enjoy the learning process!

Victoria Henry
Victoria Henry Portrait

Meet Victoria Henry!

Hi, my name is Victoria, and I’ve been playing the guitar for 11 years and the bass for 4 years! I’ve studied jazz and improvisation formally in college as a guitarist, and I have performance experience in rock bands, jazz combos, funk groups, and fingerstyle guitar. I love teaching people about music, and I’m happy to explore any musical genre through my teaching.

Why I Became A Musician

I feel like I became a musician because there wasn't a way not to be a musician - I've always loved music and every time I take a break from music I feel like there's something about it that naturally draws me back in.

My Memorable Musical Experience

Recently, I went with my band to record our first album professionally at a studio, and it was so exciting to be in that space. I really felt like I was making it.

A fun fact about me is...

I like rock climbing!

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

Learn songs that you love, and learn them well. Even if voice isn't your primary instrument, make sure you sing at least a little bit.

George Mitchell
George Mitchell Portrait

Meet George Mitchell!

I’m a professional drummer who was taught to read and perform music at an early age.
I enjoy teaching the fundamental mechanics of Modern Drumming to all Ages. I’ve performed in Bands of all types for over 40 years, including Hard Rock, Pop, Jazz, Country, Studio Recordings and Record Albums.

Why I Became A Musician

Growing up in a small town with 2 Professional Trumpet Players who lived on my block. Jazz and Big Band was still popular in the 70's. My Mom arranged for me to take lessons at my school. When the Teacher told me to pick up the Trumpet and blow, I was so shy that I couldn't do it. That was the end of my Trumpet career. Fortunately, I soon realized that I could play the drums without having to speak!

My Memorable Musical Experience

Getting to sit on stage during a Live "Rush" Concert in Pittsburgh, PA in the mid 1980's

A fun fact about me is...

I originally wanted to play the Trumpet but was too shy.

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

Always remember that the goal is to MAKE MUSIC. Learn to Sing the Music. Dance to the Music. Clap your Hands to the Music. Stomp around your bedroom and find the Beat!

Jeremy Vega
Jeremy Vega Portrait

Meet Jeremy Vega!

I picked up guitar when I was 8 years old! I played at church all my life and I have played with my band for about 4 years now so I have experience playing with others. Currently, I am always striving to improve on my instruments but I also dabble with production, sound design and songwriting.

Why I Became A Musician

The learning process. Music is a hobby where you can learn indefinitely and create a relationship with it that gets as deep as you want it to. You not only keep learning if you let your curiosity lead you, but you also learn to appreciate music by cultivating a more discerning ear.

My Memorable Musical Experience

My most memorable musical moment was being able to write and produce my very first song on my own. It’s one thing to write a song, but it’s another to be able to have it recorded and mixed and ready to listen to by yourself and with others. It’s so rewarding to see your effort finally pay off!

A fun fact about me is...

I’m a big Nintendo fanboy.

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

Strive to be better but have fun while doing it. I spent too long striving for my musical goals only to realize years later that I had forgotten to enjoy the process. My goal as a teacher is to remove every variable besides effort, which is left to the student as a way to facilitate enjoyment throughout the learning process and to reduce frustration.

Josiah Johnson
Josiah Johnson Portrait

Meet Josiah Johnson!

I went to college for where I studied Voice, Piano and Education. I perform regularly with my band at local charlotte venues. I have been singing and writing music for as long as I can remember.

Why I Became A Musician

My love of music at a young age quickly turned into a huge passion of mine and something I wanted to do for the rest of my life.

My Memorable Musical Experience

My senior recital capstone for college. I did a variety of Classical music, Musical Theatre, and my band also performed, which was a very unique performance.

A fun fact about me is...

I love dungeons and dragons

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

Never stop and don’t fear failing! You have to fail to succeed sometimes, and you can only get better.

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.

Nate Kivett
Nate Kivett Portrait

Meet Nate Kivett!

Originally from St. Louis Missouri, Nate Kivett moved to California in pursuit of his passion for drumming. He studied at the Los Angeles College of Music, under the instruction of department chairmen Joe Porcaro and Ralph Humphrey. After graduating, he spent five years traveling the world aboard cruise ships playing drums for numerous guest singers, instrumentalists, and Vegas style shows. Since moving to Charlotte, he has maintained a busy life playing drums for various original and top 40’s bands in the area. As a drum instructor, Nate prides himself on patiently encouraging and educating each student so that she or he may realize and expand their passion for drumming.

Veronica Weisensee
Veronica  Weisensee Portrait

Meet Veronica Weisensee!

I am a recent Vocal Performance graduate from Loyola University, New Orleans. I have studied voice for 10 years, and piano 6. My musical background is predominantly classical, although I love teaching diverse genres!

Why I Became A Musician

Aside from my aforementioned musical experience as a middle schooler, I was inspired by my voice instructor, Patricia Feltmann. She was my first classical instructor, and played a pivotal role in preparing me for college auditions.

My Memorable Musical Experience

Concerning music, a fond memory of mine occured during middle school. I was given the opportunity to perform an ensemble piece during a choir concert, and this turned out to be a wonderul and affirming experience. I have been a student of music ever since.

A fun fact about me is...

I own two cats.

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

When learning an instrument, new students will see immediate growth after incorpoting scale and rhythmic practice. Additionally finding songs that inspire will foster continuous interest.

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.

Alex McKeel
Alex McKeel Portrait

Meet Alex McKeel!

I grew up playing and studying classical music in South Carolina, performing in a variety of ensembles and orchestras, both professional and amateur. In college I began studying jazz and improvisation performing both solo and in Clemson’s jazz ensembles, as well as forming a few informal groups with other students. I now live in Atlanta, teaching private lessons and performing and recording as much as I can!

Why I Became A Musician

When I was younger, playing music in my local community, I found it brought everyone a lot closer together. I look at music as a community building tool, and that is why I will always keep it in my life.

My Memorable Musical Experience

I had a regular gig in college playing long solo piano sets in this historic dinner club in Aiken’s horse district. It was a very great experience as a young person to play for an older crowd like this who had lived through the eras I was playing music from. I learned a lot from their stories and their connection to jazz from the 40s, 50s and 60s.

A fun fact about me is...

I love to cook.

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

Get to your instrument every single day, even if just for a minute or two!

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