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

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.

Donarah Sheppard
Donarah Sheppard Portrait

Meet Donarah Sheppard!

Donarah strives to blend her technical training, academic knowledge, and heartfelt passion to create meaningful and lasting musical experience for her students. Music is not just what she does—it’s who she is.

Why I Became A Musician

The pure joy of expressing myself through a musical instrument inspired me to pursue musicianship.

My Memorable Musical Experience

Some of my most memorable and sentimental musical moments include my time traveling with the Florida A&M University concert chorus during my undergraduate college tenure.

A fun fact about me is...

I was born where everyone loves to vacation…Florida!

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

… what you put in is exactly what you’ll get out!

Alex Bralower
Alex Bralower Portrait

Meet Alex Bralower!

Artist and music educator passionate about creative systems. Berklee graduated guitar principal with a specialty in music theory, improvisation and chord melody. Enjoys playing with students and making lessons fun!

Why I Became A Musician

Hearing Jimi Hendrix for the first time. The intensity and emotion in his playing really drew me in.

My Memorable Musical Experience

When my college guitar professor/mentor gifted me a guitar in our last lesson. That guitar really symbolizes the whole experience to me.

A fun fact about me is...

I lived in Australia for a year!

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

Spend the majority of your time learning songs. It can be easy to get overwhelmed with information these days. Learning many songs reveals what skills a musician truly needs to focus upon.

Terrance Shepherd
Terrance Shepherd Portrait

Meet Terrance Shepherd!

Terrance Shepherd is a genre-blending pianist, composer, and educator whose work spans classical, jazz, hip-hop, R&B, and contemporary styles. His experience includes performing on Alicia Keys’ Instagram, directing Hip Hop Orchestrated, and contributing to *Bach to Tupac* a project that bridges classical music with hip-hop culture. He now teaches at Central Piedmont Community College and is an active member of the Charlotte Piano Teachers Forum, supporting students as they grow in confidence and creative expression.

Why I Became A Musician

Alicia Keys.

My Memorable Musical Experience

Having the opportunity to play for Alicia Keys on Instagram live in 2020.

A fun fact about me is...

I am a trained dancer.

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

Start out small and set clear goals, letting practice become your daily rhythm. With each repetition, you grow. Focus on the process before the product—your artistry lives in the journey.

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.

Shaniya Simmons
Shaniya  Simmons Portrait

Meet Shaniya Simmons!

Hi! My name is Shaniya Simmons, and I’ve been performing in both Theatre and Voice for over 10 years with three years of teaching experience in those areas, as well. As your voice instructor, our lessons will primarily focus on establishing and maintaining healthy vocal techniques, while insuring that your voice remains authentic to you!

Why I Became A Musician

I grew up in a household built on music, and as I got older, I started to explore other genres that challenged my views on music and vocal performance through watching performances and documentaries about musicians that I admire, such as Amy Winehouse, Nina Simone, and even Nirvana. From there, I found joy in exploring music as a form of storytelling with melody, and I knew from that point that this is what I was meant to do!

My Memorable Musical Experience

My most memorable musical moment is performing at a jazz lounge with a live band in Seattle, Washington back in March. I sang "My Funny Valentine" by Ella Fitzgerald. It was an impromptu jam session, but it felt really good to share my passion with an audience outside of the Carolinas!

A fun fact about me is...

I have an orange tabby cat named Garfield!

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

Study the artists that make music that sounds like you, and study the artists that make music that sounds like something you've never heard before!

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.

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!

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!

Joseph Levi
Joseph Levi Portrait

Meet Joseph Levi!

I’ve been teaching and performing in the Charlotte area for the past eight years. Whether through vocal, instrumental, or composition lessons, I take great joy in guiding students who are eager to deepen their skills and grow within the world of music.

Why I Became A Musician

My grandfather. He played the guitar. At an early age, whenever I would visit his house, he would share songs and chords that I didn't know. Those moments shaped how I approach music.

My Memorable Musical Experience

Recording, mixing, and mastering an entire album from my home studio. Some of the tracks were also captured live, which preserved that raw footage.

A fun fact about me is...

I am a cat dad.

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

Practice for a bit, and if you start getting frustrated, step away for a moment. Rome wasn't built in a day!

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.

Darius Brandenburg
Darius  Brandenburg Portrait

Meet Darius Brandenburg!

I began playing drums and producing electronic music at 16 years old, played in bands and DJed in Berlin for 5 years, studied Ethnomusicology focusing on traditional African instruments in Windhoek, Namibia. I am bilingual (German and English), love all forms of music and have over 15 years of childcare experience. I specialize in percussion instruments including drum kit, djembe and hand pan but have experience with many other instruments such as; guitar, marimba, kalimba, ukulele, guitar & piano.

Why I Became A Musician

My father is a pianist, composer and musical director & my mother is a singer, so I've always had a close relationship with music.

My Memorable Musical Experience

Playing and hosting festivals in Namibia

A fun fact about me is...

I like to rollerblade.

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

Practice everyday 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.

Joseph Conde
Joseph Conde Portrait

Meet Joseph Conde!

Music has been a part of my life since I can remember. It’s the biggest part of my life and I hope to share that magic with every one of my students. As a multi-instrumentalist I offer a tailored approach to the needs and goals of all of my students regardless of instrument!

Why I Became A Musician

The magic it invokes and the happiness it brings me.

My Memorable Musical Experience

Playing for a crowd of 700 people, all excited to hear my music.

A fun fact about me is...

I can juggle.

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

Keep going and don’t give up. Music can be difficult but incredibly rewarding. Take breaks but always keep pushing.

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!!!

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.

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