Our Instructors are the best!
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!
The Hiring Process
- Application Review/Screening
- Core Values Exercise
- Live Interview with Bold Management Team
- Performance/Proficiency Review
- Mock Lesson
- Reference Reach Out
- Background Check
- Final Review and Offer!
Meet Our Instructors
Meet Domenice Elcock!
Charlotte based singer/songwriter, producer, and teacher – Domenice Elcock has been teaching piano, holistic vocal training, vocal therapy, songwriting, production, and artist development for 10 years. With experience ranging from theatre/musicals, choir directing, composing, live shows, studio recording to doing one on one sessions, she has created and contributed to forming safe spaces for others to explore a vast musical landscape and learn about themselves in the process.
Why I Became A Musician
I remember at the age of six my father came home with a huge bag of cassette tapes. There were Spanish songs, opera, instrumental tracks from India, and even indigenous music from aboriginal tribes in Australia! We would listen to, and sing with them in the car everyday. I fell in love with the language of music. No matter where it came from or how different it was…it all told these beautiful and sometimes heartbreaking stories. I wanted to be able to communicate that way too and so I asked for a keyboard for Christmas!
My Memorable Musical Experience
My very first show that I performed under my artist name. My husband and I did a song that we wrote together. And hearing everyone in the room singing it with us was just pure magic!
A fun fact about me is...
I loooove anime!!! I am currently learning Japanese and Korean so I can watch my favorite shows without subtitles.
My advice to someone starting to learn music is...
Keep an open mind. Be kind to yourself while you are learning, and acknowledge that growth doesn’t happen without struggle. Some days will feel better than others but each day you work at it, remember that it’s worth it!
Meet Nicole Yakovlev!
Music has always been a big part of my life! I’m classically trained in piano and voice and self taught in guitar and ukulele. I’ve spent years honing my musical skills through a variety of genres, and am eager to share all I have learned!
Why I Became A Musician
My mom was always playing the piano and guitar when I was a kid and I was entranced by the melodies she played! We were always singing or listening to something and it always gave me such peace. Music’s ability to make you feel connected, healed, seen, and heard is what made me become a musician.
My Memorable Musical Experience
My most memorable musical moment was when a group of friends and I sold out a well known venue in Decatur called Eddie’s Attic! We had been preparing for the show and unsure of how everything would turn out, but the day of the show we found out that we packed the venue and gave a killer performance to a crowd full of eager ears!
A fun fact about me is...
I can do a back bend!
My advice to someone starting to learn music is...
To a new music learner, I would recommend finding ways to make it fun! Practice and consistency are key but finding ways to make practicing fun can make you enjoy the learning process a lot more and make you realize how much music can give to you! Whether that’s finally learning a song that has been stuck in your head, making a game out of practicing scales, or writing your own tune, finding creative ways to spark a connection with music will create a life long relationship between you and your craft.
Meet Harry Charles!
Harry Charles is a multi-instrumentalist from Rock Hill, South Carolina. He began playing piano in his early teens and has developed a high musical proficiency and repertoire spanning many genres and styles. He has performed extensively throughout the southeast with his award-winning musical variety show “Harry & Harrison.” Harry believes that with the right instruction, anyone can become a musician and unlock their own potential.
Why I Became A Musician
There's always something so magical about watching somebody operate a musical instrument with precision & passion. I can remember as a kid having countless experiences of seeing live musicians in restaurants or busking on the streets and knowing that if it was possible for me to find a way to do that for the rest of my life, I was going to find that way.
My Memorable Musical Experience
When I learned my first song on the piano and played it over and over again because of how proud I was!
A fun fact about me is...
I love cooking!
My advice to someone starting to learn music is...
Don't be afraid to mess up! To be a great musician you have to be patient with yourself and with the process; learning to command rhythm melody & harmony is like learning a new language and no one can do that in a day, it takes time. Remember this because it's important- 10 minutes of practice every day is far more beneficial to your learning than cramming for an hour once a week.
Meet Anna Spurrier!
Music has always been an important part of my life. My dad is a jazz musician here in Charlotte, so I grew up surrounded by it. I started playing piano at age five and have loved it ever since. I enjoy playing classical, jazz, pop, soul and rock, and I love sharing my passion for music with my students.
Why I Became A Musician
I was inspired to become a musician simply by listening to music. I fell in love with so many styles and knew I wanted to express myself in that same creative way.
My Memorable Musical Experience
When my dad took me to see Esperanza Spalding at the Knight theater when I was 9 years old. She’s an amazing bass players and inspired me to get into more modern jazz.
A fun fact about me is...
I have a Culinary degree from Johnson and Wales University.
My advice to someone starting to learn music is...
Keep practicing and consistency is key. Learning anything new is hard and shows little reward in the beginning but with time and practice you will get better!
Meet John Jorgensen!
I have been playing guitar and bass for 30+ years, keyboard and drums for 15 years. I have a degree in music and dual master’s degrees in the Humanities. I love teaching and do so around 25% of my week and produce music the rest: selling my music to use in TV/Cable/Streaming outlets. I’m currently a guitar player in Valley Range (a Charlotte band), a reggae band and an electronic project.
Why I Became A Musician
The rock/pop/garage music of the 1960s was my first musical love. Bands like The Who, The Beatles, The Kinks, etc were central to me wanting to learn how to play guitar and learn songwriting and later, production (recording & mixing).
My Memorable Musical Experience
The first time I saw Pat Metheny play. His compositions and mastery of the guitar is spell-binding.
A fun fact about me is...
I love cats, and have two sister cats.
My advice to someone starting to learn music is...
Have some music that you love on the instrument that you are learning. The desire to hear that music will be an engine to learn it together with your instrument. Also, take your time and let your mind and fingers develop at your individual pace - all while keeping the joy of music alive.
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.
Meet Nishanth Konduru!
I’ve played the piano for over 12 years. It has consistently played a key role in my life, as I use it as an outlet to unwind and get into my own world!
Why I Became A Musician
I was inspired by watching an old TV show. The music I heard spoke to me in a different way and I was drawn to the piano.
My Memorable Musical Experience
The first time I performed in front of a live audience was unforgettable. The nerves faded as soon as I started playing, and the energy boost I had made it feel effortless. I realized I was able to connect with everyone in the room through music.
A fun fact about me is...
I am originally from Brooklyn.
My advice to someone starting to learn music is...
It starts off difficult when you are learning the basics, but once you have the foundation and are able to learn familiar tunes it will become so enjoyable.
Meet David D’Angelo!
David D’Angelo is a multiinstrumentalist (piano/guitar/bass), producer, composer, songwriter, performing artist & DJ. His first love is piano, which he has been playing since age 7 and teaching for 15 years now, including over 4 years with Bold Music!
Why I Became A Musician
My mother started teaching me piano! My father also played traditional Peruvian music growing up. So my family and my love for music and being able to create my own songs!
My Memorable Musical Experience
One of my most memorable moments in my music career is performing as an opening act for FKJ, In New Orleans!
A fun fact about me is...
I love Football and spending time outdoors!
My advice to someone starting to learn music is...
If you truly love music then start learning and never give up! It may take longer than you think, but the journey is worth it!
Meet Paulina Quisol!
I’m passionate about writing and performing music, helping others reach their goals, and learning. Teaching is the most rewarding career for me. It’s the best way to practice my craft daily while helping others achieve new heights.
Why I Became A Musician
My mom and dad are both musicians, somewhere along the way I picked up a guitar and never put it back down again. Singing was my first instrument, then guitar and other stringed instruments, and then, piano.
My Memorable Musical Experience
My most memorable moments in music..I had so much fun playing 4-5 nights a week in Charlotte and surrounding cities leading up to Covid. I also made some amazing friends working at Nellie’s and had a lot of fun working for the Jonas family.
A fun fact about me is...
We just released an album! Stream: Confide by Leclère
My advice to someone starting to learn music is...
Giving up isn’t in your vocabulary. There will be moments when you’re frustrated - press on. I think that learning a new skill teaches you a lot about yourself!
Meet Korena Kraynak!
I am Korena Kraynak, and I am a life-long, passionate musician. I have been playing piano for over 20 years, and have developed a love of teaching. I absolutely adore children and helping them explore their gifts and talents. I have been teaching for 5 years, and there is nothing better than inspiring the next generation of musicians!
Why I Became A Musician
My piano teacher as a child was so inspiring to me, because she could pick up any piece of music and play it flawlessly! I thought it was the coolest thing and wanted to do that "when I grew up".
My Memorable Musical Experience
My most memorable musical moment was giving my own local show in my hometown in rural Pennsylvania. The crowd was full of 90 friends, family, supporters, and music lovers. It was a magical moment to share my love of music with people who have watched me from childhood!
A fun fact about me is...
I am from Pennsylvania.
My advice to someone starting to learn music is...
Music is such a joy to have in life, but it can take a lot of time to master. Take your time, be kind to yourself, and don't forget to practice!
Meet Colby Whaley!
Colby is a Raleigh native and graduate of North Carolina Wesleyan University where he obtained a Bachelor’s degree in Music Production. He has years of experience playing gigs in several acts as a guitarist as well as occasionally playing bass and drums. Colby also has experience in live sound and production on both the semi and professional level ranging from personal projects to engineering and recording classical and jazz ensembles. He enjoys helping his students explore music and acheive growth through accomplishing their personal musical goals.
Why I Became A Musician
Guitar Hero is the reason I picked up an instrument at a young age. However, learning about the career of Frank Zappa as a teen made me believe that becoming a musician is not only possible, but important and worthwhile.
My Memorable Musical Experience
My most memorable musical moment was playing the UNCW Battle of the Bands in college with my friends. Incredibly fun lineup of awesome bands and people cheering each other on.
A fun fact about me is...
My band KOMODO plays the Raleigh Museum of Natural Science's "Bugfest" every year.
My advice to someone starting to learn music is...
Be consistent! You don't need to practice for 3 hours every single day. You'd be surprised how much growth you can achieve with consistent daily practice for just 10-15 minutes!
Meet Chris Mont!
I am a musician who has gained experience in almost every corner of the industry. From beginning with “garage band” roots as a teenager, to playing in marching band, to studying music formally in a conservatory style university, to playing with orchestras, to playing with wedding bands, to composing for musical theatre, to recording in studios, to teaching K-12 students, to providing music therapy for seniors in nursing homes… I have always kept music in my life and I will always keep exploring more. Come join me for private lessons and we can continue the exploration together!
Why I Became A Musician
I was raised in a family that had many different examples of showcasing their love of music. My mother played the piano and gave me an introduction at an early age. Her uncle was a member of a musical group called the Happy Boombadears Club, and he showed me their percussion instruments when I was very young. My older brothers played music in the house all the time, and I used to love going to see the marching band performances. And, then... I heard Rush's song "Tom Sawyer" for the first time. After that I knew I was meant to be a drummer.
My Memorable Musical Experience
Winning my high school talent show and being asked to provide the musical entertainment for our graduation picnic.
A fun fact about me is...
I have seen my favorite band in concert almost 100 times! Can you guess what band it is?
My advice to someone starting to learn music is...
Be patient, and understand that failure is a normal and necessary part of the growth process. But also never forget that music should be fun!
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.
Meet Nicole Foo!
Nicole Song En Foo is a pianist from Malaysia. She believes music is part of life and everyone can feel the beats. Offering music lessons, she is excited to develop in each student with both the joy of being an artist and the discipline of developing a skill.
Ms. Nicole holds a PAC (Professional Artist Certificate) in collaborative piano in 2020 and M.M in Piano Performance in 2019 at the University of North Carolina School of Arts under the guidance of Professor Margo Garrett and Dr. Polina Khatsko. Her primary mentors included Dr. Dmitri Vorobiev and Dr. Allison Gagnon. She also earned a B.A in Music from the University of Northern Iowa in 2017. As a student, she also earned piano and violin certificates at LTCL (Licentiate Trinity College of London) and ATCL (Associate Trinity College of London) in 2016 and 2011.
Why I Became A Musician
Honestly, no one. I grow up in a music family. Right after high school, I was offered by University of Indonesia to study med and Drake University(Iowa) & University of Northern Iowa to study music. I know deep down music has been a part of my life since birth, that I couldn't and wouldn't give up and I'm proud of that.
My Memorable Musical Experience
Tons of midnight practices with my college friends for upcoming performances. We would attempt to play other's instruments that we are not familiar with and it sounded terrible...yikes!
A fun fact about me is...
I love cats and noodles!
My advice to someone starting to learn music is...
Focus on fundamental and be patient throughout the learning process.
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.
Meet Donte Washington!
In my journey as a Musician I have found the art to be one of the most enjoyable things in my life. There is nothing like approaching a challenge and knowing that you have the wherewithal to overcome it. I just hope that I am able to share the love for music with all those who see that value in it.
Why I Became A Musician
When I think about my inspiration to become a musician, I can only think of how i just kept coming back to it. Throughout my life it has been a constant that melts its way into everything I do. I didn't start to take myself seriously until after I went through professional voice training and realized that this music thing is no joke. But its really fun and I'm proud to call myself a musician.
My Memorable Musical Experience
My most memorable musical moment was when I was in Band class and I had to play the Oboe solo in the piece "Frozen" and this was directly after it came out. I had practiced it for a very long time and it was difficult to put together but when I had performed it in class my director had to get on all of the other instruments because she said they were "dulling the sound of the oboe solo.” This recognition was a testament to my hard work and I will never forget the reason why I practice.
A fun fact about me is...
I like to go on 5 mile runs at least 3 times a week.
My advice to someone starting to learn music is...
Good music takes time and good musicians know that. Don't always expect to get it right on the first try and be patient with yourself. The good music is the type of music that makes you feel good so lets chase after that.
