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 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.
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.
Meet Jennifer Jess!
I’ve been regularly teaching for about 3 years and off and on for a decade. I originally went to school for opera and left early to pursue my own music career. I later trained with Jan Smith Studios and discovered my true pop voice there.
Why I Became A Musician
My mother and my grandmother who were also singers.
My Memorable Musical Experience
In my early twenties I was a part of a local competition. At the time, I was dealing with daily anxiety and I was doubting whether I should continue to pursue a music career. I told myself that if I could get up in front of this crowd of 5,000 people and feel at peace on stage, then I was meant to do this. I stepped up on the stage and I felt nothing but an overwhelming peace. I knew I would never question my pursuit in music after that.
A fun fact about me is...
I sang live in front of an audience for the first time when I was 10 years old--all a cappella.
My advice to someone starting to learn music is...
Consider the genre of music you're interested in learning and also what your specific goals are. Know that it takes time, patience and dedication to get really good at your craft.
Meet Jenn Kaminski-Horak!
Jenn is a passionate and versatile professional musician who teaches saxophone, flute, piano, and voice. She received a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Music from Concordia College in Moorhead, MN as a saxophonist. During her time in school, she won the Senior Honors Competition and performed the Lars-Erik Larsson Concerto with the Concordia Orchestra. She was also section leader in the Concordia Band and Jazz Ensemble 1, led multiple saxophone quartets, sang in choir, and performed in the SaxArts Festival in Faenza, Italy in 2018 with other musicians from around the world.
As the lead singer, saxophonist, and song writer in the band Short Notice for the past four years, Jenn has shown herself to be fluent in many genres both vocally and on the saxophone. These genres include rock, pop, jazz, alternative and more. As a child, Jenn dreamed of playing in a band, so being a part of Short Notice has been one of her favorite musical experiences!
Church music is another aspect of music that Jenn has quite a bit of experience in. She has directed worship bands for the past 5+ years at Atonement Lutheran Church and with the campus ministry Cru, leading on keyboard and vocals.
Jenn has a passion for musical excellence and helping her students grow because the skills learned as a musician can be applied to many other aspects of life. Jenn also loves coming alongside her students and watching them discover the beauty, expression, and fun that comes from playing music!
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 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 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.
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 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!
Meet Chase Taylor!
I started playing piano, drums and singing in Church, with aspirations to be like Prince. That foundation ultimately led to classical voice, and now I am a 2 time Grammy winner performer at the Metropolitan Opera, and have helped produce music with some of the biggest names in Pop and hip hop.
Why I Became A Musician
Making music feels like speaking a native language.
My Memorable Musical Experience
My first performance of Rachmaninov Vespers, followed by my Met debut.
A fun fact about me is...
I am a national champ in Muay Thai, and worked as an underwater gold miner.
My advice to someone starting to learn music is...
Fall in love with your instrument.
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 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.
Meet Dillon Taylor!
Dillon’s passion for music began at an early age, growing up in a home filled with musical toys and instruments. Their formal musical education started in elementary school orchestra and expanded through private guitar lessons and like-minded friends. From performing in string quartets and rock bands to recording and producing music, Dillon enjoys exploring all parts of music.
Why I Became A Musician
The seemingly endless sounds that even a single instrument can make. I was fascinated by how something as deceptively simple as a guitar could always surprise me with something new.
My Memorable Musical Experience
Seeing a live performance of Yo-Yo Ma and The Silk Road Ensemble - they were all such amazing musicians who exuded not only talent but joy as well.
A fun fact about me is...
I still have all of my widsom teeth.
My advice to someone starting to learn music is...
Follow your curiosity and whatever you find fun! There are so many ways to enjoy music, and chances are it will take some exploring before you find something that speaks to you.
Meet Miasol Yara!
I grew up in a musical family taking lessons in cello, violin, and piano as well as participating in musical theater and choir. I picked up guitar and ukulele when I was around 9 years old, the same time I joined my first pop/rock band. During middle school I started teaching music, and I later was a member of a funk band and another rock band. During college, I joined and music directed an a capella group and continued to teach music.
Why I Became A Musician
My parents are musicians and filled our lives with music as children, so it has always been a natural part of my life. I found a particular love for singing to the point where I feel I can't go without it, and a lot of my motivation to grow my instrumental skills is to accompany that love.
My Memorable Musical Experience
Getting to play Esmeralda in The Hunchback of Notre Dame, with Legacy Theater!
A fun fact about me is...
I have lots of other interests including art, creative writing, and animals- I even have a pet snake!
My advice to someone starting to learn music is...
The more tools you have to work with, the more you can create. So many of my skills have come not just from lessons, but from expanding my listening and personal practice into a huge variety of music. Even more importantly, you have to consistently use the tools you have so they don't get rusty. Figure out what kind or what part of music draws you in the most, and create your own standards. Nobody is born a musician, and anyone can become one.
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 Joel Desjardins!
I’ve been playing since 13, music is truly my passion in life. Guitar is my main instrument and I enjoy playing music of all genres – I believe music is the language of the world. I got my start playing in alternative bands and have grown to love playing rock and roll, blues, jazz, pop, soul, the list goes on. Most recently, I’ve played in a wedding and events band. Anytime I have an instrument in hand is a great day!
Why I Became A Musician
Freedom of expression through self and feeling part of a community, leaning on a team to create something bigger than oneself.
My Memorable Musical Experience
What comes to mind is my first band in high school was on a bill with other bands at a VFW hall. The place was fully packed out and it was my first time seeing strangers dance and have fun from music I created. That’s when I knew I was hooked.
A fun fact about me is...
I once played guitar with Ace Frehley from KISS.
My advice to someone starting to learn music is...
Learning to play music is a long term investment your older self will be incredibly thankful you started. It isn’t always easy and it’s a discipline that you choose every day, but you can choose to make it fun. It’s so worth sticking with it!
