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

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Drizzie Burston
Drizzie Burston Portrait

Meet Drizzie Burston!

Hi, My name is Drizzie and I love to teach! One of my favorite things about teaching is being able to help people reach their untapped potential. I always strive to meet students where they are so that they have fun in the process of learning and grow as a musician!

Why I Became A Musician

Passion drives me to be a musician but the inspiration comes from the people around me. Friends, audiences, and colleagues reminding me of the gift I have and to never give up.

My Memorable Musical Experience

I went to Vicenza Italy to preform my first Opera and it was astonishing!

A fun fact about me is...

I am a local professional opera, and love playing chess in the park on a nice Saturday afternoon!

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

You are enough and YOU CAN DO HARD THINGS! Learning music can be very emotional and it is easy to give up but the more you remind yourself of these 2 things it will give you strength enough to keep going.

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!

Simeon McCray
Simeon McCray Portrait

Meet Simeon McCray!

Education is my career, I teach math and music and I love it! Music is my passion and it’s my favorite creative outlet. I’ve been playing piano my whole life and I’m excited to share the knowledge I’ve accumulated over the years.

Why I Became A Musician

My Father is my inspiration to be a musician. After catching me plucking around on the piano in our house my Dad immediately decided to get me lessons. Those lessons built my confidence and I was able to cultivate my skill by playing in the church that he pastors. I’m very thankful for him investing into my talent and holding me accountable along the way.

My Memorable Musical Experience

Competing in an international competition for piano!

A fun fact about me is...

I enjoy music production and photography too!

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

Be patient as you learn, set small goals, get comfortable in playing in front of others, but fall in love with playing the instrument all by yourself.

Caroline Belk
Caroline Belk Portrait

Meet Caroline Belk!

I’ve been playing and writing music since I was 10 years old. I’ve played and toured in bands and also write, record and produce my own solo music. I have a BA degree from Berklee College of music in Songwriting and Producing Music with Summa Cum Laude honors. It is such a joy for me that I now get to teach music!

Why I Became A Musician

My older brother teaching me Nirvana songs on the guitar when I was 10.

My Memorable Musical Experience

Going on tour in Europe last minute for 3 weeks with an old band I was in many years ago.

A fun fact about me is...

I love analog synthesizers!🎹

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

Be patient with the journey and don’t forget to have fun all along the way. Music has a place for everyone.

Kennedy Crawford
Kennedy Crawford Portrait

Meet Kennedy Crawford!

I recieved my Bachelor of Music from UNC Chapel Hill in 2018 and recieved my Masters in Vocal Performance from Trinity Laban Conservatoire in 2020. I currently work as a classroom educator in Madrid, Spain and have been teaching voice and piano for over 8 years. Although I studied opera, nowadays I mainly perform pop and musical theatre.

Why I Became A Musician

I grew up in a musical family and started singing in church at a very early age. My grandmother and father are singers and my aunt plays the flute, so music was always around me.

My Memorable Musical Experience

My most memorable musical moment was my first year opera production during my masters degree at Trinity Laban Conservatoire. We performed the opera "Svadba" which is an acappella opera in the Serbian language. The opera was performed in The Queen's House in London, which was an experience of a lifetime.

A fun fact about me is...

I love baking.

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

My advice to someone starting to learn music is to practice as much as you can and to embrace making mistakes. They are an important part of the learning process!

Bry McKeon
Bry McKeon Portrait

Meet Bry McKeon!

Growing up Bry began her musical career playing the flute at 11 years old. Through middle and high school, Bry studied privately and was active in her school’s band program. Her passion for music grew as she played music with others in her high school wind ensemble and local honor bands. During her senior year she served as Drum Major. Bry also won numerous awards and scholarships. She followed her passion for music into college.

At UNC Charlotte, Bry graduated with a bachelors of music in Education. Flourishing in her time at UNCC, she was active in many ensembles. In her final two years she worked as principal of the Wind Ensemble and Orchestra. This opened many opportunities, which included playing in the pit for the theater department. While at UNCC she focused on perfecting flute, as well developing her skills as a music educator. In her college studio Bry became proficient at all wind/brass instruments, as well as piano, which were apart of her general studies.

Currently Bry works as a middle school band director at Martin Luther King Middle School in Charlotte. In her first year, Bry hopes to create a positive environment where students are able to grow as both individuals and musicians.

Nadya Stratton
Nadya Stratton Portrait

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.

Patrick Carr
Patrick Carr Portrait

Meet Patrick Carr!

My initial background started on blues and rock from the 60’s and 70s, but throughout the years I’ve grown my interest in other genres through the various projects I’ve been a part of such as jazz, country/Americana, folk, metal, CCM, and even early music from medieval and Renaissance periods. I also love writing music, whether it’s contributing parts to a song my band is working on to creating full songs of my own.

Why I Became A Musician

My dad lent me a copy of the fourth Led Zeppelin album and I remember hearing "Black Dog" for the first time; I just thought it sounded so cool and all I could think about was how much I wanted to learn how to play it. Not too long after that, I got my first guitar and that became my main focus since then.

My Memorable Musical Experience

Probably the most memorable moment I have from my time as a musician was recording in Nashville. I was able to track electric guitar parts in the same studio used by artists like Alison Krauss and Dan Tyminski. A close tie may also be performing at the House of Blues in Myrtle Beach, which was where I also saw the Black Keys as my first concert.

A fun fact about me is...

I've been to Japan twice now.

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

Focus on gaining a strong foundation on technique and rhythm in the beginning as it will set you up for success when learning more advanced music, but also don't forget to have fun and keep an open mind for creativity.

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.

Vlad Diviziev
Vlad Diviziev Portrait

Meet Vlad Diviziev!

I’ve been performing and teaching piano for over 20 years. Music has always been a central part of my life! I offer a flexible, tailored to your level/interests/personal goals approach to my teaching method.

Why I Became A Musician

The endless creative possibilities.

My Memorable Musical Experience

Performing ans working in Japan.

A fun fact about me is...

Love to play soccer.

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

Don't give up! Steady practice with quality instruction goes a long way!

Phillip Hill
Phillip Hill Portrait

Meet Phillip Hill!

Phillip performed with Opera Carolina among other opera/musical theater companies before obtaining a masters degree in Music Performance from UNCG. He has spent his post-graduate career dedicating himself to his students. Regardless of age or gender, he always works with each individual to help them achieve their goals in a way that works for them. He understands that there is no one way to teach, and each lesson should be individually tailored to the student’s style of learning.

Why I Became A Musician

In High School I wasn't cast in my school's production of "You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown", so I started taking voice lessons. My teacher at the time was so enthusiastic about singing that it instilled a life-long passion in me and now I hope to spread that joy to others!

My Memorable Musical Experience

After I graduated college, one of the church directors I often worked for wrote a set of songs specifically for me and my voice. It was an unforgettable experience with a 3-night run of recitals, and it was also my first professional recording experience!

A fun fact about me is...

I have a very spoiled cat 🐈.

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

Be patient with yourself. It's okay (and encouraged!) to make plenty of mistakes on your journey to being a pro!!

David D’Angelo
David D’Angelo Portrait

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!

Chad White
Chad White Portrait

Meet Chad White!

Chad White teaches Trumpet, Piano, Drums, Guitar, Bass and Ukulele. A multi-instrumentalist, Chad is a 2020 graduate of the University of North Carolina at Greensboro where he studied Music as well as Arts Administration. Chad is a Charlotte resident and has many years of experience playing music professionally and has played in various musical ensembles including the UNCG Wind Ensemble, Jazz Ensemble, and Trumpet Ensemble, as well as other local bands.

Why I Became A Musician

When I was very young around the holidays, I saw a band playing jingle bell rock, which was my favorite holiday song at the time and thought it was super cool! I always loved music and jumped at the opportunity to join band in middle school.

My Memorable Musical Experience

Performing at the 2019 National Trumpet Competition in with the UNCG Trumpet Ensemble.

A fun fact about me is...

I love hiking!

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

Focus on getting a strong set of basics at first. Memorize all of the musical alphabet, chord tones, and scales. After that you can really start having fun!

Donte Washington
Donte Washington Portrait

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.

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.

Yahyah Corbett
Yahyah Corbett Portrait

Meet Yahyah Corbett!

Yahyah is a trumpet/piano player and music instructor with a strong background in jazz and performance. He loves helping students build confidence, develop their musical skills, and discover the joy of playing music in a fun and supportive environment.

Why I Became A Musician

I grew up in a house that had either an instrument or a stereo in every room, so all day I was surrounded by all types of music. I started playing the Trumpet at 10 and I was hooked!

My Memorable Musical Experience

Meeting and playing for the late Dolly Parton. Winning the 2023 Jack Rudin Collegiate Jazz Championship. Performing in the 2011 Tournament of Roses Parade.

A fun fact about me is...

I love hosting musical tea parties.

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

My advice is to remember that you are learning a new skill which can be very difficult. Do not get frustrated, just practice. If you think you've practiced enough, practice some more!

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