Find Your Mentor.
Whether you’re looking for 1:1 guidance, a clinician to work with your ensemble or someone to host a professional development session, you’ll find them here.
Use the Category filter on the right sidebar to explore by content area expertise.
Use the Search Bar to filter by keywords.
When you’re ready, complete the form at the top of this page.
Brandon Kurzawa
Brandon Kurzawa, founder of Music Notes Academy, has over 24 years of music education experience, holds a B.A. in Music and M.A. in Education, and directs the MAMTG Student Music Festival. A percussionist, he’s recognized for his recording credits and contributions to music education through publications.
Mark Anthony Appiotti
Born and raised in Philadelphia, I began playing trumpet in 4th grade and pursued music education, inspired by Mr. Simon. With a Bachelor's from Mansfield University and advanced studies at Vandercook and UArts, I taught music for 35 years. Now retired, I mentor young teachers, play professionally, and enjoy traveling.
Vanisha Evans
With over 20 years in arts administration, nonprofit management, and music education, I have developed successful, sustainable programs tailored to organizational needs and budgets. My engaging music lessons inspire students' curiosity and passion. I perform regularly and specialize in neo-soul music, particularly Michael Jackson and Stevie Wonder, as well as classical and jazz.
Melynda Morrone
Melynda Morrone is a music educator and aspiring curriculum supervisor in Southern New Jersey. She has taught at Whitehall Elementary School and Swansboro High School, achieving leadership roles and honors. Melynda co-created "Mini Musicians" classes and holds degrees in Music Education and School Leadership. She enjoys family time, nature walks, and singing.
Stacey Peterik
Stacey Peterik is the 5th grade band director in Urbana School District #116. She also teaches middle and high school jazz bands and directs the high school marching band. Previously, she taught in Champaign, IL. Stacey holds degrees from the University of Illinois and a Master's from VanderCook College of Music.
Steve Giddings
Steve is a public school music teacher, columnist for the Canadian Music Educator Journal, and author of award-winning books, including "Rock Coach" and "Creative Musicking." He advocates for popular music ensembles and creative practices in music education. He runs StevesMusicRoom.com, a blog and resource hub. Follow him on socials @StevesMusicRoom.
Cierra Nicole Gooden
Cierra, an SFSU alumna with a Master's in Music, has led the Music Student Alliance, taught over 300 children, and contributed to E.D.I initiatives. Currently teaching at Antelope Valley College and DNA STUDIOS USA, she has participated in numerous productions and loves mentoring and inspiring future generations.
Nicola Barbieri
Nicola Barbieri, a Music Performance graduate, has a 25-year career as a performer and educator. He has played with prestigious orchestras worldwide and teaches at international schools. Nicola trained in Europe and the USA, and now serves as Learning Leader at the International School of Turin, Italy.
Asherah Capellaro
With degrees in classical piano and voice, I sing, act, educate, and conduct across diverse styles. I perform in operas, musicals, and concerts on the East Coast and teach voice in my private studio and at the university level, seeking innovative approaches to traditional art forms.
Monica Pickard
I am a NBCT in Music Education and serve as a test writer and scorer for Pearson. When I am not in the classroom, I serve my church as the Director of Music Ministry, and play professionally for various events. I have experience in band and choir, and enjoy theory and composition. Piano is my instrument of expertise.
Suyá Nascimento
Suyá, a visionary composer from Salvador, Brazil, crafts music that transcends traditional norms. Blending analog and digital sounds, her immersive performances captivate audiences. With a unique approach born from childhood experimentation, she mentors young creatives and inspires transformation through her music and teaching.
Erin Zaffini
Dr. Erin Zaffini (DMA) is the Director of Teacher Education for Longy’s Master of Music Education programs and faculty at the University of New Hampshire. She specializes in music education for students with disabilities, and is an active clinician and consultant. Dr. Zaffini has published extensively and received multiple teaching awards.
Calvin Sexton
Artist, musician, and performer with 20 years of experience as a music teacher. Holds a Master of Music from NYU. Experienced in collaborative teaching and skilled with various music and audio software. Touring artist with Inner City All-Stars.
Robert Vandergriff
Music Educator of 24 years, Choral director, Theater director, Instructional Designer, Voice Teacher, Professional Voice Coach, Singer, Songwriter, Producer, Guitarist, Electronic Musician, and DJ. I am currently running a choral program in Michigan and directing musicals.
Marisa Sardo
Chicago-born guitarist Marisa Sardo, a dual-citizen of the US and Italy, is an internationally active musician known for diverse programs. She has won major competitions, including the 2022 New York Laureate and 2021 Twisted Spruce. Marisa holds degrees from Northwestern, Indiana University, and New England Conservatory.
Chelsea Dandrea
I am a music educator of 9 years. I received my Bachelors in Music Education from Eastern Kentucky University and my Masters in Music Curriculum and Instruction from Southeastern Oklahoma State University. I have spent my years in education teaching in small schools and have experience in Preschool, General Music, Band, Choir, Music Technology, and Music Theory.
Tami Williams
Passionate about kids and music education, Tami has strong planning and organizational skills. In 2021, she wrote the Summer Music Curriculum for Broward County Public Schools, trained other educators on Nearpod, and were a guest clinician at Barry University. She also served as Broward County Elementary Music Teachers' Association (BCEMTA) President from 2015-2017.
Thomas Palmatier
Colonel Thomas Palmatier is a distinguished military musician with a career spanning over 37 years. He served as Commander of The United States Army Band “Pershing’s Own,” the largest military music unit in the U.S. He also commanded the U.S. Army Field Band, becoming the first officer to lead both premier Army bands. After retiring from the military, he became an adjunct associate professor at Old Dominion University and a sought-after clinician, guest conductor, and consultant. His academic credentials include a Doctor of Music (Honorary), a Master of Strategic Studies from the U.S. Army War College, and a Master of Fine Arts in Music Education.
Brandon Kelley
Brandon Kelley, a seasoned saxophonist and educator, has presented masterclasses at UNT and the North American Saxophone Alliance. He has performed at prestigious venues, including Carnegie Hall, and is a faculty member at Dallas College. A winner of multiple music competitions, Brandon blends performance, teaching, and research in his career.
Jessica Peresta
Jessica is the elementary music teacher and curriculum coordinator at The Hill School in Fayetteville, AR and is the founder and CEO of The Domestic Musician, LLC, where products include the Curriculum Design Roadmap course, the HARMONY membership site, and the Elementary Music Teacher Blueprint course.
