Music Faculty - Maritime Conservatory of Performing Arts

Jason Davis

Voice
Tenor Jason Davis has been hailed by critics as “truly a fine tenor” and “one of the most exciting voices of his generation possessing a voice of tremendous beauty, color and power”. Daphna Levit of Opera Canada Magazine recently wrote “Jason Davis was perfect as the...Learn More

Dr. Michael Donovan

Voice, Public Speaking
Michael Donovan's experience as a musician encompasses a wide range of musical styles and forms of expression. As a boy, he studied piano and pursued extensive studies in classical and jazz saxophone at the Conservatoire du Québec. As a teenager, he composed original...Learn More

Shauna DeGruchy

Trombone
Trombonist Shauna DeGruchy is a freelance trombonist and music educator based in Halifax, Nova Scotia. She performs regularly with ensembles such as Nova Sinfonia, Glass Winds, and Siren Brass, and is a founding member and co-artistic director of contemporary chamber group...Learn More

Rachael Desoer

Cello
Rachel Desoer is a Canadian cellist and teacher. She studied at the Juilliard School, Oberlin College, McGill University and the Banff Centre. She graduated from Oberlin in 2008 with a Bachelor of Music degree. Since 2009, Rachel has taught the cello and chamber music to students...Learn More

Dr. Jennifer Farrell

Voice
Soprano Jennifer Farrell appears regularly with professional Canadian ensembles in the fields of oratorio, opera and choral repertoire. In western Canada she has performed as a soloist with the Vancouver Bach Choir, the Vancouver Symphony, MusicFest Vancouver, Vancouver...Learn More

Max Fleischman

Piano
Max Fleischman took his formative training in piano with Beatrice Allen (a student of James Friskin and Nadia Reisenberg). He then pursued further piano studies with Nelita True, Gabriel Chodos and Carmen Vilá, and historical keyboard studies with David Breitman, Malcolm...Learn More

Ellen Gibling

Harp, Fiddle & Harp Jam Circle
Ellen Gibling Ellen Gibling is a harpist based in K'jipuktuk/Halifax, Nova Scotia, who plays classical, Irish traditional, free improvised, and pop music on pedal and lever harps. She holds a BMus in harp performance from McGill University, and an MA in Irish Traditional Music Performance...Learn More

Geordie Haley

Guitar, Electric Guitar
Geordie Haley: Guitarist, Composer, Improviser and Educator has been a featured Artist with new music presenters Suddenly Listen, Upstream Music, Vocalypse, and Open Arts. Geordie is a frequent contributor to the Halifax Jazz Festival, the Harvest Blues and Jazz Festival, and the...Learn More

Lucy Hayes Davis

Voice
Mezzo-soprano Lucy Hayes Davis is pleased to call Halifax home. Lucy has taught voice at Dalhousie and Acadia Universities as well as Lyric Diction, Voice Pedagogy and Voice Clinics for students in the Dalhousie acting program. She acts as music director for the...Learn More

Alys Howe

Harp
Canadian Alys Howe has played harp for 30+ years. She was the first overseas harp student accepted to the Royal Scottish Academy of Music and Dance, and earned her Masters in Traditional Irish Music Performance from the University of Limerick...Learn More

Ronald Hynes

Electric Bass Guitar/ Double Bass
Bassist Ronald J. Hynes began studying jazz at St. Francis Xavier University in 2006. While attending St.FX he performed regularly with faculty members and also had the privilege to perform at master classes with guest artists Jimmy Cobb (Miles Davis “Kind of Blue”) and New York...Learn More

Janice Isabel Jackson

Voice
Janice Isabel Jackson has been teaching for the past 30 years and brings a wealth of knowledge of singing technique and performance practice to her students. She enjoys teaching a wide range of students, from classical to singer songwriters to rappers! Her aim is to assist the...Learn More

Celeste Jankowski

Violin / Chamber Orchestra
Celeste Jankowski holds a Bachelor of Music degree in Violin Performance from the New England Conservatory of Music in Boston and is currently a member of the first violin section of Symphony Nova Scotia. She has been featured as a soloist with Symphony Nova Scotia...Learn More

Csaba Kanyasi

Drums / Percussion
Csaba (Chubba) Kanyasi has been playing music for over 40 years and teaching for more than 20 years. Although jazz is his main focus, he performs in various styles. Now a resident of Wolfville, Nova Scotia, Chubba was born in Hungary where he attended the Jazz College in...Learn More

Ria Kim

Piano
Pianist Ria Kim, originally from South Korea, received her educations in the Maritime Conservatory of Performing Arts and Dalhousie University where she studied with Oxana Zotova and Lynn Stodola, prior to studying with Daniel Epstein and earning her Master's degree at Manhattan...Learn More

Lauren Klein

Suzuki Violin
Lauren Klein grew up in Halifax and studied violin with Jan Wicha and was a member of NSYO, HSSO, and the MCPA Chamber Orchestra. She received a Bachelor of Music from the University of Victoria with Sharon Stanis. In Halifax, she has performed with Symphony...Learn More

Rosemary Kristof

Piano
Rosemary Kristof’s early studies took place in Jamaica, W.I. with Isabelle Hicks leading to the L.R.S.M. Diploma in Performance, and one year later she obtained the Performer’s A.R.C.T. in Toronto with teachers Douglas Bodle and Pierre Souvairan. After this she had...Learn More

Mary Lee

French Horn
Hornist Mary Lee trained at the University of Toronto, in the city where she was born and raised. Her primary teachers were Wayne Jeffrey, Eugene Rittich, and Iman Soetemann at the Utrecht Conservatory, where Mary studied after completing her undergraduate...Learn More

Dr. Michael Lee

Piano
Dr. Michael Lee enjoys an active and wide-ranging musical career as both a solo and collaborative pianist. He has performed throughout North America and Europe, has given premieres of new works, studied at eminent music festivals and has worked as a répétiteur and music director...Learn More

Zoe Leger

Voice
As one of the brightest emerging talents on the Canadian jazz scene, vocalist and pianist Zoe Leger’s warm, inviting voice has been drawing audiences throughout Canada and the United Kingdom since 2007. As a leader in Halifax’s contemporary and jazz music scenes...Learn More

Suzanne Lemieux

Oboe
Suzanne Lemieux was the Principal Oboe of Symphony Nova Scotia. She has performed as guest soloist with Symphony Nova Scotia in more than twenty different programs and delighted audiences with repertoire from all eras of classical music, from baroque to contemporary...Learn More

Rod MacGillivray

Low Brass, Brass Ensemble
Rod MacGillivray (B.Mus. M.Mus.) is a conductor and low brass musician from Bridgewater, NS performing on trombone, euphonium, and tuba. He holds a Bachelor of Music from Mount Allison University, a Master of Music from Temple University in Philadelphia, and has...Learn More

Daniel MacNeil

Guitar/Suzuki Guitar/Oud, World Music Ensemble/Guitar Ensemble, Music Theory
Daniel MacNeil is a multiple award-winning guitarist, composer, and educator. He has performed across Canada and Spain as a soloist, in chamber music settings, and with professional symphony orchestras, including: the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra, the Calgary...Learn More

Sibylle Marquardt

Flute/Suzuki Flute/Baroque Flute, Adult Flute Ensemble
A native of Germany, Sibylle Marquardt moved to Toronto in 1997. After 20 years in Toronto she now lives in Halifax where she is the Dean of Music as well as flute teacher at the Maritime Conservatory. An active chamber and orchestral player in Canada and Europe, she is...Learn More

Patrick Maubert

Voice/ Musical Theatre
Patrick Maubert, from Fredericton NB, completed an associate degree in Musical Theatre Performance from the American Musical and Dramatic Academy of New York City as well as a master’s degree in Musical Theatre Creative Practice in Directing at the Arts...Learn More

Cheryl McCarthy

Piano
Cheryl McCarthy is an experienced teacher, festival adjudicator and choral director. She works with students of all ages and levels in both piano and voice, adapting to the needs and skills of the individual...Learn More

Amelia McMahon

Voice/ Glee Club
Amelia McMahon (she / her / elle) began teaching voice lessons more than 20 years ago. Since then, her love affair with teaching, performing and singing has brought a diverse array of students through her studio. Whether she is working with an established performer or...Learn More

Garth McPhee

Organ/Harpsichord/Piano, Seton Conservatory Choir
Garth MacPhee is a native Nova Scotian and a graduate of the Schulich School of Music at McGill University (M.Mus '06), where he studied organ with John Grew and Dr William Porter. Garth has a long association with Saint George's Round Church, having served as Director of... Learn More

Debbie Miles

Violin
Debbie Miles holds a Master of Arts in Classical String Performance from University of Limerick in Ireland and 30 years of teaching and performing experience. Debbie is an engaging violinist known for her warm sound. As a violin teacher she brings an enthusiastic approach along...Learn More

Kirsty Money

Violin/Baroque Violin, Nyckelharpa
Kirsty Money is a dynamic performer and teacher of modern/baroque violin, and the nyckelharpa in the Halifax area. Originally from BC, she studied violin with Sydney Humphreys at the Victoria Conservatory of Music, and has further performance degrees from McGill and...Learn More

Carlos Mora Baez

Jazz Saxophone / Clarinet / Flute
Carlos A. Mora Baez is an innovative and passionate musician trained in jazz, classical and popular music styles. Originally from Cuba, Carlos has over 20 years of experience performing for a variety of international audiences as a soloist as well as in groups and orchestras. Carlos...Learn More

Gregory Myra

Piano
Gregory Myra: Halifax pianist Gregory Myra received his Bachelor of Music in Piano Performance in 2009 from Dalhousie University where he studied with Professor Peter Allen. Upon graduation he accompanied the students of Professor Lucy Hayes-Davis at Dalhousie for...Learn More

Christopher Palmer

Bassoon, Music Theory
Christopher Palmer was born in the Hague, Netherlands, of Canadian parents, and grew up in London, England. He studied at the Royal College of Music in London, and also at the University of Ottawa. As a professional bassoonist he has played in many orchestras and...Learn More

Natalia Pavlovskaia

Piano
Natalia Pavlovskaia is a professional music educator and performer with over 25 years of experience in teaching, performing and adjudicating piano in Canada and Russia. Natalia holds a Master Degree with distinction in Piano Pedagogy and Piano Performance from Gorky Conservatoire and Diploma of Professional Development Program from St. Petersburg ...Learn More

Paula Phillips

Voice
Paula Phillips brings over 30 years of experience in performing, teaching and arranging to her vibrant voice studio. Her musical life began with choral singing, and playing piano, clarinet and saxophone. Paula holds a Bachelor of Music in vocal performance, and a...Learn More

Antonia Pigot

Voice
Antonia Pigot brings eclectic and diverse musical experiences to the teaching table. Highlights have included performing at the Ouaga Jazz Festival in Burkina Faso, Africa, recording vocals for a Cirque du Soleil album in Montreal and creating electronic vocal soundscapes for the New...Learn More

Andre Pretzel

Suzuki Violin
Andre Pretzel moved to Halifax, NS in 2015 to teach Suzuki violin, and he was glad to witness a sudden growth in that community recently. His Suzuki experience began when he was searching for a method that resonated with my beliefs, and his past training includes...Learn More

Jennifer Publicover

Flute, Adult Flute Ensemble
Jennifer Publicover (MMus, MES, BMus) is a performer on the modern orchestral flute, the traditional wooden Irish flute, and the simple system Baroque flute, and has decades of teaching experience. She is the founder and director of the Halifax Institute of Traditional and...Learn More

Matt Richard

Trumpet
An active performer in Halifax and beyond, Matt Richard completed his master’s degree in trumpet performance at the University of Victoria under Lou Ranger, formerly of the American Brass Quintet. He has appeared in concert with Nova Sinfonia, Scotia Brass, Opera Nova Scotia...Learn More

Betty Ro

Piano
Originally from South Korea, Betty Ro has been teaching in Nova Scotia since 1992. After culminating her studies in Korea, she completed a M.M. from the New England Conservatory in Boston, MA, with piano studies under Gabriel Chodos and Jacob Maxin, and...Learn More

Frances Royle

Piano
Frances is an active performer, who has played for numerous opera and musical theatre productions as well as in solo and chamber music recitals. She has served as an accompanist for the School of Dance and the Suzuki Department as well as many private voice, string, and...Learn More

Aiden Russel

Cello
Aiden, a cellist from Ottawa, Ontario, joined the cello section of Symphony Nova Scotia in September of 2022. Aiden completed his Graduate Performance Diploma and Masters degree at the Peabody Conservatory of Music under the direction of Alan Stepansky. Prior to this...Learn More

Tara Scott

Piano
Tara Scott is one of Atlantic Canada's most renowned collaborative pianists. Her love of teaching and performing has led her to pursue staff accompanist positions at Western, Dalhousie, Acadia, and Mount Allison Universities. She has performed extensively with singers...Learn More

Patty Shaw

Clarinet/Clarineo
Patty Shaw teaches clarinet and clarineo to children, teens and adults at the Maritime Conservatory of Performing Arts in Halifax and at her home on St Margaret’s Bay. Patty is passionate about the clarinet and loves to play the classical repertoire. She enjoys playing...Learn More

Dr. Gillian Smith

Violin/Viola
Halifax native Gillian Smith holds degrees in violin performance from the Eastman School of Music (Bachelor of Music), the San Francisco Conservatory of Music (Master of Music), and the University of Minnesota (Doctor of Musical Arts). Her principal teachers have included...Learn More

Dr. Cindy Thong

Piano
Canadian pianist Cindy Thong leads a polyvalent career as a pedagogue, researcher and pianist. She has performed throughout Canada, in Switzerland, Austria, Germany, Spain and Italy and has also been a finalist and prizewinner in numerous competitions including the Concours...Learn More

Lena Turofsky

Double Bass
Born in Toronto, Lena Turofsky studied bass with Jeffery Stokes at the University of Western Ontario and graduated from the University of Toronto studying with Thomas Monohan. While in university she played with the National Ballet Orchestra, the Hamilton Philharmonic, the London...Learn More

Dr. Lorna Wanzel

Music Theory

Dr. Lorna Wanzel grew up in England where she started her piano/theory studies. She now lives in Halifax Nova Scotia, where she maintains a very successful private piano/theory teaching studio. She has over...Learn More

Anna Wedlock

Violin, Fiddle & Harp Jam Circle
Anna Wedlock is a fiddler, violinist, teacher, and arranger. She enjoys teaching pop, celtic and classical music to both children and adults. After a decade of classical violin training with Isabelle Fournier and Philippe Djokic, she began studying traditional fiddle music...Learn More

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Nicole Anaka

Kindermusik
Since graduating from the University of Victoria, Nicole has trained in Dalcroze Eurythmics at the Longy School of Music (Cambridge, Mass.) and has worked as a private voice and piano instructor to students of all ages and abilities. As a mom to three young boys — all Kindermusik devotees — she has experienced firsthand how Kindermusik develops the whole child within a joyful framework of music and movement...Learn More

Hilary Brown

Cello
Hilary Brown is currently a cellist with Symphony Nova Scotia, the Blue Engine String Quartet, and two early music ensembles: Tempest Baroque Ensemble and Réjouissance. She is also on the faculty of the Maritime Conservatory of Performing Arts and a cello coach for the Nova Scotia Youth Orchestra. Hilary has performed as a soloist with Symphony Nova Scotia and has been heard frequently as a chamber musician on CBC Radio...Learn More

Susanne Brown

Violin / Viola / Orchestra / Kindermusik
Susannë Brown studied violin and viola growing up in Halifax, and then went on to do a Bachelor of Music in performance at McGill University with Douglas McNabney. She continued her studies at Boston University, and then completed a Master’s degree in Musicology at the University of Western Ontario, where she studied with Ralph Aldrich. Currently Susannë is pursuing her studies towards a certificate in the Dalcroze Eurhythmics method of music teaching...Learn More

Gina Burgess

Violin
Halifax-based musician Gina Burgess is an accomplished performer, crafter, yoga instructor and music teacher. Studying violin since the age of five and teaching music professionally since 2001, Gina has become a sought after soloist, educator and music wellness coach across Canada and beyond. Most recently, Gina as received her yoga teachers training certificate to specifically work with musicians and youth...Learn More

Michael Coburn

Piano
Michael Coburn is a piano teacher, adjudicator, and performer with nearly two decades of experience. He fosters self-confidence, musical artistry, and fluent self-expression by helping students develop more control over their thoughts. His energy and enthusiasm support students of all levels in creatively searching for solutions and celebrating their successes.

Katie Cochrane

Voice & Musical Theatre

Katie Cochrane recently graduated from New York University: Steinhardt’s prestigious Masters of Musical Theatre in vocal performance and advanced certificate in Vocal Pedagogy program. Katie has performed across the United States and Canada; recent credits include performances at Carnegie Hall with Essential Voices USA and the New York Pops (A Frank and Ella Christmas and The Songs of Rodgers and Hammerstein), Mother Superior in Sister Act at The Frederick Loewe Theatre...Learn More

Jason Davis

Voice
Tenor Jason Davis has been hailed by critics as “truly a fine tenor” and “one of the most exciting voices of his generation possessing a voice of tremendous beauty, color and power”. Daphna Levit of Opera Canada Magazine recently wrote “Jason Davis was perfect as the unscrupulous Duke of Mantua; his huge voice effortlessly communicated whatever emotion he chose to portray - delight, desire, contempt or arrogance.”...Learn More

Shauna DeGruchy

Trombone
Trombonist Shauna DeGruchy is a freelance trombonist and music educator based in Halifax, Nova Scotia. She performs regularly with ensembles such as Nova Sinfonia, Glass Winds, and Siren Brass, and is a founding member and co-artistic director of contemporary chamber group Alkali Collective. As an avid supporter of contemporary music, she has commissioned...Learn More

Rachael Desoer

Cello
Rachel Desoer is a Canadian cellist and teacher. She studied at the Juilliard School, Oberlin College, McGill University and the Banff Centre. She graduated from Oberlin in 2008 with a Bachelor of Music degree. Since 2009, Rachel has taught the cello and chamber music to students of all ages privately...Learn More

Dr. Jennifer Farrell

Voice
Soprano Jennifer Farrell appears regularly with professional Canadian ensembles in the fields of oratorio, opera and choral repertoire. In western Canada she has performed as a soloist with the Vancouver Bach Choir, the Vancouver Symphony, MusicFest Vancouver, Vancouver Voices, the Vancouver Opera, the Victoria Symphony Orchestra, the Victoria Philharmonic Choir, and the Pacific Baroque Orchestra...Learn More

Ellen Gibling

Harp
Ellen Gibling Ellen Gibling is a harpist based in K'jipuktuk/Halifax, Nova Scotia, who plays classical, Irish traditional, free improvised, and pop music on pedal and lever harps. She holds a BMus in harp performance from McGill University, and an MA in Irish Traditional Music Performance from the University of Limerick....Learn More

Geordie Haley

Guitar
Geordie Haley: Guitarist, Composer, Improviser and Educator has been a featured Artist with new music presenters Suddenly Listen, Upstream Music, Vocalypse, and Open Arts. Geordie is a frequent contributor to the Halifax Jazz Festival, the Harvest Blues and Jazz Festival, and the Open Waters Festival. He has collaborated with dancers Shannon Cooney, Susanne Chui, Rhonda Baker, Sara Coffin and Jacinthe Armstrong. Geordie has played in the pit bands for Neptune Theatre, New Brunswick and Canadian Stage...Learn More

Lucy Hayes Davis

Voice
Mezzo-soprano Lucy Hayes Davis is pleased to call Halifax home. Lucy has taught voice at Dalhousie and Acadia Universities as well as Lyric Diction, Voice Pedagogy and Voice Clinics for students in the Dalhousie acting program. She acts as music director for the Elementary and Junior Broadway Company Players, vocal coach for the Halifax Summer Opera Festival, and vocal instructor for Opera from Scratch....Learn More

Ronald Hynes

Bass
Bassist Ronald J. Hynes began studying jazz at St. Francis Xavier University in 2006. While attending St.FX he performed regularly with faculty members and also had the privilege to perform at master classes with guest artists Jimmy Cobb (Miles Davis “Kind of Blue”) and New York guitarist, Jonathan Kreisberg. In his fourth year of the jazz program awarded him the MusiCounts Fred Sherratt Award for outstanding achievement in music ...Learn More

Janice Isabel Jackson

Voice Teacher, Vocalist
Janice Isabel Jackson has been teaching for the past 30 years and brings a wealth of knowledge of singing technique and performance practice to her students. She enjoys teaching a wide range of students, from classical to singer songwriters to rappers! Her aim is to assist the student to free their voice and let the soul of the music shine through....Learn More

Celeste Jankowski

Violin/Orchestra
Celeste Jankowski holds a Bachelor of Music degree in Violin Performance from the New England Conservatory of Music in Boston and is currently a member of the first violin section of Symphony Nova Scotia. She has been featured as a soloist with Symphony Nova Scotia a number times, including a recent performance of a Vivaldi concerto for two violins with renowned baroque violinist and recently retired Music Director of Tafelmusik Baroque Orchestra, Jeanne Lamon....Learn More

Chubba Kanyasi

Drums/Percussion
Csaba (Chubba) Kanyasi has been playing music for over 40 years and teaching for more than 20 years. Although jazz is his main focus, he performs in various styles. Now a resident of Wolfville, Nova Scotia, Chubba was born in Hungary where he attended the Jazz College in Budapest. Later he moved to Australia where he studied jazz at Macquarie University. Since moving to Canada, Chubba has performed with a great number of musicians including Mike Murley, Jeff Riley, Jamie Gatti, Silvio Pupo and Paul Cram, playing in music festivals throughout Nova Scotia and beyond. He has also been active as a teacher and clinician....Learn More

Ria Kim

Piano
Pianist Ria Kim, originally from South Korea, received her educations in the Maritime Conservatory of Performing Arts and Dalhousie University where she studied with Oxana Zotova and Lynn Stodola, prior to studying with Daniel Epstein and earning her Master's degree at Manhattan School of Music, NY...Learn More

Lauren Klein

Suzuki Violin

Lauren Klien grew up in Halifax and studied violin with Jan Wicha and was a member of NSYO, HSSO, and the MCPA Chamber Orchestra. She received a Bachelor of Music from the University of Victoria with Sharon Stanis. In Halifax, she has performed with Symphony Nova Scotia, St. George’s Consort, and currently serves as principal second for the Chebucto Symphony Orchestra...Learn More

Rosemary Kristof

Piano
Rosemary Kristof’s early studies took place in Jamaica, W.I. with Isabelle Hicks leading to the L.R.S.M. Diploma in Performance, and one year later she obtained the Performer’s A.R.C.T. in Toronto with teachers Douglas Bodle and Pierre Souvairan. After this she had 7 years of post-graduate study with University of Toronto Faculty of Music Professor Greta Kraus, who was appointed a member of the Order of Canada in 1992...Learn More

Mary Lee

French Horn

Hornist Mary Lee trained at the University of Toronto, in the city where she was born and raised. Her primary teachers were Wayne Jeffrey, Eugene Rittich, and Iman Soetemann at the Utrecht Conservatory, where Mary studied after completing her undergraduate degree. She received...Learn More

Zoe Leger

Voice
As one of the brightest emerging talents on the Canadian jazz scene, vocalist and pianist Zoe Leger’s warm, inviting voice has been drawing audiences throughout Canada and the United Kingdom since 2007. As a leader in Halifax’s contemporary and jazz music scenes, Zoe has studied with internationally renowned composers and pianists Hans Koller and John Taylor in addition to being a recipient of numerous scholarships and awards as a composer and arranger. Zoe’s recent debut, self-produced album ‘The Girl From Yesterday’ was nominated for the East Coast Music Awards 2017 Jazz Recording of the Year. As a teacher, Zoe is an enthusiastic, positive, and passionate educator who encourages singers of all ages and levels to find their unique voice and sing their story...Learn More

Sibylle Marquardt

Flute & Baroque Flute
A native of Germany, Sibylle Marquardt moved to Toronto in 1997. After 20 years in Toronto she now lives in Halifax where she is the Dean of Music as well as flute teacher at the Maritime Conservatory. An active chamber and orchestral player in Canada and Europe, she is also recognized for her teaching. In 1998 she became a Certified Teacher on the Faculty of the Royal Conservatory of Music, got her certifications as Suzuki teacher, has joined the College of Examiners and has become a sought after adjudicator at music festivals. ...Learn More

Patrick Maubert

Musical Theatre/Voice
Patrick Maubert, from Fredericton NB, completed an associate degree in Musical Theatre Performance from the American Musical and Dramatic Academy of New York City as well as a master’s degree in Musical Theatre Creative Practice in Directing at the Arts Educational Schools of London, where Andrew Lloyd Webber is patron and mentor. As a performing artist, Maubert has worked internationally in a range of cross-genre projects from musical to physical theatre...Learn More

Cheryl McCarthy

Piano and Voice
Cheryl McCarthy is an experienced teacher, festival adjudicator and choral director. She works with students of all ages and levels in both piano and voice, adapting to the needs and skills of the individual....Learn More

Garth McPhee

Organ and Harpsichord
Garth MacPhee is a native Nova Scotian and a graduate of the Schulich School of Music at McGill University (M.Mus '06), where he studied organ with John Grew and Dr William Porter. Garth has a long association with Saint George's Round Church, having served as Director of Music from 1997-2000 ... Learn More

Debbie Miles

Violin
Debbie Miles holds a Master of Arts in Classical String Performance from University of Limerick in Ireland and 30 years of teaching and performing experience. Debbie is an engaging violinist known for her warm sound. As a violin teacher she brings an enthusiastic approach along with a passion for music. ...Learn More

Kirsty Money

Violin/Baroque Violin/ Nyckelharpa
Kirsty Money is a dynamic performer and teacher of modern/baroque violin, and the nyckelharpa in the Halifax area. Originally from BC, she studied violin with Sydney Humphreys at the Victoria Conservatory of Music, and has further performance degrees from McGill and Western Universities, as well as her Licentiate from the Royal Schools of Music in the UK. Kirsty has been a member of the first violin section of Symphony Nova Scotia since the 1999/2000 season. ...Learn More

Carlos Mora Baez

Jazz Saxophone/ Clarinet/Flute
Carlos A. Mora Baez is an innovative and passionate musician trained in jazz, classical and popular music styles. Originally from Cuba, Carlos has over 20 years of experience performing for a variety of international audiences as a soloist as well as in groups and orchestras. Carlos graduated with a degree in Music, major in Saxophone, from the Angel Román Gonzalez Borrell Conservatory of Music in Santa Clara, Cuba in 2007....Learn More

Gregory Myra

Piano
Gregory Myra: Halifax pianist Gregory Myra received his Bachelor of Music in Piano Performance in 2009 from Dalhousie University where he studied with Professor Peter Allen. Upon graduation he accompanied the students of Professor Lucy Hayes-Davis at Dalhousie for two years. In 2011 he began studies at the University of Manitoba under Dr. Laura Loewen and graduated in 2013 with a Master of Music in Collaborative Piano. He has been a staff pianist at Dalhousie since 2013 playing for the voice studio of Professor Marcia Swanston and playing for Dal Opera and the Dalhousie Chorus. He has played for the Halifax Summer Opera Festival for many years and has also performed with Opera Nova Scotia and the Dalhousie Chamber Series....Learn More

Christopher Palmer

Bassoon/ Composing/ Arranging
Christopher Palmer was born in the Hague, Netherlands, of Canadian parents, and grew up in London, England. He studied at the Royal College of Music in London, and also at the University of Ottawa. As a professional bassoonist he has played in many orchestras and ensembles, including the Vancouver Symphony, the Scottish Chamber Orchestra, and the National Arts Centre Orchestra ...Learn More

Natalia Pavlovskaia

Piano
Natalia Pavlovskaia is a professional music educator and performer with over 25 years of experience in teaching, performing and adjudicating piano in Canada and Russia. Natalia holds a Master Degree with distinction in Piano Pedagogy and Piano Performance from Gorky Conservatoire and Diploma of Professional Development Program from St.Petersburg Conservatoire of Music, Russia. She has appeared as a soloist with Nova Sinfonia and as a chamber musician. ...Learn More

Paula Phillips

Voice
Paula Phillips brings over 30 years of experience in performing, teaching and arranging to her vibrant voice studio. Her musical life began with choral singing, and playing piano, clarinet and saxophone. Paula holds a Bachelor of Music in vocal performance, and a Bachelor of Music Education from Dalhousie University, where she was recognized with scholarships in vocal and choral studies....Learn More

Antonia Pigot

Voice
Antonia Pigot brings eclectic and diverse musical experiences to the teaching table. Highlights have included performing at the Ouaga Jazz Festival in Burkina Faso, Africa, recording vocals for a Cirque du Soleil album in Montreal and creating electronic vocal soundscapes for the New Dance Festival in St. John’s....Learn More

Andre Pretzel

Violin
Andre Pretzel moved to Halifax, NS in 2015 to teach Suzuki violin, and he was glad to witness a sudden growth in that community recently. His Suzuki experience began when he was searching for a method that resonated with my beliefs, and his past training includes institutes, workshops, masterclass and practicum with experienced teacher trainers from Suzuki American Association – SAA, such as Marilyn O’Boyle, Nancy Lokken, Shinobu Saito, Eduardo Ludueña, Amy Matherly, Martha Shackford, Caroline Fraser, and Ann Montzka-Smelser....Learn More

Matt Richard

Trumpet

An active performer in Halifax and beyond, Matt Richard completed his master’s degree in trumpet performance at the University of Victoria under Lou Ranger, formerly of the American Brass Quintet. He has appeared in concert with Nova Sinfonia, Scotia Brass, Opera Nova Scotia...Learn More

Betty Ro

Piano
Originally from South Korea, Betty Ro has been teaching in Nova Scotia since 1992. After culminating her studies in Korea, she completed a M.M. from the New England Conservatory in Boston, MA, with piano studies under Gabriel Chodos and Jacob Maxin, and chamber music studies under Larry Lesser and Leon Kirchner...Learn More

Frances Royle

Piano
Frances is an active performer, who has played for numerous opera and musical theatre productions as well as in solo and chamber music recitals. She has served as an accompanist for the School of Dance and the Suzuki Department as well as many private voice, string, and wind students. She teaches students of all ages and levels and particularly enjoys teaching adults. (Also Theory, private lessons only.)...Learn More

Betty Ro

Piano
Originally from South Korea, Betty Ro has been teaching in Nova Scotia since 1992. After culminating her studies in Korea, she completed a M.M. from the New England Conservatory in Boston, MA, with piano studies under Gabriel Chodos and Jacob Maxin, and chamber music studies under Larry Lesser and Leon Kirchner...Learn More

Cindy Thong

Piano
Canadian pianist Cindy Thong leads a polyvalent career as a pedagogue, researcher and pianist. She has performed throughout Canada, in Switzerland, Austria, Germany, Spain and Italy and has also been a finalist and prizewinner in numerous competitions including the Concours Hélène-Roberge, FCMF National Piano Competition and the Canadian Music Competition. ...Learn More

Tara Scott

Piano
Tara Scott is one of Atlantic Canada's most renowned collaborative pianists. Her love of teaching and performing has led her to pursue staff accompanist positions at Western, Dalhousie, Acadia, and Mount Allison Universities. She has performed extensively with singers, instrumentalists and choirs across Canada...Learn More

Patty Shaw

Clarinet/Clarineo
Patty Shaw teaches clarinet and clarineo to children, teens and adults at the Maritime Conservatory of Performing Arts in Halifax and at her home on St Margaret’s Bay. Patty is passionate about the clarinet and loves to play the classical repertoire. She enjoys playing chamber music and has also been known to have fun in concert bands. Patty is an alumna of the Nova Scotia Youth Orchestra and currently plays with Nova Sinfonia in Halifax...Learn More

Dr. Gillian Smith

Violin/Viola
A dynamic, versatile, and intuitive violinist, Halifax, NS native Gillian Smith released her debut solo album, Into the Stone, on the Leaf Music label in 2019. This album features works for solo violin by Kati Agócs, Alice Ping Yee Ho, Veronika Krausas, Chantale Laplante, and Ana Sokolović. Into the Stone was nominated for the 2020 Classical Recording of the Year by the East Coast Music Association (ECMA)....Learn More

Dr. Lorna Wanzel

Piano / Music Theory

Dr. Lorna Wanzel grew up in England where she started her piano/theory studies. She now lives in Halifax Nova Scotia, where she maintains a very successful private piano/theory teaching studio. She has over...Learn More

Anna Wedlock

Violin
Anna Wedlock is a fiddler, violinist, teacher, and arranger. She enjoys teaching pop, celtic and classical music to both children and adults. After a decade of classical violin training with Isabelle Fournier and Philippe Djokic, she began studying traditional fiddle music. These passions have lead to a career as a versatile fiddler and violinist, a frequent collaborator with both classical, traditional and pop musicians, including Jenn Grant, Cassie Josephine, Thomas Stajcer, Ryan Cook, The Big Country Ramblers, and composer David Christensen....Learn More

Nicole Anaka

Kindermusik
Since graduating from the University of Victoria, Nicole has trained in Dalcroze Eurythmics at the Longy School of Music (Cambridge, Mass.) and has worked as a private voice and piano instructor to students of all ages and abilities. As a mom to three young boys — all Kindermusik devotees — she has experienced firsthand how Kindermusik develops...Learn More

Hilary Brown

Cello
Hilary Brown is currently a cellist with Symphony Nova Scotia, the Blue Engine String Quartet, and two early music ensembles: Tempest Baroque Ensemble and Réjouissance. She is also on the faculty of the Maritime Conservatory of Performing Arts and a cello coach for the Nova Scotia Youth Orchestra. Hilary has performed as a soloist with Symphony Nova Scotia and has been heard frequently as a chamber musician on...Learn More

Susanne Brown

Violin / Viola / Orchestra / Kindermusik
Susannë Brown studied violin and viola growing up in Halifax, and then went on to do a Bachelor of Music in performance at McGill University with Douglas McNabney. She continued her studies at Boston University, and then completed a Master’s degree in Musicology at the University of Western Ontario, where...Learn More

Gina Burgess

Violin
Halifax-based musician Gina Burgess is an accomplished performer, crafter, yoga instructor and music teacher. Studying violin since the age of five and teaching music professionally since 2001, Gina has become a sought after soloist, educator and music wellness coach across Canada and beyond. Most recently, Gina as received her yoga teachers training certificate to specifically work with musicians and youth...Learn More

Katie Cochrane

Voice & Musical Theatre

Katie Cochrane recently graduated from New York University: Steinhardt’s prestigious Masters of Musical Theatre in vocal performance and advanced certificate in Vocal Pedagogy program. Katie has performed across the United States and Canada; recent credits include performances at Carnegie Hall with Essential Voices USA and the New York Pops (A Frank and...Learn More

Shauna DeGruchy

Trombone
Trombonist Shauna DeGruchy is a freelance trombonist and music educator based in Halifax, Nova Scotia. She performs regularly with ensembles such as Nova Sinfonia, Glass Winds, and Siren Brass, and is a founding member and co-artistic director of contemporary chamber group Alkali Collective. As an avid supporter of contemporary music, she has commissioned and...Learn More

Rachael Desoer

Cello
Rachel Desoer is a Canadian cellist and teacher. She studied at the Juilliard School, Oberlin College, McGill University and the Banff Centre. She graduated from Oberlin in 2008 with a Bachelor of Music degree. Since 2009, Rachel has taught the cello and chamber music to students of all ages privately...Learn More

Ellen Gibling

Harp
Ellen Gibling is a harpist with a background in classical, Irish traditional, and free improvised music. She is currently a member of the ensembles New Hermitage, Ragged Robin, and Síle, and is particularly drawn to collaborations with theatre and dance...Learn More

Geordie Haley

Guitar
Geordie Haley: Guitarist, Composer, Improviser and Educator has been a featured Artist with new music presenters Suddenly Listen, Upstream Music, Vocalypse, and Open Arts. Geordie is a frequent contributor to the Halifax Jazz Festival, the Harvest Blues and Jazz Festival, and the Open Waters Festival. He has collaborated with dancers Shannon Cooney, Susanne Chui, Rhonda Baker, Sara Coffin and Jacinthe...Learn More

Janice Isabel Jackson

Voice Teacher, Vocalist
Janice Isabel Jackson has been teaching for the past 30 years and brings a wealth of knowledge of singing technique and performance practice to her students. She enjoys teaching a wide range of students, from classical to singer songwriters to rappers! Her aim is to assist the student to free their voice and let the soul of the music shine through....Learn More

Celeste Jankowski

Violin/Orchestra
Celeste Jankowski holds a Bachelor of Music degree in Violin Performance from the New England Conservatory of Music in Boston and is currently a member of the first violin section of ...Learn More

Chubba Kanyasi

Drums/Percussion
Csaba (Chubba) Kanyasi has been playing music for over 40 years and teaching for more than 20 years. Although jazz is his main focus, he performs in various styles. Now a resident of Wolfville...Learn More

Ria Kim

Piano
Pianist Ria Kim, originally from South Korea, received her educations in the Maritime Conservatory of Performing Arts and Dalhousie University where she studied with Oxana Zotova and Lynn Stodola, prior to studying with Daniel Epstein and earning her Master's degree at Manhattan School of Music, NY...Learn More

Lauren Klein

Suzuki Violin
Lauren Klein grew up in Halifax and studied violin with Jan Wicha and was a member of NSYO, HSSO, and the MCPA Chamber Orchestra. She received a Bachelor of Music from the University of Victoria with Sharon Stanis. In Halifax, she has performed with Symphony Nova Scotia, St. George’s Consort, and currently serves as principal second for the Chebucto Symphony Orchestra...Learn More

Rosemary Kristof

Piano
Rosemary Kristof’s early studies took place in Jamaica, W.I. with Isabelle Hicks leading to the L.R.S.M. Diploma in Performance, and one year later she obtained the Performer’s A.R.C.T. in Toronto with teachers Douglas Bodle and Pierre Souvairan. After this she had 7 years...Learn More

Mary Lee

French Horn

Hornist Mary Lee trained at the University of Toronto, in the city where she was born and raised. Her primary teachers were Wayne Jeffrey, Eugene Rittich, and Iman Soetemann...Learn More

Zoe Leger

Voice
As one of the brightest emerging talents on the Canadian jazz scene, vocalist and pianist Zoe Leger’s warm, inviting voice has been drawing audiences throughout Canada and the United Kingdom since 2007. As a leader in Halifax’s contemporary and jazz music scenes, Zoe has studied with internationally renowned composers and pianists Hans Koller and John Taylor in addition to being a recipient of numerous scholarships and awards as a composer and arranger. Zoe’s recent debut, self-produced album ‘The Girl From Yesterday’ was nominated for the East Coast Music Awards 2017 Jazz Recording of the Year. As a teacher, Zoe is an enthusiastic, positive, and passionate educator who encourages singers of all ages and levels to find their unique voice and sing their story...Learn More

Sibylle Marquardt

Flute & Baroque Flute
A native of Germany, Sibylle Marquardt moved to Canada in 1997. In August 2018 she moved to Halifax where she is now teaching at the Maritime Conservatory. An active chamber and orchestral player in Canada and Europe, she is also recognized for her teaching. In 1998 she became a Certified Teacher on the Faculty of the Royal Conservatory of Music, got her certifications as Suzuki teacher, has joined the College of Examiners and has become a sought after adjudicator at music festivals...Learn More

Cheryl McCarthy

Piano and Voice
Cheryl McCarthy is an experienced teacher, festival adjudicator and choral director. She works with students of all ages and levels in both piano and voice, adapting to the needs and skills of the individual...Learn More

Garth McPhee

Organ and Harpsichord
Garth MacPhee is a native Nova Scotian and a graduate of the Schulich School of Music at McGill University (M.Mus '06), where he studied organ with John Grew and Dr William Porter. Garth has a long association with Saint George's Round Church, having served as Director of Music from 1997-2000 ... Learn More

Patrick Maubert

Musical Theatre/Voice
Patrick Maubert, from Fredericton NB, completed an associate degree in Musical Theatre Performance from the American Musical and Dramatic Academy of New York City as well as a master’s degree in Musical Theatre Creative Practice in Directing at the Arts Educational Schools of London, where Andrew Lloyd Webber is patron and mentor. As a performing artist...Learn More

Debbie Miles

Violin
Debbie Miles holds a Master of Arts in Classical String Performance from University of Limerick in Ireland and 30 years of teaching and performing experience. Debbie is an engaging violinist known for her warm sound. As a violin teacher she brings an enthusiastic approach along with a passion for music. ...Learn More

Gregory Myra

Piano
Gregory Myra: Halifax pianist Gregory Myra received his Bachelor of Music in Piano Performance in 2009 from Dalhousie University where he studied with Professor Peter Allen. Upon graduation he accompanied the students of Professor Lucy Hayes-Davis at Dalhousie for two years. In 2011 he began studies at the University of Manitoba under Dr. Laura Loewen and graduated in 2013...Learn More

Andre Pretzel

Violin
Andre Pretzel moved to Halifax, NS in 2015 to teach Suzuki violin, and he was glad to witness a sudden growth in that community recently. His Suzuki experience began when he was searching for a method that resonated with my beliefs, and his past training includes institutes, workshops, masterclass and practicum with experienced teacher trainers from Suzuki American Association – SAA, such as Marilyn O’Boyle, Nancy Lokken, Shinobu Saito, Eduardo Ludueña, Amy Matherly, Martha Shackford, Caroline Fraser, and Ann Montzka-Smelser....Learn More

Natalia Pavlovskaia

Piano
Natalia Pavlovskaia is a professional music educator and performer with over 25 years of experience in teaching, performing and adjudicating piano in Canada and Russia. Natalia holds a Master Degree with distinction in Piano Pedagogy and Piano Performance from Gorky Conservatoire and Diploma of Professional Development Program from St.Petersburg Conservatoire of Music, Russia. She has appeared as a soloist with Nova Sinfonia and as a chamber musician. ...Learn More

Christopher Palmer

Bassoon/ Composing/ Arranging
Christopher Palmer was born in the Hague, Netherlands, of Canadian parents, and grew up in London, England. He studied at the Royal College of Music in London, and also at the University of Ottawa. As a professional bassoonist he has played in many orchestras and ensembles, including the Vancouver Symphony, the Scottish Chamber Orchestra, and the National Arts Centre Orchestra ...Learn More

Matt Richard

Trumpet

An active performer in Halifax and beyond, Matt Richard completed his master’s degree in trumpet performance at the University of Victoria under Lou Ranger, formerly of the American Brass Quintet. He has appeared in concert with Nova Sinfonia, Scotia Brass, Opera Nova Scotia...Learn More

Frances Royle

Piano
Frances is an active performer, who has played for numerous opera and musical theatre productions as well as in solo and chamber music recitals. She has served as an accompanist for the School of Dance and the Suzuki...Learn More

Betty Ro

Piano
Originally from South Korea, Betty Ro has been teaching in Nova Scotia since 1992. After culminating her studies in Korea, she completed a M.M. from the New England Conservatory in Boston, MA, with piano studies under Gabriel Chodos and Jacob Maxin, and chamber music studies under Larry Lesser and Leon Kirchner...Learn More

Tara Scott

Piano
Tara Scott is one of Atlantic Canada's most renowned collaborative pianists. Her love of teaching and performing has led her to pursue staff accompanist positions at Western, Dalhousie, Acadia, and Mount Allison Universities. She has performed extensively with singers, instrumentalists and choirs across Canada...Learn More

Patty Shaw

Clarinet/Clarineo
Patty Shaw teaches clarinet and clarineo to children, teens and adults at the Maritime Conservatory of Performing Arts in Halifax and at her home on St Margaret’s Bay. Patty is passionate about the clarinet and loves to play the classical repertoire. She enjoys playing chamber music and has also been known to have fun in concert bands. Patty is an alumna of the Nova Scotia Youth Orchestra and currently plays with Nova Sinfonia in Halifax...Learn More

Dr. Gillian Smith

Violin/Viola
Dr. Gillian Smith enjoys a varied performance career and has appeared in recital and as a chamber musician across North America. She has collaborated in chamber music performances with members of the Acadia University School of Music, the Dalhousie Department of Music, the Yale School of Music, the Juilliard School of Music, the Indiana University School of Music, and the University of Minnesota...Learn More

Dr. Lorna Wanzel

Piano / Music Theory

Dr. Lorna Wanzel grew up in England where she started her piano/theory studies. She now lives in Halifax Nova Scotia, where she maintains a very successful private piano/theory teaching studio. She has over...Learn More

Anna Wedlock

Violin
is a fiddler, violinist, teacher, and arranger. She enjoys teaching pop, celtic and classical music to both children and adults. After a decade of classical violin training with Isabelle Fournier and Philippe Djokic, she began studying traditional fiddle music. These passions have lead to a career as a versatile fiddler and violinist, a frequent collaborator with both classical, traditional and pop musicians, including Jenn Grant, Cassie Josephine, Thomas Stajcer, Ryan Cook, The Big Country Ramblers, and composer David Christensen....Learn More

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