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Our instructors are among the finest in the Atlanta metropolitan area. With nearly 100 experienced music educators to choose from, we are committed to providing the best music education possible.

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Marietta

Michael Applebaum

Trumpet

Michael received his Bachelor of Music Degree from Georgia State University and studied with Mark Hughes and Gordon Vernick. He is currently Band Director at Coan Middle School. Mr. Applebaum has worked as an audio technician and recording engineer while Production Assistant for Rubicon Studios in Atlanta, GA. Michael is an experienced performer of jazz, classical and popular styles of music. He is a graduate of Lassiter High School in Marietta, GA.

Lynne Barimah

Keyboards, Piano

Ms. Barimah attended West Georgia College and studied with Edna Smith. She has over 40 years performance and teaching experience. Lynne performs professionally for church and social functions.

LeNelle Boyd

Piano

Ms. Boyd received her Bachelor of Music Degree from the University of Chattanooga and has taught since 1953. She has served as President of the Metro Atlanta Music Teachers Association and as President of the North DeKalb Chapter of the Georgia Music Teachers Association. LeNelle is involved in church music and performs for various functions in the metro Atlanta area.

Rossana Chung

Violin

Rossanna is a graduate of the University of Georgia. She studied under Levon Ambartsumian, Shakhida Azimkhojaeva and Samuel Fordis. She has over 16 years' orchestra and 12 years' chamber music experience. Ms. Chung has performed with the UGA Symphony Orchestra, Athens Symphony, ARCO Chamber Orchestra, as well as the Georgia Philharmonic, the Dekalb, Rome and Cobb Symphonies.

Eddy Cowley

Electric Bass, String Bass

Mr. Cowley attended the Bass Institute of Technology (AIM) where he studied with Clark Sullivan and Lyn Deramus. Eddy has taught for Ken Stanton Music since 1998 and has performed with the Albany Symphony, The Drifters, The Coasters, The Platters, and Rich Little. Eddy has performed in the Spoleto Festival as well as many musical theater productions. He has over 25 years of performance experience.

Tim Crump

Clarinet, Flute, Saxophone

Tim has 5 years' private study experience prior to college in jazz, flute, clarinet, saxophone and jazz composition theory. Currently in his 2nd year at Georgia State University, Mr. Crump has performed at 5 Spot with various jazz, funk and fusion bands. He has also performed with Newberry Jam and at the Harvest Fest. He has attended Master classes with Eric Alexander, David Baker, Jerry Coker and Mike Holober.

Paul Hedman

Violin

Mr. Hedman received a Bachelor of Music Degree, with Honors, from the University of Southern Mississippi. He has studied with William Star and Oliver Steiner. Paul is certified in all ten volumes of Suzuki Violin Curriculum. He is a member of the Suzuki Association of America and American String Teachers Association. Mr. Hedman has over twenty-five years' teaching and performance experience. He is the founder of the Paul Hedman String Quartets.

Randy Hunter

Saxophone, Clarinet, Flute

Randy Hunter has been a full time private instructor and performing musician for more than twenty years. After studying music education at Valdosta State College, he began teaching saxophone, flute and clarinet at Ken Stanton Music in 1985 with focus on the development of fundamental skills such as tone quality, reading skills and technical fluency. Jazz studies are also included when appropriate. Randy has recently accepted the position of Artist Affiliate, Instructor of Jazz Saxophone at Emory University. As a self-publisher, Randy has established an educational series of jazz etude, duet and combo books entitled “Complete Jazz Styles.” Books from this series have been endorsed by jazz legends Randy Brecker, Joe Lovano and Bobby Shew. These books are available through Ken Stanton Music.Visit Randy's website - www.randyhunterjazz.com.

Selinda Jefferson

Violin, Viola, and Cello

Selinda received her Bachelor’s Degree in Music Education from Georgia State University and is currently working on her Master’s Degree in Music Education at Vandercook College of Music in Chicago, IL. Ms. Jefferson is the orchestra director at Woodland Middle School in Fulton County and also taught orchestra at Creekside High School in Fulton County. Selinda has 10 years of experience working with children in music and has been studying music for 20 years. She has worked with the Stillwaters Youth Symphony in DeKalb County, the Atlanta Chapter of the Suzuki String Association as well as the Arts Association of Newton.

Bill Lewis

Trombone and Flute

Bob has a BA Degree in Music Education from Berry College. He has taught privately since 1990 and has performed with the Atlanta Symphony, the Atlanta Symphony Pops, Ray Charles, Natalie Cole, Tony Bennett, Ella Fitzgerald, Tom Jones, Harry Connick Jr., Gary Bartoas and Michael and Randy Brecker. Bob has also recorded with Isaac Hayes, Matchbox 20, Howard Tate and the SOS Band. He currently plays in the Crown Pointe Community Church Praise Band.

Cary Machado

Piano, Keyboards

Ms. Machado received degrees as Professor of Music Theory and Solfeggio and as Professor of Piano from the Falcon Conservatory in Havana, Cuba. Cary has been teaching piano for over 25 years as well as Spanish for Fulton County Schools. In 1980 she was nominated for Woman of the Year in Cobb County.

Omar Martinez

Drums, Hand Percussion

Omar completed the Field Band Music Program in Buenos Aires, Argentina. He later attended Georgia State University, where he studied with Jack Bel. He completed the AIM Drum Musicianship Program, where he graduated with honors. Omar has over 26 years' performing and teaching experience. He has performed at the Montreux and Atlanta Jazz Festivals. He currently performs and records with various Atlanta-based bands.

Katherine Morgan

Violin, Beginner Viola

Katherine received her Bachlor’s Degree in Psychology from Kennesaw State University and is currently seeking a Master’s Degree in Applied Statistics. She has over 10 years' playing and over 5 years' teaching experience. Ms. Morgan performs with the Atlanta String Quartet as well as for various community functions and weddings. She has experience teaching music to children with special needs.

Ronald Palmer

French Horn

Mr Palmer received a Bachelor's of Music Education Degree from Kennesaw State University. He studied under Brice Andrus of ASO, Peter Witte, and William Hill. Ronald has over 30 years' performance and teaching experience and has served as Adjunct Instructor for Tri-Cities High School.

Warren Peterson

Guitar

Warren received his Bachelor's Degree in Music Education from Kennesaw State University with emphasis in classical guitar and voice. A former Choral and General Music teacher at Palmer Middle School in Cobb County, Mr. Peterson has been a local private guitar instructor since 2001 and has performed in numerous Master Classes with Adam Holzman, Petar Jankovic, Peter McCutcheon and David Leisner. He has played with several Blues and Rock bands in the Atlanta area and currently performs with Wes Faulkner and Nacho’ Daddies.

Cynthia Rennick

Violin, Viola, Beginner Cello

Cynthia received a Bachelor of Music Degree from Olivet College and has over 20 years' teaching experience. She has performed in a number of Orchestras, including West Shore Symphony, Battle Creek Symphony, Monroe Symphony and South Arkansas Symphony. In addition to performing, Ms. Rennick has directed several Musical Theater productions including Oklahoma, South Pacific, Finnian's Rainbow and A Funny Thing Happened On The Way To The Forum.

Kimberly Rosquist

Voice

Kimberly received her Bachelor of Music Degree in Vocal Performance from Kennesaw State University and her Masters of Music in Vocal Performance from Georgia State University. She has performed in multiple operas with the Atlanta Opera and numerous lead roles with the Capitol City Opera. She is currently working with a new company, Opera South. Ms. Rosquist has over 10 years of private teaching experience and over two years of teaching experience at the collegiate level. She brings to her students a solid technique instilled in her by Drs. Richard and Ann Alderson.

Jonathan Shire

Oboe, Bassoon, Clarinet

Mr. Shire is a graduate of Kennesaw State University with a Bachelor's Degree in Music Education. He is state certified, performs with the Cobb Symphony and North Fulton Community Band. Jonathan has over 13 years' teaching experience.

Phillip Smith

Drums, Hand Percussion, Mallet Percussion

Phillip received his Bachelor's Degree from the University of Tennessee and his Master's Degree from the University of Memphis. He studied with Steve Houghton, Ed Soph and Jeff Hamilton. Mr. Smith taught at the University of Memphis and the Atlanta Institute of Music. He has over 17 years' of teaching experience, is an International recording and touring artist, and a contributing
author to Modern Drummer magazine. Visit www.philsmithdrums.com or www.customdrumtracks.net for further details.

Zack Varner

Saxophone

Mr. Varner received a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Music from Columbus State University's Schwob School of Music. He has studied with Wes Anderson, Kim Richmond and James Houlik. Zack has performed with diverse organizations such as the CSU and LaGrange Orchestras, Auburn Knights Big Band, and currently with the Atlanta based group, Liquid Jungle.

Matt Wade

Guitar, Electric Bass

Mr. Wade received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Music Performance from Armstrong Atlantic State University. He graduated with honors. Matt is well versed in all styles of guitar including rock, blues, jazz, soul, classical, and South American. He performs regularly with various blues, rock and jazz groups throughout the Southeast. Matt has over fifteen years' teaching experience.

Anthony Waite

Guitar

Mr. Waite received a Bachelor's of Music Degree from Georgia State University where he graduated with honors. Has been teaching for over 13 years in a variety of styles including rock, jazz, R&B, fusion and folk music. Tony performs with various local groups and keeps a touring schedule with his fusion band, Adams Township.

Lester Walker

Trumpet, Trombone, Baritone, Euphonium, Tuba

Lester received his Bachelor of Music Degree from the University of Alabama and his Master of Music Degree from Georgia State University. His former teaching experience includes numerous positions at the secondary and university levels. He has composed, arranged and produced for television and radio music soundtracks and is active in film, television, radio and theatrical productions. Mr. Walker has performed with several symphonies in the Southeast and has been on stage with many of today’s music giants including Michael Brecker, Bela Fleck, Dave Matthews, The O’Jays, The Temptations, REO Speedwagon and many others. One of the most diversely skilled artists on today's music scene, Lester combines blazing classical technique with a traditional jazz style.

Roswell

Michelle Hedges

Trumpet, Trombone, Euphonium, Baritone, Tuba

Ms. Hedges received a Bachelor of Arts Trombone Performance Southeast Missouri State University. She has performed with Georgia State Jazz Band, Kenny Rogers’ Orchestra and the International Youth Wind Orchestra in Valencia, Spain. Michelle currently plays trumpet in the Cool Note Jazz Orchestra and Georgia Perimeter College Jazz Band. Michelle has been a private music teacher since 1985.

Robert Grogan

Saxophone

Robert has over 10 years of private teaching experience and his students have performed in District Honor Band and with the GMEA All-State Band. He teaches clinics and holds sectionals in many of the areas public schools. Robert attended the Armed Forces School of Music and Columbus State University. He has performed with the Albany Marine Corps Band, the Columbus State University Wind Ensemble and Jazz Ensemble, and was the lead saxophonist for the salsa band, Orquesta Sabor del Caribe.

Randy Hunter

Saxophone, Clarinet, Flute

Randy Hunter has been a full time private instructor and performing musician for more than twenty years. After studying music education at Valdosta State College, he began teaching at Ken Stanton Music in 1985. Saxophone, flute and clarinet lessons focus on the development of fundamental skills such as tone quality, reading skills and technical fluency. Jazz studies are also included when appropriate. As a self-publisher, Randy has established an educational series of jazz etude, duet and combo books entitled “Complete Jazz Styles.” Books from this series have been endorsed by jazz legends Randy Brecker, Joe Lovano and Bobby Shew. These books are available through Ken Stanton Music.

Irina Jermakyan

Piano

Ms. Jermakyan received a Diploma from Tchaikovski Musical Academy, Yerevan, Armenia. She also received a Master of Arts in Music from Lomitas Conservatory, Armenia. Irina has over twenty years teaching experience with strong theory and pedagogical skills.

Rick Laser

Guitar, Electric Bass

Mr. Laser attended the University of Hawaii. He has over fifteen years teaching and professional performing experience. He has twelve years experience as a recording artist and session player. Rick teaches lessons for all levels of rock, alternative, blues, metal etc.

Jeff Macko

Drums, Mallet Percussion

Mr. Macko received a Bachelor of Arts in Music Performance from Loyola University in New Orleans. Over thirty-six years experience playing rock, jazz, latin, church bands, big bands. Has played over 125 musicals. More than twenty-eight years of teaching experience (fifteen at Tulane University.) Jeff is currently a freelance musician in Atlanta.

George Price

Guitar

Mr. Price studied music at the University of Oregon, Oregon Tech and Lane Community College. George studied with Howard Roberts and Gary Hagberg.

Russ Rodgers

Electric Bass

Mr. Rodgers has over twenty-two years performance and teaching experience in a variety of styles for four, five, six string and fretless basses. Russ was the Director of Bass Instruction for AIM. He has recorded and toured both nationally and internationally.

Cornel Schenk

Flute, Harp, Keyboard, Piano

Has Bachelor Degree in Music. Over twenty-two years performing experience and over five years teaching experience starting in South Africa, for children and adults.

Ramona Wright

Piano, Voice

Romona Wright is a graduate of Columbus State University in Columbus, GA, with a Bachelor Degree in Music Education. She has taught elementary and middle school chorus and general music in Fulton County and Cobb County, as well as private piano and voice lessons. Romona is also an active church musician, having served as Minister of Music at churches in Georgia and Alabama. She is currently preparing to pursue her Masters degree at Georgia State University.

Snellville

Bryan Bishop

Piano

Mr. Bishop studied under Daniel Pyle at Clayton College & State University. Bryan has over eight years experience as a church musician accompanist and concert performer. He is the pianist and choir accompanist at the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Gwinnett, and the harpsichordist for Da Solisti Chamber Orchestra.

Myles Brown

Guitar

Mr. Brown studied at the Berklee College of Music, Atlanta Institute of Music and Georgia State University. Myles writes, performs and teaches all styles and genres including classical, jazz, rock and blues. Mr. Brown Is a member of several jazz ensembles and works as a freelance classical guitarist. He plays in the jazz/funk band The Soundmen.

Brian Daggett

Drums, Mallet Percussion

Mr. Daggett graduated with honors from the Atlanta Institute of Music. He has taught for over 10 years. Brian performs locally with Groove Stain and is a studio musician for Ledbelly Studios, Bangladesh Studios and R&B producer Shondrae. Mr. Daggett teaches in all styles including: rock, jazz, reggae, ska and funk.

Brandon Gilliard

Electric Bass, String Bass

Mr. Gilliard received a Bachelor of Arts Degree from Anderson University in Anderson, South Carolina. Brandon's musical training allows him to undertake a wide variety of musical genres. Mr. Gilliard is both an active musician and teacher. So far in his career he has performed with many great artists and considers it a privilege to have done so.

Letha Hankins

Clarinet, Flute, Piano, Voice

Ms. Hankins received a Bachelors of Fine Arts Degree in Musical Theatre from the University of Georgia. She has studied woodwinds with Charles Bradley, Ronald Waln and Sam Skelton. As a voice student, Letha studied with Charlotte Reinheard Pierce. She is a soloist with the jazz group M20.

Justin Medlen

Guitar

Mr. Medlen is a graduate of the Atlanta Institute of Music. Justin has been teaching privately for several years in a variety of styles including jazz, rock, and blues. He has been performing for over 18 years, most recently with the Atlanta based rock/metal band Lunar Stains.

Michael Mieske

Violin, Viola, Cello, String Bass, Guitar

Mr. Mieske received a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Music Education from Central Michigan University and a Masters of Music Degree from Georgia State University. Michael records and performs locally in many styles. He has over twenty years of teaching experience.

Jacquelyn Miller

Piano

Ms. Miller earned a Bachelors in Music Education Degree from Mars Hill University. Jacquelyn has over thirty years experience teaching. Her teaching ability ranges from beginner piano to more advanced styles. Ms. Miller emphasizes varying genre ability as well as technical facility.

Nicole Morris

Drums, Hand Percussion, Mallet Percussion

Ms. Morris received a Bachelor's Degree from the University of Georgia. While there she studied under Dr. Thomas McCutchen and Dr. Scott. Nicole works with several high school percussionists to improve their marching percussion skills. She has several years playing and performing experience in a variety of styles including jazz, salsa, marching and orchestral percussion. Her favorites are steel pan, vibraphone and drum set.

George Uterhardt

Tuba, Baritone, Euphonium, Trombone

Mr. Uterhardt studied Music Education at the University of South Florida under Dr. Gale Sperry. He also studied at the U.S. Navy School of Music and was extensively involved in music throughout his 25-year tenure in the Navy, playing tuba, string bass and electric bass and fulfilling conductor duties. George has taught Christian school bands for 20 years and has 18 years of private teaching experience in the Atlanta area. He currently teaches at the Joyful Noise Northeast Home School band program and conducts his local church choir. Mr. Uterhardt is active playing with many ensembles in the region including playing tuba four years with the Atlanta Jazz Krewe, on-call for the past 5 years with the Sentimental Journey Orchestra and the Modernaires, and starting his second year playing tuba with the Gwinnett Community Symphony.

West Cobb

John Darden

Drums, Mallet Percussion

Mr. Darden studied under local instructors Michael Vosbein, Jeff Kirshner, and Kevin Hammond. He teaches a variety of styles including jazz, funk, latin, rock, punk, emo, gospel, avant garde, country, pop, as well as classical and rudimental snare drum. John has been playing drums for over eleven years in a variety of styles. Won the 1999 Georgia Teen Talent Award for Indefinite Pitch Percussion.

TESTIMONIAL
"John has been teaching my son, Conrad, for 3 years. Conrad enjoys the lessons and looks forward to them every week. John is a very patient and talented instructor. I never thought we would still be drumming but thanks to John, it looks like Conrad has truly developed a love of music." - Kim Cornell

Barry Edelson

Guitar

From Aerosmith to Zeppelin and Beethoven to Buffet, Barry is adept at teaching all styles and at all levels from the beginning to the aspiring professional. Since starting in the West Cobb store in 2004, he has taught over 350 students from ages 5 to 65 to play guitar.

"My philosophy of education encompasses the practice of developing both the musician and the performer. Therefore, in teaching, I place a focus on music theory and sight-reading, as these skills will ultimately enhance the 'performance chops' of the developing instrumentalist."

Barry has over 20 years of playing and teaching experience including gigs with his own bands as well as composing and producing for numerous others in the New York area. He studied formally at the State University level in New York and the Manhattan School of Music with concentrations in composition and orchestration.

John Elwell

Guitar

Mr. Elwell has been a musician for 19 years. He graduated with honors from The Atlanta Institute of Music and has had an extensive study of music theory, ear training, songwriting, and transcribing. He studied at Howard Vance Guitar Academy under Chris Stokes, a renowned graduate of the Berklee School of Music. He also studied under Kenny Bush of Nuncies Music. John has 8 years of teaching experience with over 300 students. He has 7 years touring experience sharing the stage with several prominent rock bands such as: NOFX, Sum 41, Dashboard Confessional, and AFI. John specializes in Rock, Punk, Metal, Hip-Hop, and Blues. He requires a dedicated practice schedule but puts very strong emphasis on having fun in every lesson.

Amy Hoelscher

Voice

Ms. Hoelscher is a vocalist who has been singing jazz standards for over seven years. She began her jazz vocal career as a soloist with the Atlanta Youth Jazz Orchestra at the age of 16. She holds a degree in Music Education with an emphasis in vocal performance at Kennesaw State University. Amy has been singing professionally for 6 years, was cast as Gianetta in the Opera "La Eliser d'amore," and has taught private vocal lessons for two years. She has performed as a soloist with the Atlanta Youth Jazz Orchestra, Press Play, The Etowah Jazz Society, Kennesaw State University Jazz Ensemble and Combo, and as band leader with the Amy Hoelscher Quintet. She has also performed with well-known artists Bill Watrous, Bobby Shew, Sam Skelton, and Trey Wright.

Chris Mcgee

Electric Bass

Mr. McGee received a Bass Performance degree from Atlanta Institute of Music with a concentration in performance in all styles, composition, and advanced music theory. Chris studied under Adam Nitti, Gary Wilking, Russ Rodgers and Alan Burns. He has performed with various jazz, funk and rock bands in the area. Chris is able to teach beginning to advanced students.

Erik Minkkinen

Trombone, Euphonium, Baritone, Tuba, Trumpet

Erik received a Bachelor of Music Education Degree from the University of North Texas. He studied trombone under William Hill, Bobby Burgess, Eddie Clark, Mike Bogle and Vern Kagarice. Mr. Minkkinen has performed with various ensembles and church groups as well as musical theater. He is currently the Director of Bands at Sandy Springs Middle School. He has been teaching trombone for over ten years, and is the author of two books.

Katherine Morgan

Violin, Viola & Cello

Ms. Morgan graduated with a degree in Psychology from Kennesaw State University. Ms. Morgan has over fifteen years playing experience, and five years teaching experience. She has performed with the Atlanta String Quartet, and various community functions and weddings.

Ronald Palmer

French Horn

Mr. Palmer received a Bachelor’s Degree in Music Education from Kennesaw State University and has studied privately with Brice Andrus, of the ASO; Peter Witte and William Hill. Ronald has over 30 years performance and teaching experience and has served as an Adjunct Professor for Tri-Cities High School.

Jennifer Picard

Violin, Viola

Ms. Picard is currently studying viola under Tama Maxwell-Clements at Georgia State University. She has studied under Michael Palmer, Juan Ramirez and Jere Flint. Jennifer has been performing for many years with various orchestras, most recently the GSU Symphony. She has been teaching for over six years.

Erica Ransbottom

Cello

Ms. Ransbottom attended the Lynn Conservatory of Music. She is currently attending Georgia State University under Martha Gerschefski. Erica has studied under Jose Dubon, Astrid Schween, Johanna Perron and David Cole. She has been Principal Cellist in several orchestras. Ms. Ransbottom has over five years teaching experience, most recently teaching sectionals at Kennesaw Mountain High School.

Kimberly Rosquist

Voice

Kimberly received her Bachelor of Music Degree in Vocal Performance from Kennesaw State University and her Master’s of Music in Vocal Performance from Georgia State University. She has performed in multiple operas with the Atlanta Opera and numerous lead roles with the Capitol City Opera. She is currently working with a new company, Opera South. Ms. Rosquist has over 10 years of private teaching experience and over two years of teaching experience at the collegiate level. Kimberly brings to her students a solid technique instilled in her by Drs. Richard and Ann Alderson..

Trevor Roberts

Drums, Mallet Percussion

Mr. Roberts studied with Berklee College of Music's Dr. Arvin Scott and Keith Krotser. He cas completed additional studies at the University of Georgia. Trevor has several years drumset performance experience as well as Drum & Bugle Corps experience. He is a percussion instructor for several area schools.

Kyley Smith

Piano

Ms. Smith received a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Piano Performance from the University of Tennessee in Knoxville. She studied under Dr. Northington, Faye Adams and Dr. Christy Lee. Kyley received pedagogical training at the University of Tennessee. Ms. Smith has over twelve years teaching experience. She loves children and has a lot of enthusiasm for teaching. Kyley is a certified teacher in the Suzuki piano method.

Ivana Sri

Violin, Piano

Ms. Sri attended the Yamaha School of Music in Surabaya. Ivana received a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Music Performance from Kennesaw State University where she studied under David Watkins. She participated in many concerts and competitions and won numerous prizes and awards. Ms. Sri moved from Singapore to the United States where she graduated from McEachern High School.

Becky Swann

Piano

Ms. Swann received a Bachelor of Science in Music Ministry from Atlanta Christian College with major in piano and minor in voice. She also received a Music Education certificate from the State University of West Georgia. Becky has been teaching for over seven years. She has served as a church keyboardist, choir director and elementary school teacher.

Ben Taylor

Drums

Mr. Taylor is a scholarship student at Greensboro North Carolina's John Coltrane School of Jazz and Kennesaw State University in the Music Performance Program. He earned a scholarship from Berklee College of Music, University of North Carolina at Asheville and has been teaching for over ten years. Ben has been percussion instructor at Smitha Middle School and Lindley Middle School. He has done extensive recording, performing and clinics in and around the Southeast.

Bill Van Dyke

Saxophone, Clarinet, Flute

Mr. Van Dyke received a Bachelor of Arts in Jazz Studies and Masters of Education from Auburn University. He studied under Bob Richardson, Dr. Ann Knipschild, Bob Newnan, and Dr. Bob Greenleaf. Bill has taught for over 12 years, with several students making All State and Honor Bands. He has worked with Cooper and Lindley Middle Schools' saxophone students for several years. Bill is most recently heard with The Night & Day Quartet.

Matt Wade

Guitar, Electric Bass

Mr. Wade received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Music Performance from Armstrong Atlantic State University. He graduated with honors. Matt is well versed in all styles of guitar including Rock, Blues, Jazz, Soul, and Classical. He performs regularly with various blues, Rock and Jazz groups throughout the Southeast. Matt has over fifteen years teaching experience.

Lester Walker

Trumpet, Trombone, Baritone, Euphonium, Tuba

Lester received his Bachelor of Music Degree from the University of Alabama and his Master of Music Degree from Georgia State University. His former teaching experience includes numerous positions at the secondary and university levels. He has composed, arranged and produced for television and radio music soundtracks and is active in film, television, radio and theatrical productions. Mr. Walker has performed with several symphonies in the Southeast and has been on stage with many of today’s music giants including Michael Brecker, Bela Fleck, Dave Matthews, The O’Jays, The Temptations, REO Speedwagon and many others. One of the most diversely skilled artists on today's music scene, Lester combines blazing classical technique with a traditional jazz style.

Woodstock

Jorge Alvarez

Piano, Keyboards

Mr. Alvarez attended the Escuela Superior de Musica. He received a Bachelor of Arts and Master of Arts Degrees from Georgia State University. Jorge teaches in a range of styles, including Suzuki Method and traditional piano to lessons in composition and electronic keyboards. Mr. Alvarez is leader of his own band.

Tony Burdo

Guitar

Mr. Burdo received a Bachelor of Music Education from Lee University in Cleveland,Tennessee. Tony teaches General Music at Carmel Elementary School. Mr. Burdo has been teaching privately for over ten years. He performs with Beyond the Veil, a Christian Rock Band.

Mark Cook

Guitar

Mr. Cook received a Bachelor Degree in Industrial Technology from Indiana State University. Beyond his studies, he has over twentythree years' teaching and performance experience. Mark is the winner of four JP Folks Music Awards: Best Album of the Year for 2001, 2002 and 2005; Best Rock Instrumental for 2005. He has produced four CD's and is currently working on a fifth. Mark's music has been used on several TV and feature films and can be heard on XM Satellite. Mr. Cook currently plays with two bands including his own Cook-n-Blues.

John Darden

Drums, Mallet Percussion

Mr. Darden has studied under local instructors Michael Vosbein, Jeff Kirshner, and Kevin Hammond. John teaches a variety of styles including jazz, funk, latin, rock, punk, emo, gospel, avant garde, country, pop, as well as classical and rudimental snare drum. He has been playing drums for over eleven years in a variety of styles. John won the 1999 Georgia Teen Talent Award for Indefinite Pitch Percussion.

TESTIMONIAL
"John has been teaching my son, Conrad, for 3 years. Conrad enjoys the lessons and looks forward to them every week. John is a very patient and talented instructor. I never thought we would still be drumming but thanks to John, it looks like Conrad has truly developed a love of music." - Kim Cornell

Russell Eldridge

Guitar

Mr. Eldridge graduated with honors from the Atlanta Institute of Music. Russell has taught for over five years in a range of styles, and performs with local rock band, Delusional Mind.

Sal Gentile

Guitar, Electric Bass, Mandolin

Mr. Gentile attended Queens College, and has played for over forty years with the likes of Jimmie Rodgers, B.B. King, Rosemary Clooney and Lester Lanin Orchestra. He has been featured in the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, Guitar Player Magazine and Just Jazz.

Robert Hays

Trombone

Mr. Hays is currently attending Kennesaw State University as a Music Education major. Robert studied under Colin Williams, and has been teaching privately for the past year.

Amy Hoelscher

Voice

Ms. Hoelscher is currently a Senior Music Education Major with a concentration in vocal performance at Kennesaw State University. She studied privately with Dee Knapp, Cherry Brendle, Karen Parks, and Jana Young. Amy has performed in several operas, orchestras, and jazz ensembles.

John Howard

Trumpet

Mr. Howard received a Bachelor of Music from the University of Cincinnati and Masters Studies at Indiana University School of Music. John has studied with Larry Black, John Rommel, and Marie Speziale. Mr. Howard was trumpet instructor at the Johnson Ferry Conservatory, and has taught private lessons for over four years.

Randy Hunter

Saxophone, Clarinet, Flute

Randy Hunter has been a full time private instructor and performing musician for more than twenty years. After studying music education at Valdosta State College, he began teaching at Ken Stanton Music in 1985. Saxophone, flute and clarinet lessons focus on the development of fundamental skills such as tone quality, reading skills and technical fluency. Jazz studies are also included when appropriate. As a self-publisher, Randy has established an educational series of jazz etude, duet and combo books entitled “Complete Jazz Styles.” Books from this series have been endorsed by jazz legends Randy Brecker, Joe Lovano and Bobby Shew. These books are available through Ken Stanton Music.

Emrah Kotan

Drums, Mallet Percussion, Hand Percussion

Mr. Kotan received a Master of Arts in Jazz Studies from Georgia State University, and a Bachelor of Arts in Percussion Performance from Ankara State Conservatory. He has studied with Gary Motley, John Patitucci, Kenny Garrett, Joe Lovano, Tom Armacost, Tim Hagens and Gurhan Ocal. Emrah has several years' teaching and performing in a variety of styles for private and group classes.
Please visit my Web site at http://www.emrahkotan.com

Alex Mattingly

Bass Guitar

Mr. Mattingly studied music theory with Berkeley theorist Dr. Marshall Tuttle and studied bass guitar technique with Adam Nitti. He has over a decade of experience on guitar and bass and four years experience teaching bass guitar. He has recorded eight albums with various bands and has played hundreds of gigs in the Kennesaw/Marietta/Atlanta area. He plays rock/jazz fusion and has extensive experience teaching many diverse genres of music, including rock, jazz, pop, country, and heavy metal.

Luis Mendez

Guitar

Mr. Mendez attended ARS Nova School of Music. He studied with Gonzalo Mico, Tony D'Leon, Roldan Pena, and Sal Gentile. He has several years' teaching and performing experience. Luis currently plays in the country rock band High Noon.
Visit my Web site at http://www.itshighnoon.com

Jason Passmore

Saxophone, Clarinet, Flute

Mr. Passmore studied extensively at Georgia State University receiving his Bachelor of Music in Jazz Performance in 1998 and his Master of Music in Jazz Studies in 2000. He studied Saxophone with Sam Skelton and Robert Haley, clarinet with Les Ncholas, Sam Skelton and Alexander Khrykhosky and flute with Sam Skelton. Mr. Passmore has 15 years experience as a private teacher and 8 years as a public school teacher teaching elementary band, orchestra and general music. He received his Teacher Certification in 2004. He has played with the Cobb and Rome Symphony Orchestras, performed with Debbie Gibson, Conrad Herwig, Chris Potter and various Jazz, Rock and Latin bands around the Southeast. Mr. Passmore is an experienced composer/arranger and continues his studies through the online Berklee School of Music.

James Poteat

Piano, Trombone

Mr. Poteat attended Kennesaw State University. He studied trombone under Colin Williams. James has more than five years teaching experience. Mr. Poteat has performed with and conducted several choirs and ensembles. His playing and teaching styles vary from classical to rock. Mr. Poteat's strengths as a teacher are patience and the thrill of aiding someone else in learning about music. Mr. Poteat has posted a more detailed teacher profile to his website at www.musical-intentions.com.

Cynthia Rennick

Violin, Viola, & Cello

Cynthia received a Bachelor of Music Degree from Olivet College and has over 20 years' teaching experience. She has performed in a number of Orchestras, including West Shore Symphony, Battle Creek Symphony, Monroe Symphony and South Arkansas Symphony. In addition to performing, Ms. Rennick has directed several Musical Theater productions including Oklahoma, South Pacific, Finnian's Rainbow and A Funny Thing Happened On The Way To The Forum.

Jonathan Wright

Violin

Mr. Wright has studied with Jun-Ching Lin, Oliver Steiner and Edward Eanes. Jonathan has performed with many celebrities including Christina Aguilera and Phil Collins. In May, 2004, he had the honor of playing for President Bush during his visit to Atlanta, which led to an invitation to perform at the G8 Summit later that year. Mr. Wright has performed on six international tours as a contracted violinist with International Concert Management. Jonathan maintains an active teaching and performing schedule in Atlanta and surrounding cities.

Kyley Smith

Piano

Ms. Smith received a Bachelor of Arts Degree from University of Tennessee. She studied under Dr. Northington, Faye Adams and Dr. Christy Lee. Kyley received pedagogical training at the University of Tennessee. Ms. Smith has over nine years of teaching experience, loves children and has a lot of enthusiasm for teaching. Kyley is a certified teacher in the Suzuki method.

Jackie Sims

Guitar

Ms. Sims has over fourteen years playing experience. She has studied under Nite Driscoll, Bill Hart and Trey Wright. Ms. Sims was a guitar performance major from AIM and is presently studying jazz and music education at Kennesaw State University. She toured with contemporary Christian artists such as Jonathan Newman and The Mission. Jackie currently plays lead guitar for the Gateway International Church.

John Ward

Guitar

Mr. Ward holds a B.A. in Music Performance from Kennesaw State University where he studied classical guitar under Mary Ackerman. He played and toured with the band Grave Danger in the late ‘80s and early ‘90s and currently plays in the metal band Delusional Mind. He has done studio work for Earbubbles Productions and taught guitar lessons for five years at Mars Music before coming to teach at Ken Stanton Music.

Online Rental Payments Online Lesson Payments

Marietta

(770) 427-2491

West Cobb

(770) 429-8816

Roswell

(770) 993-8334

Woodstock

(770) 516-0804

Snellville

(770) 979-0736

Stone Mountain

(678) 672-6742