Important Dates: July 12th Recital in Loucks Auditorium at the Salem Public Library
Important Dates: July 12th Recital in Loucks Auditorium at the Salem Public Library
Important Dates: July 12th Recital in Loucks Auditorium at the Salem Public Library
Discover the Best Music Teachers
Discover what sets our instructors apart and makes them the ideal mentors for your musical journey
BRICK (MICHAEL)
Drum Teacher
LOU (MICHAEL)
Vocal Instructor
Discover the Best Music Teachers
Discover what sets our instructors apart and makes them the ideal mentors for your musical journey
SIERRA
Saxophone and Clarinet Instructor
JAKE
Piano Teacher
SARAH
Voice and Beginning-Advanced Piano
BRICK (Michael)
Drum Teacher
LOU (Michael)
Vocal Instructor
TERRY
Guitar, Ukulele, and Bass Guitar Teacher
ANJEL
Strings Teacher
Discover the Best Music Teachers
Discover what sets our instructors apart and makes them the ideal mentors for your musical journey
Get to know the teachers more!
MALLORY
Executive Director and Owner
Mx Mallory Livingston began taking private music lessons at the age of 8, and continued training through her elementary school and high school careers. This eventually led to a Bachelor of Music at Eastern Oregon University, majoring in music and minoring in Theatre. She has always been musically inclined with structured training in both Voice and Piano.
Mx Livingston has also had the pleasure of dabbling in violin, cello, baritone, clarinet, bass clarinet, alto, tenor and baritone saxophone, guitar and various African drums such as the djembe and dunun. She studied privately with almost a dozen private instructors, including Leandro Espinosa, Matt Cooper, and Jamie Jacobson. She has received training in vocal and piano performance, technique, music theory, music history, and pedagogy.
Teaching music consistently since 2007-2008, she brings skill and expertise to every music lesson. She enjoys working with all ages, having much experience with children, adults, and seniors as students, yet feels her emphasis falls with the younger students – and specializes in children under 8. Mx Livingston teaches with a classical focus, and incorporates solid music theory training, technique, classical repertoire, performance, and music history into training with each student.
Mx Livingston considers tailored teaching to each student’s learning style of utmost importance – for every individual is different. She ensures to explain and demonstrates each concept in a variety of ways that each specific student can connect and understand.
ANDREW
Director of Operations and Brass Instructor
Andrew Conchelos has always had a passion for performing and teaching music, and even was the director of a prominent music school! He received his education from Temple University where he majored in Trombone Performance and toured with the jazz band across the East Coast, performing on their award-winning album.
Andrew has been playing the trombone for nearly 20 years, and
In his musical career Andrew has had the opportunity to perform with several orchestras, wind ensembles, musicals, wedding bands, big bands, and small combos. Andrew performed with several artists including Michael McDonald, Tommy Shaw, and Bruce Springsteen, to name a few.
Andrew believes music is vital to the way we think, feel, express, and socialize. It physically changes the makeup of our minds, as well as sharpens both the fine and gross motor skills. usic can help children improve social skills amongst their peers, and aids their developing minds as they process emotions and safety express their feelings.
Andrew believe instructing music (both easily, and often) can become one of the best activities and experiences you can give a child (or yourself).
RENÉ
Beginning-Advanced Piano Instructor
René started their musicianship early by picking up songs by ear on the piano at 3 years old, and beginning private lessons at the age of 8. Since then their love of music has only grown!
René graduated from Rocky Mountain College with a B.A in piano performance, with additional focus in voice. They are a current member of Confluence Chorus here in Salem and have experience performing in a number of settings including accompanying choirs, playing in various collegiate groups, and as a soloist.
As a teacher, Rene aims to cultivate a lifelong love of music in their students and encourage them to grow in their skills.
KELLY
Piano & Cello Instructor
Kelly graduated from Oregon State University with a B.S. in Piano Performance. She has been playing both piano and cello from a young age.
Her experience includes performing at weddings, playing in chamber ensembles, and accompanying a variety of vocalists and instrumentalists.
She has orchestrated strings workshops to facilitate young students to learn cello intonation, theory, and technique.
While at OSU, she was awarded a piano scholarship, studying under teachers Rachelle McCabe and David Servias. Her performance experience has grown over the years to include performances in Latin American music and collaborations with pop vocal artists.
She believes that music involves complex processes that allow the ability to explore creative expression, communicate emotion, inspire, and transcend the human experience in a tangible way.
As a teacher, her intent is to nurture a student’s analytical development and unique skills to give them confidence to apply their talents outside of the lesson.
SIERRA
Saxophone and Clarinet Instructor
Sierra’s lifelong love of music began in the third grade when she begged her parents for a guitar
and lessons and they finally caved. Once in middle school she started her journey with wind
instruments such as the clarinet, tenor saxophone, and baritone saxophone.
In high school she
continued to play the baritone saxophone and went on to compete at several festivals, state
solo and ensemble, state jazz band, and state concert band where she won several solo awards
and was able to help her concert ensemble place every year and win the championship in her
senior year.
She also participated in WIBC for two years where she was awarded a first chair
spot both years.
After high school she went on to study music and saxophone performance at Oregon State
University where she graduated with a BA in Music with a minor in Saxophone Performance.
While in college she played tenor saxophone in the Marching Band for four years where she
was a section leader and later captain.
She also is currently working on the board of the Corvallis Music Collective which is a non-profit
aimed at making music more accessible in the Corvallis area.
JAKE
Piano Teacher
He is is a life-long musician with practical experience in a wide range of genres and
various approaches to different musical styles. At first self-taught, he focused mainly on
classical piano literature and composition. He began official piano lessons as a teenager
and continued his studies in theory and composition at Yale University.
While at Western
Oregon University, he focused on jazz performance and composition. He is currently
finishing his degree at OSU.
Jake began teaching in 2018 and immediately felt at home working with students of all ages
and skill levels. His focus is on bringing out the individual talents of each student. He
believes music is first and foremost a creative process all people can engage in.
Although
piano is his primary instrument, he finds all expressions of music valuable and works to
support each student in their personal ambitions and goals.
LOU (MICHAEL)
Vocal Instructor
Michael is a dedicated voice teacher with a passion for helping students of all ages discover and develop their unique voices. He earned his degree in vocal performance from Oklahoma City University in 2023, where he received comprehensive training in classical and contemporary
vocal techniques. With 15 years of experience in solo vocal performance and three full length musicals directed he is ready to continue his professional career in the private voice lesson setting.
With a warm and encouraging teaching style, Michael works with both children and adults, tailoring lessons to fit each student’s goals whether they're preparing for auditions, developing healthy vocal habits, or simply exploring the joy of singing.
His teaching philosophy is grounded in developing technique above all. His approach emphasizes confidence-building, and expressive performance, creating a supportive environment for singers at every level. He believes that with the right guidance and encouragement, everyone can learn to sing.
TERRY
Guitar, Ukulele, and Bass Guitar Teacher
Terry Bay is a guitar teacher with over three decades of experience, dedicated to helping motivated students of any level improve their musical abilities. Growing up in Salem, Oregon, Terry developed a passion for music at a young age that has driven his career and taken him across the United States, including an extended stay in Nashville, Tennessee, the renowned "Music City".
Throughout his extensive career, Terry has performed both as a solo artist and within diverse ensembles, showcasing his talents across a wide range of musical genres. He has graced countless stages and spent many hours in recording studios, honing his skills and expanding his musical knowledge.
Despite his wealth of experience, Terry maintains a laid-back and approachable teaching style, incorporating humor and encouragement into every lesson. His primary focus is fostering a deep appreciation for music and making the learning process enjoyable. Terry specializes in electric and acoustic guitar, with expertise in rock, blues, and country styles, as well as music theory and improvisation.
SARAH
Voice and Beginning-Advanced Piano
Sarah Simons received her Bachelor’s degree in Music Education from George Fox
University in 2020. Her musical journey started from a young age - beginning
classical piano training at age 8 and continuing through senior year of high school.
While in high school and college, she frequently accompanied on piano for choir
ensembles and private vocalists.
She began private voice lessons in high school, participating in choir ensembles
throughout high school and during her time at George Fox. Having voice as her
primary instrument in college, she frequently performed for recitals and as a duet
partner.
Following college, she was the full-time music teacher at Toledo Elementary for
ages K-6 the last 5 years. During this time, she loved getting to teach students of
differing backgrounds & inspire them to develop their love of music in a multitude
of ways.
As a teacher, Sarah uses creativity and passion to help students find their musical
spark! She has a very compassionate approach, always being interested in the
individual she’s teaching first and foremost. She believes everyone has it within
them to become a musician and with this, takes it upon herself to cater lessons to
each student individually. Her goal is that students can take away many tools from
their time with her and apply them to their personal practice at home.
ANJEL
Strings Teacher
Hailing from Newberg, Oregon, Anjel began playing the cello in a strings class during sixth grade. She holds a B.S. in Music Performance with a focus on cello from the University of Oregon. Throughout her career, she has performed in prestigious venues such as the Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall and the Hult Center.
Specializing in classical and lead sheet style music, Anjel loves what teaching music gives to the student. She believes music is medicine for the soul and has the power to change lives. When she teaches music, she is teaching students to communicate emotion. Anjel emphasizes the cognitive advantages that musicians benefit from, which is why she uses a mix of different teaching materials to support student growth.
A fun fact about Anjel is that her 2 year old son is currently learning to play the cello.”Here is the other teacher!
BRICK (Michael)
Drum Instructor
Michael Brickell has been teaching music professionally for over a decade, sharing his passion for performance, creativity, and musical growth with students of all ages. His musical journey began at an early age, where he developed a strong foundation through years of experience in concert band, marching band, and jazz band throughout middle and high school.
With over 30 years of experience playing music, Michael brings a deep understanding of rhythm, technique, and musicianship into his teaching. He is a multi-instrumentalist who plays drums, bass, guitar, and ukulele, allowing him to bring a well-rounded perspective to his lessons. Beyond teaching, Michael has spent over 14 years performing as a member of a nationally touring band, gaining valuable real-world experience in live performance, collaboration, and the music industry.
Michael’s teaching approach centers on building strong technical fundamentals that give students the tools they need to grow as musicians. By focusing on proper technique, timing, coordination, and musical discipline, he helps students develop skills that translate across different styles and levels of playing. His goal is to create an engaging learning environment where students can build confidence, improve their abilities, and develop a lifelong connection with music.
Get to know the teachers more!
MALLORY
Piano Instructor
Mx Livingston has also had the pleasure of dabbling in violin, cello, baritone, clarinet, bass clarinet, alto, tenor and baritone saxophone, guitar and various African drums such as the djembe and dunun. She studied privately with almost a dozen private instructors, including Leandro Espinosa, Matt Cooper, and Jamie Jacobson. She has received training in vocal and piano performance, technique, music theory, music history, and pedagogy.
Teaching music consistently since 2007-2008, she brings skill and expertise to every music lesson. She enjoys working with all ages, having much experience with children, adults, and seniors as students, yet feels her emphasis falls with the younger students – and specializes in children under 8. Mx Livingston teaches with a classical focus, and incorporates solid music theory training, technique, classical repertoire, performance, and music history into training with each student.
Mx Livingston considers tailored teaching to each student’s learning style of utmost importance – for every individual is different. She ensures to explain and demonstrates each concept in a variety of ways that each specific student can connect and understand.
ANDREW
Director of Operations and Brass Instructor
Andrew Conchelos has always had a passion for performing and teaching music, and even was the director of a prominent music school! He received his education from Temple University where he majored in Trombone Performance and toured with the jazz band across the East Coast, performing on their award-winning album.
Andrew has been playing the trombone for nearly 20 years, and
In his musical career Andrew has had the opportunity to perform with several orchestras, wind ensembles, musicals, wedding bands, big bands, and small combos. Andrew performed with several artists including Michael McDonald, Tommy Shaw, and Bruce Springsteen, to name a few.
Andrew believes music is vital to the way we think, feel, express, and socialize. It physically changes the makeup of our minds, as well as sharpens both the fine and gross motor skills. usic can help children improve social skills amongst their peers, and aids their developing minds as they process emotions and safety express their feelings.
Andrew believe instructing music (both easily, and often) can become one of the best activities and experiences you can give a child (or yourself).
RENÉ
Beginning-Advanced Piano Instructor
René started their musicianship early by picking up songs by ear on the piano at 3 years old, and beginning private lessons at the age of 8. Since then their love of music has only grown!
René graduated from Rocky Mountain College with a B.A in piano performance, with additional focus in voice. They are a current member of Confluence Chorus here in Salem and have experience performing in a number of settings including accompanying choirs, playing in various collegiate groups, and as a soloist.
As a teacher, Rene aims to cultivate a lifelong love of music in their students and encourage them to grow in their skills.
KELLY
Piano & Cello Instructor
Kelly graduated from Oregon State University with a B.S. in Piano Performance. She has been playing both piano and cello from a young age.
Her experience includes performing at weddings, playing in chamber ensembles, and accompanying a variety of vocalists and instrumentalists.
She has orchestrated strings workshops to facilitate young students to learn cello intonation, theory, and technique.
While at OSU, she was awarded a piano scholarship, studying under teachers Rachelle McCabe and David Servias. Her performance experience has grown over the years to include performances in Latin American music and collaborations with pop vocal artists.
She believes that music involves complex processes that allow the ability to explore creative expression, communicate emotion, inspire, and transcend the human experience in a tangible way.
As a teacher, her intent is to nurture a student’s analytical development and unique skills to give them confidence to apply their talents outside of the lesson.
SIERRA
Saxophone and Clarinet Instructor
Sierra’s lifelong love of music began in the third grade when she begged her parents for a guitar
and lessons and they finally caved. Once in middle school she started her journey with wind
instruments such as the clarinet, tenor saxophone, and baritone saxophone.
In high school she
continued to play the baritone saxophone and went on to compete at several festivals, state
solo and ensemble, state jazz band, and state concert band where she won several solo awards
and was able to help her concert ensemble place every year and win the championship in her
senior year.
She also participated in WIBC for two years where she was awarded a first chair
spot both years.
After high school she went on to study music and saxophone performance at Oregon State
University where she graduated with a BA in Music with a minor in Saxophone Performance.
While in college she played tenor saxophone in the Marching Band for four years where she
was a section leader and later captain.
She also is currently working on the board of the Corvallis Music Collective which is a non-profit
aimed at making music more accessible in the Corvallis area.
JAKE
Piano Teacher
He is is a life-long musician with practical experience in a wide range of genres and
various approaches to different musical styles. At first self-taught, he focused mainly on
classical piano literature and composition. He began official piano lessons as a teenager
and continued his studies in theory and composition at Yale University.
While at Western
Oregon University, he focused on jazz performance and composition. He is currently
finishing his degree at OSU.
Jake began teaching in 2018 and immediately felt at home working with students of all ages
and skill levels. His focus is on bringing out the individual talents of each student. He
believes music is first and foremost a creative process all people can engage in.
Although
piano is his primary instrument, he finds all expressions of music valuable and works to
support each student in their personal ambitions and goals.
LOU (MICHAEL)
Vocal Instructor
Michael is a dedicated voice teacher with a passion for helping students of all ages discover and develop their unique voices. He earned his degree in vocal performance from Oklahoma City University in 2023, where he received comprehensive training in classical and contemporary
vocal techniques. With 15 years of experience in solo vocal performance and three full length musicals directed he is ready to continue his professional career in the private voice lesson setting.
With a warm and encouraging teaching style, Michael works with both children and adults, tailoring lessons to fit each student’s goals whether they're preparing for auditions, developing healthy vocal habits, or simply exploring the joy of singing.
His teaching philosophy is grounded in developing technique above all. His approach emphasizes confidence-building, and expressive performance, creating a supportive environment for singers at every level. He believes that with the right guidance and encouragement, everyone can learn to sing.
TERRY
Guitar, Ukulele, and Bass Guitar Teacher
Terry Bay is a guitar teacher with over three decades of experience, dedicated to helping motivated students of any level improve their musical abilities. Growing up in Salem, Oregon, Terry developed a passion for music at a young age that has driven his career and taken him across the United States, including an extended stay in Nashville, Tennessee, the renowned "Music City".
Throughout his extensive career, Terry has performed both as a solo artist and within diverse ensembles, showcasing his talents across a wide range of musical genres. He has graced countless stages and spent many hours in recording studios, honing his skills and expanding his musical knowledge.
Despite his wealth of experience, Terry maintains a laid-back and approachable teaching style, incorporating humor and encouragement into every lesson. His primary focus is fostering a deep appreciation for music and making the learning process enjoyable. Terry specializes in electric and acoustic guitar, with expertise in rock, blues, and country styles, as well as music theory and improvisation.
SARAH
Voice and Beginning-Advanced Piano
Sarah Simons received her Bachelor’s degree in Music Education from George Fox
University in 2020. Her musical journey started from a young age - beginning
classical piano training at age 8 and continuing through senior year of high school.
While in high school and college, she frequently accompanied on piano for choir
ensembles and private vocalists.
She began private voice lessons in high school, participating in choir ensembles
throughout high school and during her time at George Fox. Having voice as her
primary instrument in college, she frequently performed for recitals and as a duet
partner.
Following college, she was the full-time music teacher at Toledo Elementary for
ages K-6 the last 5 years. During this time, she loved getting to teach students of
differing backgrounds & inspire them to develop their love of music in a multitude
of ways.
As a teacher, Sarah uses creativity and passion to help students find their musical
spark! She has a very compassionate approach, always being interested in the
individual she’s teaching first and foremost. She believes everyone has it within
them to become a musician and with this, takes it upon herself to cater lessons to
each student individually. Her goal is that students can take away many tools from
their time with her and apply them to their personal practice at home.
BRICK (Michael)
Drum Teacher Michael Brickell has been teaching music professionally for over a decade, sharing his passion for performance, creativity, and musical growth with students of all ages. His musical journey began at an early age, where he developed a strong foundation through years of experience in concert band, marching band, and jazz band throughout middle and high school.
With over 30 years of experience playing music, Michael brings a deep understanding of rhythm, technique, and musicianship into his teaching. He is a multi-instrumentalist who plays drums, bass, guitar, and ukulele, allowing him to bring a well-rounded perspective to his lessons. Beyond teaching, Michael has spent over 14 years performing as a member of a nationally touring band, gaining valuable real-world experience in live performance, collaboration, and the music industry.
Michael’s teaching approach centers on building strong technical fundamentals that give students the tools they need to grow as musicians. By focusing on proper technique, timing, coordination, and musical discipline, he helps students develop skills that translate across different styles and levels of playing. His goal is to create an engaging learning environment where students can build confidence, improve their abilities, and develop a lifelong connection with music.
ANJEL
Strings Teacher
Hailing from Newberg, Oregon, Anjel began playing the cello in a strings class during sixth grade. She holds a B.S. in Music Performance with a focus on cello from the University of Oregon. Throughout her career, she has performed in prestigious venues such as the Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall and the Hult Center.
Specializing in classical and lead sheet style music, Anjel loves what teaching music gives to the student. She believes music is medicine for the soul and has the power to change lives. When she teaches music, she is teaching students to communicate emotion. Anjel emphasizes the cognitive advantages that musicians benefit from, which is why she uses a mix of different teaching materials to support student growth.
A fun fact about Anjel is that her 2 year old son is currently learning to play the cello.”Here is the other teacher!
Get to know the teachers more!
MALLORY
Executive Director and Owner
Mx Livingston has also had the pleasure of dabbling in violin, cello, baritone, clarinet, bass clarinet, alto, tenor and baritone saxophone, guitar and various African drums such as the djembe and dunun. She studied privately with almost a dozen private instructors, including Leandro Espinosa, Matt Cooper, and Jamie Jacobson. She has received training in vocal and piano performance, technique, music theory, music history, and pedagogy.
Teaching music consistently since 2007-2008, she brings skill and expertise to every music lesson. She enjoys working with all ages, having much experience with children, adults, and seniors as students, yet feels her emphasis falls with the younger students – and specializes in children under 8. Mx Livingston teaches with a classical focus, and incorporates solid music theory training, technique, classical repertoire, performance, and music history into training with each student.
Mx Livingston considers tailored teaching to each student’s learning style of utmost importance – for every individual is different. She ensures to explain and demonstrates each concept in a variety of ways that each specific student can connect and understand.
ANDREW
Director of Operations and Brass Instructor
Andrew Conchelos has always had a passion for performing and teaching music, and even was the director of a prominent music school! He received his education from Temple University where he majored in Trombone Performance and toured with the jazz band across the East Coast, performing on their award-winning album.
Andrew has been playing the trombone for nearly 20 years, and
In his musical career Andrew has had the opportunity to perform with several orchestras, wind ensembles, musicals, wedding bands, big bands, and small combos. Andrew performed with several artists including Michael McDonald, Tommy Shaw, and Bruce Springsteen, to name a few.
Andrew believes music is vital to the way we think, feel, express, and socialize. It physically changes the makeup of our minds, as well as sharpens both the fine and gross motor skills. usic can help children improve social skills amongst their peers, and aids their developing minds as they process emotions and safety express their feelings.
Andrew believe instructing music (both easily, and often) can become one of the best activities and experiences you can give a child (or yourself).
RENÉ
Beginning-Advanced Piano Instructor
René started their musicianship early by picking up songs by ear on the piano at 3 years old, and beginning private lessons at the age of 8. Since then their love of music has only grown!
René graduated from Rocky Mountain College with a B.A in piano performance, with additional focus in voice. They are a current member of Confluence Chorus here in Salem and have experience performing in a number of settings including accompanying choirs, playing in various collegiate groups, and as a soloist.
As a teacher, Rene aims to cultivate a lifelong love of music in their students and encourage them to grow in their skills.
KELLY
Piano & Cello Instructor
Kelly graduated from Oregon State University with a B.S. in Piano Performance. She has been playing both piano and cello from a young age.
Her experience includes performing at weddings, playing in chamber ensembles, and accompanying a variety of vocalists and instrumentalists.
She has orchestrated strings workshops to facilitate young students to learn cello intonation, theory, and technique.
While at OSU, she was awarded a piano scholarship, studying under teachers Rachelle McCabe and David Servias. Her performance experience has grown over the years to include performances in Latin American music and collaborations with pop vocal artists.
She believes that music involves complex processes that allow the ability to explore creative expression, communicate emotion, inspire, and transcend the human experience in a tangible way.
As a teacher, her intent is to nurture a student’s analytical development and unique skills to give them confidence to apply their talents outside of the lesson.
SIERRA
Saxophone and Clarinet Instructor
Sierra’s lifelong love of music began in the third grade when she begged her parents for a guitar
and lessons and they finally caved. Once in middle school she started her journey with wind
instruments such as the clarinet, tenor saxophone, and baritone saxophone.
In high school she
continued to play the baritone saxophone and went on to compete at several festivals, state
solo and ensemble, state jazz band, and state concert band where she won several solo awards
and was able to help her concert ensemble place every year and win the championship in her
senior year.
She also participated in WIBC for two years where she was awarded a first chair
spot both years.
After high school she went on to study music and saxophone performance at Oregon State
University where she graduated with a BA in Music with a minor in Saxophone Performance.
While in college she played tenor saxophone in the Marching Band for four years where she
was a section leader and later captain.
She also is currently working on the board of the Corvallis Music Collective which is a non-profit
aimed at making music more accessible in the Corvallis area.
JAKE
Piano Teacher
He is is a life-long musician with practical experience in a wide range of genres and
various approaches to different musical styles. At first self-taught, he focused mainly on
classical piano literature and composition. He began official piano lessons as a teenager
and continued his studies in theory and composition at Yale University.
While at Western
Oregon University, he focused on jazz performance and composition. He is currently
finishing his degree at OSU.
Jake began teaching in 2018 and immediately felt at home working with students of all ages
and skill levels. His focus is on bringing out the individual talents of each student. He
believes music is first and foremost a creative process all people can engage in.
Although
piano is his primary instrument, he finds all expressions of music valuable and works to
support each student in their personal ambitions and goals.
Lou
(Michael)
Vocal Instructor
Michael is a dedicated voice teacher with a passion for helping students of all ages discover and develop their unique voices. He earned his degree in vocal performance from Oklahoma City University in 2023, where he received comprehensive training in classical and contemporary
vocal techniques. With 15 years of experience in solo vocal performance and three full length musicals directed he is ready to continue his professional career in the private voice lesson setting.
With a warm and encouraging teaching style, Michael works with both children and adults, tailoring lessons to fit each student’s goals whether they're preparing for auditions, developing healthy vocal habits, or simply exploring the joy of singing.
His teaching philosophy is grounded in developing technique above all. His approach emphasizes confidence-building, and expressive performance, creating a supportive environment for singers at every level. He believes that with the right guidance and encouragement, everyone can learn to sing.
TERRY
Piano and voice instructor | Choral Music Educator
Terry Bay is a guitar teacher with over three decades of experience, dedicated to helping motivated students of any level improve their musical abilities. Growing up in Salem, Oregon, Terry developed a passion for music at a young age that has driven his career and taken him across the United States, including an extended stay in Nashville, Tennessee, the renowned "Music City".
Throughout his extensive career, Terry has performed both as a solo artist and within diverse ensembles, showcasing his talents across a wide range of musical genres. He has graced countless stages and spent many hours in recording studios, honing his skills and expanding his musical knowledge.
Despite his wealth of experience, Terry maintains a laid-back and approachable teaching style, incorporating humor and encouragement into every lesson. His primary focus is fostering a deep appreciation for music and making the learning process enjoyable. Terry specializes in electric and acoustic guitar, with expertise in rock, blues, and country styles, as well as music theory and improvisation.
SARAH
Voice and Beginning-Advanced Piano
Sarah Simons received her Bachelor’s degree in Music Education from George Fox
University in 2020. Her musical journey started from a young age - beginning
classical piano training at age 8 and continuing through senior year of high school.
While in high school and college, she frequently accompanied on piano for choir
ensembles and private vocalists.
She began private voice lessons in high school, participating in choir ensembles
throughout high school and during her time at George Fox. Having voice as her
primary instrument in college, she frequently performed for recitals and as a duet
partner.
Following college, she was the full-time music teacher at Toledo Elementary for
ages K-6 the last 5 years. During this time, she loved getting to teach students of
differing backgrounds & inspire them to develop their love of music in a multitude
of ways.
As a teacher, Sarah uses creativity and passion to help students find their musical
spark! She has a very compassionate approach, always being interested in the
individual she’s teaching first and foremost. She believes everyone has it within
them to become a musician and with this, takes it upon herself to cater lessons to
each student individually. Her goal is that students can take away many tools from
their time with her and apply them to their personal practice at home.
BRICK (Michael)
Drum Teacher Michael Brickell has been teaching music professionally for over a decade, sharing his passion for performance, creativity, and musical growth with students of all ages. His musical journey began at an early age, where he developed a strong foundation through years of experience in concert band, marching band, and jazz band throughout middle and high school.
With over 30 years of experience playing music, Michael brings a deep understanding of rhythm, technique, and musicianship into his teaching. He is a multi-instrumentalist who plays drums, bass, guitar, and ukulele, allowing him to bring a well-rounded perspective to his lessons. Beyond teaching, Michael has spent over 14 years performing as a member of a nationally touring band, gaining valuable real-world experience in live performance, collaboration, and the music industry.
Michael’s teaching approach centers on building strong technical fundamentals that give students the tools they need to grow as musicians. By focusing on proper technique, timing, coordination, and musical discipline, he helps students develop skills that translate across different styles and levels of playing. His goal is to create an engaging learning environment where students can build confidence, improve their abilities, and develop a lifelong connection with music.
ANJEL
Strings Teacher
Hailing from Newberg, Oregon, Anjel began playing the cello in a strings class during sixth grade. She holds a B.S. in Music Performance with a focus on cello from the University of Oregon. Throughout her career, she has performed in prestigious venues such as the Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall and the Hult Center.
Specializing in classical and lead sheet style music, Anjel loves what teaching music gives to the student. She believes music is medicine for the soul and has the power to change lives. When she teaches music, she is teaching students to communicate emotion. Anjel emphasizes the cognitive advantages that musicians benefit from, which is why she uses a mix of different teaching materials to support student growth.
A fun fact about Anjel is that her 2 year old son is currently learning to play the cello.”Here is the other teacher!
meet the founder
Mrs. Gillian Perkins, the founder of Northwest School of Music, spent ten years as the executive director.
She has studied music for 16 years and has over 12 years experiences teaching piano, flute, voice, and music theory.
She is pleased to have taught hundreds of students during her career as a music instructor.
meet the founder
Mrs. Gillian Perkins, the founder of Northwest School of Music, spent ten years as the executive director.
She has studied music for 16 years and has over 12 years experiences teaching piano, flute, voice, and music theory.
She is pleased to have taught hundreds of students during her career as a music instructor.
meet the founder
Mrs. Gillian Perkins, the founder of Northwest School of Music, spent ten years as the executive director.
She has studied music for 16 years and has over 12 years experiences teaching piano, flute, voice, and music theory.
She is pleased to have taught hundreds of students during her career as a music instructor.
