Our Teachers

Jennifer Talbot is a lyric coloratura soprano and belter who earned her M.A. in Voice Pedagogy at The Ohio State University where she studied voice with Dr. Scott McCoy.  Previously, she earned her B.M. in Voice and Piano Performance at Capital University.  She has been performing with Opera Columbus for seven years including her main stage debut as Barbarina in The Marriage of Figaro and Bunny/Zozo in the Opera on the Edge production of The Merry Widow with Shadowbox Live.  Other favorite engagements include singing Lauretta (Gianni Schicchi) with the Opera Academy of California, Just Jeanette (Too Many Sopranos) with Opera Project Columbus, Rapunzel (Into the Woods) at Capital University, and soprano soloist for Britten's Rejoice in the Lamb with the OSU Chorale.  Since studying the Estill Technique with Kerrie Obert (M.A., C.C.C./S.L.P.), Jennifer also began performing in more contemporary singing styles as well with the Howlin' Prayers.  She has also enjoyed performing as a collaborative pianist for Opera Columbus' educational outreach programs Opera on the Go and Improv Opera.

With as spirited as Jeff is standing on the podium, teaching in the studio, or composing new music, you probably wouldn’t have guessed that he holds a Bachelor of Science in Computer & Information Science from The Ohio State University.

With specialties in woodwind instruction, Jeff is the Assistant Director of the Clintonville Community Band, which performs 10+ times annually throughout the Columbus area. He strongly believes that musical discovery serves a noble purpose: to provide a break from the monotonies of life by giving you something to be look forward to – a spark!

Jeff strives to be a little nontraditional, yet finds grounding in his passion and love for developing musicians, both young and old, to be everything they want to be, and then some. Just because you didn’t go to school for music, or don’t plan on it, doesn’t mean you can’t become an accomplished musician. Jeff's goal is to provide a well-rounded experience to students, showing just how connected we all are in this world.

Teaching Philosophy:
Adventure – I believe that all learners should feel inspired by the educational process, and have the freedom to strive for new things, even if outside of their comfort zone.
Purpose – I believe that all learners should feel that what they are learning is useful, meaningful, and applies to their greater life picture.
Love – I believe that all learners should feel that they are wanted in the educational process, and that it is okay to make mistakes.
Curiosity – I believe that all learners should be pushed to follow their inner desires to learn, as that will provide the energy to do their personal best.
Sharing – I believe that all learners should feel that what they have learned is worth sharing, and that with sharing, always comes new opportunities.
Reflection – I believe that all learners should be pushed to critically reflect on the “whys” to provide a deep-rooted satisfaction from learning.

Hannah Roberts is a recent graduate of Ohio University with a master’s in Vocal Performance. Throughout her academic studies, Hannah has appeared in a variety of productions. Hannah was recently seen singing the role of First Lady in Ohio University Opera Theater’s production of Die Zauberflöte and as a 2018 Vocal Academy Artist with Prague Summer Nights Young Artist Music Festival. In addition to solo work, Hannah also has an extensive background in choral music and has performed with ensembles such as the Capital University Chapel Choir, the Capital University Women’s Chorus, and the St. Joseph’s Cathedral Choir. Hannah holds a Bachelor of Music in Music Technology from Capital University.

Joe graduated in 2008 from the Capital University Conservatory of Music with a Bachelor of Music in Clarinet Performance. During his college career Joe studied music performance, and pedagogy with Dr. Gail Lehto Zugger, Dr. Michael Cox, and Dr. Lisa Jelle. Though his studies focused primarily on the clarinet, they also included saxophone, woodwind methods, music theory, composition, and voice.

In 2012 he had the opportunity to serve as a producer on the album Insteption for the Dick and Jane Project, a Columbus based non-profit which empowers students through songwriting. Joe worked directly with young people to transform their lyrics into professionally recorded songs.

He has over 10 years of experience teaching students of all ages and ability levels, and is excited to teach through Musicologie!

Rob Firestone teaches beginning guitar (from ages 5 to 100!), fingerstyle pop, classical, jazz, blues, folk, pop, contemporary Christian and gospel, classic rock, guitar composition, improvisation, sight-singing and ear training and music theory. He also teaches ukulele and beginning bass guitar.

Rob’s teaching experience spans over 30 years including The Ohio State University’s Creative Arts Program, University of Akron, and private lesson programs in Columbus. Having earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Jazz Studies Composition and a Master’s Degree in Classical Guitar Performance, Rob provides a wealth of knowledge and training to his guitar students.  Comfortable teaching all ages, from 5 years and up, Mr. Firestone truly enjoys teaching students how to make beautiful music with a guitar.

Christiana Calantropo is a violinist and dancer from Virginia Beach, VA.  She started violin with the Suzuki method at age 5, participating in her first international Suzuki performance tour to Italy at the age of 10 with the Suzuki Strings of Hampton Roads.  Christiana furthered her musical studies in high school at The Governor’s School for the Arts, with whom she had the privilege of performing as Concertmaster at Carnegie Hall in New York City. 

Christiana received her Bachelor’s in Music with a concentration in Music Industry from James Madison University. During her studies, she has performed extensively in musicals, weddings, opera orchestras, chamber music groups, for nursing homes, and for city events in Virginia Beach with the group Dolce Strings.  In recent years, she has branched out into improvisational playing and creating her own music. Christiana is new to Columbus and is excited to build her studio here! She strives to craft a fun teaching experience that inspires you and your musical heart.

Danny plays guitar, bass, drum set, synthesizers of all sorts, and computers to make original music. He has been writing, performing and recording in different groups for the past fifteen years. He strongly believes in the importance of creativity and participation in artistic communities. Danny's professional life has included working in special education, tailoring curriculum to meet the needs of individuals, and tutoring elementary school students. He understands different humans learn differently and thinks it's a good thing, after all if we all had the same brain we'd all be making the same music and that would get quite boring.

Justin T. Swain (Fields) is a graduate of The Ohio State University with a Master of Music in Vocal Performance and a Master of Arts in Vocal Pedagogy where he was awarded “Most Outstanding Graduate Associate” and was a student of both Dr. Scott McCoy and Dr. Robin Rice. Justin served for two years as the vocal performance area’s administrative assistant and taught applied voice as a graduate teaching associate within the OSU School of Music. Prior to completing his graduate studies in music, he completed a Bachelor of Music in Vocal Performance at Ohio State, and completed an Associate of Arts degree at Columbus State where he assisted in the piano lab and was awarded the prestigious “Man of the Year” award for his contributions to the campus through his volunteer work and with various student organizations.

A Columbus native, Justin has served as Opera Columbus’ Teaching Artist (2018), been featured in the Columbus Italian Festival (2012 & 2018), in concert with Harmony Project Columbus (2015), with the New Albany Symphony Orchestra (2016 & 2018), with Opera Project Columbus (Maestro Spinelloccio in Gianni Schicchi 2017), has given a number of public and private recitals, and has performed four world premiere works. Additionally, Justin has performed numerous times with Opera Columbus as a chorister, on the main stage (Baron Duophol in La Traviata 2016), as a member of their touring Education Outreach program for two seasons (2015 & 2017), Opera On The Edge (Marcello in La Bohème 2016), as a member of The Voice of Freedom touring performance group (2018-2019), and returns to perform this Autumn in Twisted 3, a collaboration with BalletMet and the Columbus Symphony Orchestra (Pinellino in Gianni Schicchi 2019).

Kate Merryman is a soprano originally from the Northern Virginia/DC area. She recently graduated from The Ohio State University with a Master of Arts in Vocal Pedagogy and Singing Health Specialization where she served as a graduate teaching assistant and was awarded the Margaret Speaks Vocal Scholarship Award. She also graduated Magna Cum Laude and Phi Beta Kappa with a Bachelor of Music in Vocal Performance from George Mason University.

Her performance repertoire includes opera, musical theatre, and concert works. Her most recent roles include Elvira in #UncleJohn with Opera on the Edge (coming fall 2017), Lisette in La Rondine, Belinda in Dido & Aeneas, and Johanna in Sweeney Todd with The Ohio State University Opera and Lyric Theatre. She also sang the role of Pamina in The Magic Flute with Opera Columbus’s “Opera Goes to School.” Other performance credits include Les Misérables (Cosette), Into the Woods (Cinderella), Legally Blonde: The Musical (Elle Woods), and Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat (Narrator). She was nominated for a WATCH Award for Best Lead Actress in a musical for her role as the Narrator and also received a Broadwayworld.com nomination for Best Lead Actress in a Musical (Local) for her role as Elle Woods. Her concert works include soprano soloist for Fauré’s Requiem with the St. Veronica Catholic Church in Chantilly, VA and soprano soloist for Handel’s Messiah at Bluffton University.

Kate has taught private voice lessons for over six years to students of all ages and levels. She has experience teaching various genres such as classical, musical theatre, pop, and jazz. It is her passion to help students discover their own voice and explore the many possibilities their voice has to offer.

“A bird doesn’t sing because it has an answer. It sings because it has a song.” -Maya Angelou

Liz Woolley studied classical voice and piano at Snow College, which quickly morphed into a love for jazz. She received her jazz education from both Snow College and the University of Utah. She has traveled internationally to both Italy and Singapore to perform classical and jazz works.

Following her performance education, Liz finished her degree at Utah State University in Logan, UT in music therapy. While in Logan, Liz was a vocalist, mandolinist, and songwriter in two local bluegrass bands (The Pretty Darns and Dry Lake Band) and she lent her vocals and original tunes to many bluegrass, pop, hip hop and folk recordings for various artists. Along with albums with her bluegrass bands, Liz has released two solo jazz albums, “A Little Bit Romantic” (Dec 2011) and “Do Love” (Nov 2014).

Liz works as a music therapist for children with autism at Helping Hands Center for Special Needs in Columbus, OH. She has taught both piano and voice for many years and is excited to be teaching lessons at Musicologie.

Robert Mason is a pianist, teacher, and arranger from Columbus, Ohio. He graduated from OSU with a BM in Jazz Studies and a minor in Music, Media and Enterprise. He performed with The Ohio State Jazz Ensemble and did an extensive tour in China. Robert has studied privately with legends Mark Flugge, Dave Powers, and Bobby Floyd and apprenticed with local greats such as Shawn Wallace, Cedric Easton, Chris Brown, Milton Ruffin, James Gaiters, Jerry Powell, and Gregory Pearson.

Raised in Gahanna, Ohio, Robert began taking piano lessons in third grade from a couple named Adam and Betsy Grimes. He began jazz piano lessons in high school with Columbus staple, Mark Flugge, who not only helped him grow as a musician, but challenged him to become a better person.

Robert has won numerous awards for jazz performance including the Louis Armstrong Award for outstanding musicians while still in high school. He also received several scholarships at OSU including the Atkin Jazz Scholarship, Tom Battenberg Jazz Scholarship, and the George and Janice Scantland Jazz Scholarship.

Robert currently performs with a number of groups in Columbus including Mojoflo, and his personal jazz ensemble The Robert Mason Trio. He also leads worship every Sunday at Flintridge Community Baptist Church.

Megan Rainey is a pianist and singer from Ashville, Ohio. She graduated from The Ohio State University with a BM in Piano Performance, and later from James Madison University with an MM in Piano Performance. During her time in school, Megan studied both piano and voice while working as a professional accompanist, vocal coach and classroom piano teacher. She also competed frequently on the university level as a solo pianist in the central Ohio and Shenandoah Valley areas, and has performed with chamber ensembles in Luxembourg and Germany.

Megan’s goal as a teacher is to help create musicians who are passionate and well-rounded. With an equal focus on ear training, theory, injury-preventive technique and improvisation, she aims to introduce her students to a variety of styles and help them find music that speaks to them personally. She has years of experience teaching musicians of all levels, from beginners (both children and adults) to seasoned professionals.

In addition to teaching, Megan is the assistant director and accompanist for the oldest German singing society in North America, the Columbus Maennerchor. She also appears frequently in Columbus venues with her cabaret rock band, Backwards Blackbirds, as well as her family's retro folk rock group, The Raineys.

Kay graduated summa cum laude with a Bachelors in vocal performance and psychology and a minor in piano. She has 15 years of piano and voice teaching experience with students of all ages and levels. She began teaching private lessons when she was in high school and taught at her Bexley home until 2014 when she started Musicologie with her husband Joseph.

Kay has toured nationally with folk/pop band Bella Ruse as lead vocalist and keyboardist for 4 years, opening for artists like Sarah McLachlan, Heart, Metric, and Kimya Dawson. Her songs and performances have been heard in commercials, film and television including placements on MTV and Showtime. Performer Magazine called her voice ‘truly unique’.

Austin has a Music Technology degree from Capital University and has studied with Mark Flugge, Stan Smith, Bob Breithaupt, Eric Paton and Paul Wertico. He was the touring drummer for Phillip Fox band for three years and currently plays with numerous Columbus bands with styles ranging from alt-rock (Castile) and reggae to spacey rock (Urban Tropic, Sussman Can't Sleep) and pop (Kid Runner.) When Austin isn't thinking or talking about percussion (rare) he enjoys working with computers, pizza and film. He is also the co-founder of Tiny House Music Collective, a local musicians organization working to bring musicians together through discussion, inclusion and action.

DEVIN COPFER  is a performer, recording musician, registered Suzuki teacher, and arts entrepreneur based in Columbus, OH. Graduate of the Ohio State University [BM Violin Performance, BA Arts Management ’14].

Devin is the co-founder, director, and violinist in Chamber Brews, a new music performance series committed to breaking down the fourth wall in classical concerts. She also serves as violinist in Columbus’ new Janus String Quartet with the professor of cello at the Ohio State University Mark Rudoff, violist Nancy Nehring, and violinist Leah Anderson. Janus recently performed with BalletMet in their fall 2019 series BeMoved.

Devin is currently serving as Assistant Concertmaster in the Newark Granville Symphony Orchestra, and as Principal Second violinist with the McConnell Arts Center Chamber Orchestra. In her freelance performing career, she has worked with the Central Ohio Discovery Ensemble, Columbus Dance Theater, the Columbus Museum of Art, Ohio Wesleyan University, the Ohio State University, Capital University, and the Wexner Center for the Arts.

Devin’s pop and rock projects include Small Songs [AVANT POP], Fables [FOLK/ROCK], Lowlights [FOLK/ROCK], BABS [FUNK/ROCK], and is a featured vocalist on the 2019 Waves de Ache [AFRO-CUBAN JAZZ] album.

A recipient of 2018 program grants from the Johnstone Fund for New Music and the Greater Columbus Arts Council, Devin is an arts advocate dedicated to sustaining creative programs in the Central Ohio region.

Devin’s strong commitment to Suzuki violin teaching is revealed in her philosophy of nurturing responsibility, respect, and love. She follows Dr. Suzuki’s notion that truly, everyone can learn, that “any child has the possibility to be musically inclined” as long as we nurture a love of learning and creativity at home as well as in the studio. Devin believes that through music lessons, we not only get to know our playing, but we get to know ourselves. Through the violin we will cover work ethic, responsibility to music and learning, enrolling the immediate and extended family in our effort and success, the joy of hard work, and so much more. In my studio, we understand that success doesn’t come from outcome, but rather from our journey — and we get to learn how to play the violin as well!

Jenna Johnson is an experienced professional pianist and vocalist currently based in Columbus. She is highly trained in classical and jazz styles as well as improvisational piano. Jenna’s extensive background in public performance includes music leadership in houses of worship since the age of 12 and community involvement through various musical groups and theatre companies in the Greater Grand Rapids area.

Jenna graduated summa cum laude from Western Michigan University in 2015. During university, Jenna performed in multiple music groups on and off-campus and began teaching music lessons for friends and fellow students.

Jenna is a proud member of the Clintonville Community Choir and leads weekly worship at New Albany United Methodist Church.

Nate Smith teaches guitar, bass, beginning piano and beginning drums. He also has years of experience running rock band programs for kids and has played all over the world. He graduated from the Ohio State University with a degree in jazz performance, where he studied under Dr. Paul Robinson and Andy Woodson. Nate has toured with the OSU jazz ensemble in Europe, plays with local jazz and rock musicians, and performs regularly with the Westerville Symphony Orchestra.

Nathan’s curriculum incorporates the essentials of a musical education while simultaneously catering to each of his students’ personal interests. His experience in jazz, rock and classical music allows him to communicate a broad understanding of music. His ability on multiple instruments makes him a great teacher for students who want to explore a variety of musical directions.

Christy Campos is thrilled to join the staff of Musicologie as a beginner piano, Musicologie Jr., and vocal teacher. As a mezzo-soprano, she studied voice in San Diego for ten years under Wendy Kallen and the Uselman-Klein Vocal Studio, performed lead roles in numerous musical productions, and was often a solo artist in various concert settings. She has extensive experience directing children’s choirs, large-scale youth musical productions, and spent the last few years in San Diego teaching for Sing, Move, and Play Music Academy and Hope Music School.

She has been trained and certified through two internationally known early childhood music education programs and believes that everyone is musical! Her passion for her students creates a warm and welcoming learning environment where mistakes are embraced as learning opportunities and joy is abundant. Christy believes that learning the language of music should be available to every child because music enriches all of life; it is her hope that she can help her students discover their unique musical voice and encourage a lifelong love of making music.

Thomas Crouch grew up in Virginia and started piano lessons at 8 years old. When he was 14, he moved to Portland and studied with internationally renown pianist Lena Vozheiko, former professor at the St. Petersburg conservatory.  Under her tutelage he placed 3rd nationally for MTNA high school division,  received honorable mention in the 2007 national Modern Music Festival And received a young artist achievement award for the state of Washington.  Thomas attended University of Puget Sound where he studied under Dr. Tanya Stambuk and graduated with a Bachelors of Music in Piano Performance.  While at UPS Thomas placed first alternate in the 2010 MTNA young artist solo division.  With the Puget Sound Sax Quartet, Thomas placed at the 2011 MTNA National young artist chamber division with an original transcription of the Dvorak Piano Quintet op. 81/a by Fred Winkler.  He performed for numerous masterclasses  and was asked to perform many original works for the 2011 National Composers Symposium hosted by University of Puget Sound.   With Cellist Chrisitna Wu, Thomas took top prize in the Beatrice Hermann young artist competition and the duo was asked to perform for masterclasses held by the Tokyo String Quartet and composer Daron Hagen.  Thomas and Chrisitna, along with violinist Grace Yoen, were often asked to play as ambassadors for the School of Music at recruiting functions and local schools. As a soloist Thomas was invited to perform for Seattle’s Northwest Artist series hosted by Steinway and at the Perugia International Music Festival.  While completing his studies Thomas also maintained a private studio through the University of Puget Sound Community Music Program where he taught an array of ages and levels.

Nathan received his Bachelor of Music from the Ohio State University with a double major in piano performance and music history. There he accompanied several choirs, and co-founded the OSU New Music Collective, a group dedicated to the performance of contemporary composers. He attended the Conductor’s Retreat at Medomak in Maine where he studied orchestral conducting with world renowned pedagogue Kenneth Kiesler. He has served as associate conductor for the Ohio State University’s productions, including Mozart’s Don Giovanni, Puccini’s La Rondine, and Cy Coleman’s City of Angels.

Nathan has concertized widely, working as pianist for Opera Columbus, BalletMet, Opera Project Columbus, Columbus Children’s Theater, the Ohio State University, and other major institutions and companies in central Ohio. As a teacher, he has taught over 300 students in the Columbus area. He currently works accompanying and coaching languages for voice students at the Ohio State University and freelances for a diverse array of performances, including pop concerts, voice recitals, chamber music and opera.

Cassondra Kahr is a graduate of The Ohio State University with a bachelor’s degree in Music Education. Throughout her musical career, Cassondra has appeared in a wide collection of theatrical productions as well as a variety of vocal projects. In addition to solo work, Cassondra spent a large amount of her time in college performing with ensembles such as The Ohio State University Chorale, Symphonic Choir, and Women’s Glee Club. Though having extensive studies in classical singing, she has experience in many other areas of music such as musical theater, jazz, and pop!

Courtney Cunningham is a vocalist, performer, and licensed Pediatric Registered Nurse. She graduated from Capital University with a Bachelor’s of Music in Vocal Performance in 2015, and returned to Capital to pursue a Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing which she completed in 2018.

A native of Columbus, Courtney has been participating in music and theatre throughout her life. As a high-school student, she was the top-scoring female vocalist in solo musical theatre in the National Association for Teacher’s of Singing annual competition, and was selected out of 900 graduating students to sing the National Anthem for the city of Dublin’s Independence Day celebration. As a student at Capital, Courtney studied both classical and contemporary voice technique under Jacqueline Barlow-Ware, Mark Baker, and Scott Ewing. She has played roles in Broadway-style shows as well as operatic productions.

Since becoming a nurse, Courtney has performed in a variety of settings including musical theatre productions, sacred ceremony spaces, and local music venues. She also serves as a Soprano Choral Scholar at New Albany United Methodist Church under the direction of Dr. Michael Martin. As an RN, Courtney makes every attempt to bring the magic of music into the health care setting. She has provided education to peers and patients alike about the use of music as a means of healing, and is an advocate for the holistic application of the arts and sciences in all aspects of patient care.

Courtney is incredibly passionate about bettering the lives of children. As a teacher at Musicologie, her mission is to utilize her knowledge of children’s cognitive and psychological development, as well as her experience as a musician, to allow her students the opportunity to discover the lifelong gift of music-making (and have some fun along the way!). She is committed to providing age-appropriate, explorative, and enjoyable activities to support her student’s unique goals as they grow in their craft.

Ahmad Hasan is a graduate of The Ohio State University with a bachelors in music education. Ahmad has spent the past year directing a 90 piece orchestra as well as concert band and teaching music theory. During the recent school year he also spent his free time performing with the Grove City Community Winds where he studied under world renowned James Swearingen.  Ahmad is known as a brass specialist who also teaches beginner piano.

Ahmad’s philosophy of music education is to make music as accessible as possible. He believes giving the opportunity for private lessons can instill passion and motivation for a skill that can be with them for the rest of their life.

With 6 years of experience, Ahmad is excited to teach music to all ages! His charismatic personality can blend with any type of learner and is excited to continue giving back!

Abby Wagner is a violist and fiddler based in Columbus, Ohio. She received a Master of Music in viola performance from The Ohio State University, where she served as a Graduate Teaching Associate. She holds a Bachelor of Music in viola performance and music education from Lawrence University of Wisconsin. Before moving to Columbus, she taught English and conducted field research in Austrian folk music as a Fulbright scholar in Vienna. Abby performs regularly with area orchestras such as the Central Ohio Symphony, Lima Symphony, and Springfield Symphony. Passionate about chamber music, Abby enjoys performing in a variety of small ensembles for events, ceremonies, and in concert. She is active in the Columbus folk music and dance scene as a member of Columbus Folk Dancers, Ohio Old-Time Music, and Square Dance Columbus.

Abby has been teaching violin and viola lessons to students of all ages for ten years. She believes that every person has the ability to learn to play an instrument with joy, skill, and ease. Her current students are engaged in projects ranging from playing in the Columbus Symphony Youth Orchestras to learning to play their favorite fiddle tunes; from playing their violin in the context of community outreach to composing their own music. Abby’s teaching methodology is eclectic, blending inspirations from master pedagogues, ways of learning found in oral traditions, current research, and the spontaneous spark of creativity that makes each lesson different from the one before.  She strives to guide all of her students toward their unique goals and help them to learn how they learn best.

Madelyn Munsell, cross-over soprano, is from the St. Louis, MO metro area. She recently graduated from the Boston Conservatory at Berklee College of Music with her Masters of Music in Opera Performance. At the Boston Conservatory, she performed the roles of Despina in Cosi fan tutte by Mozart and Constance in Les Dialogues des Carmelites by Poulenc on the main stage. In her undergraduate studies, Madelyn received her Bachelor of Arts in Vocal Performance, as well as minors in German, Music Entrepreneurship, and Multicultural Studies. In 2017, Madelyn won first place at the MTNA National Young Artist competition in Voice. She is an alumna of the Artists in Training program at Opera Theatre of St. Louis.

Madelyn has a vast performance repertoire, ranging from new opera, to Mozart, to metal. She’s toured nationally with rock band Mocklove and has sung at Boston, Massachusetts and Long Island, NY Warped Tour dates. In addition, Madelyn has an extensive pop composition portfolio. Her pop compositions have been heard in the Giorgio Armani Fall/Winter 2017 ad campaign as well as New York and Paris Fashion Weeks.

Madelyn believes in breaking down the walls surrounding classical music and its culture and furthering music technology in a constantly evolving technological world. She strives to instill confidence in her students and help them find their own individual voice.

Jason Snoddy has worked as a bassist, composer, bandleader, and educator. Graduating from Ohio University with a double major in Music Performance in Tuba and Music Education with Instrumental Emphasis, Jason then continued to earn a Master’s in Music Theory at the College-Conservatory of Music in Cincinnati. During this time and beyond Jason has written, recorded, and performed with multiple ensembles and performers including Wolfmen, 6:5 Quartet, Largemouth Brass Band, Megan Wren, Julia Neville, Maxwell Hedron, and more.

Jason wants each lesson to wholly fulfill each student’s needs and goals. Because of the one-on-one nature inherent in music lessons, the goals and progression can be individualized for everyone. Whether a student aspires to be a professional musician, or simply wants to enjoy creating on their instrument of choice, they will feel welcome in their lessons to explore exactly that. Each lesson setting brings a unique set of discoveries for Jason and students to explore!

Megan Callison is a vocalist and pianist from Aurora, Illinois. She received her bachelor’s degree in voice performance at Illinois Wesleyan University and is currently pursuing her Master of Music and Singing Health Specialization at The Ohio State University. Megan is a student of Professor Loretta Robinson and has performed with OSU Opera and Lyric Theatre and Opera Project Columbus in several productions, such as A Quiet Place by Bernstein and The Merry Widow by Lehar. Megan has been teaching for the past 4 years and performed with Prairie Fire Theater’s Children’s Opera Outreach program for 3 years, educating students in low-income areas about the arts. While currently pursuing classical music, she was raised on musical theatre and enjoys teaching a wide variety of genres!

Lauren Nelson is a mezzo-soprano who recently relocated to Columbus from Chicago. She graduated from Loyola University Chicago with a Bachelor of Music in vocal performance with a focus in classical voice. At university, she sang the role of the Sorceress in Dido and Aeneas and was involved in Chamber Choir and Concert Choir.

Lauren actively participated in the local music scene in Chicago where she played many solo shows as well as with local bands such as The Mason Burrow Sound and Peasantry. She has experience recording solo projects and with bands like The Kuhls. Lauren has been playing locally in Columbus since she was in high school with bands like Becca & Lauren, The Ark Band, No Cash Value, and The Quasi Kings. During her time in Columbus she has also played the roles of Motormouth Maybelle in Hairspray and Mrs. Sowerberry in Oliver! The Musical.

Lauren enjoys teaching all ages and genres including classical, musical theatre, jazz, and pop. She has the skills and patience to mentor students looking to gain knowledge in songwriting and recording. Lauren creates a fun and positive learning environment for her students and looks forward to sharing her love of music with others.

Erik Meininger is a piano, percussion, and drum set instructor with 8 years teaching experience. His teaching experience includes instruction of students ranging from kindergartners through retirees, beginners through advanced college preparatory instruction. His philosophy is to suit lessons individually to the student, with an emphasis on developing versatility and fostering life-long enjoyment of music for the student. From the casual learner to the advanced performer, he will offer students the techniques they need to become confident musicians at any level.

He holds a Minor in music from Ohio Northern University and is an active performer in Central Ohio. He has been the principal percussionist with the New Albany Symphony Orchestra since 2010 and is also a percussionist with the Metropolitan Chamber Orchestra. He also performs with rock bands The Ghost Town Railroad and The Neighbors Kids. He has past experience performing in jazz bands, wind bands, and marching bands. He has performed with jazz luminaries Louis Bellson, Clark Terry, and Arturo Sandoval; classical artists Janos Starker, Hillary Hahn, and Bill Boggs; and has supported pop performers Michael Feinstein, Mary Chapin Carpenter, and Chris Thile. He has also provided comedic rim-shots for Bob Newhart!

Matt Patti is a vocalist and pianist from Dublin, Ohio, currently in his final year of study at The Ohio State University, pursuing degrees in both Music and Computer Engineering. Matt studies classical voice under Professor Loretta Robinson and also has a background in musical theatre and pop music. Most recently, he has performed with the OSU Opera and Lyric Theatre in several productions, such as Candide by Leonard Bernstein.

Matt is also music director of his co-ed a Cappella group, The Ohio State of Mind (OSM a Cappella), who recently made history as the first collegiate group from the state of Ohio ever to advance to the International Championship of Collegiate a Cappella (ICCA) Finals - the competition from the movie, Pitch Perfect!. With his group, Matt had the opportunity to perform among the top ten competitive groups of the year at the Beacon Theatre in New York City. As music director, Matt arranges pop songs for as many as eight voice parts, and is responsible for leading and teaching his peers.

Hoping to combine his passions for music and engineering, Matt dreams of going into music production and audio engineering, while of course continuing in his love of performing and teaching, as well!

Nick Terelle has been a dedicated musician for over 18 years and graduated from the College of Wooster in 2010 with a Bachelor's of Music in Theory and Composition. In 2016, Nick received his Master's of Music in Jazz Pedagogy from Capital University in Columbus, Ohio. His master’s thesis focused on teaching adolescent youth and designing an adaptable teaching curriculum that focuses on each student’s musical goals, needs, and interests.

For over seven years, Nick has been active in the Columbus area (with a brief sabbatical teaching in Cleveland), and loves to perform, educate, and share his passion for music. Nick's musical influences include Bill Frisell, John Scofield, Steely Dan, Led Zeppelin, D’Angelo, Tera Melos, and John Barry.

Regan Tackett, soprano, holds a degree in Vocal Performance from Oakland University and a masters degree in Voice Pedagogy from The Ohio State University. A current student of Dr. Scott McCoy, Ms. Tackett’s recent engagements include winning the OSU Concerto Competition and the Wilson Competition. She additionally enjoyed performances as Queen of the Night with Opera Columbus’s “Opera Goes to School” production of The Magic Flute, as well as the opportunity to perform the role of Cunegonde in Candide with Ohio State Opera & Lyric Theatre. Ms. Tackett enjoys a variety of musical genres and performs twentieth-century modern works as well as classical-period works.

As a kid, Matt Murphy couldn't stop tapping rhythmically on desks, chairs, tables, and sisters. He spent countless hours at the piano plunking out movie scores, pop songs, and video game themes until his mother decided that maybe music lessons would be a better outlet. After attending Denver University for jazz performance, he has since turned that annoying habit into a profession.

He has toured the U.S and Canada leading bands on drums, piano and even beatboxing, playing in styles ranging from jazz, latin, rock, and even a video game cover band. With an infectious enthusiasm for music education he brings a broader and practical approach to piano and percussion.

His influences include Ben Folds, Shel Silverstein, Picasso, Mr. Rogers, Jack DeJohnette, Miles Davis, and every music teacher he ever had. A native of Colorado and brand new to Columbus, with his 15+ years of teaching experience he is eager to invigorate children's lives with music!

Dr. Szu-Yu Chu, is an internationally active interpreter of classical vocal performing art. As a life long lover of music, she started her classical music studies with piano at only four years old, which was proceeded by her attendance to music specialty schools during her high school career in Taiwan. After high school, she achieved her Bachelor’s of Fine Arts and Master’s of Music from Taipei National University of the Arts. She then went on to finish her doctorate degree of Doctor of Musical Arts in Vocal Performance from The Ohio State University at age of twenty-nine. As an international traveler, Dr. Chu has visited different cultures. These different cultures have influenced her musical style and can be seen in her concerts, recitals and awards throughout her musical career. Over the last ten years she has become fully experienced in giving music lessons and has worked with students from age 5 to adults. In addition, Dr. Chu became a member of the United State Army Reserve Command Band in 2015, as a keyboard player, and has been serving since then.

Joshua Hill hails from the proverbial 'one stoplight' town in the Southeastern Ohio village known as Lewisville-population 176. Joshua started playing guitar at age 13 and was immediately enamored with the sounds of Led Zeppelin, The Eagles, Stevie Ray Vaughan and particularly anything that was injected with the blues tradition laid down by masters such as B.B. King, Robert Johnson and Albert King. At the same time studying classical guitar from a teacher over an hour away in St. Clairsville, Josh became versed in the music of Fernando Sor, Francisco Terrega and Andres Segovia.

In 2001 Joshua was awarded the first guitar performance scholarship at West Virginia University. This was his first encounter of bebop and modern jazz stylings and would ultimately be a life changing experience that led to the attendance of the Ohio State University in 2003. There Joshua was awarded two performance scholarships, and met many of the musicians he currently plays with in and around the Columbus, Ohio area.

Joshua Hill plays with several bands and artists in Columbus, Ohio including the guitar trio Birdshack, cover band Popgun, Miles Davis tribute band Sanctuary, B-3 organist Tony Monaco, R&B band Hoodoo Soul Band, and Brooklyn-based jazz group Huntertones.

Music has been a part of Harrison Belew's life from an early age. Some of his first memories are of his father accompanying his sister on piano as she sang. At 8 years old he picked up a guitar and there was no turning back. Harrison studied under the great Scotty Anderson and wrote his own charts for his high school marching band. He attended Capital University and studied with Stan Smith, graduating with a degree in jazz studies in 2018. Harrison has played with touring bands and performed with numerous Grammy winning artists. You can catch him around town with various local acts, and playing festivals that are staples of Columbus’ eclectic culture. He loves to teach students of all ages and believes that if they put their mind to it, anyone can play a musical instrument at any level they want.

Kristen Elliott is a violinist, teacher, composer, and local businesswoman from Columbus, OH. She graduated from The Ohio State University with a double Bachelor of Arts in Music and Psychology, and is a recent MBA graduate from Capital University.

Raised in Dublin, Ohio, Kristen has been playing violin since the age of five. Growing up, she participated in multiple local music-based organizations, including Chamber Music Connection and the Columbus Symphony Youth Orchestras.

Since graduating from college, Kristen has spent her time outside of her full-time profession as an IT business consultant performing as a classical, folk, rock, pop, and looper violinist. She has also performed with multiple local musical groups around Columbus, including her personal band, Elliott Collective, and her other primary group, Clemens and Co. She composed and released her first full length album in September 2018 (self-titled "Elliott Collective"), as well as a live classical composition in the fall of 2017 (titled "Cosmic Thoughts"). Kristen has also recorded professional studio strings for several musicians and groups in Columbus.

Kristen's mission as a violin teacher at Musicologie is to provide a fun, engaging environment in which her students can explore their passion for music on the violin. Her teaching combines the essentials of a solid musical education with an equal focus on the student's unique interests and goals.

Wesley graduated from University of Illinois in Chicago with a Masters in Public Health and from Ohio State University with a BA in Health Sciences and a minor in music. During his time at Ohio State, he was a member of the OSU Jazz Ensemble and club. He was also a regular member of the UIC choir club. Wesley has performed throughout several venues in Chicago before relocating to Ohio as a member of the Musicologie team.

Since music has been such an important presence in his life, Wesley hopes to spread the joy and passion that it brings to both new and experienced students alike.

Elizabeth Graiser is a graduate of The College of Charleston with a BA in violin performance. 

Elizabeth has studied under Grammy Award-winning conductor and violinist Maestro Luiz Haza of the National Symphony Orchestra and Jorge Peña of the Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra. Elizabeth also studied at The Brevard Music Center (NC) and The Cannon Music Camp (NC) receiving merit scholarships from both organizations.

When Elizabeth was a freshman in high school she began teaching violin through an outreach program for underserved children in her community. Born into a family of educators, teaching came naturally and she has seven years of experience teaching violin.. She continues to share her passion and knowledge of the violin along with basic piano and music theory.

While at The College, Elizabeth studied with Yuiry Bekker, concertmaster of the Charleston Symphony Orchestra. She has also studied with Lee Chin Siow, one of Singapore’s first violin soloists on the international classical stage. In 2015, she made her debut performance at the Charleston Piccolo Spoleto Festival and performed as a soloist at the 2017 Piccolo Spoleto Festival. In 2018, Elizabeth was accepted on scholarship into the Charleston Chamber Music Intensive under the teachings of Miles Hoffman (American Chamber Players)

Elizabeth is the Artistic Operations Associate at the Columbus Symphony (OH). She continues to perform with Central Ohio orchestras including Greater Columbus Community Orchestra, Hilliard Bach Ensemble, and the New Albany Symphony Orchestra.

Jeanmarie Strawbridge is a pianist and teacher in Columbus, Ohio. She has earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Piano Performance from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, as well as two Masters degrees in Piano Performance and Piano Pedagogy, both from The Ohio State University.

During her time at Ohio State, Jeanmarie held a full-time associateship, teaching undergraduate group piano classes, for which she was given the Outstanding Graduate Associate Award. Jeanmarie also was a winner of the Ohio State Concerto Competition and performed Beethoven’s Piano Concerto No. 3 with the university symphony. Additionally, she has presented lecture recitals on teaching and performing topics at state conferences and is involved in Music Teachers National Association and Ohio Music Teachers Association events. She is also a member of the National Guild of Piano Teachers and has had her students participate in the annual Guild Auditions. With over 10 years of teaching experience, Jeanmarie hopes to foster a love for music, superior technique, a high musical aptitude, and a sense of achievement in each of her students.

Beyond her teaching, Jeanmarie has served as a pianist for the Columbus Ballet (BalletMet) and has worked with members of the Columbus Symphony Orchestra, as well as Opera Columbus.

Johnathan Pearce grew up in Fayetteville, GA and began playing the trumpet at age 10. With a desire to professionally pursue his instrument, he attained his Bachelor of Fine Arts from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee in 2011 and his Master of Music from The Ohio State University in 2015, both in trumpet performance. While at OSU, he had a Graduate Teaching Associateship in the Brass Techniques class while performing in various ensembles. Johnathan’s twenty years of playing experience informs his teaching and philosophy that music, first and foremost, should be an enjoyable experience. His mission is to instill that in his students and help them achieve their own musical goals.

Ian Harrah graduated in 2014 from Miami University with a Bachelor of Music in Music Education.  He is an active Columbus musician and arranger in a variety of styles, including jazz with the Ben Crowder Sextet and Ian Harrah Quintet, salsa with Al Son del Iya, pop/rock with The Big Badd, funk with Osage, second line with Largemouth Brass Band, and latin jazz with 7 Igba Ire. Ian has also served as pianist/guitarist/singer at the American Baptist Church of Westerville for the past 5 years.

Ian believes that music is for everyone and that anyone can learn how to create and find joy in music. His teaching style is to encourage students to find their passions and goals to help them feel self-motivated and excited to learn and play!

With 4 years of teaching experience, Ian is comfortable teaching students of all ages on brass, piano, guitar, ukulele! He is excited to join the Musicologie team!

Nia Dewberry is a current Master’s student studying Violin Performance at The Ohio
State University. She holds a Bachelor of Music (BM) degree from Bowling Green State
University. Nia started playing violin at the age of 11, and from there continued her
studies at Stivers School for the Arts until she was 18. She has won multiple violin
scholarship competitions, including the Dr. Paul Makara Competition (Bowling Green)
and the Dayton Music Club Scholarship Competition. She has performed in multiple pit
orchestras, such as The Muse Machine orchestra and both BGSU and OSU Opera
orchestras.

Nia’s goal is to “enrich the lives of children in underserved areas through music.” She
enjoys teaching both children and adult beginners. Nia not only wants to teach her
students classical music, but jazz, rock and roll, and country. “I strive to teach musicians
the type of music they want to play. It’s always so much fun to watch the joy on a
musician’s face when they are playing their favorite piece!”

Linnea grew up in Avon Lake, Ohio and has been teaching for 8 years. She is currently finishing her final year at The Ohio State University, where she will earn degrees in music and psychology. Her musical experience began when she started to learn piano at age 8.  During her time at Ohio State, she was a violin major, but was also a trumpet player in the OSU marching band, performing in more than 10 states across America. Linnea also has a strong background in flute, as she performed as a high school soloist in both Severance Hall and The Chicago Symphony Center. Linnea has received various awards and scholarships for her versatility in music and focus on growth in education.

Patrick is a singer, pianist, actor, dancer, songwriter from Gahanna, Ohio. He graduated from Otterbein University in 2012 with a BFA in Musical Theatre and lived in NYC for 3 years shortly after. Back in Columbus he is heavily involved in the professional theatre scene having performed in recent productions with Columbus Children's Theatre, Short North Stage and Imagine. He is also a working accompanist.

Patrick has taught private lessons for several years and thrives on the philosophy that the learning process is ongoing. He absolutely loves watching performers both young and old enrich their lives with music. As one of Brian Cheney's former students, Patrick believes that singing is easy and we all have the ability to tap into our own unique instruments. As a Suzuki method beginner to frequent Guild competitor, Patrick also understands the practicality and importance of honing one's skills on the 88 keys.

Patrick also writes, records, and performs his own music and loves attending open mic nights around the city.