MEET OUR INSTRUCTORS
Experienced musicians. Dedicated teachers.
CHRIS STIBOL
Drum & Piano Instructor
Chris is an experienced drummer, pianist, and music educator with more than 30 years of performance experience and a degree in music. Performing since the age of 10, he has studied a wide range of musical styles and is proficient in drum set, marching percussion, mallet percussion, and piano.
With over two decades of teaching experience, Chris has worked with students ranging from young beginners to adults, helping each develop strong fundamentals, confidence, and their own musical voice. His students have gone on to perform with organizations including the Youth Orchestra of Central Jersey, the Princeton High School Studio Band, and collegiate percussion ensembles.
Chris brings a fun, practical approach to lessons that balances solid technique and musicianship with each student's individual interests and goals. Whether developing foundational skills, preparing for an ensemble, or simply discovering the enjoyment of making music, his goal is to help students become confident, well-rounded musicians with a lifelong appreciation for music.
JOSEPH
Woodwind, Vocal, Drum, & Piano Instructor
Joseph is an experienced music educator and multi-instrumentalist with more than 16 years of teaching experience. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Music from Kean University and teaches woodwind instruments, voice, drums, and piano.
Throughout his musical career, Joseph has performed with a variety of ensembles, including the NJMEA Intercollegiate Wind Ensemble, Kean University Symphonic Wind Ensemble, and Kean University Concert Choir and Orchestra. His diverse musical background allows him to work with students across multiple instruments and areas of musicianship.
Joseph keeps his students engaged and motivated by making lessons both educational and enjoyable. He incorporates popular music, ear training, technique, and creative approaches to fundamentals—including turning skills such as scales into interactive challenges and games. His goal is to help students build strong musical foundations while developing confidence and a genuine enjoyment of making music.
MARK
Mark is a pianist and music educator with a diverse background in classical and contemporary music. He began playing piano at the age of nine and went on to earn a Bachelor of Music in Music Performance from Kean University in 2017.
During college, Mark performed in a variety of ensembles, including Percussion Ensemble, Jazz Ensemble, and Chamber Music, and provided musical accompaniment for Kean University's Theatre Department. His broad musical interests range from artists such as ABBA, Billy Joel, Bon Jovi, Bruce Springsteen, and R.E.M. to Broadway musicals and video game music.
As an instructor, Mark combines classical training with contemporary music to give students a well-rounded musical foundation while keeping lessons engaging and relevant to their interests. He emphasizes strong fundamentals while encouraging students to explore the music they enjoy, helping them develop confidence, musicianship, and a lasting appreciation for playing piano.
Piano Instructor
ELLEN RENEE
Vocal Instructor
Ellen Renee is a professional vocalist, performer, and music educator with a lifetime of experience in the performing arts. She began performing at the age of six under the guidance of a Juilliard-trained professional and went on to build a diverse career spanning opera, classical music, rock, musical theater, recording, and live performance. Her professional experience includes performances in New York and New Jersey, including Radio City Music Hall and Atlantic City, as well as work as a lead vocalist, recording artist, dancer, and choreographer.
In addition to her performance career, Ellen Renee spent more than 10 years as the director of a 450-student Academy of Performing Arts. Throughout her career, she has trained and coached performers from beginning through professional levels, with students earning leading roles in productions including Cats and The Phantom of the Opera, performing on the Main Stage at Walt Disney World, and appearing in commercials, print, television, and other professional productions. She has also worked with bands, recording artists, and music-industry professionals.
As a vocal instructor, Ellen Renee works with students across a wide variety of musical styles, including classical, rock, punk, Broadway, and contemporary music. Her teaching goes beyond vocal technique to include confidence, stage presence, performance skills, and artistic development. A longtime member of the National Association of Teachers of Singing, Ellen Renee encourages her students to strive for excellence in their voice, their performance, and their personal growth.
SCOTT
Piano Instructor
Scott began his musical journey on the Hammond organ, inspired by his father, an amateur organist. A few years later, he began studying classical piano and developed a love for a wide range of musical styles, including classical, jazz, and rock.
As a performing pianist, Scott has played throughout the tri-state area as both a solo musician and as part of a trio. His performance experience includes hotels, restaurants, senior communities, and private events, with appearances at venues such as the Oyster Point Hotel in Red Bank, Steakhouse 85 in New Brunswick, and Nordstrom at Menlo Park Mall.
Scott brings his broad musical background and real-world performance experience into his lessons, helping students build strong piano fundamentals while exploring the styles of music that interest them. His goal is to make learning piano enjoyable while helping each student develop confidence, musicianship, and a lasting appreciation for music.
NIKKI
Guitar, Bass, Violin, Cello, & Viola Instructor
Nikki is a local musician, singer, and songwriter with more than 25 years of performance experience and a musical background spanning classical, punk, ska, polka, and metal. A versatile multi-instrumentalist, she has experience performing on piano, cello, saxophone, trumpet, bass, guitar, and vocals in settings ranging from orchestras and marching bands to live bands and punk venues.
Throughout her musical journey, guitar became Nikki’s primary passion, while her experience across so many different instruments and styles has given her a broad perspective on music and musicianship.
As an instructor, Nikki helps students develop the technique, theory, musical understanding, and confidence they need to pursue their own interests. Rather than taking a one-size-fits-all approach, she encourages students to discover their individual musical path and gives them the tools to become the musicians they want to be.
NICK
Drum Instructor
Nick is a Philadelphia-area drummer, educator, and session musician with extensive experience performing and teaching throughout the region. His musical background began in school ensembles, where he earned the John Philip Sousa Award for outstanding musicianship and dedication while attending Bishop Eustace Preparatory School. He later graduated Cum Laude from Rider University with a bachelor’s degree in History and a minor in Film and Media Studies.
A veteran of the Greater Philadelphia music scene, Nick has performed with several bands, earning local music awards for his drumming, and regularly works as a session musician with recording artists across a variety of genres. His specialties include rock and pocket drumming, jazz improvisation, and composition.
As an instructor, Nick helps students develop strong fundamentals, solid technique, musical confidence, and a deeper understanding of rhythm. He brings his real-world performance and recording experience into each lesson while encouraging students to develop their own musical interests and individual style.
RIK
Drum Instructor
Rik began playing drums at the age of six, receiving his first lesson from his father, Bob, who was also a drummer. He continued developing his skills through school concert and marching bands before discovering a passion for rock and metal during his high school years.
Over the years, Rik has performed with a variety of bands and musical projects. In the mid-1990s, he co-founded a death metal band with his younger brother Zak, and the two continue to write and play together when they can. His performance experience also includes several other metal bands, the Beatles tribute band Shabby Road, and the ’80s metal parody tribute Headbanger. His earliest musical influences include his father, Dennis Wilson of The Beach Boys, and even Animal from The Muppets.
As an instructor, Rik encourages students to develop strong drumming fundamentals while discovering their own musical voice. He brings his years of playing and performing experience into lessons while creating an approachable environment where students can build confidence, explore the music they enjoy, and have fun becoming better drummers.
Lisa
Piano & Vocal Instructor
Lisa is a classically trained professional vocalist, pianist, and educator with more than 30 years of experience performing and teaching. Her career has taken her to opera houses, concert halls, and stages around the world, while her musical experience spans classical, opera, gospel, jazz, musical theater, and popular music.
Her professional credits include performances with the Metropolitan Opera, New York City Opera, Lyric Opera of Chicago, Opera Philadelphia, Royal Danish Opera, and Welsh National Opera. She has also performed with orchestras including the Philadelphia Orchestra, Chicago Sinfonietta, and international ensembles at the Concertgebouw in Amsterdam and in Shanghai. Lisa’s accomplishments include recognition from the Metropolitan Opera National Council, the Sullivan Award, Olga Forrai Foundation, and Joy in Singing Award.
Lisa received her professional training at Westminster Choir College and now brings her extensive performance experience into her work as a piano and vocal instructor. She is passionate about sharing her knowledge with the next generation, helping students develop strong technique, confidence, musicianship, and their own individual artistic voice.
Kathryn
Violin Instructor
Kathryn began playing violin at the age of seven and has continued studying and performing ever since. She graduated from Rowan University in 2023 with a Bachelor of Arts in Economics and a minor in Music, where she performed with the Symphony Orchestra and String Ensemble while continuing her private violin studies.
During her time at Rowan, Kathryn was first runner-up in the String Ensemble Concerto Competition in 2022 and went on to win the competition the following year. She also has experience performing chamber music and participated in the Techne Music Festival in 2022. In addition to music, Kathryn has trained in ballet at the Joffrey Ballet School in New York City, giving her a unique perspective on performance and artistic expression.
As an instructor, Kathryn encourages students to develop strong fundamentals while discovering their own artistic voice. She wants students to challenge themselves, grow in confidence, and explore their creativity while developing a genuine and lasting love of music.
JESSE
Guitar, Bass, Saxophone, Piano & Drum Instructor
Jesse is a versatile multi-instrumentalist and music educator with a background in both performance and music technology. Growing up in a musical family of Juilliard-trained singers, Jesse began studying music at the age of nine and went on to earn a degree in music technology.
Over the years, Jesse has developed proficiency in guitar, bass, drums, and saxophone while performing with a variety of bands and exploring numerous musical styles. His background in music technology and production also gives him a strong understanding of sound, recording, and the technical side of creating music.
As an instructor, Jesse brings this broad musical experience into each lesson, helping students develop strong fundamentals while exploring the instruments, styles, and music that interest them. He encourages students to grow as well-rounded musicians, build confidence, and develop both the creative and technical skills that will help them reach their individual musical goals.
Harrison is a multi-instrumentalist and performer who teaches ukulele, voice, and piano. Growing up in a family of musicians and performers, he developed an early love for music and the stage and has been playing ukulele for seven years. Over time, Harrison has developed his own distinctive performance style, drawing inspiration from his father as well as artists such as Spike Jones.
Harrison especially enjoys the fun and creative side of music and believes that developing confidence and stage presence can be an important part of becoming a musician. He currently studies at Mercer County Community College, where he performs with the jazz band and continues to expand his musical experience.
Harrison hopes to become an elementary school music teacher and is passionate about sharing his enthusiasm for music with younger students. In his lessons, he strives to create an encouraging and enjoyable environment where students can build their skills, express themselves, and discover just how much fun making music can be.
Harrison
Ukulele, Voice, & Piano Instructor
Zach
Drum & Guitar Instructor
Zach is a drummer, guitarist, recording engineer, and educator with nearly 20 years of experience in the music industry. He has toured extensively throughout the United States, Canada, and Europe and has performed hundreds of shows since becoming active in the local music scene in 2004. In addition to performing, Zach works as a recording engineer and has been teaching since 2009.
Zach takes a “music first” approach to teaching, helping students develop their skills through the songs and styles that inspire them. His lessons emphasize practical musicianship, efficient song learning, and the skills needed to feel confident and prepared for live performances and recording sessions.
His musical specialties include punk rock, hard rock, pop, and heavy metal. Drawing on years of touring, performing, and recording experience, Zach gives students a real-world perspective on making music while encouraging them to develop their own sound and always be prepared for the next big gig.
Dennis
Violin Instructor
Dennis is a classically trained violinist who began playing at the age of eight. Based in the Princeton area, he has performed with numerous ensembles, including the Youth Orchestra of Central Jersey, Greater Princeton Youth Orchestra, New Jersey Regional and All-State Orchestras, and the Philadelphia Youth Orchestra.
Dennis has completed ABRSM violin studies from Grades 1 through 8 and has performed at Carnegie Hall’s Weill Recital Hall as part of the Golden Key Festival. He also shares his music with the community as a volunteer instrumentalist with the music ministry at Queenship of Mary Church.
As an instructor, Dennis hopes to inspire students to develop their skills while building a meaningful and lasting connection with music. He encourages students to approach the violin with curiosity, dedication, and confidence so that music can become an enjoyable and rewarding part of their lives.
Michael
Bass Instructor
Michael is a bassist and educator with more than 15 years of playing experience. Growing up in the Princeton area, he performed with the Central Jersey Region II Orchestra and New Jersey All-State Orchestra before continuing his studies at the Bard College Conservatory of Music, where he earned a B.M. in Double Bass Performance as well as a B.A. in Anthropology.
While at Bard, Michael continued his classical and orchestral training while expanding his musical experience through chamber music, jazz, Latin music, funk-fusion, and contemporary styles. This diverse background allows him to bring both strong technical foundations and a broad musical perspective to his teaching.
Michael has also worked extensively with young musicians, including serving on the staff of Trenton Music Makers (now Capitol Harmony Works) and leading string sectionals for the Youth Orchestra of Central Jersey. As an instructor, he helps students develop solid technique, musicianship, and confidence while encouraging them to explore different styles and discover their own musical interests.
Karim
Piano, Violin, & Viola Instructor
Karim is a classically trained pianist and orchestral violist with a musical background that began at just three years old. As a pianist, he has performed in musical theater pit orchestras, accompanied choirs, performed concertos with orchestras, and played in an award-winning CJMEA ensemble.
In addition to piano, Karim has extensive experience as an orchestral violist, including nine years of performance experience, participation in CJMEA Honors Orchestra competitions, and masterclasses through Yamaha’s Music for All festival. His musical interests extend beyond classical and orchestral repertoire into jazz, rock, and pop.
As an instructor, Karim encourages students to build strong technique and musicianship while developing confidence, expression, and a genuine connection with the music they play. His goal is not only to help students become better musicians, but to inspire them to love music and, most importantly, play from the heart.
Shaunak
Brass Instructor
Shaunak is a brass musician and educator with more than 12 years of musical experience, including nine years specializing in trumpet. He has performed with wind ensembles, philharmonic orchestras, marching bands, jazz bands, pit orchestras, and independent jazz groups, giving him experience across a wide range of musical styles and performance settings.
His performance experience includes appearances at venues such as MetLife Stadium, Hersheypark Stadium, the Carver Theater in New Orleans, and Sayreville War Memorial Hall, as well as numerous college stages and community events. As a lead player in his school’s top jazz ensemble, Shaunak received the Louis Armstrong Jazz Award for excellence in jazz and has also performed in musical theater productions including Mean Girls and Little Shop of Horrors.
In addition to performing, Shaunak has several years of experience teaching and mentoring students. He brings that experience into his brass lessons by helping students develop strong fundamentals, technique, musicianship, and confidence while encouraging them to enjoy the process of becoming better performers. Shaunak is continuing his studies at Penn State University in Aerospace Engineering and Trumpet Performance.
Nihal
Guitar, Piano, & Bass Instructor
Nihal is a versatile multi-instrumentalist and educator who teaches guitar, piano, and bass, with a strong foundation in music theory. His broad musical background allows him to work comfortably across a wide range of styles, including rock, jazz, metal, fusion, classical, pop, funk, and blues.
With years of teaching experience, Nihal works with students of all ages and ability levels, from complete beginners taking their first steps in music to experienced players looking to expand their skills. His lessons can explore technique, repertoire, music theory, ear training, improvisation, songwriting, and a deeper understanding of the instrument.
Nihal tailors his teaching to each student’s individual interests and goals, whether they want to learn their favorite songs, become stronger improvisers, write their own music, improve their technique, or simply become more confident musicians. His goal is to give students the knowledge and tools they need to continue growing while developing their own musical voice.
Jacob
Clarinet, Saxophone, & Flute Instructor
Jacob is a woodwind instructor, composer, conductor, arranger, and performer with more than 12 years of musical experience. He specializes in clarinet, saxophone, and flute and brings a broad background in both performance and music education to his teaching.
Jacob holds a degree in music and a minor in music performance from Princeton University and is pursuing a New Jersey teaching certification. Throughout his musical career, he has performed with and directed a wide variety of ensembles, including wind ensembles, symphony orchestras, musical theater pit orchestras, jazz bands, and chamber groups. His experience as a composer, conductor, and arranger also gives him a well-rounded perspective on how music works both individually and within an ensemble.
As an instructor, Jacob emphasizes strong performance fundamentals while helping students develop technique, musicianship, confidence, and expressive playing. He strives to create a supportive environment where students can grow as musicians while discovering the same enjoyment and love of making music that has shaped his own musical journey.
Jin
Cello Instructor
Jin is a dedicated cellist and music educator with more than 15 years of teaching experience. He works with students of all ages and ability levels, from beginners learning the fundamentals of cello to advanced musicians preparing for auditions, competitions, youth orchestras, and performances.
Jin studied cello performance at the University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music (CCM) and has served as an alternate cellist with the Kansas City Symphony. His professional background also includes solo, chamber, and orchestral performance, bringing extensive real-world musical experience into his teaching.
Jin’s lessons emphasize strong technique, effective practice habits, musicianship, and artistic expression. He tailors his instruction to each student’s individual goals and learning style, creating a supportive environment that builds confidence while encouraging students to reach their full musical potential and develop a lifelong appreciation for music.
James
Guitar, Bass, Cello, Ukulele, Banjo, Mandolin, & Dulcimer Instructor
James is a multi-instrumentalist, composer, bassist, and music educator with a diverse background in classical, jazz, folk, and contemporary music. He teaches guitar, bass, cello, ukulele, banjo, mandolin, and dulcimer, bringing a broad understanding of music and performance to students interested in a variety of instruments and styles.
James holds a master’s degree in music composition from the University of Hartford, as well as degrees in music education and music composition from West Chester University of Pennsylvania. As a performer, he is a founding member of Aimless Duo and has served as principal bassist with the Madison Gamer Symphony Orchestra and Hartford Independent Chamber Orchestra, in addition to performing with the Central Wisconsin Symphony Orchestra.
As an instructor, James combines technique and performance with music theory, musical literacy, improvisation, and creativity. He encourages students to bring their own musical interests into their lessons and tailors his approach to their individual goals. Whether a student is just beginning or looking to expand their musicianship, James strives to create a supportive environment where they can build confidence, explore new ideas, and develop a lasting connection with music.
Dan
Guitar Instructor
Dan is an experienced guitarist and music educator who has been playing guitar since the age of five. Inspired by his father’s love of music, he began formal guitar lessons at age 12, studying with Frank Hipp and later jazz guitarist James Kelly. Years of performing with a wide variety of musicians and ensembles helped shape him into a versatile guitarist with particular strengths in jazz, blues, and rock.
An active musician and teacher in Central New Jersey for more than 20 years, he holds a degree in music and has extensive experience working with students of all ages and ability levels. His musical influences span jazz, blues, rock, and fusion, including artists such as Wes Montgomery, Joe Pass, B.B. King, Jeff Beck, Eric Clapton, Jimi Hendrix, Eddie Van Halen, and The Beatles.
His lessons combine practical playing with technique, improvisation, music theory, ear training, chord knowledge, and reading music. Whether a student wants to master favorite songs, improvise confidently, understand how music works, or prepare to play with other musicians, he tailors lessons to each student’s interests and goals. His focus is on building confident, creative musicians while developing a lifelong appreciation for music.