Meet the Faculty
Julian Baldwin
- B.M. Music Performance at Shenandoah University; Cecilia Award for Vocal Excellence
- Classical tenor based in the DC Metro area
- Versatile skills in operatic and concert repertoire
- Advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion in the arts for people of every background
- Chorister for the Empire City Men’s Chorus
Marina Beeson
- B.A. Vocal Performance from New England Conservatory
- Teaching privately since 2018
- Co-Director of I am the Lead!
- Specializes in teaching vocal technique for opera and musical theater as well as sacred music
(Virtual Only)
Shelley Boyd
- B.S. Music Education from Hyles-Anderson College
- Owned a private studio in North Carolina
- Teaching privately since 2004
- Focus in ear-training, composition, and music theory
(Virtual Lessons Only)
Mary Carr
- B.M. Music History from Catholic University of America
- Teaching privately since 2009
- Specializes in multiple string instruments
- Proficient in instrument repairs and maintenance
Emberlein Di Salvo
- B.M. Vocal Performance; Minor in Performing Arts Management; Catholic University of America
- Director for GMA’s I am the Lead! program
- Teaching privately since 2020
- Former Dance Programming Intern for the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts
Andrew Ferguson
- B.A. from Peabody Conservatory
- Teaching privately for over 10 years, including time with The Suitland School for Performing Arts
- Former orchestra member for the Maryland Choral Arts Society
- Member of the Magic Ray Quintet
Matthew Guilherme
- Graduate of Bridgewater State University.
- Studied Jazz under Berklee graduate, Felix Rentschler.
- Teaching privately since 2014.
- Performed on renowned stages such as Connolly's Pub in Times Square and The Mohegan Sun Wolf Den.
- Lead guitarist/vocalist in nationally acclaimed wedding bands (i.e. Closing Time Boston & Bachelor Boys Band)
- Woodwind and Classical studies at Howard University and Morgan State University; Jazz Improvisation studies at Peabody Conservatory
- Teaching privately for over 40 years
- Extensive performing career, notably opening for Earth Wind and Fire, Rick James, Kool and the Gang, and more
- Band Director for The Lower School at Calverton
Jonathan McPherson
- B.M. Electronic Music Production and Sound Design from Berklee College of Music; Piano studies at University of Louisiana
- 3 Air Force Band overseas tours
- Highlights include performing alongside Drake White, Arturo Sandoval, and NFL Halftime show with Max Impact
- Won a team Emmy Award in 2021 for Red Tail Angels as a composer and sound mixer
Mary Musgrove
- B.M. Vocal Performance from West Liberty University
- Music educator at Barstow Elementary.
- 10 years of vocal/theatre experience; 3 years of education experience
- Works professionally in visual arts as well, and teaches from the viewpoint of music, art, and dance.
- M.M. Percussion Performance, George Mason; B.M. Percussion Performance and Music Technology, West Liberty
- Former Associate Percussion with Civic Orchestra of Chicago
- 10 years of professional experience in percussion performance and education
- Works professionally in music and video production, and teaches the fun of music creation from both the creative and technical standpoint
Teresa Nielsen
- Graduated from Brigham Young University.
- Teaching privately for over 25 years in the U.S. and overseas.
- Utilizes a wide range of teaching methods for beginner and intermediate students of all learning styles.
Kara Sheehan
- B.M in Music Performance and Music Management from Frostburg State
- Experience in MD public schools as music educator and athletic director
- Teaching private lessons since 2014
- Graduate of University of Maryland, College Park School of Music
- Alumni of the Oberlin Trumpet Workshop (2 years)
- Teaching privately since 2013
- Students have seen success in Maryland All-State Band, Solo & Ensemble festivals, and the National Trumpet Competition.
- Member of various groups, including the Chesapeake Orchestra and Magic Ray Jazz.
Elizabeth Conley