Meet the Faculty
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)
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
Brooke Foster
- Graduated from Anne Arundel College
- Has been teaching percussion at Garret Music Academy since 2020
- Performs with Maryland-based band The Blackbyrds on lead vocals and drums
Matthew Guilherme
- Graduate of Bridgewater State University
- Studied Music Theory under Berklee graduate, Felix Rentschler
- Teaching privately since 2014
- Performed on renowned stages such as Connolly's Pub in Times Square and Big Night Live
- Lead guitarist/vocalist in nationally acclaimed 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
Peter Leon
- Lead vocalist, guitarist, and bandleader for Latin Rock band Division Mayúscula
- Performing live in various bands since his early teens
- Experience teaching guitar, bass, drums, piano, and digital recording
- Experience teaching group classes
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
Bill Righter
