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Violin - Piano - Cello - Guitar - Musical Theatre - Early Childhood -Adult Cultural programs
Young Strings
Our ACAC
Teachers
Who are we?
ACAC teachers are talented and enthusiastic to share their skills and knowledge with others. The ACAC is a vibrant and welcoming space that offers a wide range of classes, in movement, music, and art as well as workshops for the community from teachers with expertise and experience.
At the "Adult Community Art Center - Halifax" - ACAC, our class instructors are skilled and dedicated teachers in the Halifax Community.
Interested in joining the ACAC team?
Christy Hodder
ACAC Director
Christy has her Bachelor of Music Education from Acadia University where she studied violin from Edmund Agopian. Christy has received Suzuki training from Ronda Cole, Pat D’Ercole, Sherry Cadow, Dorthy Jones, Charles Krigbaum, and Martha Shackford. She is the Founder and Director of the Scotia Suzuki School of Music, the Nova Scotia Youth Ambassadors (performance group), and the Suzuki Practicing Academy.
With three recordings and 8 years as the lead in the Celtic conference band Lochaber, She is experienced in performing. Christy has built with a wonderful team of Suzuki instructors an incredible Suzuki community of high-level musicians and has brought music into families' homes and children's lives in Halifax....even extending from Bridgewater to Windsor and to New Glasgow.
Christy, also known as "the Practicing Pro", created the Suzuki Practicing Academy, a digital course, to help and support parents and teachers all over the world to have effective, positive and FUN home music practices!
Christy has her Bachelor of Music Education from Acadia University where she studied violin from Edmund Agopian. Christy has received Suzuki training from Ronda Cole, Pat D’Ercole, Sherry Cadow, Dorthy Jones, Charles Krigbaum, and Martha Shackford. She is the Founder and Director of the Scotia Suzuki School of Music, the Nova Scotia Youth Ambassadors (performance group), and the Suzuki Practicing Academy.
With three recordings and 8 years as the lead in the Celtic conference band Lochaber, She is experienced in performing. Christy has built with a wonderful team of Suzuki instructors an incredible Suzuki community of high-level musicians and has brought music into families' homes and children's lives in Halifax....even extending from Bridgewater to Windsor and to New Glasgow.
Christy, also known as "the Practicing Pro", created the Suzuki Practicing Academy, a digital course, to help and support parents and teachers all over the world to have effective, positive and FUN home music practices!
Alex Crick
ACAC Violin/Fiddle Instructor
Alex Crick is an accomplished music educator from England with a diverse background in international teaching and musical performance. He studied guitar and violin from a young age, and holds a degree in Music with a focus on composition from the University of Huddersfield in the UK. Alex's passion for teaching was ignited during his time in China, where he initially taught English and discovered a love for travel and education.
After becoming a certified International Baccalaureate (IB) Music teacher, Alex took charge of the Middle Years Programme (MYP) music curriculum at an international school in China. In this role, he not only taught band classes, inquiry and composition, but also organized and directed the school's concerts, including the highly anticipated annual winter concerts for parents and the local community.
Alex now calls Halifax his home and looks forward to bringing the joy of music making to as many people as possible
Alex Crick is an accomplished music educator from England with a diverse background in international teaching and musical performance. He studied guitar and violin from a young age, and holds a degree in Music with a focus on composition from the University of Huddersfield in the UK. Alex's passion for teaching was ignited during his time in China, where he initially taught English and discovered a love for travel and education.
After becoming a certified International Baccalaureate (IB) Music teacher, Alex took charge of the Middle Years Programme (MYP) music curriculum at an international school in China. In this role, he not only taught band classes, inquiry and composition, but also organized and directed the school's concerts, including the highly anticipated annual winter concerts for parents and the local community.
Alex now calls Halifax his home and looks forward to bringing the joy of music making to as many people as possible
Ben Rutz
ACAC Violin/Fiddle
A native of Pembroke, Ontario, now residing in Bedford, Nova Scotia, Ben is the live touring fiddle and mandolin player for multi platinum selling, muliti Juno and CCMA award winning artist- Johnny Reid. A six time Canadian Country Music Association Award nominee for “Fiddle Player of the Year”, Ben was only 17 years old when he had the tremendous opportunity to back Johnny Reid at the Grand Ole Opry Ryman Stage in Nashville, TN. Over the past number of years, Ben has toured and or recorded with Johnny Reid, George Canyon, Terri Clark, Jimmy Rankin, Jason Blaine, the Stella's and Glass Tiger to name a few. Over the years, Ben taught music to the Kindergarten- 9th grade students of the Renfrew County Catholic School Board and was awarded "Educator of the Year" in 2021/2022. Ben is presently a full time ESL educator at the Bedford Academy Ben is a proud husband and father- he and his wife Meredith have 2 beautiful children- Carwyn (7). and Giada (5), he loves to golf and is honored to be a part of the Canadian Grand Masters Fiddle Championship this year.
A native of Pembroke, Ontario, now residing in Bedford, Nova Scotia, Ben is the live touring fiddle and mandolin player for multi platinum selling, muliti Juno and CCMA award winning artist- Johnny Reid. A six time Canadian Country Music Association Award nominee for “Fiddle Player of the Year”, Ben was only 17 years old when he had the tremendous opportunity to back Johnny Reid at the Grand Ole Opry Ryman Stage in Nashville, TN. Over the past number of years, Ben has toured and or recorded with Johnny Reid, George Canyon, Terri Clark, Jimmy Rankin, Jason Blaine, the Stella's and Glass Tiger to name a few. Over the years, Ben taught music to the Kindergarten- 9th grade students of the Renfrew County Catholic School Board and was awarded "Educator of the Year" in 2021/2022. Ben is presently a full time ESL educator at the Bedford Academy Ben is a proud husband and father- he and his wife Meredith have 2 beautiful children- Carwyn (7). and Giada (5), he loves to golf and is honored to be a part of the Canadian Grand Masters Fiddle Championship this year.
Cathy Grad
ACAC Pilates/ Chair Yoga Instructor
Cathy Grad, currently living in Boutiliers Point, NS. She loves living near the ocean and the Rails to trails. She has been teaching yoga, pilates and fitness for over 20 years. She is also a certified personal trainer through Can-Fit-Pro and has certifications in Yin Yoga, Chair Yoga, iRest Yoga Nidra , and Sivananda Yoga to name a few. She is a certified Stott Pilates Instructor and Stott Special Populations Instructor. she had worked for Nubodys, GoodLife, O2 Wellness and currently teach classes for Chebucto Links, Bedford Northwood, Breathing Space Yoga StudioTantallon and Bright Breaks. She enjoys inspiring others to increase their fitness level and explore yoga, meditation and breathwork.
Cathy Grad, currently living in Boutiliers Point, NS. She loves living near the ocean and the Rails to trails. She has been teaching yoga, pilates and fitness for over 20 years. She is also a certified personal trainer through Can-Fit-Pro and has certifications in Yin Yoga, Chair Yoga, iRest Yoga Nidra , and Sivananda Yoga to name a few. She is a certified Stott Pilates Instructor and Stott Special Populations Instructor. she had worked for Nubodys, GoodLife, O2 Wellness and currently teach classes for Chebucto Links, Bedford Northwood, Breathing Space Yoga StudioTantallon and Bright Breaks. She enjoys inspiring others to increase their fitness level and explore yoga, meditation and breathwork.
Cole Richardson
ACAC Dance Instructor
Cole started ballroom dancing in Bridgewater, Nova Scotia, during his final year of high school, and moving to Halifax to continue his development upon graduation. Training under two of Canada’s most experienced coaches, Jane Edgett and Barbara Child, Cole represented Nova Scotia in competitions across Canada before shifting his focus to spreading the joy of ballroom dancing to first-time and experienced dancers alike. Cole’s goal for you in his classes is to have fun – learning to dance is just an added bonus! With this in mind, Cole approaches each class with energy and enthusiasm, while also striving to create an inclusive environment so you can have the best ballroom experience possible.
Cole started ballroom dancing in Bridgewater, Nova Scotia, during his final year of high school, and moving to Halifax to continue his development upon graduation. Training under two of Canada’s most experienced coaches, Jane Edgett and Barbara Child, Cole represented Nova Scotia in competitions across Canada before shifting his focus to spreading the joy of ballroom dancing to first-time and experienced dancers alike. Cole’s goal for you in his classes is to have fun – learning to dance is just an added bonus! With this in mind, Cole approaches each class with energy and enthusiasm, while also striving to create an inclusive environment so you can have the best ballroom experience possible.
Dr. Edward Enman
ACAC Piano
Edward Enman is a pianist, composer, and dedicated educator known for his expressive and innovative approach to music. With a passion for storytelling and collaboration, he creates engaging experiences that bridge classical traditions with contemporary styles.
Edward's debut EP, "Refuge," and his full-length album, "Breathe In, Breathe Out," have earned him nominations for Classical Album/Composer of the Year at prestigious music awards. His latest release, "Insights," showcases his talent as both a pianist and composer in a captivating solo piano work.
A sought-after performer, Edward has appeared across Canada and internationally, premiering his compositions and collaborating with renowned ensembles. He holds degrees in solo piano performance from leading institutions and is currently based in Montréal, where he teaches piano, accompanies, and shares his passion for composing at a Suzuki music school.
Edward's teaching approach emphasizes creativity, collaboration, and musical expression, inspiring his students to develop their unique voices as performers and composers. His dedication to nurturing young musicians in the Suzuki method, ensures a supportive and enriching learning environment where students can thrive and explore their musical potential.
Edward Enman is a pianist, composer, and dedicated educator known for his expressive and innovative approach to music. With a passion for storytelling and collaboration, he creates engaging experiences that bridge classical traditions with contemporary styles.
Edward's debut EP, "Refuge," and his full-length album, "Breathe In, Breathe Out," have earned him nominations for Classical Album/Composer of the Year at prestigious music awards. His latest release, "Insights," showcases his talent as both a pianist and composer in a captivating solo piano work.
A sought-after performer, Edward has appeared across Canada and internationally, premiering his compositions and collaborating with renowned ensembles. He holds degrees in solo piano performance from leading institutions and is currently based in Montréal, where he teaches piano, accompanies, and shares his passion for composing at a Suzuki music school.
Edward's teaching approach emphasizes creativity, collaboration, and musical expression, inspiring his students to develop their unique voices as performers and composers. His dedication to nurturing young musicians in the Suzuki method, ensures a supportive and enriching learning environment where students can thrive and explore their musical potential.
Elsa Allred
ACAC Pilates Instructor
From Halifax, Nova Scotia, Elsa has been training and performing in music, dance, and theatre since a very young age. She is a Trained Vocal Instructor from New York Vocal Coaching under Justin Stoney in New York City. She is a Suzuki Early Childhood Education teacher trained in both level one and two by the program creators, Sharon Jones and Dorothy Jones. Elsa has a Professional Dance Diploma from the Maritime Conservatory of Performing Arts. She performed as a lead dancer and singer with the Brigham Young University’s Young Ambassadors on their international tour of “Welcome Home” performing across the United States and Brazil. Winning a Repy Award for her role as Louise in Carousel with Utah Repertory Theatre and performing lead roles in over a dozen musicals, Elsa is very passionate about performing and helping her students to experience the joy that can come from lifting and inspiring others through their performances. Elsa has studied Shakespeare and Contemporary theatre in London, England and acting from numerous instructors and professors including Tim Threlfall and Amy Jenson. She has competed in countless dance and musical theater competitions over the years. In 2015, she represented Nova Scotia at CANdance Competition at the International championship level, ranking her as an overall title soloist winner. Elsa has training at schools such as The National Ballet of Canada, Boston Ballet School and Ballet West. Elsa’s passion and experience in the arts is not limited to performing. With this experience and training, Elsa has taught music, dance and theatre classes for years as well as choreographed for many productions. She is passionate about bringing current, healthy and technical voice education to her students in Nova Scotia so they can sing and master any style and have vocal strength and longevity!
From Halifax, Nova Scotia, Elsa has been training and performing in music, dance, and theatre since a very young age. She is a Trained Vocal Instructor from New York Vocal Coaching under Justin Stoney in New York City. She is a Suzuki Early Childhood Education teacher trained in both level one and two by the program creators, Sharon Jones and Dorothy Jones. Elsa has a Professional Dance Diploma from the Maritime Conservatory of Performing Arts. She performed as a lead dancer and singer with the Brigham Young University’s Young Ambassadors on their international tour of “Welcome Home” performing across the United States and Brazil. Winning a Repy Award for her role as Louise in Carousel with Utah Repertory Theatre and performing lead roles in over a dozen musicals, Elsa is very passionate about performing and helping her students to experience the joy that can come from lifting and inspiring others through their performances. Elsa has studied Shakespeare and Contemporary theatre in London, England and acting from numerous instructors and professors including Tim Threlfall and Amy Jenson. She has competed in countless dance and musical theater competitions over the years. In 2015, she represented Nova Scotia at CANdance Competition at the International championship level, ranking her as an overall title soloist winner. Elsa has training at schools such as The National Ballet of Canada, Boston Ballet School and Ballet West. Elsa’s passion and experience in the arts is not limited to performing. With this experience and training, Elsa has taught music, dance and theatre classes for years as well as choreographed for many productions. She is passionate about bringing current, healthy and technical voice education to her students in Nova Scotia so they can sing and master any style and have vocal strength and longevity!
Kimberley Holmes
ACAC Fiddle / Jam Instructor
Megan (Bain) Singer
ACAC Violin / Fiddle
Megan is from Halifax, Nova Scotia. She began studying the violin in the Suzuki Method at the age four with Yvonne DeRoller. She continued her violin studies with George Maxman, Anne Rapson and Philippe Djokic. She spent two years of violin study at the Cleveland Institute of Music, studying with Linda Cerone and David Updegraff. Megan then returned to Halifax, where she graduated from Dalhousie University in 2003 with combined BSC honours in Neuroscience and Music, studying the viola with Professor Philippe Djokic. Megan then traveled west to continue her viola studies with David Harding at the University of British Columbia, where she graduated with a Masters in Music in 2007. She then went to Calgary to play in the viola section of the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra.
Megan returned to Halifax in 2019. She enjoys being outside, loves biking, running, swimming, gardening and spending time with her family; husband Jarvis and two kids Samantha and Jack.
Megan is from Halifax, Nova Scotia. She began studying the violin in the Suzuki Method at the age four with Yvonne DeRoller. She continued her violin studies with George Maxman, Anne Rapson and Philippe Djokic. She spent two years of violin study at the Cleveland Institute of Music, studying with Linda Cerone and David Updegraff. Megan then returned to Halifax, where she graduated from Dalhousie University in 2003 with combined BSC honours in Neuroscience and Music, studying the viola with Professor Philippe Djokic. Megan then traveled west to continue her viola studies with David Harding at the University of British Columbia, where she graduated with a Masters in Music in 2007. She then went to Calgary to play in the viola section of the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra.
Megan returned to Halifax in 2019. She enjoys being outside, loves biking, running, swimming, gardening and spending time with her family; husband Jarvis and two kids Samantha and Jack.
Shannon Peng
ACAC Art Instructor and Belly Dance Instructor
Shannon has been passionate for dancing since her childhood. She loves to share her passion of dancing with her students. She is a certified Zumba instructor since 2022.
Besides dancing, Shannon enjoys nature, painting and drawing.
Shannon has been passionate for dancing since her childhood. She loves to share her passion of dancing with her students. She is a certified Zumba instructor since 2022.
Besides dancing, Shannon enjoys nature, painting and drawing.
Shuling Miao
ACAC Asian Dessert Instructor
Shuling was born and raised in China. She completed her university studies in China and graduated with a bachelor's degree in accounting. She opened a café and bakery shop with a friend after her graduation. With three years of experience in café operation, she moved to Canada in 2019 and enrolled in Cape Brenton University. She obtained her master's degree in business administration in 2021.
She loves camping, baking, photography and classical music. She spends plenty of time baking and taking interesting photos of cakes and cookies. Her favourite song is The Maiden's Prayer by Tekla Bądarzewska.
Shuling was born and raised in China. She completed her university studies in China and graduated with a bachelor's degree in accounting. She opened a café and bakery shop with a friend after her graduation. With three years of experience in café operation, she moved to Canada in 2019 and enrolled in Cape Brenton University. She obtained her master's degree in business administration in 2021.
She loves camping, baking, photography and classical music. She spends plenty of time baking and taking interesting photos of cakes and cookies. Her favourite song is The Maiden's Prayer by Tekla Bądarzewska.
Tye Dacey
ACAC Associate Fiddle teacher
Tye Dacey has been playing fiddle for 14 years. He is currently a second year student at Saint Mary’s university studying commerce and plans to work in marketing. Along with fiddle, he also competitively curls in his spare time.
“Fiddle has taught me how to lead, perform and express myself through music all while learning about different cultures through music.”
Tye Dacey has been playing fiddle for 14 years. He is currently a second year student at Saint Mary’s university studying commerce and plans to work in marketing. Along with fiddle, he also competitively curls in his spare time.
“Fiddle has taught me how to lead, perform and express myself through music all while learning about different cultures through music.”
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