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Violin - Cello - Piano - Guitar - Musical Theatre - Flute - Adult Community Classes
Our Teachers
You'll discover that your child receives so much more than just a private music lesson - they gain mentors who are deeply invested in their musical and personal growth. You'll have confidence knowing our faculty stays at the forefront of Suzuki education through ongoing training and workshops, maintaining their accreditation with the Suzuki Association of the Americas.
You'll experience the power of our collaborative approach as our entire team works together to guide your family on a musical journey that will enhance and change your child's life. You'll feel supported knowing that every teacher is committed not just to musical excellence, but to nurturing the whole child.
Interested in joining the SSSM team?
Christy Hodder
Suzuki School Director / NSYA / Violin / Practicing Pro Academy digital course creator / 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!
Caleb Allred
Musical Theatre / Vocal / Dance / SECE Head / Vocal Group Director no thank you thank you
Born and raised in Mesa, Arizona, Caleb is a Trained Vocal Instructor from New York Vocal Coaching under Justin Stoney in New York City. He is a Suzuki Early Childhood Education teacher trained in both level one and two by the program creators, Sharon Jones and Dorothy Jones. He has a BA in Latin American Studies from BYU and an Associates of Arts Degree from CGCC. Caleb is a member of ACTRA and is a stunt performer and actor in the film industry of Nova Scotia with roles on productions such as Washington Black by Disney, Moonshine on Netflix, and Kids Vs Aliens. He has been training as a performer and has performed in various musicals in the states for the past 17 years. He is a singer/dancer/acrobat and served as an assistant director of the BYU Young Ambassadors and completed an international tour with them of “Welcome Home” performing across the United States and Brazil. He served as an LDS performing mission in Nauvoo, Illinois in 2010. He toured with the cast of the Young Ambassadors to Northern California and Nauvoo, IL in 2015. Having millions of views on YouTube and social media platforms, Caleb’s Hip-Hop and Acrobatic audience is world wide. Recently he was featured on Impossible Talents the TV show with over 2 million subscribers. He has been a Swing Dance and Hip-Hop instructor in various studios in Arizona and Utah since 2012 and has also worked as a collegiate choreographer for various musical productions.
Born and raised in Mesa, Arizona, Caleb is a Trained Vocal Instructor from New York Vocal Coaching under Justin Stoney in New York City. He is a Suzuki Early Childhood Education teacher trained in both level one and two by the program creators, Sharon Jones and Dorothy Jones. He has a BA in Latin American Studies from BYU and an Associates of Arts Degree from CGCC. Caleb is a member of ACTRA and is a stunt performer and actor in the film industry of Nova Scotia with roles on productions such as Washington Black by Disney, Moonshine on Netflix, and Kids Vs Aliens. He has been training as a performer and has performed in various musicals in the states for the past 17 years. He is a singer/dancer/acrobat and served as an assistant director of the BYU Young Ambassadors and completed an international tour with them of “Welcome Home” performing across the United States and Brazil. He served as an LDS performing mission in Nauvoo, Illinois in 2010. He toured with the cast of the Young Ambassadors to Northern California and Nauvoo, IL in 2015. Having millions of views on YouTube and social media platforms, Caleb’s Hip-Hop and Acrobatic audience is world wide. Recently he was featured on Impossible Talents the TV show with over 2 million subscribers. He has been a Swing Dance and Hip-Hop instructor in various studios in Arizona and Utah since 2012 and has also worked as a collegiate choreographer for various musical productions.
Elsa (Hodder) Allred
Musical Theatre / Vocal / Head Teacher / Dance / Director of Professional Musical Theatre Certification programs
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!
Alex Crick
Violin / Guitar
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
Amy Spurr-Caveney
Violin
Nova Scotian violinist Amy Spurr-Caveney has found her way onto multiple stages across Canada and Mexico. Recently, Amy performed on the 2021 Juno winning album “Heart Parade” by the children’s group, Splash’N Boots.
Amy has over ten years of experience teaching violin, viola, and piano. She has prepared students for exams, competitions, and solo performances. In addition to teaching private and group lessons, Amy has given masterclasses in Mexico at the Festival Internacional de Musica (Guadalajara) and Fesitval de Febrero (Ajijic).
While freelancing as a violinist in Toronto, Amy performed with international stars such as Michael Bublé and 2Cellos. In 2019, Amy premiered Jordon O’Connor’s Violin Concerto. Also an avid orchestral musician, Amy has performed with the Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra, the Hamilton Philharmonic Orchestra, London Symphonia, the Windsor Symphony Orchestra, the Kingston Symphony Orchestra, and the Thunder Bay Symphony Orchestra. Amy participated as an artist at multiple summer orchestral and chamber music festivals including the National Academy Orchestra of Canada, Youth Orchestra of the Americas, Orchestre de la Francophonie, Domaine Forget, Orford Academy, and Tuckamore Chamber Music Festival.
Amy studied violin with Annalee Patipatanakoon of the Gryphon Trio and Nancy Dahn of Duo Concertante, as well as performing in masterclasses for renowned violinists such as James Ehnes and Jonathan Crow. Amy holds degrees from Memorial University of Newfoundland and the University of Toronto.
Nova Scotian violinist Amy Spurr-Caveney has found her way onto multiple stages across Canada and Mexico. Recently, Amy performed on the 2021 Juno winning album “Heart Parade” by the children’s group, Splash’N Boots.
Amy has over ten years of experience teaching violin, viola, and piano. She has prepared students for exams, competitions, and solo performances. In addition to teaching private and group lessons, Amy has given masterclasses in Mexico at the Festival Internacional de Musica (Guadalajara) and Fesitval de Febrero (Ajijic).
While freelancing as a violinist in Toronto, Amy performed with international stars such as Michael Bublé and 2Cellos. In 2019, Amy premiered Jordon O’Connor’s Violin Concerto. Also an avid orchestral musician, Amy has performed with the Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra, the Hamilton Philharmonic Orchestra, London Symphonia, the Windsor Symphony Orchestra, the Kingston Symphony Orchestra, and the Thunder Bay Symphony Orchestra. Amy participated as an artist at multiple summer orchestral and chamber music festivals including the National Academy Orchestra of Canada, Youth Orchestra of the Americas, Orchestre de la Francophonie, Domaine Forget, Orford Academy, and Tuckamore Chamber Music Festival.
Amy studied violin with Annalee Patipatanakoon of the Gryphon Trio and Nancy Dahn of Duo Concertante, as well as performing in masterclasses for renowned violinists such as James Ehnes and Jonathan Crow. Amy holds degrees from Memorial University of Newfoundland and the University of Toronto.
Ashar Trim - Gaskin
Violin
My name is Asher Trim-Gaskin. Asher hails from the beautiful island of Barbados. His leadership qualities emerged as a delegate of the Global Youth Leadership Conference as an early teen. He is an avid sportsman–having represented the island in swimming and rubgy and he is a 23-year classical violinist–10 of which were spent as first violin in the Barbados National Youth Orchestra. Currently, he is a member of the Nova Scotia community orchestra Nova Sinfonia.
In 2017, he graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology with a Certificate in Genetics from Dalhousie University. During his time at DAL he was President of the Caribbean Connection Student Society for two consecutive years and more recently, he was a Teaching Assistant for second-year Genetics and Diversity courses. To further satisfy his love for community development and leadership, Asher leads a youth group and plays violin in the band of his local church Deep Water.
My name is Asher Trim-Gaskin. Asher hails from the beautiful island of Barbados. His leadership qualities emerged as a delegate of the Global Youth Leadership Conference as an early teen. He is an avid sportsman–having represented the island in swimming and rubgy and he is a 23-year classical violinist–10 of which were spent as first violin in the Barbados National Youth Orchestra. Currently, he is a member of the Nova Scotia community orchestra Nova Sinfonia.
In 2017, he graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology with a Certificate in Genetics from Dalhousie University. During his time at DAL he was President of the Caribbean Connection Student Society for two consecutive years and more recently, he was a Teaching Assistant for second-year Genetics and Diversity courses. To further satisfy his love for community development and leadership, Asher leads a youth group and plays violin in the band of his local church Deep Water.
Ben Rutz
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.
Caroline Boulter
Violin / Step dance
Caroline is studying violin at Dalhousie University. She has been taking violin and dance lessons since she was 3! She moved to Nova Scotia in 7th grade and started taking lessons with Christy Hodder. Caroline was a member of the NSYA, and is a current member of the NSYO and NSWYE. Caroline competed in the 2019, 2021, and 2022 Nova Scotia Provincial music festival for junior and senior strings, as well as the 2021 and 2022 junior woodwinds class. She is the 2022 recipient of the New Glasgow Music Festival Rose Bowl. Caroline is very excited to continue to teach and make music alongside Scotia Suzuki School students and faculty!
Caroline is studying violin at Dalhousie University. She has been taking violin and dance lessons since she was 3! She moved to Nova Scotia in 7th grade and started taking lessons with Christy Hodder. Caroline was a member of the NSYA, and is a current member of the NSYO and NSWYE. Caroline competed in the 2019, 2021, and 2022 Nova Scotia Provincial music festival for junior and senior strings, as well as the 2021 and 2022 junior woodwinds class. She is the 2022 recipient of the New Glasgow Music Festival Rose Bowl. Caroline is very excited to continue to teach and make music alongside Scotia Suzuki School students and faculty!
Cas Fouchard
Piano / SECE
Cas' passion for music has been with him since a young age. Growing up in rural Newfoundland, he was introduced to a variety of folk and classical music, and experienced first-hand the impact music can have in creating a sense of community and self. He has been performing and practicing music since the age of 3, with a focus on piano for the past 10 years. He is now a third-year student at Dalhousie majoring in classical piano, with his current teacher Peter Allen.
He has a large musical background that aside from playing the piano includes guitar and violin, as well as singing in multiple vocal ensembles. He has won several awards, including at Kiwanis competitions, and has performed in regional groups of musicians to fundraise and perform at charity events.
Cas is a gifted musician who is dedicated to sharing his love of music with others, especially children. Inspired by a previous vocal teacher, he aims to follow her footsteps in creating a comfortable learning atmosphere where practicing is not a chore, but a time of expression and connection.
He is excited to continue to perform and teach music in the future with the Suzuki school. He believes that his studies and future degree are only the beginning of a rewarding career in the music industry.
Cas plans to use his mastery of the art to bring joy to others and continue traditions in further building the music community. He hopes to open doors into whole new worlds, just as his past ten years with the piano have done for him.
Cas' passion for music has been with him since a young age. Growing up in rural Newfoundland, he was introduced to a variety of folk and classical music, and experienced first-hand the impact music can have in creating a sense of community and self. He has been performing and practicing music since the age of 3, with a focus on piano for the past 10 years. He is now a third-year student at Dalhousie majoring in classical piano, with his current teacher Peter Allen.
He has a large musical background that aside from playing the piano includes guitar and violin, as well as singing in multiple vocal ensembles. He has won several awards, including at Kiwanis competitions, and has performed in regional groups of musicians to fundraise and perform at charity events.
Cas is a gifted musician who is dedicated to sharing his love of music with others, especially children. Inspired by a previous vocal teacher, he aims to follow her footsteps in creating a comfortable learning atmosphere where practicing is not a chore, but a time of expression and connection.
He is excited to continue to perform and teach music in the future with the Suzuki school. He believes that his studies and future degree are only the beginning of a rewarding career in the music industry.
Cas plans to use his mastery of the art to bring joy to others and continue traditions in further building the music community. He hopes to open doors into whole new worlds, just as his past ten years with the piano have done for him.
Dean Bradshaw
Accompaniment
Dean Bradshaw did his Bachelor and Master of Music degrees at the University of Toronto where his teachers included Jane Coop (piano) and Oscar Moravetz (composition). Shortly after graduation, he worked as a rehearsal pianist for the National Ballet of Canada. He arrived in Halifax in 1988 and for many years taught piano and all levels of theory at the Maritime Conservatory of Music. In 1999 he became a part time faculty member at Dalhousie University, teaching classes in keyboard harmony, and accompanying singers and instrumentalists. Dean is the organist and choir director at St. James United Church in Dartmouth, and accompanies the choirs Encor East and Seton Cantata Choir. As for the violin, he has accompanied Suzuki violin for more than 20 years in various Halifax studios, and for a few seasons in the 1990s he played in the Chebucto Symphony Orchestra. In his spare time, he spends too much time cooking, going to the gym, and surfing the net.
Dean Bradshaw did his Bachelor and Master of Music degrees at the University of Toronto where his teachers included Jane Coop (piano) and Oscar Moravetz (composition). Shortly after graduation, he worked as a rehearsal pianist for the National Ballet of Canada. He arrived in Halifax in 1988 and for many years taught piano and all levels of theory at the Maritime Conservatory of Music. In 1999 he became a part time faculty member at Dalhousie University, teaching classes in keyboard harmony, and accompanying singers and instrumentalists. Dean is the organist and choir director at St. James United Church in Dartmouth, and accompanies the choirs Encor East and Seton Cantata Choir. As for the violin, he has accompanied Suzuki violin for more than 20 years in various Halifax studios, and for a few seasons in the 1990s he played in the Chebucto Symphony Orchestra. In his spare time, he spends too much time cooking, going to the gym, and surfing the net.
Dr. Edward Enman
Piano / Head Teacher / Composition
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.
Dr. Elizabeth Perez
Violin / Viola
Violist Dr. Elizabeth Upson Perez, originally from North Carolina, has appeared in concert halls throughout North and South America as an avid chamber musician and educator. Equally experienced as a teacher and performer, her enthusiastic teaching style is well-known amongst her colleagues and has resulted in invitations to teach at the ECU Summer Chamber Music Institute (NC), and the University of Iowa Chamber Music Program. She has adjudicated junior strings, senior strings, chamber music, and orchestra at several festivals across Atlantic Canada, including the New Brunswick Competitive Music Festival and the Prince Edward Island Kiwanis Music Festival.
As violist of the former Voce String Quartet, she was invited to perform and teach as Quartet-in-Residence at the University of Iowa String Quartet Residency Project in 2019 and 2023, and frequently toured Iowa and Minnesota, performing in concert halls, opera houses, and in outreach concerts.
She has been invited to perform as Guest Principal Viola for multiple orchestras in the USA, and has appeared as a guest artist on Scotia Festival’s Music Room Chamber Players Series in Halifax, NS, the Antigonish Performing Arts Series in Antigonish, NS, Musique Royale in Mahone Bay, NS, and occasionally performs with Symphony Nova Scotia.
Violist Dr. Elizabeth Upson Perez, originally from North Carolina, has appeared in concert halls throughout North and South America as an avid chamber musician and educator. Equally experienced as a teacher and performer, her enthusiastic teaching style is well-known amongst her colleagues and has resulted in invitations to teach at the ECU Summer Chamber Music Institute (NC), and the University of Iowa Chamber Music Program. She has adjudicated junior strings, senior strings, chamber music, and orchestra at several festivals across Atlantic Canada, including the New Brunswick Competitive Music Festival and the Prince Edward Island Kiwanis Music Festival.
As violist of the former Voce String Quartet, she was invited to perform and teach as Quartet-in-Residence at the University of Iowa String Quartet Residency Project in 2019 and 2023, and frequently toured Iowa and Minnesota, performing in concert halls, opera houses, and in outreach concerts.
She has been invited to perform as Guest Principal Viola for multiple orchestras in the USA, and has appeared as a guest artist on Scotia Festival’s Music Room Chamber Players Series in Halifax, NS, the Antigonish Performing Arts Series in Antigonish, NS, Musique Royale in Mahone Bay, NS, and occasionally performs with Symphony Nova Scotia.
Indi Tisoy Morales
Violin
Indi is a Colombian Canadian musician who has been playing the violin for over 14 years. Her love for performing classical music emerged from her very first ensemble experience, where she played in the violin section of the Conservatory Jr Orchestra led by Christy Hodder and continued on to take Suzuki lessons from her. Indi has been teaching Theory at the SSSM for the past two years and has been assisting the Symphony Pop Orchestra since its creation in 2021.
Currently, Indi is in the Bachelor of Music Program at Dalhousie University, and studies violin with Leonardo Perez. Her previous teacher was Karen Langille of SNS, who she studied with for 6 years. Indi is very active in the local musical community, she plays with a variety of ensembles such as the Dalhousie Symphony Orchestra, the Nova Scotia Youth Orchestra, the Halifax Institute of Traditional and Early Music, the Los Primos Cuban-Jazz Band Project, as well as the Nova Scotia Youth Jazz Orchestra, among others.
Indi has studied music theory through Dr. Lorna Wanzel and has completed RCM rudiments, as well as ARCT Harmony and Counterpoint, Analysis and History. Her theoretical studies have helped her further explore the realms of arranging and composing music. Most recently, Indi received an honourable mention for her composition “Tango for String Quartet” at the CFMTA’s National Student Composer Competition in 2021.
When she is not playing violin, Indi enjoys practicing her other instruments such as her alto saxophone, piano, ukulele and traditional Chinese erhu. Her interests outside of music include drawing, painting and videography.
Indi completed her Book 1 and 2 of Suzuki Training as well as “Every Child Can!” the pedagogy course exploring the philosophy of Dr. Suzuki.
Indi is a Colombian Canadian musician who has been playing the violin for over 14 years. Her love for performing classical music emerged from her very first ensemble experience, where she played in the violin section of the Conservatory Jr Orchestra led by Christy Hodder and continued on to take Suzuki lessons from her. Indi has been teaching Theory at the SSSM for the past two years and has been assisting the Symphony Pop Orchestra since its creation in 2021.
Currently, Indi is in the Bachelor of Music Program at Dalhousie University, and studies violin with Leonardo Perez. Her previous teacher was Karen Langille of SNS, who she studied with for 6 years. Indi is very active in the local musical community, she plays with a variety of ensembles such as the Dalhousie Symphony Orchestra, the Nova Scotia Youth Orchestra, the Halifax Institute of Traditional and Early Music, the Los Primos Cuban-Jazz Band Project, as well as the Nova Scotia Youth Jazz Orchestra, among others.
Indi has studied music theory through Dr. Lorna Wanzel and has completed RCM rudiments, as well as ARCT Harmony and Counterpoint, Analysis and History. Her theoretical studies have helped her further explore the realms of arranging and composing music. Most recently, Indi received an honourable mention for her composition “Tango for String Quartet” at the CFMTA’s National Student Composer Competition in 2021.
When she is not playing violin, Indi enjoys practicing her other instruments such as her alto saxophone, piano, ukulele and traditional Chinese erhu. Her interests outside of music include drawing, painting and videography.
Indi completed her Book 1 and 2 of Suzuki Training as well as “Every Child Can!” the pedagogy course exploring the philosophy of Dr. Suzuki.
Karen Langille
Violin / Senior Repertoire Class
Karen Langille has been a full-time member of Symphony Nova Scotia since 1985 and is currently concertmaster of the Charlottetown Summer Festival Orchestra in Prince Edward Island.
A graduate of McGill University, Karen pursued studies in both modern and baroque violin. She is a founding member of both Réjouissance and Tempest, two Nova Scotian ensembles specializing in early music performance on period instruments, and has recorded for CBC Radio 2 both locally and nationally.
Karen has more than 30 years of teaching experience and has taught all levels of students – from beginning students through to adult. She is a member of the NSRMTA and has Suzuki training from institutes in Montreal and Ithaca, NY.
Karen Langille has been a full-time member of Symphony Nova Scotia since 1985 and is currently concertmaster of the Charlottetown Summer Festival Orchestra in Prince Edward Island.
A graduate of McGill University, Karen pursued studies in both modern and baroque violin. She is a founding member of both Réjouissance and Tempest, two Nova Scotian ensembles specializing in early music performance on period instruments, and has recorded for CBC Radio 2 both locally and nationally.
Karen has more than 30 years of teaching experience and has taught all levels of students – from beginning students through to adult. She is a member of the NSRMTA and has Suzuki training from institutes in Montreal and Ithaca, NY.
Keri
Violin
Born and raised in Saskatchewan, Keri grew up as a Suzuki kid, studying both violin and piano. She fell in love with the violin, in part because it allowed her to combine two of her passions - music and people! From playing in orchestra and chamber music groups, to leading strings concerts in seniors homes, Keri has cultivated her love of music and people.
Keri has completed her Performer’s ARCT from the Royal Conservatory of Music, and also holds a Bachelor of Music degree from Brandon University, where she studied violin with Kerry DuWors and Simon MacDonald. While in university, Keri began to take Suzuki teacher training. Starting with the ECC (Every Child Can!) course, she took training every year until completing the Suzuki Violin Book 5 training and has been teaching the Suzuki method ever since. It was here that Keri found a new passion - helping people grow! Keri’s teaching style focuses on a student’s needs, in order to structure a path to growth. She has experience teaching all age groups. She enjoys the excitement of teaching young children as they pick up their first bow and the reward of assisting an experienced student hone their skills.
During her musical journey, Keri has taken private lessons and masterclasses with James Ehnes, Charles Castleman, Gwen Hoebig, David Perry, Sharon Wei, Christina Zacharias, Phillip Kashap and Greg Hay. Keri's performance and teaching experience help her to both support and cultivate her students. Playing the violin is a lifelong journey that Keri is excited to share with you!
Born and raised in Saskatchewan, Keri grew up as a Suzuki kid, studying both violin and piano. She fell in love with the violin, in part because it allowed her to combine two of her passions - music and people! From playing in orchestra and chamber music groups, to leading strings concerts in seniors homes, Keri has cultivated her love of music and people.
Keri has completed her Performer’s ARCT from the Royal Conservatory of Music, and also holds a Bachelor of Music degree from Brandon University, where she studied violin with Kerry DuWors and Simon MacDonald. While in university, Keri began to take Suzuki teacher training. Starting with the ECC (Every Child Can!) course, she took training every year until completing the Suzuki Violin Book 5 training and has been teaching the Suzuki method ever since. It was here that Keri found a new passion - helping people grow! Keri’s teaching style focuses on a student’s needs, in order to structure a path to growth. She has experience teaching all age groups. She enjoys the excitement of teaching young children as they pick up their first bow and the reward of assisting an experienced student hone their skills.
During her musical journey, Keri has taken private lessons and masterclasses with James Ehnes, Charles Castleman, Gwen Hoebig, David Perry, Sharon Wei, Christina Zacharias, Phillip Kashap and Greg Hay. Keri's performance and teaching experience help her to both support and cultivate her students. Playing the violin is a lifelong journey that Keri is excited to share with you!
Kimberly Holmes
Associate teacher / Keyboard Chording / Accompaniment
Kyle Charron
Violin
Kyle grew up in Barrie, Ontario, where a big musical influence was the Ontario fiddle contest
circuit. Kyle entered his first competition at age six, and is now a Canadian Grand Masters Fiddle Champion, 5-time Shelburne Canadian Open Fiddle Champion, and 3-time Pembroke Open Fiddle Champion.
Kyle now resides in Halifax, and is involved in fiddle community events throughout the Maritimes. He was recently a judge at the 2024 Maritime Fiddle Festival, in its 75th year.
Kyle has instructed at several music camps with students of all ages and skill levels, and is excited to be working with fiddle students at Scotia Suzuki School of Music!
Kyle has a BSc from Western University, and an Honours Certificate from The Ontario Institute of Audio Recording Technology (OIART). When Kyle is not teaching or playing music, he works as a Systems Designer for an Audio Visual integration company.
Kyle grew up in Barrie, Ontario, where a big musical influence was the Ontario fiddle contest
circuit. Kyle entered his first competition at age six, and is now a Canadian Grand Masters Fiddle Champion, 5-time Shelburne Canadian Open Fiddle Champion, and 3-time Pembroke Open Fiddle Champion.
Kyle now resides in Halifax, and is involved in fiddle community events throughout the Maritimes. He was recently a judge at the 2024 Maritime Fiddle Festival, in its 75th year.
Kyle has instructed at several music camps with students of all ages and skill levels, and is excited to be working with fiddle students at Scotia Suzuki School of Music!
Kyle has a BSc from Western University, and an Honours Certificate from The Ontario Institute of Audio Recording Technology (OIART). When Kyle is not teaching or playing music, he works as a Systems Designer for an Audio Visual integration company.
Dr. Leonardo Perez
Violin / Viola
Leonardo Perez has taught violin and viola at Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP) and was the Orchestra Director of the IUP Symphony Orchestra. He will be joining the faculty at Dalhousie University in Halifax, Nova Scotia as Lecturer of Violin/Viola and Head of Strings beginning in the fall of 2018. Leonardo has performed with orchestras throughout the United States such as the Des Moines Symphony Orchestra, Quad City Symphony Orchestra and Evansville Philharmonic. An active and dedicated teacher, he is certified in Suzuki books 1-10 and taught for three years in the public-school system in Snow Hill, North Carolina through the Greene County Suzuki Association.
Leonardo received his Bachelor of Music degree from East Carolina University. He holds a Master of Music degree in Violin Performance from the University of Southern California, and a Master of Music degree in Orchestral Conducting from East Carolina University with doctoral studies at the University of Iowa.
Leonardo Perez has taught violin and viola at Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP) and was the Orchestra Director of the IUP Symphony Orchestra. He will be joining the faculty at Dalhousie University in Halifax, Nova Scotia as Lecturer of Violin/Viola and Head of Strings beginning in the fall of 2018. Leonardo has performed with orchestras throughout the United States such as the Des Moines Symphony Orchestra, Quad City Symphony Orchestra and Evansville Philharmonic. An active and dedicated teacher, he is certified in Suzuki books 1-10 and taught for three years in the public-school system in Snow Hill, North Carolina through the Greene County Suzuki Association.
Leonardo received his Bachelor of Music degree from East Carolina University. He holds a Master of Music degree in Violin Performance from the University of Southern California, and a Master of Music degree in Orchestral Conducting from East Carolina University with doctoral studies at the University of Iowa.
Mackenzie Rodgerson
Musical Theatre / Vocal / SECE
Mackenzie is a recent bachelor of music in voice graduate from the Fountain School of Performing Arts. She began singing in various choirs throughout Halifax at age 9, and voice lessons at 11. She has had the chance to participate in provincial honour choirs since elementary school, as well as the Dalhousie Chorus, where she held a section lead position, and sang many featured solos. She has performed in the Royal International Nova Scotia Tattoo, and for King Charles! Her choral experience ranges from jazz, to classical, to modern works. While at Dalhousie she studied classical voice and Musical Theatre / contemporary music. She had the opportunity to portray Tracy Turnblad in a production of Hairspray, as well as Annie in Annie. She is very excited to be joining the Suzuki team!
Mackenzie is a recent bachelor of music in voice graduate from the Fountain School of Performing Arts. She began singing in various choirs throughout Halifax at age 9, and voice lessons at 11. She has had the chance to participate in provincial honour choirs since elementary school, as well as the Dalhousie Chorus, where she held a section lead position, and sang many featured solos. She has performed in the Royal International Nova Scotia Tattoo, and for King Charles! Her choral experience ranges from jazz, to classical, to modern works. While at Dalhousie she studied classical voice and Musical Theatre / contemporary music. She had the opportunity to portray Tracy Turnblad in a production of Hairspray, as well as Annie in Annie. She is very excited to be joining the Suzuki team!
Mateo Ronderos-Zerpa
Cello / Orchestra
Mateo Ronderos-Zerpa began his musical journey at the age of six, first at the piano, before discovering his true passion for the cello soon after. Since then, his artistry has taken him across the Americas and Europe, performing in a diverse array of venues — from renowned concert halls like the Kennedy Center to embassies, presidential residences, historic castles, and national landmarks.
Throughout his career, Mateo has had the privilege of working under esteemed conductors including Manuel López-Gómez, Michail Jurowski, Sascha Goetzel, and Gustavo Dudamel, and collaborating with celebrated artists such as Johannes Moser and Blake Pouliot. He pursued his formal studies in Cello Performance at Queen’s University under the mentorship of Wolf Tormann and has participated in masterclasses and courses with distinguished cellists Paul Katz and David Hetherington.
Now based in Halifax, Mateo continues to bring his vibrant energy both on and off the stage. In addition to performing, he works as an assistant repairer at The Bowed Instrument Shop, helping musicians reconnect with their instruments. Outside of music, he enjoys immersing himself in Halifax’s lively arts scene, crafting woodworking projects, experimenting in the kitchen, and tending to his garden — often with a good book waiting for him in a hammock.
Mateo Ronderos-Zerpa began his musical journey at the age of six, first at the piano, before discovering his true passion for the cello soon after. Since then, his artistry has taken him across the Americas and Europe, performing in a diverse array of venues — from renowned concert halls like the Kennedy Center to embassies, presidential residences, historic castles, and national landmarks.
Throughout his career, Mateo has had the privilege of working under esteemed conductors including Manuel López-Gómez, Michail Jurowski, Sascha Goetzel, and Gustavo Dudamel, and collaborating with celebrated artists such as Johannes Moser and Blake Pouliot. He pursued his formal studies in Cello Performance at Queen’s University under the mentorship of Wolf Tormann and has participated in masterclasses and courses with distinguished cellists Paul Katz and David Hetherington.
Now based in Halifax, Mateo continues to bring his vibrant energy both on and off the stage. In addition to performing, he works as an assistant repairer at The Bowed Instrument Shop, helping musicians reconnect with their instruments. Outside of music, he enjoys immersing himself in Halifax’s lively arts scene, crafting woodworking projects, experimenting in the kitchen, and tending to his garden — often with a good book waiting for him in a hammock.
Megan (Bain) Singer
Violin / Viola / Orchestra / Head Teacher
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.
Raquel Correia
Piano
Raquel was born in Brazil and began her musical studies when she was 8 years old. Her father was always very fond of classical music and had the dream that his children would love music and learn to play a musical instrument. At age 11 she enrolled at the music college (Music School of Brasilia) and began studying the cello. That allowed her to continue with private lessons for piano and, at the same time, have greater musical experience participating in choirs, youth orchestras, and chamber music. At the age of 18, she attended Brasilia’s University and graduated with a Bachelor's degree in music.
After graduation, she taught piano and theory at several music schools in Brazil and organized choirs in churches and schools as a conductor or pianist. She moved to Halifax in 2019. Ms. Raquel has loved her Suzuki Piano training and is excited to join the Scotia Suzuki School.
Raquel was born in Brazil and began her musical studies when she was 8 years old. Her father was always very fond of classical music and had the dream that his children would love music and learn to play a musical instrument. At age 11 she enrolled at the music college (Music School of Brasilia) and began studying the cello. That allowed her to continue with private lessons for piano and, at the same time, have greater musical experience participating in choirs, youth orchestras, and chamber music. At the age of 18, she attended Brasilia’s University and graduated with a Bachelor's degree in music.
After graduation, she taught piano and theory at several music schools in Brazil and organized choirs in churches and schools as a conductor or pianist. She moved to Halifax in 2019. Ms. Raquel has loved her Suzuki Piano training and is excited to join the Scotia Suzuki School.
Sia Xi
Piano / Events & Marketing Co-ordinator
Sia, our piano instructor, holds a degree from Shanghai Conservatory of Music in China. Her journey in the realm of music commenced at the tender age of 5, and her passion for the piano blossomed into a dedicated career during her studies at the Conservatory. With an extensive teaching career spanning over 12 years, Sia has become a beacon of inspiration for aspiring younger pianists under her guidance.
Some of her excellent students have achieved great success in various prestigious competitions including the 2022 International Fryderyk Chopin Piano Competition for Children and Youth in China, the 2021 5th Los Angeles International Youth Music Open Competition (Shanghai China District), the 2021 4th Singapore International Piano Competition (Shanghai District), the 2019 Singapore International Youth Piano Competition (China District), the 5th International German Irmler Piano Competition (Shanghai District), and the 2016 StarRiver·10th Chopin International Youth Piano Competition (Amateur Group).
Currently, she is studying Suzuki pedagogy and plans to integrate it and her teaching experience within our SSSM community.
Sia, our piano instructor, holds a degree from Shanghai Conservatory of Music in China. Her journey in the realm of music commenced at the tender age of 5, and her passion for the piano blossomed into a dedicated career during her studies at the Conservatory. With an extensive teaching career spanning over 12 years, Sia has become a beacon of inspiration for aspiring younger pianists under her guidance.
Some of her excellent students have achieved great success in various prestigious competitions including the 2022 International Fryderyk Chopin Piano Competition for Children and Youth in China, the 2021 5th Los Angeles International Youth Music Open Competition (Shanghai China District), the 2021 4th Singapore International Piano Competition (Shanghai District), the 2019 Singapore International Youth Piano Competition (China District), the 5th International German Irmler Piano Competition (Shanghai District), and the 2016 StarRiver·10th Chopin International Youth Piano Competition (Amateur Group).
Currently, she is studying Suzuki pedagogy and plans to integrate it and her teaching experience within our SSSM community.
Tasos Spiliopoulos
Piano
His full name is Anastasios Spiliopoulos but he goes by Mr Tasos at the Suzuki School. He moved to Halifax from Athens Greece where he studied music for many years. He is now studying piano with Peter Allen at Dalhousie University as a Double Major Bachelor of Arts in Music and Psychology. After playing the piano for many years he is particularly fond of the classical genre. He is very excited to be teaching at the Suzuki School of Music.
His full name is Anastasios Spiliopoulos but he goes by Mr Tasos at the Suzuki School. He moved to Halifax from Athens Greece where he studied music for many years. He is now studying piano with Peter Allen at Dalhousie University as a Double Major Bachelor of Arts in Music and Psychology. After playing the piano for many years he is particularly fond of the classical genre. He is very excited to be teaching at the Suzuki School of Music.
Tye Dacey
Intermediate NSYA Leader/ ACAC Associate Fiddle teacher / Event Stage Manager I'm just a little salt maybe some cheese
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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