Meet Our Team
Orrett Music Academy employs only active music professionals with degrees in Music Performance and/or Education and a minimum of 3 years of private teaching experience. Several are also certified teachers (OCT) and/or ARCT. We strongly believe the best teachers live and love the life they teach. Ask any of them though and they will tell you they are proudest of their passion for teaching and their desire to inspire students of all ages.
Dave Orrett
Academy Director
"If you are going to put your name on something, make it something special."
Dave’s love for music education spans almost two decades. He began his early teaching career as a part-time Arts and Sports camp coordinator, drama teacher, and piano teacher with Toronto Parks and Recreation. Soon Dave’s passion for music began to take over and he decided to open up his own music school where he could teach and inspire full time. More than 800 students later, and with the help of a meticulously chosen staff of like-minded professional teachers, Dave’s goal remains to give each student the tools necessary to attain his or her highest musical potential while making the journey enjoyable. Using techniques he has developed for numerous learning styles, Dave is an exceptional motivator and curriculum developer. Dave is also the proud founder and former volunteer director of “Pulse”, a percussion ensemble for inner-city youth which enjoyed considerable exposure on Breakfast Television, Reader’s Digest Magazine, and dozens of live performances including a feature at Massey Hall. Enjoying an established reputation as a songwriter, performer, producer and studio engineer, Dave lives and breathes the world of music.
Jacquelyn Payne
Administrator & Steps To Music Teacher
"It makes such a difference to have someone who believes in you." — Winnie the Pooh
Jacquelyn manages the day-to-day school operations, ensuring that everyone’s experience comes together smoothly. With a background in working with children, she gained valuable insights from her years working at summer camps. Her experience as a paramedic adds an extra layer of care, ensuring the well-being of each child.
In Jacquelyn’s Steps To Music classes she not only guides our youngest learners through a fun journey of musical discovery but also brings a contagious enthusiasm for fostering a love of music in every child. This class is an engaging introduction to the world of music, through our four core educational philosophies – Move. Sing. Listen. Play.
With dedication and expertise, Jacquelyn works to make sure your time at Orrett is a positive and enjoyable experience!
Kate Voss
Academy Manager
"Don't compete with your peers; compete with your potential."
The glue that keeps our team together. Kate brings a wealth of experience to support staff, parents, and students. Fluent in many languages, there are few skills she can’t master. Kate is a true music lover (and musician herself) that is passionate about customer service, quality, detail, and helping to create a friendly space to inspire us all.
Meaghan Salmon
Administrative Assistant
“You can’t bring the arts too soon to kids.” — Julie Andrews
Meaghan Salmon (she/her) is a multidisciplinary artist, working in T:karónto as a performer, director, educator, and designer. Hailing from the Niagara Region, she grew up surrounded by her arts community and is grateful to have found a second home in Toronto. Meaghan aspires to inspire the next generation of theatre creators and music makers in Canada.
Mr Christian
Guitar & Electric Bass Teacher
Our most experienced teacher. A Tuesday & Thursday legend.
Christian is an established and highly sought-after guitarist in the Toronto music scene. With well over a thousand performances, Christian has played across North America and Europe with highly notable Canadian and international artists. From club dates to festival tours to TV appearances, Christian’s experience is highly regarded in the industry. He has recorded and produced major label releases both domestically and in Europe. In 2006, Christian received a Juno nomination for Best New Group. On top of his performance skills, Christian is an honours graduate in Performance and Arranging at Humber College. His teaching experience includes many years at one of Canada’s premier learning institutions. He is a respected educator whose knowledge and skills are ideal for all ages and interests.
Ms Christee
Voice Department Head, Voice & Musical Theatre Teacher
Authentic, talented, and ready to bring out the best in your child.
Christee Palace is a pop singer/songwriter originally from Windsor, Ontario. Coming from a very musical family, Christee had the passion for music and singing instilled in her at a very young age.
Christee was trained in pop piano, guitar, and most prominently vocals at the Canadian Conservatory of Music in Windsor, later being a pop vocal instructor, and introductory piano instructor for 9 years.
A graduate from the University of Windsor’s Drama in Education and Community program, Christee has taken her passion for music, performing arts, and teaching, and combined them into one. Christee is a firm believer in connecting to her students through personal musical experiences, and creating a comfortable and fun atmosphere. From various roles in musical theatre, to being the lead singer of a touring wedding band, Christee has over 15+ years of performing experience in many different settings.
Her love for singing and songwriting influenced her to start her own band, performing original pop music. She went on to record her first EP “Alive Today”, with 2 tracks being played on over 60 stations across Canada. Her follow up single, “Light It Up” made it onto Canada’s “Most Active Indies Chart” in its first week at radio, and earned a semi finalist position in both the “International Songwriting Competition” and the “Canadian Songwriting Competition”.
Christee is currently working on her second EP in Toronto with producers and songwriters of Sony and Universal Music.
Mr David
Piano Department Head & Modern Piano Teacher
Bright, friendly, and sure to bring a smile to your face!
David is a classically trained contemporary pianist. He has been working as a professional freelance musician and as a teacher for over a decade and brings that experience to every lesson. A graduate of Mohawk and Humber College David is always seeking the best from himself and from his students.
Having performed everything from Folk to Jazz to Rock’n’Roll, David has a true understanding an eclectic range of music, and where to find the magic in a song. He believes that music is about more than just reading, it’s about understanding the song, and learning to express yourself through it. David is always chasing that magic and loves nothing more than to share how each student can find their own magic in music.
Mr Eric
Modern Piano Teacher
"The joy of playing comes through in his teaching and in his enthusiasm for music and people who love music."
Born in Winnipeg, Eric studied classical music in the Royal Conservatory of Music with renowned pianist Music Director and Conductor of Canada’s Royal Winnipeg Ballet, Tadeusz Biernacki. At age thirteen Eric fell in love with Jazz music and began to study with local legends Michelle Gregoire and Earl MacDonald Director of Jazz studies at the University of Connecticut. At age sixteen Eric became the house pianist for the Winnipeg Art Gallery and at nineteen spent a year playing at the McPhillips Station Casino.
From a young age Eric’s father instilled in him the value of teaching and at eighteen Eric began teaching for the Academy of Music in Winnipeg. At age twenty Eric left Winnipeg for Toronto to study Jazz in the Performing arts Program at Humber College with Canadian Jazz Greats Dave Restivo and Brian Dickinson. After Humber Eric began a career of performing on cruise ships, becoming a Musical Director and circumnavigated the globe several times.
In 2009 Eric retired his sea legs moved to Switzerland where he lived until 2019. Eric has taught students of all ages and skill level at the International School of Basel and has performed all around Europe.
From beginners to advanced learners, Eric loves sharing the joy of playing and making music. He is known to delve into every aspect of playing, technique, theory, composition, expression, and musicality.
Whether you want to play Jazz, Classical, Pop, or improvise and compose Eric would love to help you on your own musical journey!
Mr Jaden
Guitar, Ukulele, & Bass Teacher
"I pay no attention whatever to anybody’s praise or blame. I simply follow my own feelings." - Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
Jaden found the world of guitar in his early teens. With his natural affinity for the instrument, Jaden began teaching at the age of 16 and quickly attained advanced theory and rudiments with high honours through RCM by age 17.
Soon after, he attended the Music Industry Arts program at Fanshawe College, studying under a plethora of Canadian music industry talents including:
Moe Berg (Singer/Songwriter – The Pursuit of Happiness)
Dan Brodbeck (2010 Juno Award winner Recording Engineer of the Year)
David Martin (20 year veteran Staff Songwriter at Sony/ATV Publishing)
Terry McManus (Founder and ex-president of the Songwriters Association of Canada)
Mike Roth (Former Senior VP of Sony Records Canada)
After graduating in 2012, he taught in the Kitchener-Waterloo area for 8 years, before moving to Etobicoke at the end of 2019. He is currently involved in the writing and recording of two independent projects, both on track to release debut EP’s in 2020.
Jaden is a firm believer that there is talent in everybody. His charismatic and enthusiastic personality is infectious with students of all ages. We encourage you to come in and experience an exciting and rocking guitar lesson with Jaden.
Mr Joel
Modern, Classical Piano, & Voice Teacher
"Music can name the unnameable and communicate the unknowable." — Leonard Bernstein
Originally from Edmonton, Joel has been playing and teaching everything from classical to pop to jazz for over ten years. He is passionate about teaching music with a multi-genre approach, inspiring students to work on music they love, and challenging them to discover exciting new music along the way. Joel studied at Berklee College of Music from 2012-13 and received a Bachelor of Music in Jazz and Contemporary Popular Music from MacEwan University in 2018.
As a musician, Joel has experience as a performer, songwriter and composer across Canada. His greatest passion is to understand and write compelling music. His composition work ranges from orchestra to choir, from jazz big band to piano solo. As an educator, Joel uses his composition expertise to help students truly understand the music they learn and the theory behind why they like the song they listen to. Whether a student wants to study classical repertoire, pop songs, or video game music, Joel is excited to help them discover the music in new ways and journey with them when the songs are complex and challenging.
In the studio, Joel is optimistic and outgoing. He is committed to knowing his students well and working every week to bring out the best in them and their music.
Mrs Simmons
ONLINE - Early Childhood Music Education & Intro Piano Teacher
“A music teacher takes a hand, opens a mind, touches a heart."
Mrs. Simmons teaches exclusively online.
Mrs. Simmons comes from a long line of musicians and educators and has shared that “music and teaching is in my blood.” Ever since she was young, Mrs. Simmons was drawn to working with children and used to dream of becoming a teacher. As a young girl, Mrs. Simmons took part in many activities to build her confidence, overcome shyness, and broaden her skills. Her childhood piano lessons turned into a passion for music performance and education.
Mrs. Simmons loves to discover new musical experiences every day with young children as their sense of wonder, curiosity and desire to learn is inspiring. For the last 18 years, she has been a full-time preschool music education specialist and piano accompanist to 5 school choirs, performing multiple concerts and musicals each year. A highlight was playing the grand piano at Roy Thomson Hall to accompany choral performances at Independent Schools Music Festivals on 3 occasions. Most recently, Mrs. Simmons completed her Early Childhood Music Education certification from Ryerson University and The Royal Conservatory of Music. She adds these qualifications to her ARCT Piano Performer First Class Honours and ARCT Piano Teacher First Class Honours diplomas.
Mrs. Simmons looks forward to sharing her 31 years of teaching experience with her students. She believes that nothing is more rewarding than seeing the delight on a child’s face as they are thoroughly immersed in the joy of music making!
Ms Beverley
Intro Piano, Modern Piano, Voice, Ukulele / Sing-a-long, Musical Theatre, & Acting Teacher
“If music be the food of love, play on.” — William Shakespeare
Beverley has been a performer from a very young age, that all started when she crashed her mother’s voice studio recitals singing The Little Mermaid at 3 years old. After 10 years of piano lessons culminating into her Grade 9 RCM in piano,12+ years of dance classes, choir, and voice lessons, they pursued a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Acting from the University of Alberta and graduated with distinction. Throughout her life, Beverley has had the opportunity to teach students in musical theatre, dance, acting, voice, piano, guitar, and ukulele, both in a group setting, and in private one on one sessions. They also are an avid songwriter, and are currently teaching themselves how to play the accordion!
She has trained with many professionals and teachers, most notably Tara Laberge and Kim Mattice Wanat for voice, and David Ley, Sandra Nicholls, and Alana Hawley-Purvis for acting. Professionally, they have worked with National Youth Choir, directors such as Ann Hodges and Jan Selman, and have done multiple Shakespeare productions as well as musicals and modern plays.
New to Toronto, Beverley is so excited to pass on their lifetime love of music and performing to their students, and is grateful to be able to continue growing their passion in such a vibrant and new environment. She believes that every student has the potential for joy and success, especially when they are given autonomy over their learning, tailoring each experience to the individual. She is a bright and bubbly person, and always offers a warm and welcoming environment for everyone. Students can expect a multi-media and multi-faceted approach, as Beverley believes that a love for music can be fostered through a variety of ways!
Mr Jim
Drum Teacher
"You can play a shoestring if you're sincere." — John Coltrane
With one foot planted firmly in the world of classical/orchestral music, the other planted in the world of contemporary popular music, and his other limbs flailing through all other genres and styles in between; Drummer/Percussionist Jim has amassed a diverse skill set spanning many genres and eras.
Jim earned his Undergraduate and Masters degrees in percussion performance from the University of Western Ontario. Jim’s experience at Western had a focus on classical/orchestral percussion and led to an extensive understanding of technique, musicality in varied situations, as well as proficiency in reading. Jim then attended Humber College where he was able to hone his drum kit ability and expand his musical knowledge into the realm of pop music along with jazz, rock, R&B and latin music.
Jim’s leap into the professional music realm was quite the leap, manning the drum chair for various cruise ship show bands allowing him to visit 5 continents, as well as a national theatre tour of China. Back home Jim performs with a variety of acts such as America’s Got Talent finalist Stacey Kay, the Hitmen Entertainment Drumline, and has appeared with the Mississauga Symphony Orchestra.
This wide array of experience has allowed Jim to develop a lesson program that can be used in all musical settings and by all skill levels. Jim fully believes that music is a universal language and approaches teaching as such. Just like with language, building your musical vocabulary and grammar allows you to freely express yourself on your instrument and communicate more effectively with other musicians. He makes lessons as fun and engaging as possible by custom tailoring lessons to suit your interests. Jim has built up an arsenal of educational materials including custom lesson handouts, popular song play-a-long tracks and DEMO VIDEOS, all designed to help you reach your drumming goals.
Ms Megan W
Modern & Intro Piano Teacher
"To play a wrong note is insignificant. To play without passion is inexcusable." — Beethoven
Ms Pauline
Classical, Modern, & Intro Piano Teacher
"If everything was perfect, you would never learn and you would never grow.” — Beyoncé
Pauline is a professionally trained pianist in both classical and modern styles who has been playing for over 13 years. A graduate of Wexford Collegiate School for the Arts, she has successfully completed her Grade 10 Piano Examination at the Royal Conservatory of Music with “First Class Honours with Distinction” and has won awards in music competitions including Kiwanis and MusicFest Canada.
Pauline has an infectious passion for music and loves sharing her musical knowledge. Her students have performed at recitals, competitions, and she has prepared students for RCM examinations. She believes there is no limit to a student’s creativity and encourages all her students to explore the field of music within and outside of the classroom setting. Ms Pauline’s more experienced students can look forward to a teacher who will help them discover songwriting, music technology, and a diverse range of musical styles.
Ms Meghan B
Classical, Beginner Modern, & Intro Piano Teacher
“The only thing in this world is music.” — Virginia Woolf
Music lived in Ms Meghan long before she began piano lessons at the age of six. Growing up, she trained enthusiastically in music and dance, and eventually landed in the world of classical piano, gaining an extensive knowledge of Royal Conservatory curriculums and discovering a passion for accompanying along the way.
Currently Ms Meghan is working towards a Bachelor of Music degree at the University of Toronto. Paving her own way in the music industry, she has played with fellow students and student composers, and currently accompanies ballet classes from Pre-K to grade 4 at Harmony school of dance & music in Toronto. She has worked extensively with children, with many volunteer positions with summer and music camps under her belt as well.
Ms Meghan’s biggest goal is to contribute to art that matters, and one of the best ways to do so is through fostering a love of music in young people. She feels passionately that music can offer something to everyone, and is so excited to meet new students!
Mrs Jessica
High Performance Program Leader
"Every bad situation is a blues song waiting to happen." — Amy Winehouse
Jessica began playing guitar at the age of six. She initially learned by mimicking exactly what she heard on the radio and then soon after began her journey of learning with private instruction, lasting 15 years. This deep love of the guitar spanned all styles and genres, leading to the versatile and eclectic player that Jessica is today.
Initially, the focus was on classical guitar and RCM studies up to Grade 8 guitar and advanced theory rudiments. Blues guitar truly captured her interest and is the style that she plays most often at present.
Jessica has had many performance opportunities, initially with music theatre companies as part of the pit orchestra. With these companies, she was able to perform on Banjo, Mandolin & Classical, Acoustic and Electric Guitar. From here, Jessica performed on luxury cruise ships. Initially, she was the lead guitarist in the house band before becoming a soloist for a five year stint.
Today, you can find Jessica performing throughout the GTA as a soloist. Her other passion is teaching music to others. Being able to tailor make lessons to suit different learning styles and needs is her specialty. No two people learn the same and this is something that Jessica always keeps in mind.
Ms Briana
Voice, Intro Piano, & Musical Theatre Teacher
"Music is the literature of the heart; it commences where speech ends." — Alphonse de Lamartine
Briana is a classically trained vocalist and pianist. She holds a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Toronto for classical voice and RCM Level 9 Piano.
Born into a musical household of a saxophonist, flutist and pianist, music was an early language of curiosity for her. As a shy young girl, she was introduced to singing lessons as an outlet to open up and effectively communicate and develop her voice both musically and socially. Ever since, she grew up in the church as a lead vocalist, chorister, as well as playing the piano, synthesizer, and drums for the church bands.
Currently, Briana performs music of different cultures and genres, including pop, RNB, gospel, rock, jazz, musical theatre, funk and klezmer. She combines her experience and knowledge of different instruments and musical styles into her teaching, to help discover and build one’s unique set of musical skills and identity. Briana has composed and produced music and sound design for short animation films and is also an active performer and member of Nagata Shachu, a Toronto-based Japanese taiko drumming group.
Ms Emma
Modern, Classical, & Intro Piano Teacher
"Art, in itself, is an attempt to bring order out of chaos." — Stephen Sondheim
Emma is a classically trained pianist born and raised in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan. She
is completing her Bachelor of Music in Composition at the University of Toronto and is
passionate about many genres including jazz, folk, pop, and musical theatre. She
discovered her love of music at a very young age, touring and performing with
SaskExpress. It was through composing her own music that she truly discovered her
passion, experimenting with an eclectic array of classical and modern styles, writing
chorale, symphonic, and chamber music, as well as songwriting and arranging in her
free time.
Emma loves working with students of all ages to help them find the role of music in their
lives. She is a firm believer in the arts as a tool to empower young people’s creative
minds, and to develop a strong self of self. She is enthusiastic and committed to her
students, and loves working together to create and achieve artistic goals. In her free
time, Emma enjoys camping and hiking in her home in the prairies, and spending time
with her cat Lilac.
Ms Ashley
Classical & Intro Piano Teacher
“Education is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire.” — William Butler Yeats
Ashley is a classically trained pianist who has been playing piano for over 12 years. Currently studying music at York University, she is also pursuing an associate diploma (ARCT) In classical piano performance. She has been a teacher for a number of years teaching private piano lessons, group piano and music theory.
Ashley believes that each student is unique and creates a positive environment where students can flourish and grow during each lesson. She believes that anyone can learn music and loves to share her passion of music with all of the students she comes across!
Mr Andrew
Guitar, Ukulele, Voice, Intro Piano, & Modern Piano Teacher
"Let the music speak for itself." — Roy Hargrove
Mr Jack
Classical Piano Teacher
“Music is enough for a lifetime, but a lifetime is not enough for music.” — Sergei Rachmaninoff
Jack is a classically trained pianist with extensive solo, collaborative, and professional experiences. He holds a Master of Music from Indiana University, and an undergrad in Piano Performance from University of Toronto, studying with Professors Evelyne Brancart and Lydia Wong, respectively.
In the studio, Jack seeks to cultivate a sense of music appreciation while developing a mindful technical understanding. He believes the process of music making can be emotionally fulfilling, intellectually stimulating, and above all, a celebration of the human spirit through bringing people together and creating memories for a lifetime.
Ms Sara
Classical & Intro Piano Teacher
“For me, art, and especially music, exist to elevate us as far as possible above everyday existence.” — Gabriel Faure
Sara is a Thai-native pianist and piano teacher. At a very young age, Sara had her first piano lesson from her mother and fell in love with the instrument. In 2014, she was accepted to the College of Music Mahidol University in Thailand and also did her bachelor in music in Classical Piano Performance at the same university. Currently, she is studying the Applied Music and Health master program at University of Toronto.
Sara loves to explore other music genres as well as working as a collaborative pianist. She is a passionate teacher who is interested in piano pedagogy with 5-years of teaching one-on-one piano lessons. Sara includes a variety of activities and supports creativity in her lessons. Sara understands that every student is unique, which is why she is always seeking new ways of teaching to teach and adapt for the benefit of her students.
Ms Anita
Classical & Intro Piano Teacher
"Music and performance transcends language, countries, races. Like the rainbow, it doesn't matter if you're red, blue, orange." — RM
Ms Anita began her musical journey at the young age of seven through the University of the Philippines College of Music. She has more than 20 years of experience in classical piano, studying with professors like Christina Petrowska-Quilico and Raisa Nakhmanovich from York University, and Raul Sunico from the Philippine High School for the Arts. She is a seasoned performer, who has played on stages like Nathan Phillips Square, the CRAM Learning Festival, and accompanied for many vocal concerts. She was also featured as a recording artist for Esoteric Hobbies by Pterodactyl Problems.
With nearly eight years of piano pedagogy background, Ms Anita specializes in the romantic and contemporary periods. She is also multi-disciplined within the fine arts, and believes in music as one of the rawest forms of human expression and communication. While firm in teaching the foundations of music theory, she encourages budding musicians to be inspired by other arts, such as different instruments, dance, or theatre. Creativity blooms best when shared with others.
Ms Anita is also a music director with Second City Toronto, and a freelance piano accompanist. In her spare time, she can be found engaging within the cosplay, modelling, dance, and digital artist communities.
Ms Elena
Voice Teacher
"The power of song can save." — Esperanza Spalding
Ms. Elena is a passionate vocalist, songwriter, and musician originally from Trinidad & Tobago. A dedicated and accomplished educator who has taught voice, piano, and steelpan in both private and group settings to students of all ages, her teaching philosophy is simple yet powerful: inspire her students to reach their full potential while nurturing a lifelong love for music.
Having moved to Toronto in 2013 and completing her Bachelor’s Degree in Music at Humber College (graduating with honours), she has performed as a lead singer at popular venues in Toronto and Montreal, as well as major festivals like Beaches Jazz Festival and SunFest. In 2017, Elena debuted her first EP, entitled, “Illusion.”
Drawing from her rich experience as a performer, Elena understands what it takes to develop well-rounded musicians and artists, no matter their age or background. She believes that singing is the ultimate form of self-expression, and her passion for making music accessible to everyone is evident in her teaching style. For her, music is more than just an art form; it’s a way to connect with oneself and the world around us.
Ms Ayana
Voice Teacher
"The only way to find your voice is to use it." — Austin Kleon
Ms Ayana is an operatic soprano based in Toronto, Ontario. She holds a Master’s degree in operatic performance from the University of Toronto and a Bachelor’s degree in classical voice from Wilfrid Laurier University.
Ayana has trained in a variety of musical styles such as classical, opera, musical theatre, pop, and jazz. She discovered her love for music at a very young age and began to sing before she could talk! Shortly after, she developed a passion for the stage and began performing in musicals which eventually lead her to opera.
Ayana takes an individualized approach to teaching. She recognizes that every student is unique and requires a personalized plan for success. Students can expect an inclusive learning environment that’s tailored to their needs and goals.
Ms Bethany H
Modern Piano Teacher
“One of the most effective and instinctive ways to learn music is to start doing something you like even though you don’t have a clue how it’s done.” — Jeremy Borum, Guerrilla Film Scoring
Ms Bethany is an experienced piano teacher of 10+ years who ran her own private studio of 45-50 students in London, Ontario with students of all ages, genres and skill levels. She graduated from Western University with an Honours Bachelor in Music Theory and Composition, and is graduating from Sheridan College with her graduate diploma in August 2023, a program specializing in composing music for film and video games. She enjoys getting to know each student well in order to cater to their specific musical goals, and ensures that her students will not only develop a deep love and passion for music, but also the advanced technical skills required to propel them forward.
Mr Julien
Drum Teacher
"Comparison is the thief of joy." — Theodore Roosevelt
With extensive live performance & international touring experience with major label artist(s), Mr Julien embraced pop music at an early age, as well rock, funk, R&B, & jazz. This led to a strong hybrid approach to drums/percussion involving both the acoustic and electronic drums.
Growing up in New York City’s hyper competitive music scene, at 19 years old Mr Julien (and friends) won a national competition held by global music publisher SESAC & was immediately thrust into the professional world. 10 years of touring arenas, festivals, TV appearances, & teaching in person followed.
Now calling Toronto home long term, Mr Julien champions speaking fluently in the language of music, along with reading & writing it.
This is accomplished through a tailored approach that respects the many different ways people process information, as well as encouraging contextual learning through songs.
Mr Julien takes audio, visual, & tactile learners on an engaging fun journey with customizable exercises including drumless tracks, rhythm exploration, & time breakdowns. All skill levels and genres can benefit from a hands on approach that seamlessly blends these methods to assist you, in achieving your musical goals.
Ms Dani
Classical, Beginner Modern, & Intro Piano Teacher
"Where words fail, music speaks." — Hans Christian Andersen
Ms Danica is a Toronto-based pianist, composer, accompanist, and educator. She started playing piano at age six and began competing in music festivals shortly after. She completed her RCM Grade 8 Piano Certificate with First Class Honours at thirteen and continued her studies abroad at the Music Conservatory in Bratislava. Danica holds a Bachelor’s degree in Composition from Western University in London Ontario, and is currently working on her Master’s degree in Collaborative Performance. During her university studies, Danica was awarded The University of Western Ontario Gold Medal and is named on the Dean’s Honour List.
Ms Danica has been teaching solo piano, collaborative piano, and music theory for the last four years. She strives to provide a solid foundation for learning while actively introducing various musical styles to encourage students to discover and develop their own taste in music. Whether it may be classical music, film scores, pop songs etc., Ms Danica loves sharing her lifelong appreciation for music and believes teaching and instilling curiosity in her students is an exceptional way to do that.
Ms Rachel
Voice & Musical Theatre Teacher
“Let’s play!"
Ms. Rachel is an international singer, actor, and teacher having worked and performed all over the world including: Canada, the UK, and China. She is a graduate from Randolph College for the Performing Arts (Triple Threat college program, Diploma) and the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland (Musical Theatre Performance, Masters).
As a voice and musical theatre teacher, her goal is to help the student build the confidence and freedom to sing in a tensionless, technical, and fun way! Known for creating a safe space and having knowledge of many vocal styles, Ms. Rachel will successfully help your child find their inner voice.
Ms Sharon
Violin, Ukulele, & Intro Piano Teacher
"Music gives a soul to the universe, wings to the mind, flight to the imagination, and life to everything." — Plato
Ms Sharon started her musical journey learning western classical violin at the age of 6 and hasn’t looked back since! Born and raised in Bahrain, Middle East, Ms Sharon collaborated with various contemporary bands before moving to Waterloo, Ontario to complete her Music Therapy degree at Wilfrid Laurier University. Exploring and playing through different genres such as country, folk, gospel, RnB and pop, highlighted her creativity and drive to continue collaborating with various performers at events such as weddings and concerts. During this time, one of the musical hats Ms Sharon grew to love was the gift of teaching and facilitating classes that were accessible, fun and engaging for her students.
Being a multi-instrumentalist, Ms Sharon’s primary instrument is violin, but she also plays the guitar, piano, ukulele and sings. She uses her skills on different instruments to further her songwriting, teaching goals, and fluidity as a musician. Sharon aims to inspire, influence and impact her students to enhance their unique qualities and contribute to the world of music in their own amazing ways!
Orrett finds comfort in Ms Sharon’s warm and charming attitude paired with her talented musicianship. Join Ms Sharon in welcoming the endless possibilities of learning violin, ukulele and/or intro piano!
Mr Victor
Modern & Intro Piano Teacher
"You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take." — Wayne Gretzky & Michael Scott
Mr Victor is a pianist, composer, and recording artist. As a teacher, Mr Victor draws from all types of repertoire in jazz, pop, rock, hip-hop and more, nurturing technical skills while also emphasizing the fun and creative elements of modern music.
A recipient of the Oliver Lower Prize in Jazz Piano and the Oscar Peterson Scholarship (2013), Mr Victor continues to work and perform with an eclectic range of talent, ranging from internationally acclaimed musicians to independent local artists.
Mr Victor believes that the passion of music and piano can be invigorated for anyone. His curriculum is always personalized to meet the goals and interests of the individual, accommodating any musical style or genre.
Mr Aaron
Classical, Beginner Modern, & Intro Piano Teacher
“What’s the good of living if you don’t try a few things?” — Charlie Brown
Mr Aaron brings over eight years of dedicated experience in music education, driven by his unwavering belief in the importance of nurturing well-rounded musicians. He embarked on his musical journey at the age of 5 with piano lessons and later ventured into the world of the saxophone at age 12.
Holding two Master of Music degrees, one from The Chinese University of Hong Kong and another from Bowling Green State University, Aaron is not only dedicated to teaching but is also a passionate composer specializing in contemporary classical music. His portfolio encompasses a wide range of compositions, from solo pieces to orchestral works, demonstrating his versatility and deep commitment to music.
Mr Aaron has a deep appreciation for the diverse world of music and considers the pursuit of musical knowledge a lifelong journey. He derives immense joy from discovering new and inspiring music, which continuously fuels his passion for the art.
Bethany R
Musical Theatre Teacher
"Speak what we feel, not what we ought to say." — King Lear
Orrett is thrilled to have a true Musical Theatre specialist on our team! Bethany holds a BFA Honours in Acting from the University of Windsor, and a BA in English Literature from Western University. They have worked as an artist, director, dramaturg, acting coach, dance teacher, arts educator, and arts administrator throughout their career.
Bethany has a passion for arts education and working with young artists. They have taught and directed musical theatre and theatre training programs for youth across Southwestern Ontario, including the Shakespeare School at the Stratford Festival, Original Kids Theatre in London, and finally was a head coach, director, and teacher for the competitive musical theatre group ELITE in Windsor.
Bethany’s teaching revolves around three principals: having fun, doing work we’re proud of, and making something beautiful. Their teaching is focused on embodied performance, collective creation, and building skills and language around working fearlessly. They work to leave people and places better than they find them.
Bethany’s professional experience includes recognition as an award winning director (Spamalot, Best Young Cast, Derek Awards, Edinburgh Fringe 2019) and coach (Regional Champions, Access Broadway, 2019). Selected directing credits: The Insanity of Mary Girard (Self Produced); The Addams Family Musical, Legally Blonde (ELITE); The Importance of Being Earnest (OKTC). Selected acting credits: Sarah, Company; Meg, Little Women the Musical (Musical Theatre on the Thames) and many more.
Bethany’s students can look forward to a truly specialized, fun, and deeply enriching experience at Orrett. Highly recommended!
Mr Sam
Guitar & Ukulele Teacher
"An intellectual says a simple thing in a hard way. An artist says a hard thing in a simple way." — Charles Bukowski
Sam is an indie-alternative singer, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist (piano, guitar, ukulele), and teacher. In 2021 Sam created, pitched and ran his own music program at Elsipogtog First Nations School where he specialized in group and one on one lessons focused on guitar, piano, beat-making, ukulele and songwriting.
Sam believes in the power of music to unite, empower and inspire students to become the best versions of themselves. Sam places the student teacher relationship as the number one building block in making sure lessons are fun, engaging, informative and a source of excitement in his students busy schedules.
Sam’s debut single release, “Icarus” (2021) reached the top 100 of CBC Music’s Searchlight Competition through audience voting. “Icarus” was also nominated for Music New Brunswick’s video of the year award and has been featured on the radio shows CBC Shift and CBC Morning. When not in the studio, performing or teaching Sam can be found drinking coffee, cycling and watching stand-up comedy…but not all at the same time.
Mr Kevin
Guitar & Ukulele Teacher
“To go wrong in one's own way is better than to go right in someone else's.” — Fyodor Dostoevsky
Kevin started his musical journey 15 years ago, when he discovered the uncontrollable passion for exploring the acoustic guitar. This opened the door to learning piano, vocals and bass throughout the years. Having taught guitar and piano to students of many ages in South America and Canada, he tailors his teaching styles to suit the unique needs of each individual. Kevin is also a natural and compulsive songwriter, having released songs in Spanish and currently working on his material in English, with a special interest in rock, folk and pop. The most valuable achievement in terms of teaching is that he combines his knowledge of music with techniques from his other career, psychology, fostering students’ personal motivations and positive behaviours to reach their goals in this wonderful art. He believes in a free perspective to create joy while learning, so humor will always be part of the lessons.
Ms Elizabeth
Voice, Classical, Beginner Modern, & Intro Piano Teacher
"One who is no more than a musician, is half of a musician." — Bruno Walter
Elizabeth started her musical journey very young. When Elizabeth turned four, she began piano lessons at a music school in Moscow, Russia. After nine years of studies, she graduated with a diploma of excellence in piano. Throughout the years Elizabeth explored a variety of instruments including guitar, cello, violin, percussion, voice, and ukulele. Her passion for music has led her to pursue a bachelor’s degree in classical voice at the University of Toronto. Elizabeth’s musical interests span a diverse range, including music pedagogy, songwriting and film scoring, collaborative accompanying, operatic performance, and conducting.
With over six years of teaching experience, she has shared her love for music with students of all ages. Elizabeth’s mission is to inspire creativity and individuality in her students while fostering a deep appreciation for music. Elizabeth strives to make each lesson an opportunity for students to discover the joy and beauty of expressing themselves through the art of music.
Mr Karandeep
Guitar & Ukulele Teacher
"It's in the repetition that the creation comes." — Al Pacino
Karandeep comes from a diverse musical background spanning choirs, musical theatre, string orchestra, jazz ensembles and rock bands. He gained experience at York University and completed his Bachelor’s of Music in Jazz Guitar at Humber College. His passion for teaching is deeply connected to the pursuit of life long learning. In his lessons his students will receive a fresh approach to developing strong musicianship, and an ever expanding perspective on the joy of having music in their lives. Karandeep believes every student has the potential to develop a strong connection to music through their instrument and voice.
