Larra
Guitar, Voice, Ukulele, Mandolin, Piano
Larra is the owner of Sweet Music Lessons and has enjoyed many years of introducing children and adults to the world of music. Larra trained privately with jazz vocal educator Lisa Martinelli and was an honours classical voice student with Loralie Kirkpatrick at the Royal Conservatory of Music, receiving her Grade 8 in Classical Voice. She also has piano training from the Royal Conservatory of Music. Larra began studying classical guitar at an early age and performing her original songs at local venues. Her debut music album “The World Disappears”, released under the name Larra Skye, became the #1 independent jazz album for HMV Canada in the year of its release. Her music has since appeared on national radio and television stations including the CBC and Jazz FM 91. She has performed in Canada and the U.S and her second album “Wishing Tree” was released in 2013 with Grammy-nominated producer Karen Kosowski. At present, Larra is teaching lessons exclusively at a private Christian school while she focuses on managing Sweet Music Lessons, performing her own music as well as playing trombone in a chamber orchestra.
Aliya
Piano, Double bass
Aliya began playing piano at seven years old in her home country of Kazakhstan and has continued ever since. She has a total of 10 years of classical piano training as well as a level 9 RCM certificate. In 2015, Aliya began teaching music to younger children of various ages. Additionally, she joined her high school jazz band where she played double bass for four years and had the opportunity to attend jazz clinics and workshops. She competed at the Lionel Hampton Jazz Festival several years in a row as part of a jazz ensemble. She also competed at the Upper Island Music Festival for several years winning gold and silver medals for numerous piano performances.
As a teacher, Aliya aims to build confidence and curiosity in her students. She believes in the value of music as a tool for developing creativity, discipline, and mindfulness.
Genevieve
Piano
Genevieve has been classically trained in piano since the age of 5, and has enjoyed many years studying, performing, and competing since. In addition to achieving level 9 RCM, she has received many accolades in piano including a Senior Piano award from the Annapolis Valley Music Festival at Acadia University. Her passion for music has taken her on to learn both guitar and trombone, as well as participate in musical theatre pit bands and concert ensembles. Genevieve knows the value of a personal musical journey, and loves to encourage students to be creative and mindful through exploring music that inspires them.
Peter
Guitar, Ukulele, Bass
Peter first picked up a guitar when he was 11 years old, and the instrument has played a prominent part in his life ever since. He was classically trained by Paul Ammirante and Ray Hickey Jr. through the Royal Conservatory of Music; from which he received his Grade 8 practical certification in classical guitar. He has played in Toronto punk and rock bands for over 10 years with whom he has toured Canada and the U.S.A. He has written songs and recorded several albums and EP’s. His musical style is versatile, encompassing heavier riffs and lighter tones.
Peter has been teaching guitar since 2005. Though rooted in fundamentals, he strongly encourages players to develop their own style, and recognizes the need for appropriate pacing and communication to ensure progress. He also stays up to date on all requirements for examinations with the RCM.
Victor
Piano, Guitar, Ukulele, Bass, Drums
Victor is a multi-instrumentalist, composer, and actor. He started piano at age 5, and went on to receive a Level 10 certificate in Piano Performance from the Royal Conservatory of Music. Along the way Victor picked up drums, as well as guitar and bass in high school. Since then he has played in local punk bands, and spent 2018 performing and recording with free improv group American Standard Trio. Victor is an avid collaborator across many different styles, and continues to perform solo and in improvised ensembles at various jazz/experimental music events in the GTA. Having taught privately since 2013, he is passionate about sharing the joy and curiosity that comes with creating music. True to his own influences, he encourages his students to let go of preconceptions about the role of music in our lives and what it takes to make it.
Andrea
Violin, Piano, Voice
Andrea studied violin at the Glenn Gould School (Royal Conservatory of Music). After graduating with her Resident Performance ARCT with a Minor in Piano, she attended the Henri Mancini Institute Summer Program for Emerging Professional Musicians with a full scholarship. Andrea has a Bachelors of Music degree from the Berklee College of Music in Boston where she learned about jazz, classical, pop, world music and fiddle styles. She developed her artistry by composing and writing songs. In Toronto, she began teaching violin, voice and beginner piano. With a kind, creative and thoughtful approach, Andrea’s collaborative teaching style is tailored to the student and their goals. Andrea has recorded three albums of original music and has toured Australia, United States, Germany, Turkey and Canada.