Maria Manetti Shrem Mentors

Mezzo soprano Sara Armstrong joins the ArtSmart team officially this 2025-26 school year after a decade of admiring the organization from the sidelines. She has worked as a private voice instructor, coach, and choral director for 20 years. Sara attended the S.U.N.Y. Purchase Conservatory of Music and Carnegie Mellon University where she studied opera and Italian. She completed apprenticeships with Sarasota Opera, Tulsa Opera, and Bel Canto at Caramoor and has performed leading and supporting roles with regional companies such as New Rochelle Opera, Winter Opera St. Louis, Opera Company of Middlebury, Western Plains Opera and Lake George Opera. Sara has been on the roster of the Metropolitan Opera Chorus since 2013. She lives in New Jersey with her husband, Chad – a former mentor for ArtSmart and current administrator – and their two musical kids, Iris and Theodore.

Mentoring Philosophy

A good mentor is primarily a good listener. I believe the role of the mentor is to teach by example. We model dependability, a strong work ethic, self-care, a healthy attitude towards learning and experiencing the world as a perpetual student.

Tajma Beverly (she/her) was born on the South Side of Chicago and, while she now happily resides in the San Francisco Bay Area, she “left her heart” in the Heartland. She earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Musical Theatre Performance from the University of Cincinnati’s College-Conservatory of Music (CCM).

Career highlights include working with director Francesca Zambello on LA Opera’s Porgy & Bess, receiving rave reviews for her portrayal of Jean in Girl Bar at Diversionary Theatre, and playing Diana Ross in a three-week run of Beehive: The 60s Musical, which was extended for an impressive nine months.

Tajma holds an Master of Music in American Popular Music History from California State University-Los Angeles and an Master of Fine Arts in Musical Theatre Writing from New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts.

As a composer, she creates musicals and operas that explore the minds, souls, and unacknowledged wounds of racial trauma experienced by Black families. Her work aims to “de-pathologize” Black people, advocate for Reparations, and foster Black Joy.

Mentoring Philosophy

A good mentor offers wisdom and experience. A good mentor sees and nurtures the unique gifts of each student.

Do not compare the beginning of your journey to the middle of someone else’s. Everyone’s path is unique. You are exactly where you need to be, on your unique path to becoming the Artist you are meant to be.

Jessica Bowen (she/her) is a violinist and dedicated music educator from Albany, New York. This is her first year teaching with ArtSmart. She brings over a decade of experience as both performer and instructor, helping students of all ages build strong technique and confidence in their musical voices.

Jessica holds a Bachelor of Music in Violin Performance from the Crane School of Music at SUNY Potsdam and continues postgraduate study with renowned pedagogue Burton Kaplan. As a performer, she has appeared with the Schenectady Saratoga Symphony Orchestra, Glens Falls Symphony, and Catskill Symphony, and has collaborated on projects spanning classical, bluegrass, and contemporary music.

Her teaching philosophy centers on the idea that music should be both disciplined and joyful. She tailors her approach to each student’s learning style, encouraging creativity and expression. Outside of teaching, she enjoys collecting vinyl, traveling for live music, and spending time with her cat, Sadie.

Mentoring Philosophy

Jessica believes that a good mentor brings out the best in each student. At ArtSmart Troy, that means showing up, listening, and helping each student along their journey in life through music.

Brian Brancato (he/him) is a music educator and multi-instrumentalist from Rochester, NY. He graduated in 2018 and 2019 from SUNY Potsdam (Crane School of Music) with his Bachelor and Master of Music degrees respectively in Music Education. He has been teaching private instrumental lessons at a few different studios in the area for the past four years, and works with students K–12 in the Shenendehowa Central School District. During the 2021–2022 school year, Brian taught instrumental music in the CHIME program, through the Empire State Youth Orchestra. In the fall of 2025, he began teaching for ArtSmart, in collaboration with the Troy Savings Bank Music Hall. He is passionate about music and connecting with people through music, and his teaching embodies an approach that meets students where they are and supports their musical and personal growth through culturally responsive experiences. Primarily a trumpet player, Brian performs with several bands in the Capital region, including the Trojan Horns, the NoLaNauts, and the Silver Arrow Band.

Mentoring Philosophy

Brian believes that a good mentor is embodied by someone who is a strong musical and interpersonal support for their students. Mentees should feel safe being musically and personally vulnerable with their mentor, and the mentor should listen to them and their concerns, even when it doesn’t concern the music. Sometimes people have bad days, and those incoming problems need to be addressed before productive or meaningful work can be done on the music.

Hailed as a singer possessing a “crystalline timbre and intense acting ability,” Puerto Rican soprano Carmen Elisa Cancél (she/her) uses her classical training to excel in a variety of musical genres including opera, musical theater, cabaret, jazz, and Latin music. Originally from Tampa, Florida, her singing has taken her throughout the US and around the world. Carmen’s holds degrees in Biology and Voice Performance (University of South Florida) which allow her to blend technical aspects of human anatomy with singing instruction while encouraging her students to have fun as they discover their true voice and build their vocal technique. She maintains a thriving vocal studio in NYC and has been a Mentor with ArtSmart for four years. (CarmenElisaSings.com)

Mentoring Philosophy

A good mentor is willing to listen to the students and meet them right where they are both mentally and emotionally on any given day. We are in a unique position to build the students up as they develop their voices and learn life skills that will carry them through adulthood.

“Do the best you can until you know better. Then when you know better, do better.” — Maya Angelou

KASSEY OLIVER CASTRO (they/them) is a Seattle-based conductor, composer, singer, voice teacher, and music educator. Kassey has conducted all types of music groups, from K-12 school choirs to community ensembles and beyond. They currently serve as the conductor for the Seattle Video Game Orchestra. As a composer, Kassey has written an opera about robots, arranged soundtracks from video games for choir, and has written music for local theatre productions. Outside of music, Kassey enjoys cooking dishes passed down from his Filipino mother, spinning records, and consuming ice cream. Kassey holds a degree in Music Education from the University of Washington.

Mentoring Philosophy

A great mentor meets students where they are at, and pays attention to their student’s interests, learning styles, and abilities. These mentors are also masters of their craft, always seeking to further their knowledge so that they can be the best role models for their students.

“It isn’t where you came from, it’s where you’re going that counts.” — Ella Fitzgerald

Kyle Chastulik (they/them) is a versatile songster and teaching artist based in West Philadelphia, originally from Chambersburg, PA. Recent performance highlights include Bass Soloist in Mozart’s Requiem (Haverford-Bryn Mawr Chorale), John in Alice Tierney (Opera on Tap Philadelphia), and the world premiere of Sleepers Awake with Opera Philadelphia. As a chorister, Kyle frequently appears with the Philadelphia Orchestra, VoxAmaDeus, and the Vox Renaissance Consort. 26/27 season appearances include Le Dancaïre in Carmen with Wilmington Concert Opera and Opera Fresca, as well as Aïda with Opera Philadelphia.

Kyle holds a Master of Music degree in Vocal Performance from Temple University, where they appeared as Figaro in Le nozze di Figaro, Golaud in Pélleas et Mélisande, and Prophet/King in Nico Muhly’s Dark Sisters. Kyle also holds a BFA from the Indiana University of Pennsylvania.

Committed to expanding access to music through performance and education, Kyle co-manages Opera On Tap Philadelphia, which eliminates barriers to the arts by presenting free and low cost vocal performances in unconventional spaces. In addition to being a seasoned soloist and chorister, Kyle frequently performs as a singing classical guitarist, presenting music ranging from the Renaissance to today. As a teaching artist, Kyle offers instruction in early childhood music, group voice/guitar/ukulele/piano classes, and private lessons to all ages in all musical styles. Kyle currently holds teaching positions with Opera Philadelphia, ArtSmart, and Beginnings Learning Center, as well as an ongoing roster of private students.

Mentoring Philosophy

A good mentor is able to tailor their teaching methods to the varying learning styles of their students. The mentor must be a warm presence who helps the student realize their creative and personal goals, fostering community-minded artistry.

Melanie Chirignan (she/her) is originally from Hauppauge, NY. She is a teaching artist at heart, and started working for Artsmart in 2025. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in music performance and music education, graduating magna cum laude from SUNY Fredonia and a Master of Music in flute performance from the Hartt School. She has taught all levels from elementary school to conservatory and college students. She has taught workshops on the “Origins of South American Folk Music” with the Alturas Duo. She was an adjunct faculty member at the College of Saint Rose and maintains a busy private teaching studio in addition to her busy performance schedule. Her Duo Envol, created a workshop listed on BOCES and NYS libraries database that leads a guided exploration of music and its connection to visual media, made possible thanks to a Saratoga Community Arts Grant. She has co-taught with pianist Melanie Hardage Improvisation workshops at Big Picture Learning.

Mentoring Philosophy

Melanie believes that a good mentor is someone that collaborates with each individual student to tailor their teaching to suit each student.

Mixti Tunal (they/them), is a two-spirit, non-binary, versatile vocalist, educator, and activist of mixed-Nahua ancestry. As a rising opera vocalist, they have performed roles such as Thérèse in Poulenc’s Les Mamelles de Tirésias, die Königin in Mozart’s Die Zauberflöte, and Winnie in Beecher’s Sky on Swings with Opera Saratoga. Mixti graduated with a Master of Music in Voice and Pedagogy in May 2022 from the Peabody Conservatory. They also hold a Bachelor of Music in Voice and a Bachelor of Arts in Comparative American Studies with an emphasis in Identity and Diversity Studies from Oberlin College and Conservatory. Additionally, they have an Associate of Arts in Latin American and Latinx Studies and an Associate of Science in Behavioral Sciences from City College of San Francisco. With over a decade of teaching experience, they are thrilled to be in their third year as a mentor with ArtSmart. Born and raised on Yelamu Ohlone land, Mixti is passionate about continuing to build community through their art, teaching, and daily organizing.

Mentoring Philosophy

A good mentor is someone who inspires and leads by listening and understanding to what the mentees interests, goals, and needs are. They create an environment where questions and feedback are encouraged, mistakes are welcomed, and advice is gently offered. A good mentor is committed to ensuring their mentees feel valued, understood, accommodated, and above all else, are celebrated!

“When you get these jobs that you have been so brilliantly trained for, just remember that your real job is that if you are free, you need to free somebody else. If you have some power, then your job is to empower somebody else. This is not just a grab-bag candy game.” – Toni Morrison

Emma Commisso (she/her) is a soprano and voice teacher from Latham, NY. She completed her B.M. in Vocal Performance and Music Education in December 2024 at Ithaca College. Certified as a K-12 Music Teacher in New York State, Emma taught General Music and Chorus at Boght Hills Elementary in the spring of 2025. She began working with ArtSmart in October 2025. Recent credits include serving as a local artist for Opera Saratoga, Flora in Opera Ithaca’s “The Turn of the Screw,” Stella in Ithaca College’s “Le dernier sorcier,” and Sister Terry Vitale in Proctors Collaborative’s “Tony ‘N Tina’s Wedding.” Emma also completed training as a Young Artist for the International Performing Arts Institute in Kiefersfelden, Germany in July 2025. She won second place in IPAI’s aria competition. Emma hopes that all of her students will walk away from their lessons feeling supported and excited about singing.

Mentoring Philosophy

Emma believes that a good mentor teaches their students how to be great people first, great musicians second. A good mentor also leads by example.

Lisa Gwyn Daltirus was (she/her) born in Plainfield, New Jersey, and has resided in the Philadelphia area for over 30 years. She has been teaching and mentoring with ArtSmart since the 2019–2020 program year, specializing in one-on-one voice instruction across multiple genres.

An alumna of Westminster Choir College in Princeton, New Jersey, where she majored in Voice and Opera Performance, Lisa brings over 25 years of professional singing experience to her work. Her international performance credits include Opera Philadelphia, the Metropolitan Opera, Royal Danish Opera in Copenhagen, Cape Town Opera in South Africa, and performances with orchestras in New York, Philadelphia, and Boston, as well as the Radio Philharmonic of Amsterdam.

Lisa has also spent four summer seasons as a musical theatre teaching artist at performing arts camps and currently serves as Music Director at Plymouth Performing Arts Center.

She believes that equipping young people with the skills, creativity, and appreciation for music’s enduring legacy is essential to building a strong and stable world. She is equally passionate about helping students develop valuable life skills and discover the many career paths that intersect with and complement the music industry. Naturally sociable, Lisa enjoys collaborating and sharing ideas with people from diverse backgrounds.

Mentorship Philosophy

“As a mentor, I am building relationships and trust to foster confidence and give support to each student’s life. It is important to not only lead understanding in a subject matter but to be cognizant and caring of the personal needs of the person. Mentoring requires flexibility and collaborating and openness to new ideas.”

Ryan Daly (they/them) has been an ArtSmart Mentor since 2022. Based in Chicago, they are an active performer and educator both in the Chicago area and across the country. Heard with companies like the Opera Festival of Chicago, Opera Omaha, and Shreveport Opera, some of Ryan’s favorite roles include Don José in Carmen, Bacchus in Ariadne auf Naxos, and Lensky in Eugene Onegin. Ryan holds a Bachelor of Music degree in Vocal Performance from Abilene Christian University and a Master of Music degree in Opera from Temple University. In addition to their work at ArtSmart, Ryan serves as a Professor of Voice at Valparaiso University. As a teacher, Ryan has had students accepted into conservatory-level programs for musical theater and voice, including Roosevelt University, Columbia College, and Temple University. Professionally, former students of Ryan’s have performed in Broadway national tours, Off-Broadway productions, and in regional theaters across the country. When they’re not teaching, Ryan enjoys tending to their many houseplants.

Mentoring Philosophy
I believe the most important trait in a mentor is the ability to listen with empathy. Singing is a beautiful way to express and access emotions, and creating a safe space to experience that is incredibly important to me.

“Failure is an opportunity to learn, not something to fear.”

Anna Donnelly (she/her) is a professional soprano and teaching artist originally from Cincinnati, OH, now based in Chicago. She has been a She performs regularly with Lyric Opera of Chicago Chorus, Chicago Symphony Orchestra Chorus, and Lyric Opera of the North. Some recent credits include the Voice of the High Priestess (Aida) and Sarah in the premiere workshop of Two Corners with Finger Lakes Opera. Other notable roles include Gretel (Hänsel und Gretel), Drusilla (L’Incoronazione di Poppea), Soeur Constance (Dialogues des Carmélites), and Pamina (Die Zauberflöte). Anna holds a Master of Music in Voice Performance and a Graduate Certificate in Vocology from Indiana University. In addition to her performing career, Anna is passionate about teaching. She founded her private voice studio in 2023, serves on the faculty at Harold Washington College, and has been a Maria Manetti Shrem Mentor with ArtSmart since 2025. Her teaching philosophy centers on meeting each student’s unique needs, cultivating a growth mindset, and fostering a lifelong love of music and singing. Anna loves to spend time outside, hiking, biking, and distance running.

Mentoring Philosophy
A good mentor creates trust and safety while empowering students to discover their own voice. Effective mentorship balances guidance, structure, and encouragement with deep listening and respect for each student’s individuality. A great mentor leads with compassion and emotional intelligence to support the holistic student, not just their musical aspirations.

Charis Duke (she/her) grew up in Frederick, Maryland, where she was an active community musician. She holds a Bachelor of Music in Music Composition from Brigham Young University and a Master of Music in Music Composition from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. Her compositions have been performed internationally and have received numerous awards, including the Nancy Van de Vate International Prize for Opera and the Robert Campbell Endowed Composition Prize from Ithaca College.

As a pianist, Charis specializes in contemporary music and extended piano techniques, with a particular interest in the works of George Crumb. She is also an active theatre musician, regularly conducting and playing keyboards in the orchestra pits of various theatrical productions.

Mentoring Philosophy

Charis believes that good mentor is open to the desires and goals of the student and designs a course of study that facilities improvement in those goals from a sound pedagogical foundation. Adaptability is key to building trust in the student-mentor relationship.

Noah Farnsworth (he/him) is a vocalist, educator, and conductor based in Philadelphia. He grew up in Charlotte, North Carolina, where he first fell in love with music while playing saxophone and mellophone in his high school’s marching band. He began singing at the University of Delaware while obtaining his Honors Bachelor of Music and Master of Music degrees in French Horn Performance. After completing his Master’s degree, Noah relocated to Philadelphia and began teaching with ArtSmart in 2025. Since moving to Philadelphia, he has been active as a choral teaching artist, choir director, and freelance choral singer. Recent performance highlights include traveling to the 2026 European Grand Prix of Choral Singing in Maribor, Slovenia, and winning the 56th Tolosa International Choral Competition, both as a member of the Delaware Choral Scholars. When he is not singing, conducting, or teaching, Noah enjoys playing board games, eating breakfast sandwiches, and hanging out with his tuxedo cat Oreo.

Mentoring Philosophy

Noah believes that a good mentor is defined by their presence as a teacher, ability to model excellence, and willingness to respond to the individual needs of a particular student.

LaVon (she/her) is super excited to return as a mentor for Artsmarts this year.LaVon has a BFA and NFA in Fine Arts, and was seen in Broadway in The Color Purple, Chicago the Musical, Lysistrata Jones, and Disney’s Newsies! She can also be seen as Big Mana in Disneys Teen Beach Movie!! Lavon is honored to share all of her expertise with her ArtSmart Mentees this year!

Mentoring Philosophy

LaVon believes that to be a good mentor, you must invest time in your students. Also, a good mentor gets to know what type of music their students are interested in and gives them the proper coaching to sound their very best when singing and performing their song.

Gabriel Garcia (he/him/they/them) is an interdisciplinary musician and artist currently based in Brooklyn, NY and originally hailing from Hartford, CT. Gabriel holds a BFA in Classical Music from Carnegie Mellon University. Their collaborations with visual artists, engineers, and composers at CMU inspired them to pursue an MM in Contemporary Performance at Manhattan School of Music.

Since then, Gabriel has performed as a Vocal Fellow with the Grant Park Music Festival, served as a traditional cantor in New York City’s most prominent Catholic churches, and appeared as a soloist in baroque and liturgical concerts throughout New England. Gabriel is an active contributor to the NYC underground and DIY scene, performing and DJing at some of the city’s most notable venues such as Nowadays, TV Eye, Trans-Pecos, Intercomm, and countless others. Alongside violinist and composer Yaz Lancaster, their experimental ambient duo “medium.” has performed and presented at New Ear Festival, Princeton University, NYU, Operator Radio (NL), and most recently Gaudeamus Festival in Utrecht, Netherlands.

Gabriel has had the privilege of learning music through Suzuki, Orff, and Dalcroze pedagogies, and incorporates elements of all three into their own teaching and artistic practice.

Mentoring Philosophy

A good mentor’s impact doesn’t stop at the door to the practice room. They can give support when necessary, instill drive to overcome challenges, provide an outlet for expression, and most importantly give the student the opportunity to believe in themselves.

“When one teaches, two learn.” – Robert Heinlein

Paul Giess (he/him) is a trumpet player, producer and educator, Born in West Chester PA. Since receiving a Bachelors in Music Industry from James Madison University and Masters in Jazz Studies from Louisiana State Paul has garnered extensive teaching experience while living in Philadelphia since 2013. As a performing artist Paul can be seen performing as a leader and a side musicians with artists including Yolanda Wisher and the Afroeaters, Jamaaladeen Tacuma, Kimpedro’s Nu Gruv. Paul has performed at festivals including the Lancaster Avenue Jazz Festival, New York City Jazz Festival and the the Timitar Fesitival in Agadir Morocco. Paul brings his performance experience into his lessons with Artsmart students encouraging them to search their individuality through music.

Mentoring Philosophy 

Encouraging students and building their confidence and setting a good example they can look toward.

“What we play is life.” – Louis Armstrong

Sergio Gonzalez (he/him) was born in El Paso, TX. He has lived in SF since 2006. He started teaching with ArtSmart in 2022. He graduated from the San Francisco Conservatory of Music under the tutelage of Cesar Ulloa. Gonzalez recently made his Opera San Jose debut as Tamino in their production of Mozart’s Die Zauberflöte. His students have gone onto prestigious vocal programs around the US such as USC, UCLA, Oberlin Conservatory & Northwestern University.

Mentoring Philosophy
I believe communication, respect and understanding are essential to being a good mentor. 

“Work hard, have fun, and make it happen.” –Rafael Nadal

Joshua Gruft (he/him) is a musician, educator, and bookstore owner from Latham, New York, whose musical journey began at Forts Ferry Elementary School. He developed his craft at Finger Lakes Community College, earning a degree in recording engineering, before completing his bachelor’s degree in music education at City College in Harlem. As a drummer and pianist, Joshua has performed at venues throughout New York City and upstate New York, bringing his love of rhythm, collaboration, and live performance to a variety of musical settings. In 2023, he opened Paper Moon Bookstore in Troy, creating a welcoming space for the literary arts and a gathering place for readers, writers, and artists. His creative philosophy is simple: have fun and never hold back on your passion to perform. One unexpected highlight of his musical journey: his drumming can be heard in a 2004 episode of Nickelodeon’s television series The Adventures of Jimmy Neutron.

Mentoring Philosophy
Joshua believes that a good mentor is hands-on and encouraging, giving students room to experiment, make mistakes, and discover their own creative voices. Above all, he want them to have fun, trust their ideas, and never hold back on their passion to perform.

Mimi Hilaire (she/her)is a first year teaching artist at ArtSmart. Her BM from Ithaca College as well as her MM from Mannes College have prepared her for a unique and fulfilling career in music. Not only has she sung the title roles of Aida and Tosca in NYC and across the country, she has a deep love for teaching voice and is also the chair of the voice department at Brooklyn Music School. Mimi believes that a voice teacher should see the best in all of their students and push them towards a greater vision of what is possible. The best way to make a great singer is to nurture their confidence.

Mentoring Philosophy

Mimi believes that a good mentor never gives up on their students, but is always a consistent and encouraging voice. It’s important to teach acceptance for what is, and where a student might be in the moment, while pushing them to persevere towards something better.

Marissa Howard (she/her) is a vocalist and passionate educator from Littleton, Colorado. She began teaching with ArtSmart in 2025. Marissa holds a Master’s degree in Voice Performance from the University of Memphis and a Bachelor’s in Voice Performance from Roosevelt University. As a performer, she sings with the Chicago Symphony Chorus, has appeared with Chicago Opera Theater, toured with Opera Saratoga’s outreach program, and performed internationally in Europe. Based in Chicago, she continues to perform throughout the city. Outside of music, Marissa is an avid runner, book lover, and proud cat mom to two furry companions.

Mentoring Philosophy

A good mentor listens actively and offers guidance tailored to each individual’s goals and strengths. They lead by example, demonstrating integrity, patience, and a commitment to continuous growth. Most importantly, they empower others to believe in their potential and take ownership of their journey.

Sean Jones (he/him/his) is a performing musician, educator, audio engineer, and arts marketing professional originally from Scotia, New York. He joined ArtSmart as a teaching artist in 2026, bringing a diverse background in music performance, composition, production, and arts education.

Sean holds a Bachelor of Arts in Arts Management and a Bachelor of Music in Studio Composition from Purchase College, as well as a Master of Music in Music Technology from Southern Utah University. A multi-instrumentalist and singer-songwriter, he performs on violin, viola, guitar, and voice.

As an educator, Sean is passionate about fostering joy, curiosity, and excitement through the arts. He strives to create a welcoming environment where students can explore their creativity, build confidence, and discover their unique artistic voices. Outside of music, Sean is an avid outdoor enthusiast who enjoys exploring Upstate New York.

Mentoring Philosophy

Sean believes that a good mentor creates a welcoming and supportive environment where students feel encouraged to explore, ask questions, and discover their own creative voices. I believe mentorship is about fostering curiosity, building confidence, and inspiring a lifelong sense of joy and excitement around the arts.

Maya Lassiter (she/her) is a multidisciplinary artist who has been within the entertainment industry for over 18 years as a performer, composer, director, producer, and educator. She began her teaching career at 13 as a student instructor alongside her vocal coach Chrissie Loftus at the Music and Mentorship Program of Philadelphia. Once in high school, she started the school’s first glee club Vibrato. Maya spent the next eight years performing at dozens of venues around the city further mastering her performance skills. The Philadelphia native set her sights on Boston as she furthered her music education at Berklee College of Music. In 2018 she created Intertwined Entertainment LLC, an arts-centered holistic wellness company. Her teaching philosophy is rooted in curating safe environments for art and emotional expression.

Mentoring Philosophy

I listen. I specialize in whole-body wellness. As a vocalist, our instrument lives inside of us; whatever is not in homeostasis will show up in our performance. I pay attention to the individual, address their needs, give resources from my field, and show them love and respect. 

“I believe in myself, I got this, I’m talented, I am more than enough! Whatever happens, happens. It’s not the end of the world. It’s only a moment.”

Seattle tenor Carson Truett Lott (he/him) has appeared as a featured soloist with Tacoma Bach Festival, Harmonia Orchestra and Chorus, Inland Northwest Opera, Cascadia Chamber Opera, Orpheus PDX, the Seattle Opera Creation Lab, and more. Carson spends most of his time doing ensemble-based singing, and can be heard singing regularly around Seattle with the Seattle Opera Chorus, Evergreen Ensemble, the Compline Choir of St. Mark’s Episcopal Cathedral, the newly formed Nothing Gold Vocal Ensemble, and the choirs of Epiphany Parish where he works as a staff soloist and voice instructor. Carson has been teaching with ArtSmart since 2023, and holds music degrees from Seattle University and the University of Oregon.

Mentoring Philosophy

A good mentor listens to their students no matter what, accepts them where they are, and does everything possible to create and maintain an environment where the student can flourish.

“There’s nothing you can’t solve with a good vocal warm-up.”

Megan McFadden (she/her) just began mentoring with ArtSmart this fall (2025). She’s from Gettysburg, PA and earned dual bachelor’s degrees in Music Education and Music Therapy at Mansfield University and a master’s degree in Vocal Performance and Literature at The Eastman School of Music. She has performed with the Rochester Chamber Orchestra, Finger Lakes Choral Festival, The Eastman Rochester Chorus and currently performs with Opera Philadelphia and the Philadelphia Symphonic Choir. Megan has taught public school music as well as individual lessons in voice, piano, guitar, and violin. When she’s not teaching or making music, she’s spending time with her two children, baking, collecting antique books, or watching Philly sports.

Mentorship Philosophy

Megan believes that a good mentor meets a student where they are and they travel together from there. They work collaboratively to set goals and achieve growth and skills. A good mentor is flexible and open to different people and circumstances.

Adrian Melendez (he/him) is a vocalist and pianist from Las Vegas, Nevada, who has been a mentor with ArtSmart since Fall 2026. He is classically trained in voice and holds a Bachelor’s degree in Opera Performance from the USC Thornton School of Music. His professional opera credits include performances in Los Angeles, Miami, and internationally in Berlin and Italy. Beyond classical music, Adrian has performed professionally in rock, jazz, and pop genres on the Las Vegas Strip.

As a pianist, Adrian has performed with pop and rock bands in Las Vegas and Los Angeles and recorded keyboards on an original album with the R&B group Yello. He received classical piano training and participated in jazz ensembles while attending the Las Vegas Academy of the Arts.

Adrian has been teaching voice and piano since 2022. He is passionate about helping students discover their inner artist, develop their musical abilities, and cultivate skills they may never have known they possessed.

Mentoring Philosophy

Adrian believes that a good mentor has awareness of each students’ strengths and weaknesses, and uses them to create a learning process and environment that is best suited for them. A good mentor should believe in and share excitement with the student as they make strides in their music-making journey. When a mentor challenges the student and passes on the tools and skills for music making to them, it empowers the student to be the kind of musician they want to be and instills a sense of self-believe in their artistry and sparks their creative mind.

Andrew W. Monath (he/ him) earned a bachelor’s degree in Music Education from Westminster Choir College and a master’s degree in Integrated Arts Education with a concentration in Musical Theater from Arcadia University. He has served ArtSmart as a vocal mentor since 2022. Andrew  has spent over 30 years as both a music educator and a church/ synagogue musician in the greater Philadelphia area. He is currently a choral music teaching artist and division lead with Play on Philly where he directs a choral program of 235 students in grades 1-12. Andrew is also the organist and choir director for High Holy Days at Congregation Rodeph Shalom and Director of Music Ministries at St. Mark’s Lutheran Church in Conshohocken. He is currently serving as the baritone section leader in the Philadelphia Gay Men’s Chorus, and sings Bass with Singing City and the Philadelphia Symphonic Choir, the latter which performs regularly with the Philadelphia Orchestra. A Broadway connoisseur, Andrew spends most of his free time supporting the arts and the people who create it.

Mentoring Philosophy:

First and foremost we teach humans. Music is just a vessel. Everyone has an instrument within them that can be nurtured. 

“No one leaves here a worse musician.” – Bill Evans

Isaiah Musik-Ayala (he/him) is from the small town of Ukiah, California, where he was fortunate to have incredible music teachers who inspired his journey. Isaiah joined ArtSmart in 2023 and is thrilled to see his students already making great strides—an experience that is both exciting and rewarding. For Isaiah, studying music and voice is a lifelong commitment, and he’s grateful for the opportunity to teach, share, and grow alongside his students and the community.

Isaiah graduated from the Oberlin College and Conservatory with a Bachelor of Music in Vocal Performance and a Bachelor of Arts in English Literature.

Learn more at www.isaiahmusik-ayala.com.

Mentoring Philosophy

Caring, connecting, showing up, and having a toolbox to work through issues both technical and emotional.

“Don’t show the seams of your art.” — Richard Miller

“The audience wants to see you sweat a little.” — Myself, paraphrasing many others 🙂

Russell Pinzino (he/him) was born in Maplewood, New Jersey, and has been working with ArtSmart since 2023. He received a Bachelor of Music from Northwestern University in 2019, majoring in Music Education and Vocal Performance. He regularly performs with several Chicago-based ensembles, such as Music of the Baroque, Stare at the Sun, and Constellation Men’s Ensemble, and loves helping students of all ages reach and surpass their musical goals.

Mentoring Philosophy

A good mentor tailors their instruction to each student individually, helping them identify specific goals, and reach them on a concrete timeline.

Baritone and Westville, NJ native Scott Purcell (he/him) has been recognized for his strong baritone voice, receiving praise from the National Opera Association as well as Broadway World. Since starting at ArtSmart in 2018, Scott focuses on helping students develop their love for music and achieve personal fulfillment through singing. His performance credits include numerous performances of Figaro in Il barbiere di Siviglia at Annapolis Opera, Tri Cities Opera, Opera Louisiane, and Druid City Opera. Scott is also an accomplished interpreter of new works, including the title role in the world premiere of Evan Mack’s Roscoe at Seagle Music Colony, and Cipullo’s Glory Denied at Tri Cities Opera. Scott can also be heard on the live recording of Blitzstein’s The Cradle Will Rock with Opera Saratoga and Bridge Records. Scott holds a Doctor of Musical Arts in Voice Performance and Pedagogy from Louisiana State University and serves as an Artist Affiliate at Lehigh University.

Mentoring Philosophy

A good mentor is patient, honest, and constructive. Mentors lead by example, both in their professional and personal lives, and should embody everything they wish their students to be.

Psalm 23: 4-6: “Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.”

Kayleigh Reimer (she/her) is a soprano, church musician, and music educator based in Bremerton, Washington. Most recently, she has taught the choirs and beginning orchestra at Mountain View Middle School, and was a featured guest speaker (“A Singer’s Guide to Vocally Demanding Seasons”) for RSCM West and Midwest. Kayleigh has sung with numerous renowned ensembles, including Symphony Tacoma Voices, Seattle Pro Musica, and SoundCity Singers. In addition Kayleigh has served as guest worship leader and musician for a diverse range of churches in the Puget Sound Region, and is a Music Minister for Shalom Anglican Church.

She holds a Bachelor of Music degree in Vocal Music Education from St. Olaf College, and currently studies voice with Dr. Kari Ragan while pursuing a Master of Arts in Vocal Pedagogy with Voice Study Centre.

In her spare time, Kayleigh likes to go on long walks, drink lattes, and spend time with her husband and daughter, preferably all at the same time.

Mentoring Philosophy

Be gentle with yourself; you’re doing the best you can. I love working with others as they discover their voice! It is a privilege and honor to walk alongside students as they grow both as humans and musicians.

Originally from the historic town of Irbit, Russia, Irina Rindzuner (she/her) moved to the United States twenty-seven years ago. She holds a Master’s degree in Musical Theater from the Yekaterinburg State Theater Institute, Postgraduate Studies in Vocal Performance and Pedagogy from the Ural State Conservatory, and a Professional Studies Diploma in Voice Performance from The Mannes College of Music in New York City.

Irina’s distinguished career includes leading operatic roles in prestigious houses around the world, such as The Metropolitan Opera of New York, Den Norske Opera in Norway, Teatro Municipal de Santiago in Chile, Opéra de Nice in France, and the Puccini Festival in Torre del Lago, Italy, among others.

In addition to her performing career, Irina has always maintained a private voice studio, with students following her across Europe. Her deep passion for teaching drives her to share her love of singing and extensive knowledge with young artists, helping them develop their vocal skills and artistry.

Since joining the ArtSmart team in 2022, Irina has been dedicated to extending her expertise and experience to students in underserved communities.

Mentoring Philosophy

I believe that everyone has unique potential and deserves a supportive environment to help nurture and develop it. In my studio, I strive to create that environment, offering each student the opportunity to grow and achieve their fullest potential.

“Start by doing what is necessary, then what is possible. And suddenly you’ll be surprised doing the impossible.” — Saint Francis of Assisi

Danette (she/her) was born and raised in NYC, living in Jersey City, NJ, and beginning in 2023, she is now starting her second year as a Mentor with Art Smart. A woman commonly described as having infectious energy, and holds a B.A. in Music from New Jersey City University ( concentration on musical theatre)

Currently, Ringmaster of Omnium Circus, Danette is one of only 8 female Ringmasters in world history to date. Also, she made history as the First Featured Female Vocalist in the 150-year history of Ringling Bros. Barnum & Bailey Circus.

Wearing a lot of hats, Danette can also be described as Mother, Widow, Actress, Singer, Host, Emcee, and Entrepreneur, to name a few.

Mentoring Philosophy
My approach to teaching involves lots of encouragement, positive reinforcement, and confidence building. I think a good mentor is fun and inspiring, listens and provides support, and encourages growth and accomplishment, while enriching the life of the mentee with useful knowledge, positive role-modeling, and patience.

“You may not control the events that happen to you, but you can decide not to be reduced by them.” –Maya Angelou

Mezzo-soprano Katie H. Stevenson (she/her) has performed in numerous concerts and operas on the East Coast, Canada, and Europe before moving to Seattle in 2015. Previous roles include the title role in Carmen (Amici Opera Philadelphia), Emilia in Otello (Atlantic Coast Opera Festival), The Secretary in The Consul (Halifax Summer Opera), Mercedes in Carmen (Amore Opera NYC), Romeo in I Capuleti e i Montecchi (Ido Dinner Theatre NYC), Dorabella in Cosi fan tutte (ASOP N. Carolina and STC in NYC), Lola in Cavalleria Rusticana (Amici Opera Phil.) In Seattle she has performed in concert and as Lola in Cavalleria Rusticana (Puget Sound Concert Opera), Flora in La Traviata, Emilia in Otello and Annina in Der Rosenkavalier (Pacific NW Opera), Tourriere in Suor Angelica (Anchorage Opera and Seattle Modern Opera Company), and “Dawn” Basillio in Il Barbiere di Sivilgia and Papagena/3rd Lady in The Magic Flute (NW Opera in Schools Etc). Ms. Stevenson’s concert appearances include the Messiah soloist with the Anchorage Concert Symphony and at the Bellevue Festival, the Ilmington Music Festival in England, the Kilkenny Festival in Ireland, solo concerts in Germany, and with the Ladies’ Musical Club in Seattle. She now enjoys a happy balance of performing and teaching voice and piano, while enjoying a lovely home life with husband and pups. www.katiehstevensonmezzo.com

Mentoring Philosophy

“Music was my refuge. I could crawl into the space between the notes and curl my back to loneliness.”-Maya Angelou

A native of Sacramento, soprano Christine Moore Vassallo (she/her) is a versatile performer and sought-after teacher, having trained numerous competition winners. She has been a proud ArtSmart mentor in NYC since 2019, working at Brooklyn Tech, East New York Family Academy, and, since 2021, her current assignment at Celia Cruz Bronx High School of Music. Christine is a graduate of the Manhattan School of Music and has trained at Tanglewood, Chautauqua School, Central City Opera, and Santa Fe Opera. She was a Regional Finalist (Pacific) in the Metropolitan Opera Guild Competition and has sung Mimi in La Bohème (with Oper Leipzig, where she performed for several years), Micaëla in Carmen, the title roles in Madama Butterfly, Suor Angelica, and Aida, Alice Ford in Falstaff, Donna Anna in Don Giovanni, and Countess in Le Nozze di Figaro. Her recordings include Christine Moore–Arias and the recently released From Al Andalus to the Americas–An Odyssey of Spanish Song. Christine speaks five languages fluently.

Mentoring Philosophy

“Patience, dedication, skill, and passion are the four most important ingredients for making a good mentor. You have to love the idea of having an effect on a young person that could change their view of themselves, and even their lives.”

“You are the bows from which your children as living arrows are sent forth. The archer sees the mark upon the path of the infinite, and He bends you with His might that His arrows may go swift and far. Let your bending in the archer’s hand be for gladness. For even as He loves the arrow that flies, so He loves also the bow that is stable.” — Kahlil Gibran

Al Vieau (they/them) is a musician and actor from Chicopee, Massachusetts with a wide range of experience in various styles of music such as classical, musical theatre, pop, jazz, and song writing. They hold both a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree and Advanced Music Studies Certificate in Voice from Carnegie Mellon University and a Master of Music degree in Voice from the San Francisco Conservatory of Music. From an early age, they participated in various local gigs, community theatre, and even music-directed their collegiate acapella group. Al has been seen in the Bay area performing with Pocket Opera, Cinnabar Theater, and SF Salon Music. Their recent performance highlights at SFCM include Gherardo in Puccini’s Gianni Schicchi (2024), Miss Shingle in A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder (2024), Armelinde in Viardot’s Cendrillon (2024), La tasse and La libellule in Ravel’s L’enfant et les sortilèges (2023). In addition to performing, they also teach music with Songbird Studios in the city!

Mentoring Philosophy
A good mentor is an honest and empathetic person who establishes a safe space for productive conversation and growth. It requires knowledge, vulnerability, open-mindedness, and the willingness to learn with and from others in the process. Specifically in music creation, even more so because making music is one of the most vulnerable things someone can share with another person. There must be trust on that journey. In my one-on-one teaching, I promote a safe space for any emotions to arise and for my students to share anything with me as we work creatively. Creating spaces for openness promotes the exploration of authentic creativity, which is most important to me in my teaching.

“Creativity comes with being human. It’s in all of us. It’s just a matter of how we find it and express it.”

Ben Wager, A Havertown, PA native, has been with ArtSmart for five years. He brings over a decade of experience as a professional classical musician and has traveled the world singing with many of the world’s leading opera and classical music companies. Ben has a master’s degree from the prestigious Academy of Vocal Arts in Philadelphia. His interests outside of music include the outdoors, real estate, home renovation, travel (especially in Mexico), and learning languages.

Mentoring Philosophy

“I have extensive professional experience in a wide array of musical genres. I have professional performing experience that reaches back over a decade.”

Cynthia Wuco (she/her) is the proud Great Grand-niece of the composer of the Philippine National Anthem Julian Felipe. Cynthia has collaborated with many composers such as Philippine National Composer Bayani Mendoza De Leon. Bayani composed the role of Maria Clara in “Mga Sugatang Perlas” especially for her which she sang in the World Premier at Town Hall. (Recording 1994). Garah Landes composed “The Rain” (recording 2000) and “The Tunnel” for her and has performed it with Paquito D’Rivera at Symphony Space. (Both are on Youtube) Cynthia received her Bachelor of Music from Juilliard and Master’s degree from Manhattan School of Music. She has been a proud educator for 25 years. Her voice students have been accepted to various prestigious institutions such as Howard University, Rutgers, Metropolitan Opera’s Children’s Chorus, University of Miami, Oberlin, Westminster Choir College, Catholic University, New York University, Manhattan School of Music, Marymount, Tanglewood Music Festival and Juilliard. She has been the soloist and music director for L’Eglise Du St. Esprit (French Church of NYC) for over 33 years. This is her 2nd year with ArtSmart.

Mentoring Philosophy

“Patience! When speaking with young people, remember to listen, hold that space for them. Don’t be afraid to pause and wait. I know I sometimes quickly respond and try to offer advice when I should be listening more.”

Favorite Quote

“Don’t die with your music still in you!” — Dr. Wayne Dyer