(C) = Canandaigua, (R & C) = both Rochester and Canandaigua locations. All others teach in Rochester.



Maria Fontes Arreaza (piano). Masters and Bachelors degrees from the Julliard School. Has performed with Young Artists Orchestra, the Simon Bolivar Orchestra, and on radio and television in Venezuela. Chamber and solo performances in Caracas, Washington D.C., NYC, and Texas. Former faculty member at Galveston College (TX). Joined the Hochstein faculty in 1990.

Marcy Bacon (clarinet, ensembles). (on leave) Doctor of Musical Arts degree from the Eastman School of Music; Master of Music in Clarinet Performance from Michigan State University; Bachelor of Music in Clarinet Performance from Portland State University. Holds early Childhood and General Music Level I Certification from the Gordon Institute for Music Learning (GIML) and serves as the historian for GIML National. Founding member of the New York State Chapter of GIML (NY-GIML).  Principal teachers include Kenneth Grant, Elsa Ludewig-Verdehr and Stan Stanford. Teaches clarinet at Nazareth College of Rochester and previously taught at SUNY Fredonia, Jamestown City School District and the Diocese of Rochester.  Performs regularly with the Western New York Chamber Orchestra andHochstein's contemporary music ensemble, Twenty21; clarinetist for a newly formed woodwind quintet.  Has recorded on the Oregon Catholic Press label playing sacred music and compositions by Jacob Avshalomov. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2005. website

Ruth Marie Ballance (violin, viola, ensembles). Master and Bachelor of Music degrees in Violin Performance from the Cleveland Institute of Music where she was the winner of the Darius Milhaud Performance Prize, CIM Concerto Competition, and Jerome Gross Prize in Violin. Was first teaching fellow, then faculty member of CREDO Opus One and CREDO Chamber Music in Oberlin (OH). Named Assistant Artistic Director of Opus One in January, 2006. Has been appointed to the faculties of CIM Preparatory Department, Broadway School of Music and Arts, and Austin Chamber Music Center Summer Workshop, among others. Extensive performing experience of solo, chamber music, and orchestral repertoire, and violin substitute for Cleveland Pops and Westmoreland Symphony (Greensburg, PA). Joined Hochstein faculty in 2006.

Jeanine Beahan (flute). Master's degree from DePaul University (Chicago); Bachelor of Music degree from Ithaca College. Has performed with the Orchestra of Illinois, Chicago Civic Orchestra, Omaha Symphony, and Oak Park Opera Orchestra. Currently principal flutist for the Finger Lakes Symphony Orchestra and performs regularly with the Lydian Winds and the Greater Rochester Women's Orchestra. Has taught instrumental music in the Livonia Central School District since 1995. Joined Hochstein faculty in 1990.

Karen Bergemann(music therapy). Bachelor of Music degree in Music Therapy from Nazareth College; completed internship at BOCES I Morgan School. Received clinical experience at CP Rochester, Strong Ties, St. John’s Home, and BOCES I, among others. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2008.

Paula Rodney Bobb (piano). Master of Music degree in Piano Performance from the New England Conservatory of Music; Bachelor of Arts degree in Music from the University of Pittsburgh. Studied with Natalie Phillips and Patricia Zander. Active as soloist, accompanist and chamber musician. Joined Hochstein website

Barb Bonisteel (Music FUNdamentals). Received Level I Orff certification through the Eastman School of Music. Developed Music to Grow program for children ages 18 months to 5 years. Currently teaching early childhood programs at the Penfield and Perinton recreation centers. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2001.

Nancy Boone (saxophone, jazz studies). Master's and Bachelor's degrees in Woodwinds from the Eastman School of Music where she was recipient of the Performer's Certificate. 1991 winner of the North American Saxophone Alliance Classical Competition, and in 1993, the Phi Mu Alpha soloist with the Eastman Wind Ensemble. Occasional member of the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra and frequently performs with big bands and in orchestras of local theater productions. Joined Hochstein faculty in 1993.

Sandra Boysen (voice). Doctor of Music in Voice Performance and Master of Music in Voice Performance from Florida State University. Manhattan cabaret debut in 2001 at NYC's Don't Tell Mama Cabaret. Held teaching internship from the National Association of Teachers of Singing, and Artist Fellowship from Bach Aria Festival. Studied/coached with Roy Delp, Carol Webber and Timothy Hoekman. Performed throughout the Philippines and in roles with Mobile Opera, Palm Beach Opera, Pensacola Opera, Opera Rochester and others, as well as on Live from Hochstein. Recitalist throughout U.S. and frequent soloist with Rochester Oratorio Society, the Eastman School of Music, Cornell, and others. Performed world premiere of works by composer Paul Stuart in 2003 and 2007. Former faculty member at Nazareth College. Joined Hochstein faculty website

Michael Callahan (music theory). PhD candidate in Music Theory at Eastman School of Music. Research interests include Baroque improvisation, post--tonal music, Romantic Lieder, jazz, the history of theory, and pedagogy, among others. Active as an arranger, conductor, visual designer (for marching bands), adjudicator, woodwind doubler (saxes, clarinets, flute), and keyboardist. Studies harpsichord with Dr. WIlliam Porter. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2007.

Lisa R. Caravan (cello, Suzuki cello, chamber ensembles). Master of Music degree in Performance and Literature with Orchestral Studies at the Eastman School of Music; Bachelor of Music degree in Music Education from Temple University. Former associations with the Greater Rochester Women’s Orchestra, the Eastman Philharmonia, Roberts Wesleyan College-Community Orchestra, among others. Teaching experience includes school instrumental program and private instruction. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2006.

Patricia Carpenter (Charter School). Bachelor of Music from State University of New York at Fredonia, Vocal Music Education major, proficient in flute; Candidate for NYS Initial Certificate in Music. Student teaching experience in Honduras and New York City, as well as local schools. Performance experience in college vocal and instrumental ensembles and opera. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2008.

Sarah S. Chan (piano). Doctor of Musical Arts in Piano Performance and Literature from the Eastman School of Music; Master of Music in Piano Performance from the Peabody Conservatory; Bachelor of Music in Piano Performance from the Manhattan School of Music. Further musical training at the Conservatoire National Supérieur de Musique et de Danse de Paris and University of Michigan; studies in humanities with distinction at University of Michigan, Columbia University, and The Sorbonne. Has taught at L’Institut de Culture Musicale in Paris, both the Eastman School’s Collegiate and Community Education Divisions, and Harford Community College in Maryland. Received Award for Excellence in Teaching at Eastman as studio piano instructor to undergraduates. Has won various awards and performed internationally, most notably in the U.S. and France, and as piano soloist with the National "Mihail Jora" Philharmonic of Romania, the Romanian State Symphony, and the Seattle Philharmonic. Held residencies in Paris, New York, Hong Kong, Seattle, Ann Arbor, Baltimore, and Rochester, and continues to concertize internationally. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2005.

Megan Coltoniak (music therapy). Board certified music therapist. Bachelors in Music Therapy from SUNY Fredonia, with concentrations in voice and psychology. Interned at New Avenues to Independence in Cleveland, OH in 2006. Clinical supervisor for Nazareth College’s music therapy students and mentors high school students at Wayne Central in internships and senior projects. Maintains a private practice at Kidstart Preschool and Livonia CSD. Proficient musical background in guitar, violin, piano, drums, and harp. She joined Hochstein faculty in 2006.

Riki Connaughton (voice). Bachelor of Arts from the University of Rochester. Received vocal training from Tri-Cities Opera in Binghamton and the Eastman School of Music. Has appeared in many opera productions in the Rochester area. Also appeared with the Youngstown, Ohio Symphony and at the Fort Collins, Colorado Bach Festival. Joined Hochstein faculty in 1998.

Deborah Conquest (voice). Master of Music in Vocal Performance from the University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music, where she is currently a candidate for the Doctor of Musical Arts; Bachelor of Music in Vocal Performance from SUNY Fredonia. Has taught at SUNY Fredonia, Brevard Community College, Musical Arts Center of Cincinnati, Barry University, and Florida International University in Miami, where she taught both private voice lessons and vocal pedagogy class. Extensive performance credits include opera performances with Teatro Giglio, Hispanic American Lyric Theatre, FIU Opera Theatre, as well as solo recitals and chamber performances throughout New York, Ohio, and Italy. Has worked with a wide range of musical styles and student levels/ages. Teaches at Nazareth College's Community Music Program. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2007.

Shelley Contento (T.A.P.). Bachelor's degree in Music Therapy from SUNY Fredonia. Professional experience as an aide and respite worker for people with special needs. Local instructor in dance and exercise. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2008

Jeanne Coonan(ensembles). M.M. Ithaca College: B.M. Eastman School of Music. Music education specialist with over thirty years of teaching experience. Currently teaches instrumental music in the Webster Central School District and is bassoonist for the University of Rochester Orchestra and the Hochstein Music Educators Wind Band. Joined Hochstein faculty in 1992.

Aaron Cotton(guitar) ). Currently pursuing a Master of Music degree at the Eastman School of Music; Bachelor of Arts in Music from Texas Woman’s University. Has been a guitar instructor at Texas Woman’s University, Brookhaven College, Coram Deo Academy, and the LaShaw Conservatory of Fine Arts, as well has maintaining a large private studio in the Dallas/Fort Worth area. First Prizewinner of the Eastfield Guitar Festival and Competition in Mesquite Texas, and has been a performer on various concert series’ in Texas, Kentucky, Illinois, and Indiana.Joined Hochstein faculty in 2008.

Adam Cordle (violin, viola, chamber music) Currently pursuing Master of Music in Performance at the Eastman School of Music; Bachelor of Music in Viola Performance from the Baldwin-Wallace College Conservatory of Music. Suzuki teacher training from Capital University in Columbus, Ohio. Maintained a private studio in Ohio at the Baldwin-Wallace Community Music School. Active as a chamber music faculty member of the Olentangy Summer Strings Festival. Currently a member of the Olentangy String Quartet and the Orchestra of the Southern Finger Lakes, and is a past member of the Alisier String Quartet. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2008.

Jessica Davis (violin). Bachelor of Music Education from Penn State University, along with Suzuki violin teacher training from the Ithaca Suzuki Institute. Formerly an elementary and intermediate string orchestra director and violin instructor in the North Penn School District (Pennsylvania), and she will be teaching in the Greece public school system this year. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2008.

Richard DeLaney (piano, jazz piano, ensembles, jazz studies). Master's degree from the Eastman School of Music; Bachelor's degree from Hobart College. Native of Lima, Peru. Active as a jazz pianist, composer, and arranger in Rochester for more than 30 years. Currently musical director of Mambo Kings (www.mambokingdom.com), a Latin jazz group with performances with orchestras throughout the US and Canada. Produced two albums for Mambo Kings, "Marinera" (2003) and "Live!" (2005). Frequent performer on the "Live from Hochstein" and "Spotlight on Faculty" series. Recipient of the 1996 Faculty Service Award. Joined Hochstein faculty in 1985. website

Kathryn Denny (oboe). Pursuing the Master of Music degree from the Eastman School of Music where she received the Bachelor of Music degree in Oboe Performance. Performs with the Eastman Wind Ensemble and the Eastman Philharmonia. Has performed with the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra, Midland/Odessa Symphony & Chorale and the Binghamton Philharmonic. Adjunct Professor of Oboe at Roberts Wesleyan College and maintains a private studio. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2008.

Evan Dobbins (trombone, music history, jazz studies). Master’s degree in Jazz Studies and Contemporary Media from the Eastman School of Music; Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Harvard University. Has extensive performing and teaching experience and is also on the faculty of Monroe Community College where he teaches music theory and jazz history. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2005.

Glennda Dove Pellito (flute, ensembles). Associate diploma from the Royal College of Music, London; Bachelor's degree from the Eastman School of Music. Studied with Joseph Mariano, Jean-Pierre Rampal, John Francis, and Marcel Moyse. Performs with the Geneseo Woodwind Quintet, Mercury Opera, Rochester Chamber Orchestra, Kunde Chorale, Rochester Oratorio, and the Sampler Trio. Recipient of the 2006 Faculty Service Award. Joined Hochstein faculty in 1974.

Rosemary Eichenlaub (Music FUNdamentals). Educator in the Rochester City School District for 34 years, during which she was a mentor teacher for nine years. Received Orff training at Hamline University and the Eastman School of Music. Multiple listings in "Who's Who Among American Educators" and "Who's Who Among American Women." Recipient of the 1998 RPO Music Educator's Award. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2007.

Erin Ellis (cello). Currently pursuing a doctorate from the Eastman School of Music; holds both Master and Bachelor of Music degrees in Cello Performance from the Cleveland Institute of Music. Suzuki teacher training with pedagogue Tanya Carey, and has taught at Avon Lake School of Music and Cleveland Institute Preparatory Department. Active as an orchestral and chamber performer, and has been a member of the National Repertory Orchestra, as well as a participant of the International Holland Music Sessions and the String Quartet Program at the Cleveland Institute. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2007.

Jacob Ertl (piano) Currently in the doctoral program at the Eastman School of Music where he received the Master of Music In Performance and Literature; Bachelor of Music in Performance from the Oberlin Conservatory of Music. Has maintained a private studio in Wisconsin, as well as having taught secondary piano at the Oberlin Conservatory and class piano at the Eastman School. Performed as soloist with the Milwaukee Chamber Orchestra and the Fox Valley Symphony, and has given solo recitals throughout the Midwest. Artist-in-Residence for the past two years with PianoArts, for which he has given educational performances in over 15 Milwaukee public schools. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2008.

Al "Corky" Fabrizio (ensembles). Master's and Bachelor's degrees from Ithaca College. Retired after 34 years of public school teaching. Staff member of Columbia Pictures Publications and Shawnee Press, and has published method books and music for concert and marching bands. Conductor of the Hochstein Music Educators Wind Band. Has made more than 400 guest appearances with festival bands and has earned a New York State Music Association award for Outstanding Conductor. Joined Hochstein faculty in 1992.

Jane K. Faust (piano). Graduate of the New England Conservatory of Music, where she studied with Lucille Monaghan. Past president of the Rochester Piano Teachers' Guild, Inc. Pianist at Christ Church Unity. Recipient of the 1993 Hochstein Faculty Service Award. Joined Hochstein faculty in 1973.

Richard Felice (percussion, jazz studies). Music studies at Berklee College of Music in Boston and Brockport State College in New York. Active as a jazz drummer for more than 30 years, performing throughout the U.S. and Virgin Islands. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2002.

John Fetter (violin, ensembles).Currently completing a Doctorate of Philosophy in Music Education at the Eastman School of Music where he received a Master of Music degree. Bachelor of Music in Violin & Music Education from the University of Northern Iowa Has extensive experience as a violin instructor, chamber music coach, chamber orchestra director and orchestra conductor. Assistant Professor of Music Education (strings) at the Eastman School. Has taught public school and performs regularly as a violinist with a number of regional orchestras. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2002.

Elizabeth Fino-Radin (ensembles). Master of Music Education degree from Pennsylvania State University specializing in instrumental music and strings; Bachelor of Music degree in Music Education from SUNY Fredonia; Suzuki Books 1 and 2 Certification; NYS Initial Certification in Music K-12; and Hochstein alumnus! Currently an elementary string instructor in the Victor Central Schools. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2007.

Kathryn Pritt Fittipaldi (Alexander Technique). Master's degree in Classical String Performance, Irish World Music Centre, University of Limerick, Ireland; Bachelor of Music in Cello from Ithaca College. Member of the Suzuki Association of the Americas. Founding member of the East Quartet. Cello instructor at Hochstein from 2003–2007. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2003.

Christine Georger (Charter School). Master’s degree in Education from Nazareth College; Bachelor of Music from State University of New York at Fredonia. Certified NYSSMA Voice Adjudicator. Twenty-seven years teaching general music and chorus in K-12 and special education. Has taught voice, piano, and keyboard, and directed choruses and vocal ensembles. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2008.

Charlotte Giebel (Music FUNdamentals). Master of Theological Studies degree from Gordon Conwell Theological Seminary; Bachelor's degree in Music Education from Queens College of the City University of New York. Received Orff I, II, and III certification, and training in Orff, Kodaly and Dalcroze. Currently coordinates choral and instrumental music for Covenant Presbyterian Church in Greece. Joined Hochstein faculty in 1985.

Maryellen Giese (choral ensembles). Bachelor of Music degree in Music Education (with piano as major instrument) with a minor in voice from Nazareth College, and pursued graduate studies at SUNY Brockport and the Eastman School of Music. Retired from the Brockport Central School District where she served as a vocal music teacher and Chair of the Music Department. Directs youth vocal ensembles and handbell choir at First Presbyterian Church in Brockport. Directs senior citizen chorus, the "Sweden Singers." Multiple listings in Who's Who Among American Educators. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2002.

Marianna Gonzalez (Music FUNdamentals). Bachelor of Music degree with High Distinction from the Eastman School of Music. Received Orff I, II, and III certification. Member of the American Recorder Society and the Rochester Chapter of the American Orff Schulwerk Society. Currently teaches Orff at Allendale-Columbia School. Joined Hochstein faculty in 1993.

Rob Goodling (music history). Master of Arts in Musicology and Affiliate Professorship in Music Education, Eastman School of Music; Bachelor of Science in Music Education from Lebanon Valley College. Performed with the 553 Air Force Band, Corning Philharmonic and Elmira Symphony Orchestra.  Conductor of Corning Philharmonic Youth Orchestra and Director of Music at Salem Church, Rochester. Taught orchestra, chorus, voice, theory/composition and music history at Corning-Painted Post West and Churchville-Chili Senior High Schools. Recipient of Outstanding Choral Conductor and Outstanding Music Educator awards by Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra, Roberts Wesleyan College-Community Orchestra, the Wenger Corporation, M.I.T. and SUNY-Fredonia. Multiple listings in Who's Who Among American Educators. NYSSMA vocal adjudicator. Directed/performed in more than 50 musical theater productions in upstate New York. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2002.

Victoria Gregory (Dance).Teaching certificate from the Dance Education Laboratory in NYC. Extensive ballet training at Ruth PAae Foundatinon School in Chicago and the Joffrey School in NYC. Past teaching experience at Hochstein (mime), 72nd Street Studios in NYC, Botsford School of Dance and currently at DancEncounters in Rochester.Training in Broadway Theatre Dance, Ballet, Jazz, Tap , and Mime. Re-joined Hochstein faculty in 2006.

Tamari Gurevich (piano). Currently completing doctoral studies at the Eastman School of Music where she is a Teaching Assistant at the collegiate level and a faculty member of the Eastman Community Music School; Master of Music and Post Master's degree in Piano Performance from Indiana University; Bachelor of Music from the Tbilisi State Conservatory in the Republic of Georgia. Present faculty member at Syracuse University and former teacher at Houghton College and University of Notre Dame. An international prize winner and has extensive performance experience as a soloist, accompanist, and in chamber groups. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2004.

Sandra Halleran (cello). Master of Music in Performance and Literature from the Eastman School of Music, where she also graduated from the Orchestral Studies Diploma Program with the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra, and is currently in the Post-Baccalaureate Certification Program in Music Education at Nazareth College; Bachelor of Music in Cello Performance from the Rice University Shepherd School of Music. Suzuki training under Carey Chaney at the Southwestern Ontario Suzuki Institute and Pam Devenport at the Hartt School of Music. Has taught at the University of Akron, the Akron Public School System, the Hartwick College Summer Music Festival, as well as privately in her own studio. Has held principal positions with the New World Symphony, the Wheeling, West Virginia Symphony, and the Spoleto Festival Orchestra and has performed with the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra, the National Ballet of Canada, the Marini String Quartet, and the Genesee String Quartet, among others. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2005.

Helen Halligan (music therapy). Graduate studies at Ithaca College, the Eastman School of Music, Oakland University, St. Bernard's Seminary and Colgate Rochester Divinity School; Bachelor of Science degree in Music Education from Ithaca College. Former organist and choir director for many churches in New York and Pennsylvania, currently of St. Mary's Church in Rochester. Member and former director of NPM Rochester Chapter. Joined Hochstein faculty in 1994.

Maria Battista-Hancock (music therapy). Board certified music therapist and Licensed Creative Arts Therapist. Music Therapy training completed at Temple University, Philadelphia, PA; additional studies in Italy for music history, harmony & theory with emphasis on voice also received from the Conservatorio di Musica “U. Giordano” in Foggia and from the D.A.M.S. “Art, Music & Drama” at the University of Bologna. Italian music teaching staff at Nazareth College. Additional early childhood music training workshop from Donna Brink Fox, Director of Early Childhood Music Program at Eastman School of Music. Owns private practice and business, "Villa Musicale". Among others, Maria uses audio-biographies, improvisation, storytelling and songwriting techniques in clinical settings. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2008. website

Josef M. Hanson (music appreciation). Master of Arts in Music Education degree from the Eastman School of Music; Bachelor of Science in Music Education degree, summa cum laude, from Towson University (MD). K-5 Music educator in the Frederick (MD) County Public Schools and Music Director and President of the Frederick Symphonic Band. Currently Concert Manager of the University of Rochester College Music Department and Visiting Lecturer in Music. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2007.

Frances Hare (dance). Has extensive performance and teaching experience both as an independent dance instructor and as a member of a variety of organizations including Kariamu and Company (Buffalo, NY), Garth Fagan Dance, Young Audiences of Rochester, Artist in Residence for the Rochester City School District, Arthur Murray Dance Studio, and more recently with Kuumba Consultants and Tango Café Dance Studio. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2007.

Sally Ann Hart (flute). Master's degree in Flute Performance from the Juilliard School; Bachelor of Arts, Case Western Reserve University. Suzuki certified. Professional orchestral experience in New York City and North Carolina. Performs frequently in area chamber ensembles with piano, strings, winds. Former faculty Turtle Bay Music School, New York, and Cleveland Music School Settlement. Joined Hochstein faculty in 1997.

Elana Herman (vioin). Bachelor of Music degree in Violin Performance from the Eastman School of Music; completing Suzuki Method Teaching. Has performed with a number of orchestras, most recently Eastman Philharmonia and Boca Raton Sinfonia and has soloed with the Eastman School Symphony Orchestra and Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra, among others. Winner of numerous competitions and awards including the Northern Kentucky University Musician Award, the Eastman School Concerto Competition; and the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra Albright Award. Violin instructor at Seton Catholic School and maintains a private studio. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2007.

Maureen Hickey (dance). Master’s degree in Sports Medicine and Athletic Training from Temple University; Bachelor’s Degree in Physical Education with a concentration in dance and minor in music from SUNY Cortland. Member of the Cortland Ballroom Dance Formation Team and has competed for Cortland in international competitions in Blackpool, England and Edinborough, Scotland. Certified by the Dance Educators of America and has competed as an amateur and professional in Ballroom and Country & Western Dancing. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2006.

Doleen Hood (piano). Master of Music in Accompanying from the Cleveland Institute of Music where she was an Accompanying Fellow and recipient of the Gwendolyn Koldofsky Award in Accompanying; Bachelor of Music in Piano Performance (summa cum laude) from D'Angelo School of Music. Has extensive experience as a collaborative pianist and coach working with the Dale Warland Singers, Annapolis and Baltimore Operas, Heifetz Institute, Paul Hill Chorale and Washington Singers, Baltimore Chamber Orchestra, Chesapeake Chorale, and studio work at the Eastman School of Music and Peabody Institute. Featured performer on recitals and concert series throughout the US and Europe and has held faculty positions at the MacPhail School, Crown College, and Bethel College. Recipient of the 2004 Faculty Service Award. Joined Hochstein faculty in 1999.

Barbara Hull (trumpet). Currently in the doctoral program at the Eastman School of Music where she is Assistant Director of the Brass Guild. Master of Music degree in Trumpet Performance and Literature, and the Performer’s Certificate from the Eastman School of Music; Bachelor of Music degree from Houghton College. Has taught at the Belfast (NY) School District, the Csehy Summer School of Music in Philadelphia, and has maintained a private trumpet studio since 1983. Has performed as Principal Trumpet with the Albany Symphony Orchestra, and has also performed with the New Mexico Brass Quintet, Opera Southwest, Rochester Chamber Orchestra, and the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra. Recently served as principal trumpet of the Eastman Wind Ensemble during a recording project with the Canadian Brass; a CD is scheduled for release at the end of 2008. Teaches trumpet at the Csehy Summer School of Music. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2007.

Joseph Irrera (piano). Pursuing Doctoral Studies at the Eastman School of Music. Master’s Degree from the Peabody Conservatory, Bachelor of Music Degree with distinction from the Eastman School of Music. Has appeared as soloist with numerous orchestras including the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra and at The Kennedy Center in Washington (DC) and this season has made his Carnegie Hall debut as first prizewinner of the AMerican Protege' International Competition. Has taken top prizes at numerous piano competitions including the Bradshaw and Buono International Piano Competition, the Guthman International Piano Competition, second prize at the International Piano Competition in Varna, Bulgaria, and third prize at the International Piano Competition at The Moulin d’Ande, France. Current faculty member at Eastman Community Music School. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2007.

Christopher Jones (voice, musical theatre workshop). Master's degree in Vocal Performance and Literature from the Eastman School of Music; Bachelor of Science degree in Music Education from Roberts Wesleyan College. Extensive performance background with such groups as the Rochester Oratorio Society, the Genesee Valley Orchestra and Chorus, the Finger Lakes Chorale and the Penfield Symphony Orchestra. Current faculty member at Roberts Wesleyan College music department. Joined Hochstein faculty in 1988.

Kim Kane (Music FUNdamentals). Master of Education in Music degree with a focus on early childhood education from the University of Buffalo; Bachelor of Music degrees in Music Education and Bass Clarinet Performance, magna cum laude, from the Crane School of Music. Currently teaches K-2 music at Canandaigua Primary School. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2008.

Kathleen Murphy Kemp(cello, ensembles). Master's and Bachelor's of Music degrees  from the Eastman School of Music, where she was awarded the coveted Performer's Certificate. Assistant principal cello with the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra,  and is the winner of several solo competitions. She is a member of "Cello Divas",  has appeared with the Society for Chamber Music in Rochester, the Rochester Chamber Orchestra, Aspen Music Festival, "Fortissimo!" Music Festival, "Live from Hochstein," the Roycroft Music Festival  and Skaneateles Festival. Served on the board of Rochester Philharmonic Youth  Orchestra for 10 years. Received the Fanfare Award for Education and the Volunteer in Education Award from the RPO. Serves on the faculty of Eastman School of Music and is Co-ordinator of the Orchestra Studies Diploma. Recipient of 2003 Hochstein Faculty Service  Award. Joined Hochstein faculty in 1980.

Joan Kinsella (cello, Suzuki program coordinator). Attended Syracuse University in a graduate string fellowship program; Bachelor's degree in Music from University of Southern California; received Suzuki Cello Pedagogy Training at Ithaca College and the Chicago Suzuki Institute. Member of the Suzuki Association of America and SAA registered teacher. Active locally as a freelance musician and has performed with the Rochester Oratorio Society, the Rochester Broadway Theatre League, the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra, and the Syracuse Symphony Orchestra. Recipient of 2007 Hochstein Faculty Service Award. Joined Hochstein faculty in 1991.

Galina (Halia) Konrad-Bertram (violin, ensembles). Master of Music degree from State Conservatory in L'vov, Ukraine; Bachelor of Arts from Musical College in Ternopol, Ukraine. Currently concertmistress of Genesee Valley Orchestra and Chorus and a member of the Emmanuel String Quartet. Received Suzuki training at the Eastman School of Music and the Ithaca Suzuki Institute. Joined Hochstein faculty in 1997.

Joseph Kostecki (music therapy). Bachelor of Music, Music Therapy major from Berklee College of Music; Level 1 in Music & Imagery for Wellness from Anna Maria College (MA); Associates in Liberal Arts from Seattle Central CC. Awarded Outstanding Academic Achievement from Berklee. Internships in Boston area. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2008.

Elizabeth Kovalovsky (dance). Bachelor of Science degree in Childhood Education from SUNY Geneseo, and a graduate of Canandaigua Academy. New York State Initial Certification in Childhood Education, grades 1-6. Has taught dance since 1999 at the Tammy Allen Dance Academy and has performed with the Geneseo Dance Ensemble and Tammy Allen Dance Academy. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2007.

Marcos Kreutzer (violin, viola).Master of Music degree in Violin Performance and String Pedagogy from the University of New Mexico; Bachelor of Music in Violin Performance from the Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul in Brazil. In addition to many years of teaching in his native Brazil, he has most recently been an individual violin and group class instructor in the University of New Mexico Lab School, as well as a teacher for the Rio Grande Suzuki Association. Has attained Suzuki teacher training for Books 1 through 10. Formerly a member of the Theatro Sao Pedro Chamber Orchestra for over 10 years. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2008.

Pamela Kurau (voice) (on leave). Doctorate in Vocal Performance from the Eastman School of Music, a Master's degree from University of Missouri and Bachelor's degree from the University of Connecticut. Frequent soloist with Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra, Rochester Oratorio Society, Rochester Society for Chamber Music and "Live from Hochstein," among others. Has performed internationally in Germany, Austria, Finland, Japan and China. Faculty member of both Eastman School of Music and SUNY Geneseo, both of which have honored her with prestigious teaching awards. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2001.

Willie LaFavor (piano) Doctor of Music from Indiana University; Master of Music in Piano Performance from the New England Conservatory; Bachelor of Music from Jacksonville University. Former faculty member of Indiana Wesleyan University, the New England Conservatory Preparatory Program, as well as the Young Pianist’s Program at Indiana University, where he was also an Associate Instructor. Was staff accompanist at Butler University and DePauw University, and has performed at the Chautauqua Institute and with the Indianapolis Youth Chorale. Active as a church musician and serves as Director of Music and Worship at the Messiah Lutheran Church in Rochester. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2005.

Diane Lewis (dance, ensembles). Master's degree in Dance from SUNY Brockport; Bachelor's degree in Education from Buffalo State University. Former member of SUNY Brockport Dance faculty. Has toured Europe and the U.S. as a soloist with the American Classical Ballet and the Festival Ballet of New York, and has danced as a principal opposite Margot Fonteyn with the Niagara Frontier Ballet at the Eastman Theatre. Completed 35–hour seminar in the Vaganova technique. Winner of the 1994 Faculty Service Award. Joined Hochstein faculty in 1975.

Pia Liptak (violin) Doctor of Musical Arts degree and Master of Music in Violin Performance from the Eastman School of Music; Diploma in Violin Performance from the Carl Nielsen Academy in Denmark. Former faculty member of the Odense Music School (Denmark), and currently maintains a private studio in Rochester. Concertmaster of the University of Rochester Symphony Orchestra, and performs extensively with the Liptak–-Beaudette Duo (violin and piano), and the Duo vio–LINK–oto (violin and Japanese koto). Recorded CD from Centaur Records (CD 2882). Has performed throughout Europe and North America. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2007. website

Liu Liu (piano) Bachelor of Music in Performance from the Eastman School of Music, where she is currently pursuing a dual Master of Music in Performance and Music Education. Has taught at the Liu Ning International Piano School, the Culture and Arts Training Center, and the ShenYang Conservatory in China and currently teaches group piano at the Eastman School of Music. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2005.

Joanne Lowe (violin, viola). Master's and Bachelor's degrees in Fine Arts from SUNY Buffalo. Studied with Martha Katz of the Cleveland Quartet. Member of the Suzuki Association of America. Has performed with the Buffalo Philharmonic from 1976-2003. Also performed with Syracuse Symphony, Love Unlimited Orchestra with Barry White, Fortissimo! and Tanglewood Festivals, Mercury Opera Company, Rochester Oratorio Society and regional chamber orchestras. Featured on" Live from Hochstein" and "Spotlight on Faculty". Also teaches Suzuki strings and general music at Victor Primary School. Joined Hochstein faculty in 1989.

Janie Marini (Music FUNdamentals). Bachelor's degree in Music Education from Nazareth College as well as Early Childhood Music and Orff Levels I, II, and III certification from the Eastman School of Music. Has taught piano since 1981 and has extensive experience as a Pastoral Musician and Choir Director throughout the Rochester area. Currently Director of Music for the Fairport Community Vacation Bible School. Joined Hochstein faculty in 1999.

Justin Mason (trombone) Currently in the doctoral program at the Eastman School of Music; Master of Music in Performance from Pennsylvania State University and Bachelor of Music in Trombone Performance from the University of Akron. Was a teaching assistant at Pennsylvania State, and maintained private teaching schedules in both Ohio and Pennsylvania. Has performed with the Altoona (PA) Symphony Orchestra, the Akron (OH) Symphony, and the Mansfield (OH) Symphony Orchestra, among others. Joined the Hochstein faculty in 2008.

Abigail McHugh (cello) Pursuing a Ph.D. in Music Education from the Eastman School of Music; Bachelor and Master degrees of Music from the Cleveland Institute of Music, where she taught cello for two years. Received Suzuki teacher certification from the Ithaca Suzuki Institute, and has taught for the Revelation School of the Arts in Cleveland, the International Suzuki Institute in Lima, Peru, the Arcos Escuela de Musica in Madrid, Spain, the Ithaca Suzuki Institute, and the Ithaca Talent Education. Has performed with the Traverse City Symphony, Erie Philharmonic, Cleveland Pops, Binghamton Symphony, and the Orchestra of the Southern Fingerlakes, among others. Joined the Hochstein faculty in 2008.

Daniela Mineva (piano). Pursuing a Doctor of Musical Arts at the Eastman School of Music; Master of Music from the University of North Texas and Artist Certificate from Northwestern University; Bachelor of Music from the State Academy of Music in Bulgaria. Has extensive teaching experience at both the collegiate and preparatory levels and has won numerous scholarships and awards, including Second Prize in the 1998 Steinway Piano Competition (Dallas, TX). Has performed internationally as a soloist and orchestral pianist at venues including the Tanglewood Music Center Orchestra, the New Symphony Orchestra (Sofia, Bulgaria), North Texas Symphony Orchestra, among many others, and has performed for radio broadcasts in Bulgaria, Italy, and the US. Founding member of contemporary music ensemble, Twenty/21. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2004.

Christopher Morrison (dance). Ten years experience with Professor Rex Nettleford and the National Dance Theatre Company of Jamaica. Recipient of the National Dance Award. Fifteen years as member of Garth Fagan Dance Company. Extensive experience as a teacher and performer. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2005. website

Tim Nowak (cello). Currently pursuing Masters Degree in Music Education at the Eastman School of Music. Bachelors Degree from Ithaca College in Music Education. Currently Director of Orchestras for the Junior and Senior High Schools in the Victor Central School district.  Active performer in the Finger Lakes region, performance experience includes Finger Lakes Symphony and Blackfriars Theatre. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2007.

Douglas O'Connor (saxophone). ) Master of Music Degree from Eastman School of Music where he was awarded the Teaching Assistant Prize for Excellence in Teaching; Bachelor of Music Degree from the University of Maryland. Performs outreach concerts and in-school workshops for Astral Artistic Services. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2008. website

Nydia Padilla-Rodriguez (dance, ensembles). Master's degree in Education from SUNY Brockport; Bachelor's degree in Dance and Elementary Education; completed Certificate of Advanced Studies in Administration. Director of Academic Career Counseling and Community Partnerships at Rochester City School District. Former member of Bottom-of-the- Bucket, But... Dance Company (now Garth Fagan Dance). Founder and Artistic Director of Borinquen Dance Theatre, formerly a Hochstein ensemble-in- residence, since 1984. Joined Hochstein faculty in 1984.

Gary Palmer (piano). Pursuing Ph.D. in Music Education at Eastman School of Music, where he earned a Master's degree in Piano Performance and Literature; Bachelor's degree from Nazareth College. Former faculty of Eastman Community Music School where he was awarded the Jack L. Frank Community Service Award. Soloist with Greece Symphony Orchestra, Greater Rochester Women's Philharmonic, Elmira Symphony, and at various college campuses throughout New York State. Awarded National Citation from the Points of Light Foundation in 1991. His annual Night of Encores concerts at Eastman and Hochstein have raised more than $60,000. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2001.

Sara Parulski (Canandaigua Little Singers). Graduate of the Eastman School of Music, teaches general music, instrumental music, and chorus to students in grades 3-5 at Canandaigua Elementary School. She also performs with the OSSIA New Music Ensemble of the Eastman School, is a cantor at St. Mary's Parish of downtown Rochester, and teaches Early Childhood Music classes through the Eastman Community Music School. Sara joined the Hochstein faculty in 2009.

Dianne Johnson Pegg (piano, group piano). Bachelor's degree in Piano with minor in Voice from Southern Methodist University. Pursued graduate studies at SMU and the University of Buffalo. Currently Organist and Director of Contemporary Music for Rush United Methodist Church. Over 33 years experience as a private piano teacher, church organist, choir director and vocalist. Joined Hochstein faculty in 1984.

Lisa Piccione (dance). Spanish Dance studies at Ballet Hispanico (NYC) with Melinda Marquez and Maria Alba, and additional studies in Spain with noted artist Antonio Martin ("El Toleo"), among others. Has appeared in telecast performances in Spain, England and in the US, including an Alanis Morrisette music video and was principal dancer in "Noche Flamenca" and "Tablao Flamenco" at Le Club at La Mama, Etc (NYC), and with Sol y Sombra and Alborada Spanish Dance Theatre, as well as with Jose Molina's Spanish Dance Company. In Spain, principal dancer in Pepe Camacho's Company and appeared at the Plaza de Toros de Barcelona, El Gran Casino de San Pere de Ribes, and El Tablao de Carmen, among others. Has taught at Ballet Hispanico, the Alvin Ailey Dance School, and the Amor de Dios in Barcelona, Spain. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2004.

Olita Povero (viola). Master of Music degree in Viola Performance from Southern Methodist University; Bachelor of Music from The New School of Music, Philadelphia. Teachers include Max Aronoff, Kim Kashkashian, and Ellen Rose. Member of the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra since 1989. Previously Principal Violist of the Dallas Opera, and was a member of the Dallas Ballet and Dallas Chamber Orchestras. Has appeared with Chamber Music Rochester, Rochester Chamber Orchestra, Kilborn Summer Series, as well as Skaneateles, Fortissimo!, and Women in Music Festivals. Has 25 years experience in viola and chamber music instruction. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2007.

Alice S. Pratt (Music FUNdamentals, ensembles). Graduate of Nazareth College and received Orff Level Certification from the Eastman School of Music. Former winner of Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra's Music Educators Award, and is a published composer and a clinician throughout the United States. Former teacher with the Rochester City Schools, where she taught for over 30 years. Recently appointed to be on the faculty of Nazareth College, working with the supervision of student teachers. Conducts workshops on the national level and serves on the National Board of Trustees for the American Orff Schulwerk Association, as well as coordinates and authors a column for their quarterly newsletter. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2007.

Jillian Pritchard (percussion) Master of Music from Northwestern University; Bachelor of Music in Performance and Music Education from the Eastman School of Music, where she was awarded the Performers' Certificate. Adjunct faculty member of the Finger Lakes Community College, and maintains a private teaching studio. Performs regularly with the Buffalo Philharmonic, the Rochester Philharmonic, and the RPO Marimba Band. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2005.

Margaret Quackenbush (clarinet). Doctor of Musical Arts degree in Performance and Literature (clarinet) from the Eastman School of Music; Master of Arts in Music History from the University of Oregon School of Music; Bachelor of Arts in Music, with distinction, from the University of Minnesota (Morris). Member of the Antara Winds and performs regularly as soloist, chamber, and orchestral clarinetist. Former member of the Eugene (OR) Symphony Orchestra, Eugene Opera, the Oregon Bach Festival and the Oregon Wind Quintet. Joined Hochstein faculty in 1979.

Lisa Raposa (piano). Currently pursuing a DMA in Piano Accompanying and Chamber Music at the Eastman School of Music where she is a staff pianist and Assistant Director of the 2009 Women in Music Festival; Master of Music degree in Piano from the University of Massachusetts at Amherst; Bachelor of Arts degree in Music from the University of New Hampshire. Recipient of the Excellence in Accompanying Award at the Eastman School of Music (2007); Eugenie May Award for Outstanding Accomplishment as a Solo and Collaborative Pianist at the University of Massachusetts at Amherst (2000, 2001). Recent collaborations include performances of of Schubert’s Winterreise with baritone Andrew Bawden as well as the Fantasy No. 1 for ‘Cello and Piano by Oskar Morawetz with Beiliang Zhu. Attended the Teachers Program at the TCU/Cliburn Piano Institute from 2002-2005. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2007.

Nate Rawls (trumpet, jazz studies). Studied at LA Valley State College and the Eastman School of Music. Founder of the Nate Rawls Big Band and the Sound Spectrum Band, which perform throughout the U.S. and internationally. Recipient of the coveted Duke Ellington Award for excellence in music. Brass instructor for the Empire Cadets Drum and Bugle Corps, Associate Member of the RPO's Music Collaborative Program and Project U.N.I.Q.U.E.'s Artist-in-Residence Program. Joined Hochstein in 1979. website

Beth Remming(violin). Master of Music Education from Nazareth College; Bachelor's degree in Music Education and Certificate in Music in Special Education from the Crane School of Music at SUNY Potsdam. Former music teacher with the Catholic Diocese of Rochester; currently a string teacher with the Brighton School District. Joined Hochstein faculty in 1999.

Samantha Rodriguez (viola). Currently pursuing a Master of Music degree in Performance and Literature from the Eastman School of Music where she also received her Bachelor of Music degree in Applied Music. Has studied with George Taylor since 2004 and will be his Teaching Assistant beginning in 2008. Has been awarded a Howard Hanson Scholarship, Susan B. Anthony Jury Award, and Performer’s Certificate at Eastman. Performs with the Eastman Philharmonia and Eastman Philharmonic Chamber Orchestra and has soloed with both the Eastman Philharmonia and Eastman Chorale. Joined Hochstein in 2008.

Klansee Reynolds (violin, music theory). Currently pursuing a Master of Arts and Ph.D. in Music Theory at the Eastman School of Music; Bachelor in Music Performance, magna cum laude with honors, in the liberal arts from the Meadows School of the Arts, Southern Methodist University in Dallas (TX) and has performed as a soloist, chamber musician, and orchestral player with professional and semi-professional ensembles in Arkansas, Texas, and Colorado, as well as in Germany and France. Has maintained a private studio and taught privately in public schools since 1996. ECC and Suzuki training (violin books 1-3) with Carrie Reuning-Hummel (ITE and University of Memphis Summer Institutes). Joined Hochstein faculty in 2007.

Sarah Rhee (piano). Currently pursuing a Doctor of Musical Arts degree at the Eastman School of Music Master of Music degree from the Juilliard School; Bachelor of Music from Eastman. Has appeared as recitalist and soloist with various orchestras throughout North America and Spain, including the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra, Rome Chamber Orchestra, New Millennium Orchestra (Spain) and Eastman Symphony Orchestra, among others. Top prize winner of the Virginia Waring International Piano Competition, Montreal Symphony Orchestra Competition and has extensive teaching experience both at the collegiate and preparatory levels. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2007.

Wade M. Richards(music therapy, Internship Director). Board certified music therapist and Licensed Creative Arts Therapist. Bachelor of Science degree in Music Therapy/Applied Voice from SUNY Fredonia with additional training in Neurologic Music Therapy from the Center for the Biomedical Research in Music at Colorado State University. Orff-Schulwerk training from Eastman School of Music, University of Kentucky and Arizona State University. Professional member of the American Music Therapy Association and the American Orff-Schulwerk Association. Advanced training in wellness practices include Essential Musical Intelligence (EMI) and Performance Wellness (PW) from Dr. Louise Montello, Director of the Creative Arts Therapy Program at the New School in New York City. Owns private practice and business, "Time For Music. " Published author and composer. Recipient of the 2005 Faculty Service Recognition Award. Joined Hochstein faculty in 1995. website

Coralis Rivera (dance). Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance Performance at the University of the Arts ( Philadelphia). Former faculty member of the School of the Arts and Little Red Dancing School. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2008.

Kirsta Rodean (bassoon, ensembles). Master of Arts in Music Education from the Eastman School of Music where she received her Bachelor of Music Degree in Bassoon Performance and Music education. Currently teaches in Fairport and is the Concert Band director. Has performed with many groups including the Wichita Falls (TX) Symphony Orchestra, Kunde Chorale, The Opera Factory, the Roberts Wesleyan College Community Orchestra and many others. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2005.

Adrianne Rose (dance). Currently lead teacher of the Rochester Dance and Cultural Exchange, and cofounder of Zebra Kids Performance Group. Is a member of Sankofa, teaches African Dance at the Metrocenter YMCA and has served as guest artist at the Charter School of Science and Technology. Held a three-year intensive African dance apprenticeship with "Zaipo" Vincent R. Oula, with additional training in African Drumming with Khalid Saleem, Afro-Caribbean dance with Frances Hare and modern dance with Garth Fagan, among others. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2001.

Kathryn Scarbrough (flute, ensembles). Master of Music in Flute Performance from Arizona State University School of Music (Full Regents Scholar). Bachelor of Science in Flute Performance from Towson State University (MD) where she was awarded Most Outstanding Graduate in Music, 1994. Former principal flutist of U.S. Marine Corps Band in Quantico (VA). Founding member of contemporary music ensemble, Twenty/21. Active performer and collaborator. Recent performances include "Live from Hochstein, " "Spotlight on Faculty" Concert Series, and several guest artist and collaborative chamber appearances. Former teachers include Trygve Peterson and Sara Nichols Landgren. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2002.

Ralph Louis Scicchitano (guitar, jazz studies). Graduate of the Navy School of Music and Berklee College of Music. Pursued special studies at Central Texas College and SUNY Geneseo. Soloist and performing lecturer on The History of Music Through the Guitar. Author of Almost Everything About Guitar Chords, Position Primer for Guitar Students, and Incentive Pieces for Guitar Students. 1995 and 1998 NYSCA grant recipient. Joined Hochstein faculty in 1985.

William Scott (voice). Master of Science degree from the University of Buffalo with additional work at the Manhattan School of Music, the University of Missouri and SUNY Brockport; Bachelor of Science degree from SUNY Fredonia. Lifetime member of the Music Educators National Conference and the New York State School Music Association (NYSSMA)in which he served on National and State Committees. 2004 recipient of the NYSSMA Distinguished Service Award. Past Urban Chair for NYSSMA and member of the Multicultural Committee and Awards and Recognition Committee of NYSSMA. Certified All-State Vocal Adjudicator for NYSSMA and frequent guest conductor for area All-State choirs and All-County choirs throughout New York State. Public school music educator for over 35 years; adjunct professor of choir, Alfred University. Joined Hochstein faculty in 1979.

Tim Shannon (guitar). Pursuing Doctor of Musical Arts Degree in Performance and Literature from the Eastman School of Music; Master of Music degree in Music Performance from SUNY Buffalo; Bachelor of Professional Studies in Guitar Performance from SUNY Empire State College, with additional studies from Nazareth College and the Eastman School of Music. Faculty member at Roberts Wesleyan College and member of the Guitar Foundation of America. Studied with Nicholas Goluses, Joanne Castellani, Matthew Ardizzone, Timothy Schmidt, Rick Falkenstein; participated in master classes with Christopher Parkening, Sharon Isbin, Raphaella Smits, Edward Flower, and the Los Angeles Guitar Quartet. Current member of the Guitar Foundation of America, and performs frequently as a soloist and chamber musician, including recently with the Rochester Guitar Duo. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2003.

Benjamin J. Sheridan (T.A.P. program, art). B. A. from Hartwick COllege 2007. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2008.

Elizabeth Shuhan (flute, Suzuki flute). Holds degrees from the University of Arkansas and the University of Southern Mississippi, and has received advanced Suzuki flute teacher training. Lectures in chamber music, music education and music theory at Ithaca College and is both a private flute instructor at Cornell University and a Suzuki flute specialist in Ithaca (NY). Currently principal flutist with the Fort Smith Symphony (AR), where she has recorded for the Naxos label. Previously the director of the University of Arkansas Suzuki Music School, a former elementary music specialist in the Arkansas public schools, and a member of the North Arkansas Symphony and Meridien (MS) Symphony Orchestras. Was an active chamber musician and adjudicator in Mississippi, Arkansas, Oklahoma and Missouri before moving to central New York in 2004. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2007.

Rita George Simmons (flute). Master of Music degree from Ithaca College and Bachelor of Music degree from The Boston Conservatory. Has performed as soloist with the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra, the Boston Conservatory Symphony, and three times with the Hochstein Music Educator’s Wind Band where she has been piccoloist since 1991. Has twice been featured on Hochstein’s “Spotlight on Faculty” concert series and has been a featured performer on the “Arts and Lunch” series of the Downtown United Presbyterian Church. Maintains a private teaching studio and is a member of the National Flute Association through which she is a 2000 winner of the Convention Performer’s Competition. Has performed at national conventions in Columbus and Pittsburgh; has served on the board of directors of the Rochester Flute Association and was co-chair of the annual Flute Fair in 2004 and 2006. Currently the director of the RFA Flute Choir. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2001.

Derrick Smith (voice). Master’s degree from the Eastman School of Music. Performed internationally as part of the Brereton International Music Symposium in England and with the International Institute of Vocal Arts in Italy. He has studied with Thomas Hampson, Sherrill Milnes, Mignon Dunn and Janet Bookspan, among others.Extensive performance experience localley and throughout the US. as a soloist in opera, oratorio, and musical theatre. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2007.

Diane Smith (flute, ensembles coordinator). Master and Bachelor of Music degrees from the Eastman School of Music. Founding member of Antara Winds, performs with the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra, Rochester Oratorio Society, Opera Theatre of Rochester and Rochester Broadway Theatre League. Winner of the 1995 Hochstein Faculty Service Award and the 1996 Rochester Philharmonic League Fanfare Award for Education. Joined Hochstein faculty in 1976.

Craig Snyder (guitar, electric guitar, electric bass, ensembles, jazz studies). Bachelor of Arts in Music with a concentration in Jazz Guitar Studies through SUNY Empire, September 2006; Associate Degree in Music with High Honors from Finger Lakes Community College and a Berklee College of Music Scholarship recipient (1984). Adjunct music faculty member at Finger Lakes Community College where he teaches jazz guitar and bass. Extensive experience as instructor of guitar and bass, as well as a performer and producer. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2002. website myspace youtube

Casey Springstead (ensembles). Master and Bachelor degrees in Music Education from the Eastman School of Music. Currently instrumental music teacher in the West Irondequoit Schools, directing bands at Dake Junior High and Irondequoit High School. Freelance horn player for several area orchestras and a member of the Penfield Symphony Orchestra. Also active as a collaborative pianist. As a conductor, has worked with the New Horizons Band, Irondequoit Concert Band, Brighton Symphony, and Hochstein Youth Symphony Orchestra. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2003.

Fred Stone (electric bass, string bass, jazz studies). Master of Music degree in Jazz History and Contemporary Media from the Eastman School of Music; Bachelor of Music degree in Performance and Jazz History from the Berklee College of Music. Former faculty member of the Eastman School of Music, Berklee College and Genesee Community College. Performed with Stan Kenton/Four Freshman, Chet Baker, Mike Stearn, John Scofield, and Mark Elf among others and on tour with Peggy Lee, Tony Bennett, Buddy Rich, Eddie Daniels and jazz vocalist Mark Murphy. Stage performances with Joan Rivers, Sandler & Young, the Smothers Brothers, the Fifth Dimension, the Letterman, and the Inkspots among others. Author of two books and has released a recording, Scenario, on the Cadence Label. Principal bassist and featured soloist for Brighton Symphony Orchestra and performs with Diane Armesto Group at the Little Theatre Cafe. Classical bass studies with J.B. VanDemark and Bill Curtis, jazz bass studies with Slam Stewart, Major Holley, Ray Brown, among others and jazz composition study with Russ Ferrante of "The Yellowjackets", Jerry Bergonzi and Bill Dobbins. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2003. website

Jeremy Stoner (tuba, euphonium). Masters in Music Performance from Northwestern University; Bachelor of Music degree from Oberlin College. Experience as teacher of low brass instruments and methods at Armstrong Atlantic State University, Georgia Southern University, Savannah Arts Academy Band Camp, and Northwestern University. Former member of Hilton Head Orchestra, Savannah Brass Quintet, ARTillery Punch, Savannah Symphony Orchestra, Stratton Mountain Boys. Performed with the Rochester Philharmonic, Syracuse Symphony, Charleston Symphony, Jacksonville Symphony and the Florida Orchestra. Currently a member of the Wilmot Brass Quintet and Plymouth Brass Quintet. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2007.

Brian S. Story (Finger Lakes Concert Band). Master of Music and Bachelor in Music Education degrees from Mansfield University (PA). Current director of the 7th and 8th Grade Bands at the Canandaigua Middle School. Active as composer, performer, instrumentalist, and vocalist. He has over fifty published marching band and concert band compositions and arrangements. He sings bass with Madrigalia and Musica Spei. Member of the New York State School Music Association and the New York State Band Director's Association. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2006.

Nancy Strelau (conducting, composition, ensembles). Graduate of Syracuse University and University of Miami. Has performed as a violinist with the Florida Philharmonic and the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra. Former orchestra director at Penfield High School and the Finger Lakes Symphony, Conductor of the Greater Rochester Women's Philharmonic, Hochstein Youth Symphony Orchestra, Virtuosi Scholarship Chamber Orchestra and guest conductor for All-State and All-County orchestras throughout the U.S. Nazareth College Director of Orchestras, Audition Coordinator, and Instrumental Coordinator. Orchestral and choral works published with Warner Brothers, Southern Music. Winner of the Hochstein Faculty Service Award in 2001. Joined Hochstein Faculty in 1992.

Munenori Sugitani (voice) . Currently completing a Doctor of Musical Arts degree in Vocal Performance and Literature from the Eastman School of Music where he teaches voice lessons; Master of Music Vocal Performance degree from the University of Arizona; Bachelor of Music degree in Vocal Performance from the University of the Pacific (CA). Has been a finalist in a number of competitions and was the 2001 winner of the Eastman Concerto Competition. Has performed with Eastman Opera Theatre and Rochester Opera Factory, and gave a summer 2004 solo recital in Tokyo, Japan. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2004.

Patricia Sunwoo (chamber ensembles). Doctoral degree from the Juilliard School. Has performed extensively with the Whitman String Quartet recording, touring, and collaborating with numerous composers. She performed frequently with New York City's new music ensembles Sequitur, Continuum, and Da Capo Players. Currently performs with Bard Festival String Quartet, Finger Lakes Chamber Ensemble and the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra. Faculty member at Binghamton University. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2006.

Kimberly E. Thompson (music therapy intern). Bachelor degree in Music Therapy from Berklee College of Music, Institute of Music Therapy; Associates Degree in Applied Sciences, Vocal Performance from Onondaga Community College. Studied under Angus Goodwin in vocal performance at Ithaca College School of Music. Background in private voice instruction, violin performance, proficient in guitar and various percussion. Joined Hochstein internship program in 2008.

Jim Tiller (ensembles). Master of Music degree and Performer's Certificate from the Eastman School of Music; Bachelor of Education and Performer's Certificate from the University of South Carolina. Has performed extensively throughout the U.S., Europe and Japan, and since 1995 has performed with the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra where he is Principal Percussion/Assistant Timpani. Active as a soloist and chamber musician at such venues as Percussive Arts Society, Bravo! Vail Valley Music Festival, Spoleto Festival and others. Faculty member at SUNY Geneseo and Houghton College. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2002.

Jennifer Turbes (viola). Master of Music in Viola Performance from the Eastman School of Music where she is in the doctoral program; Bachelor of Arts in Music from St. Olaf College (MN). While at Eastman, served as a teaching assistant to Prof. John Graham and completed Suzuki training through the Ithaca Suzuki Institute. In addition to teaching at Eastman, has taught at St. Olaf Summer Music Camp and maintains a private viola studio. Has appeared on Good Morning El Paso and A Prairie Home Companion with Garrison Keillor. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2007.

Allyn Van Dusen (voice). Master's degree and Performer's Certificate from the Eastman School of Music; Bachelor's degree from Boston University. Appeared as mezzo soloist with the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra, the Rochester Oratorio Society and the Boston Symphony. Won Audience Prize in CyberSing 2002, a global Internet art song competition. Has performed roles in opera and musical theatre, creating roles in several world premiere operas. Active recitalist and recording artist with two solo CD's produced for SongBurst Records and contemporary works for Albany Records. Longtime church soloist, member of Madrigalia chamber choir, and cofounder of the Rochester Vocal Arts Collaborative in 2001. Joined Hochstein faculty in 1992.

Emily Vardanyan (ensembles). Bachelor of Music degree in Violin Performance from the Eastman School of Music where she is pursuing graduate studies. Occasionally performs with the Syracuse Symphony, and member of the Marini String Ensemble. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2008.

Tigran Vardanyan (violin). Attended Crossroads School of Arts & Sciences (Santa Monica, CA) and graduated from the Eastman School of Music with a Performer’s Certificate. Winner of numerous competitions. Member of Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra since 1998. Active soloist and chamber musician, member of The Marini String Ensemble. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2007.

Allan Ward (percussion). Master of Music degree from the Jazz and Contemporary Media Department of the Eastman School of Music where he is also a candidate for a Master of Music Education degree; Bachelor of Music in performance from the University of Colorado at Boulder. Has performed with the Boulder Philharmonic, Boulder Brass, and toured with the Air Force big band “Shades of Blue” based in St. Louis (MO). Joined Hochstein faculty in 2007.

Jeffrey Weeks (double bass). Master of Music degree in Performance and Literature from the Eastman School of Music where he was awarded a fellowship and received an Orchestral Studies Diploma in conjunction with the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra. Bachelor of Music in double bass from Ohio State University. Former faculty member of Jefferson Academy of Music and the Pre-College Strings Division of Ohio State University. Plays with the Binghamton Philharmonic and Tri-Cities Opera Orchestra. Has performed extensively as a freelance artist with numerous orchestras, chamber orchestras, and ensembles including the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra, Albany Symphony Orchestra, Mercury Opera Rochester, and Rochester Children's Theatre. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2004.

Joseph Werner (piano). Master's and Bachelor's degrees from the Eastman School of Music. Principal pianist and Personnel Manager for the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra, with whom he has served as featured soloist on over a dozen concerti. Has recorded on the Columbia, Vanguard, NEXUS, and Musical Heritage Society labels, and has toured Eastern Europe, the Middle East, and Russia under the auspices of the United States Information Agency. Recipient of the Hochstein Faculty Service Award, in 1990. Joined Hochstein faculty in 1978.

Lynne Westmoreland (piano). Master of Arts and Bachelor of Music degrees in piano performance from George Mason University (Fairfax, VA). Has performed at the Kennedy Center of Performing Arts and many other venues in the Washington DC metropolitan area as soloist, accompanist, and chamber ensemble member. Former faculty member at The Madeira School (McLean, VA) and George Mason University (Fairfax, VA). Joined Hochstein faculty in 2007.

Katherine Wheeler (dance). Bachelor of Fine Arts from the Columbus College of Art and Design. Previous teaching experience at The Movement Center School in Ohio. Workshop presenter at area schools. Curator and Outreach Coordinator at Artisan Works. Artisan Works website Joined Hochstein faculty in 2006.

John Wiesenthal (guitar, ensembles). Degrees from SUNY Stony Brook and the University of Oregon School of Music. Received Orff Schulwerk Certification from the Eastman School of Music. Developed guitar programs at Hochstein for young children, and is founder and past president of the Guitar Society of Rochester. Has appeared regularly with the Musica Nova ensemble of the Eastman School of Music and on the "Live from Hochstein" series. Received Hochstein's Faculty Service Award in 1999. Joined Hochstein faculty in 1980. website

Colleen Wolf (horn). Master of Music in horn performance from the University of Michigan. Bachelor of Music in horn performance and the Performer's Certificate from the Eastman School of Music. Performs with Twenty21 and founding member of the Plymouth Brass Quintet. Actively freelances with Rochester Oratorio Society, Mercury Opera Rochester, Kunde Chorale, and the Greater Rochester Women's Philharmonic. Professional affiliations include the Morning Musicale, the Fairport Musicale, and the International Horn Society. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2004.

Grace Wong (harp). Graduate of Oberlin Conservatory with further studies at the Manhattan School of Music. Principal harpist with Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra. Won second prize at the Fifth International Harp Contest in Israel and made her Carnegie Hall debut in 1974. Has served as jury member for the International Harp Contest, American String Teachers Association National Solo Competition, and as a board member of the American Harp Society. Joined Hochstein faculty in 1992.

Katie Worley (violin, ensembles). Bachelor and Master of Music degrees from the Eastman School of Music. Former member of the Syracuse Symphony Orchestra. Received Suzuki teacher training at the Ithaca Suzuki Institute, the Suzuki Institute of the Paulouse in Pullman (WA) and the Southern Ontario Suzuki Institute. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2000.

Rissa Young (music therapy). ). Master of Music Therapy from East Carolina University; Bachelor of Science degree in Music Liberal Studies with concentrations in applied Clarinet and Psychology, Cum Laude, from Austin Peay State University. Completed Music Therapy Internship at Broome-Tioga BOCES in the PALS program. Member of the American Music Therapy Association. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2008.

Olexsandra Yurchenko (piano). Graduated from Lysenko Music Conservatory of Lviv in the Ukraine with a concentration on piano accompaniment and where she was an Assistant Professor of Music Accompaniment. Has participated in numerous competitions and is very active as a collaborative pianist in the Ukraine, Poland, and the United States. Maintains a private studio in Rochester, works as the church musician for St. Rita's Church, and UCC Church in Webster. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2006.

Wenqing Zhang (piano). Pursuing Doctor of Music Degree in Piano at Eastman School of Music, where she earned her Master's and Bachelor's degrees; additional studies at the Beijing Central Conservatory of Music. Winner of International Young Artists Competition, Tianjin Conservatory's Children's Piano Competition and Eastman Piano Concerto Competition. Recorded for International Central Broadcasting in China. Concert and recital soloist at the U.S. Department of State in Washington, D.C., Tquingdao Symphony Orchestra, Tianjin Symphony Orchestra, and Academie Internationale du Moulin d'Ande. Joined Hochstein faculty in 2003.