Our Encinitas Staff

Hand-selected educators who make learning music fun, safe, and inspiring

At Leading Note Studios, our teachers are more than just musicians—they’re mentors. Every instructor is carefully chosen for their experience, professionalism, and ability to connect with students of all ages. With backgrounds that range from performing on national stages to advanced music degrees, they share one goal: making music an exciting and rewarding part of your family’s life.

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  • Adam has been passionate about music since he first picked up a drumstick and guitar at the age of 13. He recently graduated with a music associate degree and specializes in Mariachi and Jazz styles. He looks forward to enhancing his own musical knowledge with all his students and sharing his expertise. When he's not teaching drums and guitar, you can find him immersed in video games, blending his love for rhythm and interactive entertainment. "Let’s jam, have fun, and make music!"

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  • With over 25 years of musical experience, I specialize in both guitar and drums. My own journey began with guitar lessons at age 10, and I quickly fell in love with music through the percussion section in middle and high school—proudly calling myself a “band geek.” Inspired by legendary songwriters like Paul McCartney, John Lennon, Thom Yorke, and Jonny Greenwood, I bring those influences into my teaching to spark creativity in students. What I love most about teaching is watching students get excited about learning something new. Every lesson becomes a chance for us to grow together, exploring rhythms, songs, and even songwriting in a way that keeps music fun and inspiring.

  • Alicia holds a Bachelor of Music from Arizona State University. She has been involved in music her whole life and began her formal music education at age five, after that being involved in choirs and orchestras, playing piano and guitar in churches and in different bands. Alicia is a classically trained vocalist as well as a singer/songwriter. She demonstrates a patient, supportive, and student-centered approach to teaching while emphasizing the importance of understanding musical foundations such as theory, rhythm, note reading, and ear training to lead students to understand the "big picture."

  • Jade is a dynamic music educator and performer passionate about empowering students through music. A recent graduate of San Diego State University with degrees in Communications and Music Business, she combines creativity, leadership, and technical skill to create engaging lessons.

    With extensive experience performing in musicals like RENT and Mamma Mia! and serving as a section leader in SDSU’s Treble Choir, Jade brings real-world expertise to her lessons. She also served as Music Director of SDSU SoundWave, the university’s premier co-ed a cappella group, competing in the ICCAs three times and earning awards for Best Arrangement and Best Soloist.

    Jade’s teaching philosophy centers on meeting students where they are and providing the tools and support needed to help them achieve their musical goals. She fosters a supportive environment where students build confidence and embrace their creativity. She has guided young musicians at Rock n’ Roll Camp for Girls San Diego and now teaches voice and beginner piano.

    She has also been recognized for her solo work, winning first place in the Musical Theatre category of San Diego NATS in Spring 2024. Jade is dedicated to helping students discover their unique talents and grow as musicians and individuals.

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  • Franc is our musical maestro at Leading Note Studios! With a Bachelor's degree in music from the University of California San Diego and experience teaching at Nativity School, he brings a wealth of knowledge and a passion for nurturing young musicians. When not teaching, you might find them jamming on drums and piano, inspiring our students to rock their musical journey enthusiastically and skillfully.

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  • She is a dedicated music educator with over eight years of experience teaching violin, viola, and cello. Beginning her teaching journey at just 16, she has since worked with several organizations including Fortissimo, Hollywood Music, and City Heights Music School. In addition to her strong musical background, Charity has held leadership roles directing student ensembles and training fellow music coaches. She’s also known for her team-building skills, organization, and friendly, customer-focused attitude. Charity has performed at prestigious venues like Walt Disney Concert Hall and was selected for an elite music camp in Aspen. Her passion for teaching and music continues to inspire students of all ages.

A young man in a black tuxedo holding a violin and bow, standing against a white background.


  • Speaks Russian

    Russian composer and principal violist, George has been playing since the age of six. He has played in several Philharmonic Orchestras, including St. Petersburg, and Cairo, and is currently the principal violist with Mira Costa College Symphony Orchestra. He holds both a Bachelor’s degree and a Master’s degree in Music. Inspired by the great musicians of all times, George believes in encouraging advancement in his students. He expects his students to overlap so they inspire and support each other. Teaching is an opportunity for patience and creativity for him. George previously built an orchestra here at Leading Note Studios where students of all instruments were invited to join.

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  • Kaely is a singer/songwriter with over a decade of experience in music and education and over 27 years of performing in public herself. She has a strong background in working with diverse student populations and is passionate about fostering social/emotional growth through music. Kaely has successfully produced after-school programs and guided students in performing arts, creating safe and engaging environments for learning. Kaely’s journey has taken her to places as a vocal teacher, songwriter, and, producer where she collaborated with talents from shows like Netflix's “Love on the Spectrum.” She was a studio assistant in Nashville and then a Clearance Producer for MTV's, Ridiculousness.  A graduate of the Los Angeles College of Music, Kaely is skilled in various musical instruments and creative software, bringing a multifaceted approach to education and the arts. She continues to inspire the next generation by emphasizing creativity and collaboration.

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  • Wisconsin native Marilla brings 18 years of piano experience to the San Diego. Her passion for music began early and has only flourished through the years of her classical piano and theater study. She holds a degree in Piano Pedagogy from the University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire. She had the opportunity to study and work with professors on piano literature, technique, jazz history and analysis, music theory and history, and accompany musical works within the theater department. Equipped to work with all ages from years spent serving in camp ministry, she has a strong passion for helping students connect with their musicality on a deep level while simultaneously sharing in the joy of learning music. She's accompanied various high school and college musical productions throughout her career, one of which earned her a Jerry Award nomination. She also has a passion for accompanying a variety of competitive music festivals, providing music for weddings or other occasions, and watching students’ passion for music unfold as they grow in their knowledge and skill. She's excited to teach full-time and continue learning just as much as the student in every lesson!

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  • A dedicated music teacher specializing in Beginner/Intermediate Piano and Beginner Voice lessons for young students. With a passion for toddler music, she has developed a comprehensive curriculum for engaging Mommy and Me music classes.

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  • My-Linh has been teaching piano, voice and ukulele for over 10 years and has a gift for connecting with students of all ages. With her warm and encouraging teaching style, she helps children build confidence, develop their creativity, and discover the joy of making music.

    She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Music from California State University, Fullerton, where she graduated cum laude, and an Associate of Arts from MiraCosta College. In addition to teaching, My-Linh has extensive experience directing choirs, accompanying ensembles, and serving as a church music director, giving her a rich background in both performance and leadership.

    At Leading Note Studios, My-Linh loves creating lessons that are fun, engaging, and tailored to each child’s personality and learning style. Parents appreciate her caring nature and dedication to helping students grow not only as musicians but also in confidence and self-expression.

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  • Mary is a soulful singer and songwriter originally from Massachusetts and has been teaching music for 10 years. Mary studied at the Jackie McLean Institute of Jazz in Hartford Connecticut and received her BA in jazz performance. Mary has performed and toured with Grammy winning artists throughout her career while also continuing her love for teaching in the classroom.

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  • Mike is a passionate, engaging, outside-of-the-box private instructor, performer, and songwriter. His focus lies in empowering others through music education and discovering their creative center. Mike attended Musicians Institute in Hollywood, California, for keyboard instruments, recording arts, and music business. For almost a decade, he threw himself into the hustle and bustle of the music industry. He worked for various record labels (major and independent), gigged with a slew of bands, recorded with original artists, actively wrote for entertainment publications, and composing original music for performance, film, and videogames. Mike is like a walking record store! He's hooped his headphones over his ears to immerse himself in an onslaught of records for years. Those usually are then set aside in the shelves of his mind. Obsessed with all things music, this music man appreciates an array of genres ranging from folk, Americana, all rock genres, singer-songwriters, soul, blues, jazz, hip hop, classical, electronic, avant-garde, experimental, film compositions, and more. He interweaves this knowledge to create unique approaches to learning music. A local native to San Diego, he has returned to the area to continue teaching music and inspire others. With his 20+ years of music experience, he continues to teach, write, and compose music for his original projects. You may see him out on the club, winery, and brewery entertainment circuit. The art of music, music creation, and performance awaits your discovery! He's ready to help you on your musical journey. Just say when.

A man with long, curly white hair playing a violin inside a cozy, warmly lit room.

  • Marty is a versatile musician and educator with a deep love for violin and guitar, which began with violin lessons at age 8. In high school, he played in the orchestra pit for Bye Bye Birdie. Influenced by the rock of the 1960s and 1970s and bluegrass, Marty studied under Julian Arron and performed with the Northeastern Illinois University Orchestra. He later honed his skills at the Old Town School of Folk Music, mastering mandolin, bluegrass fiddle, and folk guitar. Since 2008, Marty has been teaching and performing in San Diego, sharing his passion for music across genres.

A man smiling and holding a drumstick near a drum.

  • Russell was born in Sioux City, Iowa. He moved to New York City, attending jazz workshops and studying with drummer Roy Haynes. Russell spent eight years playing and recording in Colorado and rock guitar legend Tommy Bolin's band and guitarist Robben Ford. Russell spent 20 plus years in Los Angeles, Ca, touring with Jose Feliciano and Billy Preston, as well as doing many studio dates, working on the "Laverne & Shirley" Show, "Merv Griffen Show," & "Northern Exposure TV Show," the independent film "Stanleys Gig." He played with many Los Angeles jazz artists, including Jimmy Smith, Freddie Hubbard, Tom Scott, Eric Reed, and Ravi Coltrane. He has released 2 CDs as an artist, Tommy Bolin Tribute and Russell B Trio, Dreamstreet, a third soon to be released. Russell has spent the last five years playing as the house drummer in the Anthology House Band in San Diego.

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  • Stephen is a passionate musician who loves sharing his love of music with others. His musical journey began at age six with piano lessons, followed by saxophone in middle school, and later guitar and bass in high school. Throughout college, he gigged with various bands and still jumps at any chance for a fun jam session. While he appreciates all genres, his favorites are melodic rock and alternative. As a teacher, Stephen enjoys helping students build their skills and confidence, making music both exciting and accessible. When he’s not playing or teaching, you’ll likely find him on the pickleball court or at the gym.  

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  • Rebecca is a passionate vocal and piano instructor at Leading Note Studios, dedicated to helping students discover the joy of music. With a strong background in teaching and performance, she focuses on building solid musical foundations while making learning engaging and enjoyable. Her approach blends technique, creativity, and expression to support each student’s unique musical journey. Whether guiding students in mastering the piano or developing vocal skills, Rebecca strives to inspire confidence and a lifelong love for music.

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  • A voice and harpsichord major at UCSC and LA Music Award winner, Sarah has been teaching voice and piano to all ages for 29 years. She teaches a variety of genres from Classical, Rock, Pop, Jazz to Musical Theatre. An experienced performer and recording artist, she is a highly effective and dynamic performance coach. She empowers students of all levels to experience the joy of playing as they pursue their musical studies.

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  • Susan an enthusiastic educator with an associate's degree in musical theatre from AMDA College and Conservatory of the Performing Arts. Fueled by my passion for music, and theatre, and a genuine love for working with kids, she strives to create an engaging and inspiring learning environment for my students. Let’s explore the creativity and magic that music can bring.

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  • An accomplished musician, and a staple in the Encinitas community, Stephen (Steve) has been teaching music for over 30 years. Steve, an Encinitas native, started playing in rock and jazz bands in high school. From there, he attended Berkley School of Music in Boston, and has taught in the public school arena as a coach for instrumentalists all over San Diego County. He has received several awards since high school and has even performed public concerts including Mannheim Steamroller Christmas. Steve is creative, multi-faceted, and encouraging when he teaches. He believes students should be inspired and will use groups and even a combination of instruments to encourage students to pursue music as a passion. His knowledge and application of music theory is a benefit to any student. Steve has not only been active in different worship teams over the years, he was also once a part of The Brown Family Band, which his family formed.

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  • Troy has been surrounded by music all his life in various forms and specializes in teaching guitar and drums here at Leading Note Studios. Troy loves to encourage his students to create their own original work and strives to help guide them along the way by exploring their creativity in the process. His goal as a teacher is to be positive in every lesson to help support his students become the best musicians and individuals they can be.

An elderly man wearing glasses, a black beret, and a light-colored shirt, sitting indoors, holding a trumpet and resting his chin on his hand.

  • Wayne is a singer, multi-Instrumentalist. Piano, all Keyboards, Trumpet, Flugelhorn and Drums. He has arranged and produced many recordings for famously known artist and top television shows. He has worked with entertainers such as Jose Feliciano, Charo, Debbie Reynolds, Frankie Avalon, Jimmy Smith, and Diane Schuur. Wayne also has extensive experience as a private and group clinician music teacher of voice and on all instruments.

An elderly woman with gray hair playing a piano, wearing a blue top, a blue and purple scarf, and a white skirt, sitting on a black piano bench.

  • Tamara believes that every child has a talent from God and love is the key to unlocking this talent. She loves teaching music and getting the opportunity to work with any child that comes her way. Tamara is an incredible piano and voice teacher who integrates encouragement and kindness in her lessons to share the joy of music with students. Most importantly, she strives to give every student a safe space to learn and feel at ease every week during their lessons. Tamara strongly believes that we are all a big family where everyone deserves respect which is exemplified in her lessons. She loved her work very much and her students love her too. During her childhood, she had a lot of stage performances so she could not stop loving it. Recently she was hired at the State Academic Song and Dance Ensemble of Don Cossacks as a singer. Since then she has worked on the professional stage for over 20 years. She toured all over the world and visited the United States many times. Her artistic director wanted her to continue her education so she could take the position of choir director. And in 1995 she graduated from the St. Petersburg Academy of Music with the diploma of a choral conductor. In 1999 she immigrated to the United States and in 2005 she became a citizen. She began to attend a church and to work as a musician in the worship.

Our Inner Office Coordinators

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  • Sydney grew up playing the piano and later graduated with a degree in interior architecture. She joined Leading Note Studios in August of 2023 and has recently returned to weekly lessons, excited to perform in the Adult Recitals. In her free time, she enjoys reading, playing beach volleyball, and hiking. Sydney has a dog named Pace and dreams of traveling to Bali and Japan someday.

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  • Owen has been part of Leading Note Studios since 2009, beginning as a student studying piano, saxophone, voice, and clarinet. He went on to earn his degree in Music Education from Sonoma State University and is now a full-time public school music teacher. At Leading Note, Owen brings his experience and passion for music to the front desk team, continuing to support the studio community he has grown up in.

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  • Bringing her passion for education, nonprofit work, and a belief in the importance/positive impact of music, Helena joined our team in January 2023. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Integrated Educational Studies with a minor in Ethnomusicology and has a previous musical background in trombone, steel drums, and music composition. She loves Broadway musicals, beach days, spending time with her dog Jersey, going to craft stores and the movies, and has a special love for Christmas! Her diverse interests and warm spirit make her a wonderful and valued member of our community here at Leading Note Studios!

Our Fearless Leaders

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  • Camille Hastings founded Leading Note Studios in Encinitas in 2009, starting with just five students. She expanded to San Marcos in 2020, and in 2021, the studio was named “National Music School of the Year.”

    A graduate of Berklee College of Music, Camille has performed with legends like Barry Manilow and Vince Gill. She is also the author of From Passion to Profit: The Part-Time Music Teacher's Guide to a Six-Figure Income, a practical guide for educators looking to build a thriving music career.

    Outside of music, Camille enjoys gardening, baking, and riding her Indian Scout motorcycle. Married for 30 years and a mother of three, she continues to share her passion for music and community.

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  • Marissa has been part of our team since October 2020. A graduate of USC with a degree in Music Business, she brings both passion and professionalism to everything she does. A talented musician, Marissa plays piano, guitar, and loves to sing.

    Outside of teaching, she enjoys perfecting her sourdough recipe and savoring a great cup of coffee. She was recently married in July 2024—and somehow managed to attend 15 weddings in the same year!

    With her vibrant energy, warm spirit, and musical talent, Marissa is a cherished member of our team. And the excitement continues—she and her husband are expecting their first child in October 2025!

Not sure which teacher or program is the right fit?

And we’ll help you find the perfect class for your goals.

Seven children standing in a row holding colorful handmade signs with the word "Joy" written in flowers.
A father and son playing guitars, both smiling. The father is wearing glasses and a plaid shirt, while the son is in a white shirt, khaki shorts, and a wide-brimmed hat.
A young girl with long blonde hair wearing a denim jacket and yellow dress playing a piano in a classroom setting.
A young girl with curly hair playing a black Sojin upright piano, looking up at the camera from above.
A young girl with brown hair styled in pigtails with white bows, smiling and sitting cross-legged on the floor. She is wearing a white T-shirt with the words 'Treble Maker' and colorful musical notes printed on it. In front of her, there is a sheet o
A person playing an acoustic guitar, focusing on their hands on the fretboard.
Five children seated at a table with musical note boards and black counters, engaging in a musical activity. One child has a toy baby doll, and another is holding a stuffed animal. In the background, shelves with books, toys, and a keyboard are visib
Young boy playing violin and smiling, wearing a blue shirt, indoors against a plain wall.
Young boy playing trumpet, viewed from below, with a plain wall background.
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Four children sitting in a classroom, smiling and engaging. A boy with curly hair wearing a blue shirt has his hand raised, and the other children are watching him. The classroom has colorful posters, a musical keyboard, and a cart with colorful supp
A young girl in a striped shirt smiling and raising drumsticks in front of a drum set in a music room.
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Five women holding musical instruments, including a violin, clarinet, trumpet, and cello, standing together in an indoor setting with plain walls, smiling at the camera.
Six children gathered around a table playing a card game or activity with colorful cards.
A collection of children's music learning materials including musical note cards, toy instruments, colorful eggs, a stuffed bear, and a music-themed book arranged on a table.