Our Staff
ABOUT OUR TEAM
Crescendo music instructors are dedicated to enhancing their student’s skill, confidence and artistry. They thrive on celebrating achievement with their students, not only at recitals and major events but every time they come together in a lesson. As owners, we value each of our music instructors’ unique talents, experience, education, and their ongoing desire to grow in their musicianship and effectiveness as teachers of music.
Our Owners
Leanne Cummings
Leanne Cummings
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After numerous years of success as a musician, a director of musical performances, a business management specialist and client services professional, Leanne decided to embark on building a business of her own, teaching and developing musicians. Her passion for music, and for growing musicians of all ages, has afforded her many rewarding opportunities and experiences including:
- 15+ years in private piano instruction (Royal Conservatory, improvisation and worship)
- 10+ years of private vocal instruction (Royal Conservatory, contemporary and worship)
- Director/co-director of six separate children’s musicals, as well as adult choirs
- Instructor of private and group piano lessons for more than 8 years
- Worship Band leader, keyboardist, and vocalist
- Winner of numerous Kiwanis and Strathfort music festival competitions
- Vocal soloist for numerous events and occasions
- Facilitator of vocal coaching workshops
Leanne started Crescendo Music Studios in her home in 2004. It was her desire to provide a nurturing and unique approach to learning piano and voice, that included improvisation, songwriting, music reading, recording projects, and even computerized theory learning. She firmly believed that the best way to achieve these goals was to create a structured, yet fun learning environment with a foundation of business excellence.
Crescendo Music Studios quickly outgrew The Cummings’ home and as a result, they purchased commercial space in Sherwood Park, Alberta, fulfilling a life-long dream for Leanne. Please do not hesitate to call Leanne personally, if you have any suggestions for our studio or questions about us! She would love to connect with you.
Dean Cummings
Dean Cummings
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I am the co-owner of Crescendo Music Studios with my wife, Leanne. We became business partners in 2009 and I bring many years of experience with me, in customer service management and business leadership. I have an immense passion for supporting student growth and development by working with our team to build, coach and mentor our teaching professionals. I work very closely with our staff team through regular coaching sessions, mentorship coordination, and customer service training. I also oversee the operations of our organization. As an aside, I also enjoy fiction writing and I am working on my third novel!
Leanne and I have been married for over 24 years and our two boys, Spencer and Nolan are also involved in the business in various capacities. We consider ourselves a very family-oriented business designed to meet your music education needs. We are excited to share our passion for music learning and providing quality music education with you and your family through Crescendo Music Studios.
Director of Indian Music – South Edmonton Campus
Dr. Subash Giri
Dr. Subash Giri
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• SEM Northwest Chapter Best Paper Prize 2023 Winner
• ICTM Student Paper Prize 2022 Winner
• SEM 21st Century Fellowship Award 2021 Recipient
• Society for Asian Music (SAM) Graduate Student Small Grant Award 2021 Recipient
Dr. Subash Giri is a community-based multilingual and multi-instrumental musician, music educator, ensemble director, ethnomusicologist, and award-winning researcher. He received his PhD in Music (Ethnomusicology) from the University of Alberta. He also holds degrees in Hindustani Classical Voice (M MUS) and Music Management (M MUS MGMT) from University of Agder, Norway. Dr. Giri has been an Assistant Lecturer of Indian Music Ensemble (IME) at the Department of Music, University of Alberta from May 2019 to present.
Dr. Giri has expertise on South Asian music heritage and his research focuses on South Asian diaspora in Canada. His research interests include music and minority; music, human rights, and social justice; music sustainability; music and community well-being; community-based and collaborative research; applied ethnomusicology; participatory ethnomusicology; music and diasporic identity; and music business, music industry, and copyright. His research articles have been published in several international journals.
Our Teachers
Leanne Cummings
Leanne Cummings
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Teaches: Private Piano Lessons, Private Voice Lessons, Musical Theater Program, & Crescendo Chorus
Hi there! I’m Leanne, the founder of Crescendo Music Studios. I have the privilege of teaching voice and piano to students! It is a thrill to have taught music for over two decades in various capacities! I worked up to Grade 9 Royal Conservatory in piano and Grade 8 Royal Conservatory in voice. Over the years, I have taught various choirs, musical theatre classes, and workshops. I take joy in working with students to unleash their potential and to help them realize a lifelong passion for music and music learning. I also love getting to know my students and building a meaningful relationship with them! Really… I can’t imagine life without them. They inspire me and challenge me to bring my best to work every day. I have the best career ever!
Current Projects: I continue to take improvisation lessons, vocal coaching instruction, and I am involved in a number of business entrepreneur groups. I also consult with local daycares and schools to bring music classes to their environments.
Fun Facts: I have an adventurous spirit. I have skydived and bungee-jumped a few times in my life! My favourite composer is Claude Debussy and my favourite artists are Sara Bareilles, Norah Jones, and Nat King Cole. I consider it a privilege to bring music appreciation and exploration to the lives of my students.
Matthew Aniston
Matthew Aniston
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Teaches: Piano
Hello there! My name is Matthew, and I’m glad to be part of the Crescendo Music Studios team as a piano teacher. Seeing students progress in their music journey always puts a smile on my face. I have been playing piano since 2009 and have come to love it more and more each year! In 2021, I completed my Level 10 RCM practical exam with a first-class honors grading and have participated in many competitions in Edmonton and Sherwood Park, often placing first in my group. I am very passionate about classical piano music, and some of my favorite classical composers are Bach, Beethoven, Mozart, and Chopin. I have also explored other genres, such as jazz, rock, and popular music through playing as the pianist in my high school jazz band and also jamming with my friends outside of school.
Current Projects: I am currently a student at MacEwan University, pursuing an undergraduate degree in Bachelor of Commerce.
Fun Facts: Apart from piano, I am passionate about cars and enjoy watching Formula 1. I also like skiing in the winter and fitness training!
Ryan Ast
Ryan Ast
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Teaches: Bass, Guitar, Ukulele & WeJam
Ryan’s first love is his 6-string bass guitar, while his animals come as a close tie. He started exploring music through piano at an early age, also taking an interest in percussion and guitar. Ryan eventually focused his musical skill-set in playing the bass guitar as a teenager. In 2015, Ryan graduated from the Grant MacEwan music program.
Current Projects: Ryan is currently working on some of his own original music and hopes to share more of his authentic musical expression in the near future.
Fun Facts: Ryan has become an accomplished bass player who has been involved in several music projects like Greif Week, Violent Riot, Aliza, El Niven and The Alibi, Wild T & the Spirit, and Uncle Joe and the Nephews (to name a few). Ryan has also toured Canada and the US with multiple groups such as Big Wreck. Ryan’s sound and technical skill is versatile and eclectic, incorporating his bass guitar in a variety of musical genres from Rock & roll and punk rock, to hip-hop and R&B.
Stephanie Bent, B.A.
Stephanie Bent, B.A.
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Teaches: Private Voice Lessons, Private Piano Lessons, Musical Theatre Program
Hello! My name is Stephanie Bent. I consider myself a dynamic and caring voice and piano instructor for Crescendo. I have been teaching privately for over 11 years, and I love sharing my passion for music with my students! I grew up singing in church and choirs and taking piano lessons for many years before I discovered my interest in opera. I studied classical voice and opera performance at King’s University College before transferring to the University of Alberta to complete my Bachelor of Arts in Music. I have performed with many opera and theatre companies including the Edmonton Opera Chorus, and have been featured several times as a soloist for the Edmonton Metropolitan Orchestra. I truly consider it a joy to teach, and I believe music opens up a world of expression and beauty that enriches the lives of my students!
Current Projects: This summer I will be performing the role of La Badessa in the opera Suor Angelica with Pop Goes The Opera at the Edmonton International Fringe Festival. This will be my second time in the role and I am thrilled to return to the beautiful music of Puccini!
Fun Facts: I have sung in over 12 languages, including Polish, Latin, and Hawaiian and I am currently learning to speak Italian. In university, I toured France and Germany, performing in many historic cathedrals and basilicas with the King’s University Chamber Choir. I have spent many wonderful summers working and performing at the Edmonton International Fringe Festival, the second largest Fringe Festival in the world!
Tiegen Costa B. Mus
Tiegen Costa B. Mus
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Teaches: Guitar, Ukulele, Bass
Hi there, my name is Tiegen! Music education is one of my favourite things in the world. I absolutely love helping students progress to consistently meet their goals in fun and exciting ways. I graduated from MacEwan University with a Bachelors Degree in Jazz and Contemporary Popular Music, majoring in performance, and have even studied in New York under some of the world’s top guitarists. I teach all levels and almost any style of music. I’m looking forward to helping you reach your full potential!
Current Projects:
I mostly play as a freelancer around the city. I’ve played different scenarios including hard swingin’ big bands and pit orchestras, all the way to hard rock groups. I currently play in a few funk/RnB groups as well and am looking to release my first EP in early 2022!
Fun Fact:
I was once ranked #6 in Rocket League out of all Canadians.
Erin Craig, M. Mus., ARCT.
Erin Craig, M. Mus., ARCT.
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Teaches: Private Piano Lessons, Theory Lessons, Vocal Lessons & Crescendo Vocal Chorus
Erin Craig is an in-demand conductor, clinician and vocalist in the Edmonton music community. Erin sings professionally in Pro Coro Canada and Richard Eaton Singers, works as a pianist and musical director in Edmonton’s musical theatre community, and composes and arranges choral music!
Erin’s music education is rich and varied: their advanced musical training began with a Performer’s ARCT in Piano Performance, concurrently with a diploma in jazz piano performance at MacEwan University in 2005. Erin then completed their undergraduate music studies at the prestigious Berklee College of Music in 2008 in Boston, MA, and when they returned to Edmonton, Erin taught jazz arranging, theory, and ear training at MacEwan, in addition to working as a gigging jazz and rock keyboardist.
In 2013, Erin re-discovered a passion for choral music after many years of absence, and felt called to pursue conducting. In 2018, they received a MMus in Choral Conducting from the University of Alberta, under the direction of Dr. Leonard Ratzlaff. Erin continues to juxtapose a love and knowledge of jazz music with choral activity in an accessible, yet high-quality, choral arrangements of pop and jazz tunes.
Current Projects: Erin is the Artistic Director of the Accord Ensemble, an auditioned chamber choir for young adults focused on new and inclusive repertoire, and of the BALM Society, an organization dedicated to promoting the leadership of women in the arts.
Fun Facts: Within BALM, the Accord Ensemble, as well as in other work, Erin is an advocate for gender equality and diversity in ensemble make-up, concert programming and artistic leadership.
Courtney Friggstad
Courtney Friggstad
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Teaches: Piano & Voice
My name is Courtney Friggstad, and I am so excited to be teaching with Crescendo Music Studios! I am a private piano and voice teacher who moved to Edmonton in August of 2023, to be with my family again. I am passionate about music and aim to foster that same love in the students I teach, while ensuring the fundamentals are understood and appreciated. It makes me so happy when a student is able to overcome a challenge and feel a great sense of pride in themselves. I am excited to help you meet the musical goals that we set, and that you have for yourself, through Crescendo!
While living on Vancouver Island, I provided one-on-one piano and voice lessons to students for seven years. I started a ladies’ singing group (Sisters of Song) in the community, and I’ve organized many recitals and fundraising events with my piano/voice students and singing group. I have my Grade 8 in Voice & Piano from the Royal Conservatory of Music with Honours, and Grade 2 in Rudiments with Honours.
I’ve been a part of many music festivals, winning many scholarships in many class categories, have acted and sung in musical theatre ensembles, and competed twice in provincials in classical singing in my home province, Saskatchewan. The Sisters of Song was the opening act for Six String Nation through the North Island Concert Society. I have performed at a variety of functions as a solo performer, or in partnership with other talented musicians, with lots of chord improvisation.
Current Projects: My current musical projects are continued self-training in playing piano by ear (piano rock most specifically), and learning how to play chords on the guitar, which I aim to turn into playing the classical guitar!
Fun Facts: Some of my favourite musical artists are Fleetwood Mac, Metallica, Neko Case, The Beatles…. I feel it’s an endless list as there are so many that I love! I own a djembe drum which has been very fun to use in recitals and performances. I am in love with life and love trying new things and experiences, even if it’s as simple as checking out a new restaurant. When I am not teaching or playing music, you can often catch me walking my dog, doing yoga, or spending time with my family. I regularly host large meals at my home, as I love bringing people together.
Laurelle Kanji
Laurelle Kanji
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Teaches: Musical Maestros, Vocal Chorus, Voice & Beginner Piano
Laurelle is a versatile singer-songwriter with a rich and diverse musical background. She amalgamated her journey in music education at Kindermusik University, where she became licensed in early childhood music education, solidifying her commitment to nurturing young minds through the power of music. Her lifelong dedication to understanding the intricacies of the human voice as an instrument began with extensive choral instruction and experience, such as being a member of multiple nationally acclaimed concert and jazz choirs.
In her formative years, Laurelle delved into classical piano lessons and even honed her skills as a trumpeter in school bands. She later taught herself to play the guitar adding yet another layer to her musical repertoire.
Throughout her career, Laurelle has been involved in a myriad of musical projects, from solo endeavors to collaborations with renowned artists like Bill Bourne. Her performance history boasts engagements with notable acts such as Bedouin Soundclash, Peter Yarrow, and the Wailin’ Jennys, demonstrating her versatility and ability to captivate audiences across various genres and platforms.
Passionate about early childhood development music education, Laurelle specializes in imparting the joy and transformative power of music to young learners. Her commitment to meaningful music is evident in her performances and educational endeavors, and she delights in the ability to share these passions with others.
Current Projects: Laurelle is currently working on obtaining grant funding for the recording of a solo album for release in Fall of 2024, playing live shows, recording, and applying for the Memphis Blues Challenge as a duo project with guitarist and songwriter Adam Kidd. She is joining one of Edmonton’s premier Jam Bands at the SOHO YEG Therapy Jam, as well as the recently formed “folk super group” the Fender Benders. Laurelle is taking advantage of every opportunity to play, sing, and perform. Music is her life!
Fun Fact: Laurelle is on the autism spectrum, as are her father and her youngest child. It was through her son’s diagnosis (and consequently her own) that she began her journey of studying early childhood music education and dove deep into learning and understanding the importance of music in daily life. She also provides private music enrichment sessions for children on the autism spectrum through her own small business, Mini Milestones Music.
Leah Lin M. Mus.
Leah Lin M. Mus.
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Teaches: Private Violin
About: Having learned and practiced violin for more than 20 years, I have obtained an in-depth music theory knowledge, and developed sophisticated violin technique. I also have extensive teaching experience. I have taught students ranging from a beginner to an advanced level, and at a wide range of ages. I am very patient with students and I am always happy to answer questions. I believe that each student is unique, and a teacher has the responsibility to approach each student differently and patiently according to his/her learning style.
Current Projects: I graduated from the University of Alberta with a Masters in music. In the University Orchestra Symphony, I played as the associate principal of second violin. I have performed in various concerts, such as Canada 150 years Concert, Christmas Opera, and Music Festival at the Winspear.
Fun Fact: I immigrated to Canada from China in 2016 and I am currently living in Edmonton. I am so excited to become a member of Crescendo Music Studios!
Rhea March
Rhea March
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Teaches: Musical Maestros, Elite Performers & Performance Coaching
My name is Rhea March and I am proud and delighted to bring my teaching skills and experience to Crescendo Music! Currently I have the joy of working with Crescendo’s Musical Maestros as well as the privilege of assisting in the professional development of Cresendo’s Elite Performers.
I have been active in the music industry for over 30 years as a performer, songwriter, artist mentor, consultant, educator, event host and radio personality.
Current Projects: Each summer I partner with the Edmonton and Canmore Folk Music Festivals to provide emerging songwriters with the game changing opportunity of performing at both prestigious festivals. I position the artists for success by providing intensive coaching in live performance, audience engagement, stagecraft and professionalism.
Locally, I have been the 14 year host of The Song Stage in Edmonton where my all-ages stage focuses on providing support and building community amongst Edmonton’s emerging and veteran musicians.
Fun Facts: My commitment to nurturing talent is the inspiration behind my weekly campus radio show aptly named, ‘It Takes a Village’ on CJSR 88.5 FM. Starting in 2013, the one-hour weekly series demonstrates how it truly does take a village to raise a songwriter and features music, live performances, interviews and stories about the biz.
Janak Naidu, B.A
Janak Naidu, B.A
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Teaches: Private Piano Lessons
Hello, my name is Janak Naidu, and I am a new private piano teacher here at Crescendo Music Studios. It’s great to meet you! I have been playing the piano for over 17 years, and I have been teaching for five years. I was taught at Crescendo from 2005-2016 and have spent a great deal of time playing, performing and learning from the owner, Leanne Cummings!
I believe that music can enrich a students life in more than just the ability to play music. I believe music provides comfort, a strong work ethic and a skill that carries over into whatever the student chooses to do with their lives. I do my best to provide a safe, and fun classroom environment that aims to teach students all aspects of music possible. This includes playing songs that you want to learn, learning technique, music theory and songwriting/improvising. These are all important aspects that will help a student’s playing and I believe provide a fulfilling experience with music overall.
Current Projects:
I have a strong background in music production and composition. I have been songwriting and producing music of various genres for 7 years.This includes; hip hop, R&B, rock, electronic, neo-classical and ambient music. I am currently working on an album with a good friend of mine and have even been assisting on modeling and photoshoots as well. Furthermore, I am learning the guitar, bass and drums while writing songs for other artists. Music has always been my primary passion, and I try to incorporate it into my life as much as possible. I have had my own music production business for around 7 years and I continue to work as a producer as well as teaching. These projects inform how I teach, as I am constantly learning myself!
Fun Facts:
In my own time, I tend to read a variety of different kinds of literature. My favourite genre is science fiction, but I have an appreciation for mystery novels and independent comic books. I also have a degree in History from the University of Alberta. I also have a passion for writing screenplays as a hobby.
Tanner Olson, Dip. Mus.
Tanner Olson, Dip. Mus.
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Teaches: Private Guitar Lessons, Private Ukulele Lessons, Private Bass Lessons
Hi there, my name is Tanner! I teach private guitar, bass, and ukulele for Crescendo Music Studios. I have achieved my Diploma in Music from Grant MacEwan University in Edmonton. I have enjoyed performing with various bands in our community and beyond. I teach all levels and ages of students and work well with pretty much everyone!
Current Projects: I perform on a fairly regular basis with local bands and even for senior centers in our area!
Fun Facts: I adopted a new kitty a few years ago, and despite many sleepless nights filled with meowing I still love my cat!
Dale Osbaldeston, B. Mus.
Dale Osbaldeston, B. Mus.
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Teaches: Drums, Guitar, Mallet Instruments & WeJam
Hello, I’m Dale Osbaldeston! I have been playing drums for over 12 years, and love to perform around Edmonton and surrounding areas. All my life I have been immersed in music, and recently I graduated from Grant MacEwan with a major in drum set performance. I play a variety of musical styles, including Jazz, Hip-Hop, Fusion, Rock, Pop, Folk, Funk, Country and Classical.
I have been teaching music to a variety of ages, and I look forward to continuing watching my students grow and develop a love of music at Crescendo Music Studios.
Current Projects: Dale enjoys playing in the band the “Tsunami Brothers” who are a local instrumental surf rock band that plays in and around the city!
Fun Facts: When Dale isn’t playing music, his favourite activity is going snowboarding!
Taylor Price, Dip. Mus.
Taylor Price, Dip. Mus.
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Teaches: Private Piano Lessons, Private Voice Lessons, Musical Theatre
“I believe in music the way some people believe in fairy tales.” – August Rush
Hello! I am a fun-loving and hardworking teacher and have been involved in music for as long as I can remember. I have been playing piano for 23 years and have completed Grade 9 in the Royal Conservatory of Music. I graduated from the Theatre Arts Intensive Diploma program at Grant MacEwan University where I learned so much about the voice, singing technique, choreography, theatre history, and performing. I have worked with classical & jazz piano, chording, improvisation, some songwriting, and also have experience playing the clarinet, ukulele, and cello. Previously, I was in choir for 11 years and took many years of private voice instruction. I have taught piano, voice, and musical theatre private lessons since Spring of 2018 with Crescendo, and for two years prior to that at other studios/home lessons. I’ve also been lucky enough to work with several schools in the area helping with their drama and music programs developing and leading workshops as well as helping to direct and choreograph different musicals.
Music is such a beautiful and rewarding gift to be shared and I am thrilled to be teaching at Crescendo!
Current Projects: I am currently writing the music for my 3rd Fringe Show, working towards earning my Grade 10 certification with RCM, and learning to play the guitar for fun.
Fun Facts: I am bilingual en Francais and in English, I have a pet bunny named Morty, a pet fish named Beethoven, and I love Musicals.
Tessa Ruberry
Tessa Ruberry
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Teaches: Piano, Guitar & Ukulele
Hello! My name is Tessa and I have been playing and enjoying music for my entire life! I started taking lessons here at Crescendo when I was 5 years old, and have been pursuing my passion for the arts ever since. I always find myself eager to explore new music and appreciate how different artists express their musicality. Additionally, I have been playing the tuba in concert band for 4 years now and absolutely love to pick up new instruments that advance my musical education.
I cannot wait to be teaching students as they embark on their own musical journeys and grow to love music!
Current Projects: My next big goals are to complete my level 10 RCM certification in piano and to continue to develop my song writing and composition skills.
Fun Fact: In my spare time, I like to bake cakes, read books, and listen to podcasts. One of my favourite bands is Queen, and I absolutely love to travel.
Elias Rudyk
Elias Rudyk
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Teaches: Violin
Seanna Rudyk
Seanna Rudyk
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Teaches: Violin
My name is Seanna Rudyk. I have been around, and have enjoyed, music my whole life. I started playing the piano when I was very young, then moved to the violin when I was eight and have been passionate about it ever since. I received my Royal Conservatory of Music Level 8 practical and have my Level 6 in theory. I am super excited for the opportunity to start teaching this year and to help students learn and become passionate about music! I have had an excellent violin teacher, so I appreciate the impact of having an understanding and helpful teacher or role model in your life.
Current Projects: I am in Grade 12 at Ardrossan Junior Senior High in the French Immersion Program.
Fun Facts: I enjoy several sports such as soccer and badminton.
Ken Stead
Ken Stead
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Teaches: Piano, Guitar, Voice & Performance Coaching
Hi, my name is Ken. I have been an international touring singer/songwriter since 2013 and I am now excited to share my knowledge of music through teaching at Crescendo Music Studios. I specialize in teaching beginner to intermediate piano, guitar and voice. I have a broad background and training. I took Royal Conservatory for a number of years, and I have taken a great deal of my own personal instruction over the past few decades! With my personalized approach to teaching, my priority is to create an environment that can see every student grow both musically and personally. My broad experience in the music industry allows me to understand the ins and outs of being a musician, which will benefit those of my students who are thinking of a professional career in music.
Current Projects: Giving back to the community through teaching & performing.
Fun Facts: I am originally from Sherwood Park and have just returned from living in the Netherlands for the last two years.
Eric Sutherland, Dip. Mus.
Eric Sutherland, Dip. Mus.
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Teaches: Drums, Guitar & Mallet Instruments
Hello! My name is Eric Sutherland. It is my privilege and passion to teach music to people of all ages. I am excited to be a member of the Crescendo team and have thoroughly enjoyed working with the talented students and incredible staff! I have been an avid percussionist for over 15 years and have been studying additional instruments such as piano, clarinet and guitar since I was a young child. I received a diploma in musical performance from MacEwan University in 2018 and have since been making my way as a teacher and performer in the Edmonton music scene. I enjoy helping students learn to play their favourite songs, introducing them to valuable techniques, and helping them perform. My favourite part of teaching is watching students overcome hurdles and take on new challenges. I would love to help you reach your musical goals at Crescendo Music Studios!
Current Projects: I work as a freelance drummer and enjoy playing live shows with my friends.
Fun Facts: Aside from music, I enjoy exercising, gardening and reading. I am an ardent learner with a curious nature, always eager to explore new territory.
Katrina Wei
Katrina Wei
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Teaches: Piano
Hello! My name is Katrina and I am excited to work with the students of Crescendo Music Studios! I started playing piano at a young age and have played the instrument for over 20 years. I have obtained a Level 9 Certificate in piano performance at the Central Conservatory of Music in China, and an RCM Level 10 equivalent in 2009. I continue to challenge myself to learn more technically and stylistically advanced pieces and explore a wide variety of music genres. I graduated from the University of Alberta in 2017 and I have explored a few varied career options in different fields, but finally I am pursuing my “dream career” in music education as I have always wanted to make this my career. I have experience teaching students of all ages, performance levels, and music of different styles. I have developed my own personal approach to teaching which has proven successful in improving students’ skills and techniques, musicality, and varied interest in music and piano playing specifically. It is truly a rewarding experience to be a part of a students’ musical journey as they grow and progress, and my goal is to help all my students find a passion for music!
Current Projects: I am currently working on a few pieces from various Russian composers — Scriabin, Prokofiev, Khachaturian, Rachmaninov… and my goal is to study their phenomenal works including a variety of sonatas, concertos, etudes and so on. Personally, I am very intrigued by the touch of modernism in their works of classical music, and the best way to understand these pieces is to understand where the composers are coming from, and vice versa.
Fun Facts: I am a big fan of horror movies, as well as the “good movies” that explore spiritual and metaphysical themes; i.e. A mom of two cats, a tabby and a calico! Other than classical music, I love experimental alternative rock bands like Sonic Youth, the Velvet Underground, Swans, the Fall, etc. and have been collecting a good selection of vinyl records.
Thomas Yackimec, M.Mus.
Thomas Yackimec, M.Mus.
![](https://crescendomusicstudios.ca/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Thomas-Yackimec-400x600.jpg)
Teaches: Drums, Bass, Guitar, Ukulele, Theory, Composition & WeJam
Current Project: I have a waiting list of pieces I want to write for organ, strings, electric guitar, choir, you name it!
Allison Zaragoza
Allison Zaragoza
![](https://crescendomusicstudios.ca/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Allison-Zaragoza-400x600.jpeg)
Teaches: Voice, Piano, Ukulele & Crescendo Vocal Chorus
Hello! My name is Allison, and I have had the privilege of teaching piano, voice, and ukulele at Crescendo for the past five years. I love opera, musical theatre, and choral music, and I started taking piano lessons when I was four years old. In 2011, I started piano and voice lessons with the owner of Crescendo, Leanne Cummings, and I have been here ever since! I completed my Grade 8 Royal Conservatory level in piano and have been continuously working to develop my vocal and teaching skills. I spent the first four years of my degree at the University of Alberta in the Music Department taking classical voice lessons, singing in choirs, performing in recitals as a solo singer, and performing as a member of the Opera Theatre Ensemble. I am now in my practicum year, meaning I am working as a student teacher with Junior High and/or High School level bands!
I find immense joy in helping my students grow and gain confidence as musicians. I love exploring different genres and truly getting to know my students, all while helping them to achieve their goals and nourish an ever-growing love for music.
Current Projects: I am in my final year of a dual degree at the University of Alberta, and I will be graduating in June with a Bachelor of Secondary Education and a Bachelor of Music in Voice.
Fun Facts: I am bilingual in French and English, and I am currently trying to learn Spanish! I have also learned to sing in many different languages, including English, French, Spanish, German, Italian, and Latin. Some of my favourite artists include Fleetwood Mac, Taylor Swift, Phoebe Bridgers, and Noah Kahan. When I’m not teaching or practicing, you can find me reading, hiking, or spending time with my friends and family.
Our Customer Service Staff
Esther Dueck
Esther Dueck
![](https://crescendomusicstudios.ca/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/IMG_3394-449x600.jpg)
Role: Customer Care Coordinator
Hi, I’m Esther Dueck. I am a full-time member of the Crescendo Music Studios team! Crescendo prides itself on the fact that they are a music school that has a full-time person dedicated solely to the needs of their customers. I oversee the customer service here at Crescendo, and I love it! I am full of energy and enjoy all the amazing events that happen in the studio. I aim to be the customer’s “go to” person in Crescendo for any questions or assistance. I have many years of administration and customer service expertise, and it’s thrilling that I can combine that with my love of music.
Current Projects: I take both piano and voice lessons here at the studio with Leanne Cummings. I love to perform and can often be seen performing at local studio events.
Fun Facts: I have been married for over 20 years, and my husband and I have three amazing kids, who are also involved in music.