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Meet Our Lilburn Teachers


Enter the category for this item: VOICE
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Amin Abraham-Quiles | VOICE
Secondary Instruments | PIANO
Campus: Buford, Lilburn, Online
NSM Faculty Since 2022

Amin Abraham-Quiles received a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree and a Master of Business Administration from Piedmont University. His musical training includes classical voice and piano, along with extensive experience in ensembles and musical theatre productions. He is also an accomplished songwriter and recording artist, known for original contemporary music that blends R&B, neo-soul, reggae, fusion, and pop influences. Mr. Abraham-Quiles regularly performs and connects with audiences through live-streamed concerts and music-focused video content on social media. He is an active member of the Piedmont University Pro Musica Choir and the Brenau University Gospel Choir.
Enter the category for this item: ORCHESTRAL STRINGS
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Anne Anderson | VIOLIN
Secondary Instruments | VIOLA | PIANO
Campus:, Lilburn, Online
NSM Faculty Since 2012

Anne Anderson studied violin at the Atlanta Suzuki Institute and the Suzuki Institute at East Carolina University, and later completed specialized studies at Gwinnett Technical College. Raised in a family of musicians known as the “String Family,” she began playing violin at age three and knew by age twelve that she wanted to teach. Drawing primarily from the Suzuki method, Ms. Anderson also incorporates music history, classical repertoire, music theory, and ear training into her lessons. She teaches students from young beginners through advanced levels, prepares students for recitals and auditions, and has performed with orchestras, chamber groups, and recording artists. She currently serves as Concertmaster and Associate Concertmaster with regional ensembles.
Enter the category for this item: ORCHESTRAL STRINGS, GUITARS/FRETS
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Bjorn Anderson | DOUBLE BASS | BASS GUITAR
Secondary Instruments | CELLO | GUITAR
Campus: Buford, Lilburn, Online
NSM Faculty Since 2013

Bjorn Anderson studied Double Bass Performance at Texas State University, where he trained with Dwight Shambley and Roger Fraterna of the Dallas Symphony Orchestra. He also pursued studies in Electric Bass Performance at the Atlanta Institute of Music. His performance experience includes appearances with the Florida and New Mexico All-State Orchestras and performing with the Boston Symphony Orchestra at the Tanglewood Festival in Lenox, Massachusetts. In addition, Mr. Anderson has performed in hundreds of theatrical productions with the 14th Street Playhouse Company in Atlanta. He has been a valued member of the New School of Music faculty since January 2013.
Enter the category for this item: PIANO
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Susan Andrews | PIANO
Campus: Lilburn, Online
NSM Faculty Since 2005

Susan Andrews received a Bachelor of Music degree in Piano Performance from the University of Georgia and is a nationally certified piano teacher with over 35 years of teaching experience. She teaches students from beginning through advanced levels and is widely recognized for her leadership and excellence in music education. Ms. Andrews is a past president of the Georgia Music Teachers Association and a Music Teachers National Association Foundation Fellow. She was named Gwinnett County Music Teachers Association Teacher of the Year in 2016 and Georgia Music Teachers Association Teacher of the Year in 2017. Her curriculum emphasizes stylistic variety, strong musicianship, and a solid foundation in music theory, with students participating in recitals, festivals, and competitions.
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Angela Arrazola | VIOLIN | VIOLA
Campus: Lilburn, Online
NSM Faculty Since 2021

Angela Arrazola holds a Bachelor’s degree in Childhood Education, earned in 2014, and a Bachelor of Music degree with an emphasis in Violin from the Academia de Artes de Bogotá at Universidad Distrital, following early studies at the Music Conservatory of Tolima. Originally trained as a cellist, she transitioned to violin at age twelve and performed with the Conservatory’s Youth Orchestra in major venues throughout Bogotá. Ms. Arrazola later became a member of the Colombian Youth Symphony Orchestra and discovered a passion for teaching. Trained in the Suzuki method, she has taught violin in schools, studios, and online since relocating to Georgia, offering both in-person and virtual instruction to students of all ages.
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Enter the category for this item: WOODWINDS
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Michael Carswell | SAXOPHONE | CLARINET
Secondary Instruments | FLUTE
Campus: Buford, Lilburn, Johns Creek, Online
NSM Faculty Since 2024

Michael Carswell II earned a Bachelor of Music degree in Jazz Studies from Georgia State University, where he gained extensive performance experience in both jazz and classical settings. A saxophonist based in the Atlanta area, he has been playing since fifth grade and brings a broad musical background to his teaching. Mr. Carswell has worked with middle and high school programs, preparing students for LGPE evaluations, jazz band performances, All-State auditions, and marching band competitions. He is passionate about connecting with students on a personal level and believes music education should foster growth not only as musicians, but as confident, expressive individuals.
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Riannon Constantino | VOICE
Campus: Lilburn, Online
NSM Faculty Since 2025

Riannon Constantino earned a Bachelor’s degree in Music Education from Brenau University, where she developed a strong foundation in vocal performance and pedagogy. She brings over seven years of teaching experience and more than twenty-five years of singing and performance to her studio. Specializing in classical and musical theatre styles, she works with students of all ages, from beginners discovering their voice to advanced singers preparing for auditions and competitions. Her teaching philosophy combines healthy vocal technique with expressive artistry, fostering confidence and musical growth. She creates a supportive environment where singers feel encouraged to explore their unique sound.
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Enter the category for this item: BRASS
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Aiken Del Aguila | TRUMPET
Secondary Instruments | TROMBONE | GUITAR | PIANO
Campus: Lilburn, Online
NSM Faculty Since 2025

Aiken Del Aguila earned a Bachelor of Music degree in Orchestral Trumpet Performance from Georgia State University, where he performed with the Wind Orchestra, Symphony Orchestra, Symphonic Wind Ensemble, and Jazz Combo. He furthered his training through programs including the Rafael Méndez Brass Institute, the California Orchestra Academy, and the Varna International program in Italy. Originally from Lima, Peru, Mr. Del Aguila began studying guitar and piano at age six and trumpet at age ten. Now based in Atlanta, he maintains an active performing career and teaches trumpet, piano, and trombone. At New School of Music, he is committed to building strong fundamentals, musical versatility, and confident performers.
Enter the category for this item: GUITARS/FRETS
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Eric Denton | GUITAR
Secondary Instruments | BASS GUITAR | MANDOLIN | UKULELE
Campus: Online, Buford, Lilburn
NSM Faculty Since 2005

Eric Denton graduated from the Atlanta Institute of Music in 2002 and has been an active member of the Atlanta music scene since 1994. A versatile guitarist and educator, he teaches electric and acoustic guitar, including flatpicking, fingerstyle, and slide techniques. Mr. Denton also offers instruction in ukulele, electric bass, and mandolin, working with students of all ages and musical backgrounds. He has been a dedicated member of the New School of Music faculty since 2005. In addition to teaching and performing, Mr. Denton builds handmade cigar box and tennis racket guitars under the Denton Music name and releases original music on major digital platforms.
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Marina Dmitriyev | VIOLIN
Secondary Instruments | PIANO
Campus: Online, Lilburn, Johns Creek
NSM Faculty Since 2011

Marina Dmitriyev earned a degree in Violin Performance and Teaching from St. Petersburg, Russia, and brings over 30 years of teaching experience to her studio. Trained in both traditional and Suzuki methods, she began studying violin and piano at the age of five and has dedicated her career to sharing the gift of music with students of all ages. Ms. Dmitriyev has performed with professional ensembles including the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra, Buffalo Opera Company, and Fredonia Chamber Players, as well as numerous community orchestras. Her teaching philosophy centers on nurturing each student’s potential and fostering a lifelong love of music.
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Enter the category for this item: PIANO
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Mirela Dragan | PIANO
Campus: Online, Lilburn
NSM Faculty Since 2008

Mirela Dragan received a Bachelor of Music degree while studying piano performance and music theory at Georgia State University, where she was awarded the John Schneider Award for exceptional pianistic talent. Classically trained, she began playing piano at the age of five and has built a strong foundation in both performance and pedagogy. Ms. Dragan has over 15 years of experience teaching students of all ages and levels throughout the Atlanta area. In addition to her teaching career, she is an active accompanist and collaborative pianist. She has been a valued member of the New School of Music faculty since 2008.
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Enter the category for this item: GUITARS/FRETS, COMPOSITION
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Wes Freeman | GUITAR | BASS GUITAR | UKULELE | COMPOSITION
Campus: Lilburn, Online
NSM Faculty Since 2024

Wes Freeman holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Music Composition and Guitar from Asbury College and completed the Guitar Musicianship program with honors at the Atlanta Institute of Music. He brings over thirty years of experience as a professional musician, performer, and educator, with more than two decades of steady teaching. Mr. Freeman has worked across a wide range of musical settings, styles, and instruments, including guitar, bass, ukulele, vocals, and keyboard. His teaching philosophy emphasizes individualized instruction shaped around each student’s interests, personality, and goals, while encouraging perseverance, curiosity, and confident musicianship.
Enter the category for this item: BRASS
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Douglas Geiman | TROMBONE | BASS TROMBONE
Secondary Instruments | TRUMPET | EUPHONIUM | TUBA
Campus: Lilburn, Online
NSM Faculty Since 2022

Doug Geiman earned a Bachelor of Music degree in Bass Trombone Performance from Southeastern Louisiana University in 2010. A native of New Orleans, Louisiana, he brings deep experience in the city’s rich musical traditions, including second lines, parades, and street performance. Mr. Doug has performed with the Baton Rouge Symphony Orchestra and with brass ensembles such as The Gumbo Dozen, Bonearama, and Bout’ It Brass Band. He has been teaching brasswinds since 2004, working with students from beginning through collegiate levels. His instruction emphasizes strong fundamentals, stylistic versatility, and confident musicianship rooted in real-world performance experience.
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Michelle Hung | BASSOON
Secondary Instruments | PIANO
Campus: Lilburn, Online
NSM Faculty Since 2008

Michelle Hung earned a degree in Bassoon Performance after studying at Taipei National University of the Arts and Tunghai University in Taiwan. She began her musical training as a pianist at the age of six before later transitioning to bassoon, where she quickly distinguished herself as a top-performing student. Ms. Hung has held principal bassoon positions in multiple ensembles and has performed extensively throughout Asia and Europe. In addition to bassoon, she also teaches piano and brings a broad, well-rounded musical perspective to her instruction. She has been a dedicated member of the New School of Music faculty since 2008, teaching online and at the Lilburn campus.
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Enter the category for this item: PIANO
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Nick Knox | PIANO
Campus: Buford, Lilburn, Online
NSM Faculty Since 2023

Nicholas Knox earned a Bachelor’s degree in Music Performance with a concentration in Piano from Piedmont University in 2022 and is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Arts and Education Studies while completing his teaching certification through MTNA. He began playing piano at age eight and developed a strong interest in classical and church music. Mr. Knox is an active church pianist at St. Luke United Methodist Church in Mableton and Mount Zion Baptist Church in Clarkesville, Georgia. His teaching philosophy emphasizes individualized instruction, safe and effective technique, and a wide range of repertoire. He is committed to helping students of all ages develop a lifelong love of music.
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Enter the category for this item: PIANO
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Veronica Mora | PIANO
Campus: Lilburn, Online
NSM Faculty Since 2025

Veronica Mora is currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Music Education at Georgia State University, where she remains actively involved as a performer and student leader. She began piano studies at age ten and has developed broad musical experience through band, choir, and collaborative performance. At GSU, Ms. Veronica has appeared in recitals as a piano accompanist, served as a conductor, and performed with the university’s concert band as a percussionist. Her teaching approach emphasizes adaptability and awareness of individual learning styles. Passionate about education, she strives to help students build meaningful, personal connections with music while developing confidence, curiosity, and strong musicianship.
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Rachel O'Dell | VOICE
Campus: Buford, Lilburn, Online
NSM Faculty Since 2025

Rachel O’Dell, soprano, earned a Bachelor’s degree in Music Education from Shorter College in 2001 and a Master’s degree in Music Education from the University of Georgia in 2007. She has taught special education, preschool music, and middle school chorus and now balances her musical career with homeschooling. Ms. O’Dell has performed numerous lead and supporting roles in community musical theatre and sang with the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra Chorus for twelve seasons. She is currently in her fourth season with the Gwinnett Symphony Chorus and brings extensive choral and educational experience to her teaching, fostering musical growth, confidence, and expressive singing.
Enter the category for this item: GUITARS/FRETS
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Fausto Ojito | GUITAR
Secondary Instruments | UKULELE, BASS GUITAR
Campus: Online, Buford, Lilburn
NSM Faculty Since 2018

Mr. Fausto Ojito holds a Technical Degree in Music Performance from the Escuela Distrital de Artes (E.D.A.) in Barranquilla, Colombia, and studied Music and Music Education at Universidad del Atlántico. He has been teaching guitar and percussion since 2002 and joined the New School of Music faculty in 2018. A two-time Latin Grammy Award nominee, Mr. Ojito is a seasoned performer across Latin, rock, blues, and world music styles. His professional work includes extensive experience as a producer, session musician, and band member for numerous international artists. He continues to perform actively while sharing real-world musicianship with his students.
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Brian Roach | VIOLIN | VIOLA
Campus: Buford, Lilburn, Online
NSM Faculty Since 2025

Brian Roach holds a Doctor of Musical Arts degree from the University of Georgia, a Master of Music degree from Texas Tech University, and dual Bachelor of Arts degrees in Music and English from the University of Connecticut. He began studying violin at age eight and has since built a diverse career as a performer and educator. Mr. Roach has performed with orchestras including the Augusta Symphony Orchestra, Lawrenceville Symphony Orchestra, Lubbock Symphony Orchestra, and West Texas Symphony. He has participated in music festivals across the United States and internationally in Ireland and Italy. As a teacher, he works with students from beginner through advanced levels, emphasizing strong technique, beautiful tone, and the development of each student’s individual musical voice.
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Teodora Stoyanova | FLUTE | PICCOLO
Secondary Instruments | PIANO
Campus: Online, Lilburn
NSM Faculty Since 2010

Teodora Stoyanova holds Master’s and Bachelor’s degrees from the National Academy of Music in Sofia, Bulgaria. An accomplished flutist and piccoloist, she has toured extensively throughout Europe as a soloist and chamber musician. Since relocating to the United States, Ms. Stoyanova has performed with ensembles including the Atlanta Flute Ensemble, Aulos Winds, and DaSalo Solisti Chamber Orchestra. She currently serves as Principal Flute of Gwinnett Symphony Orchestra. At New School of Music, Ms. Stoyanova is dedicated to creating an engaging and fulfilling learning environment, helping each student develop strong technique, musical confidence, and a lifelong appreciation for music.
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Shelly Unger | BASSOON
Secondary Instruments | OBOE
Campus: Online, Lilburn
NSM Faculty Since 1997

Shelly Unger earned a Doctor of Musical Arts degree in Bassoon Performance from the University of Georgia, following a Master’s degree from Rice University and a Bachelor’s degree from Indiana University, where she studied with Sidney Rosenberg. She also pursued post-graduate study with Bernard H. Garfield. Dr. Unger teaches music part-time at The Westminster Schools and serves as Principal Bassoonist of the Carroll Symphony Orchestra. Her students regularly perform with leading youth ensembles and frequently earn District Honor Band and All-State placements, including a first-chair All-State Orchestra student in 2021. Dr. Unger has been a member of the New School of Music faculty since 1997.
Enter the category for this item: PIANO
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Mariel Uzal | PIANO
Campus: Buford, Lilburn, Online
NSM Faculty Since 1999

Mariel Uzal earned a Master of Music degree from the University of Georgia, following a Bachelor of Music degree from the Juan José Castro Provincial Conservatory of Music in Argentina. She brings over thirteen years of teaching and performance experience to her work as a pianist and educator. Ms. Uzal has been a dedicated member of the New School of Music faculty since 1999, teaching students online and at the Lilburn campus. Her teaching emphasizes strong musicianship, technical development, and a supportive learning environment that encourages artistic growth and confidence.
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Preston Wilhite | TRUMPET
Secondary Instruments | FRENCH HORN | TROMBONE
Campus: Buford, Lilburn, Johns Creek, Online
NSM Faculty Since 2024

Preston Wilhite earned a degree in Music Education from Georgia State University, where he distinguished himself as a trumpet performer and emerging educator. During his undergraduate studies, he performed extensively as a soloist and ensemble musician throughout the Southeast. Mr. Wilhite has also demonstrated strong leadership in arts administration, serving as Manager of the Atlanta Youth Wind Symphony. In addition to performance, he has worked as a trumpet instructor with local middle and high school programs. Passionate about the transformative power of music, Mr. Wilhite is dedicated to inspiring the next generation of musicians through strong fundamentals, musical excellence, and meaningful educational experiences.
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Earl Williams | SAXOPHONE
Secondary Instrument | FLUTE
Campus: Online, Lilburn
NSM Faculty Since 2011

Earl Williams studied jazz performance at Old Westbury College in New York, where he trained with renowned musicians Ken McIntyre, Warren Smith, and Sinclair Acey. He also studied with Dave Burns, trumpet player for Duke Ellington and Dizzy Gillespie. A third-generation musician, Mr. Williams was raised in a rich musical legacy that includes blues legend Ruth Brown, big band leader Paul “Huckle Buck” Williams, and Clyde McPhatter of The Drifters. Since relocating to Atlanta in 2008, he has maintained an active career as a freelance performer, educator, and recording artist, performing locally and internationally. He currently serves as Musical Director for Clyde McPhatter’s Drifters.
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Sarah Willis | FLUTE
Secondary Instruments | SAXOPHONE | CLARINET | PIANO
Campus: Online, Lilburn
NSM Faculty Since 2025

Sarah Willis earned a degree in Instrumental Music Education from Georgia State University, where she performed with the Symphonic Wind Ensemble, mixed chamber groups, and in solo settings. She also served as Drum Major of the Panther Band for three marching seasons. A flutist with over a decade of study and a lifelong pianist, Ms. Willis has taught flute clinics, sectionals, masterclasses, and private lessons throughout the metro Atlanta area. She has worked with Metropolitan Youth Symphony Orchestras as a chamber coach and ensemble assistant and currently teaches elementary general music, focusing on theory, singing, and ear training.
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