Our Instructors
Omar Martinez
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DéJaneé Jones
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Alyssia Sims
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Ameenah Muhammad
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Mark Rascati
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Adrienne Bazile
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Philip Fleming
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Julia Carey
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Alyssia Sims
Voice, Basic Piano
Alyssia Sims (she/her) is a Philadelphia-based teaching artist and actor known for her passion and dedication. With an M.A. in Musical Theatre Studies from Temple University, Alyssia seeks the truth and joy in every performance. Collaborative by nature, Alyssia thrives in ensemble work. Noteworthy roles include the versatile Katisha in "The Mikado" and the captivating Mrs. Gobineau in "The Medium." She finds fulfillment in creating authentic and memorable experiences on stage. Alyssia's teaching expertise extends to her role as an Acting Coach at Theatrical Delights, Inc. Her commitment to finding the genuine and enjoyable moments in performances inspires her students to reach their full potential. With a background in Theatre Arts from the American College of Dublin and a B.A. in Music Performance (Vocal Performance concentration) from Lincoln University of Pennsylvania, Alyssia's diverse skills inform her approach as a teaching artist. Passionate, collaborative, and dedicated to authenticity, Alyssia Sims brings a lasting impact to both her teaching and performances.
Adrienne Bazile
Trumpet
Adrienne is transitioning into her final year at Montclair State University, as a jazz studies performance major. She has been playing trumpet for six years now. During her time in high school, she was highly dedicated to the school’s marching band, concert band, and jazz band and served the role of trumpet section leader. Adrienne always demonstrates sacrifice as her most outstanding leadership trait and will do anything to see positive results. She is also involved in an outside music program called Jazz House Kids. She has participated in their summer workshops
in the past, as well as their all girls program called Chica Power. CHiCA Power is what inspired Adrienne to build a passion for jazz music. Seeing female musicians perform and talk about their experiences really inspired Adrienne to take music seriously. She has a strong interest in women empowerment and support structures for young girls alike. She has returned to the jazz House as a teaching assistant. Two summers ago, she along with two others received a full scholarship to attend the summer workshop. This scholarship was given to her from Dorthaan Kirk, “Newark’s
First Lady of Jazz.” It was a life changing experience. Towards the end of the summer workshop, she received an award for most improved musician. She currently serves various roles at the Jazz House as a teaching assistant for the Dynasty big band, front desk assistant, and ushers for Jazz House Kids related concerts. Before Adrienne was led to music, she would sometimes struggle with finding her place in the world. Now she is on the front lines for environments that cultivate the success of women in music, which she believes is essential to her pay it forward mentality.
Julia Carey
Flute
Julia Carey is a New Jersey-native with Cuban roots which drove her down to Miami, Florida. As a master’s student in Instrumental Performance at the Frost School of Music, Julia currently studies with Jennifer Grim. Julia previously attended West Chester University of Pennsylvania, where she received both a Bachelor of Music in Education and Performance. At WCU, Julia studied with Kimberly Reighley and Frances Tate. Throughout her schooling, Julia has been fortunate enough to hold principal positions in her institutions’ symphony orchestras,
wind ensembles, and has been an active member within various chamber ensembles. As an accomplished flutist, Julia has won prizes in various competitions, including Music Teacher’s National Association (MTNA) Young Artist and Flute Society of Greater Philadelphia’s Collegiate Artist and Young Artist. Julia is also a founding member of the Pennsylvania Chamber Winds, a dectet focused on performing music by underrepresented composers and
educational outreach in the southeastern Pennsylvania school districts. On a national scale, Julia currently holds the title as the Assistant Coordinator for the Exhibitor Showcase & Concert for the National Flute Association.
Julia’s professional life focuses on educating the youth. Her background and experience in music education gives Julia a unique approach to her current private teaching. Julia also currently holds teaching assistantships with the Frost Flute Studio as well as the Shalala MusicReach program at the Frost School of Music. Julia believes in music education that is culturally rich and diverse, inclusive, and accessible to all students. Outside of music, Julia enjoys traveling, cooking, and playing with her cats.
Ameenah Muhammad
Voice
Ameenah Muhammad, a passionate private lesson teacher, is devoted to music education. Graduating in 2021 with a degree in vocal performance from Lincoln University of Pa, she currently shares her musical expertise with grades 9-12 students at West Nottingham Academy. Ameenah is a dedicated professional who brings vibrancy to her teaching. Alongside her role at the academy, she is a versatile freelance artist with 16 years of experience playing the trumpet. Ameenah has collaborated as a teaching artist with renowned organizations such as Opera Philadelphia and Play on Philly, offering expert vocal and trumpet lessons. Her youthful energy, coupled with a deep commitment to the craft, allows her to provide a dynamic and enriching musical experience for her students.
Phil Flemming
Guitar, Bass
Philip Fleming has been performing music for over 45 years on acoustic guitar, electric guitar, bass guitar, banjo and mandolin. He has played in pit orchestras in over 70 musical productions and has performed in party bands, duos and solo. Phil enjoys discovering a student’s abilities and guiding them on their path to playing the music of their dreams.
