Meet our Music Director
David Friman holds a Master of Music in Instrumental Jazz Performance from New York University and a Bachelor of Music in Piano Performance from the University of Houston. With over 20 years of teaching experience at all levels, he’s taught baccalaureate to doctoral private students as adjunct jazz faculty at New York University, seasoned music professionals seeking to expand their repertoire, and beginners as young as 4 years old.
Friman’s curriculum focuses on developing a flawless technique and control of the instrument, utilizing methods modeled after the Petro Tchaikovsky Music Academy of Ukraine. In addition to developing a strong classical foundation, Friman believes there is great value in learning the art of improvisation, where he challenges students to develop a deeper understanding of harmonies, rhythms and idioms from other musical traditions. This includes drawing from various styles from within American Jazz and Blues, to understanding the syncopated African drumming and rhythms found in Cuban and Brazilian Jazz.
With every students’ unique journey in music, Friman strives to inspire by arming them with the skills and knowledge to master their craft.
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DAVID FRIMAN
MASTER OF MUSIC IN INSTRUMENTAL JAZZ PERFORMANCE
BACHELOR OF MUSIC IN PIANO PERFORMANCE
With over 20 years of teaching experience at all levels, David has taught baccalaureate to doctoral private students as adjunct jazz faculty at New York University, seasoned music professionals seeking to expand their repertoire, and beginners as young as 4 years old.
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NATALIE RODRIGUEZ
CREATIVE DIRECTOR
Natalie is passionate about providing opportunities for self expression through music. She enjoys seeing students grow with creativity and technical skills, and is always ready to offer support so they can excel. In addition to managing our talented team, she is an officer for the Latin Dance Association at the University of Houston, where she helps provide opportunities to learn about diverse Latin music and dance styles through social events. On her free time, she enjoys volunteering for community initiatives and listening to live jazz. If you have any questions about our lessons, she’d love to help!
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MICHELLE KILLGORE
Michelle Killgore graduated with a Bachelor of Arts from University of Saint Thomas. She teaches curriculum from the Royal Conservatory of Music, ABRSM and Texas Federation of Music and All State. Michelle takes pride in her investments with each student, making sure they can perform confidently and by memory. She selects a coaching method that will work best for each student yet remains flexible as her students encounter difficulties.