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, he brings a strong university level perspective to private instruction. Friman previously taught at New York University as adjunct jazz faculty and currently serves as a Lecturer and Jazz Ensemble Director at The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley.

His teaching emphasizes the core skills expected in collegiate music programs: a reliable technique, refined musicianship, accurate reading, stylistic clarity, and confident performance. Alongside a strong classical foundation, Friman guides students in developing improvisation as a practical skill, building fluency in harmony, rhythm, and form through real repertoire. Students also explore the language of American jazz and blues and rhythmic concepts drawn from Afro Cuban and Brazilian traditions.

Because every student’s goals are different, Friman tailors each program to the individual, combining clear structure with creativity. His aim is to equip students with the skills, understanding, and musical confidence to progress steadily, perform with others, and develop their own artistic voice.

  • A smiling man in a black t-shirt sitting at a sound mixing console in a recording studio.

    DAVID FRIMAN

    MUSIC DIRECTOR

    MASTER OF MUSIC IN INSTRUMENTAL JAZZ PERFORMANCE

    BACHELOR OF MUSIC IN PIANO PERFORMANCE

    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. He previously taught at NYU as adjunct jazz faculty and currently serves as a Lecturer and Jazz Ensemble Director at The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley.

    With over 20 years of teaching experience, Friman helps students build strong technique, musicianship, and confident performance. His lessons combine classical fundamentals with practical improvisation, developing fluency in harmony, rhythm, and style through jazz, blues, and Afro Cuban and Brazilian influences.

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  • Close-up of a young woman with long brown hair, smiling, wearing a black blazer against a white background.

    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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    SAMUEL DE SOUZA

    ASSOCIATE PIANO INSTRUCTOR

    Samuel de Souza holds an Artist Diploma and a Master’s Degree from Sam Houston State University, where he distinguished himself by winning First Prize in the 2023 SHSU Concerto Competition and the prestigious 21st Eleazar de Carvalho Young Soloists Competition.

    An accomplished educator and performer, Samuel taught Class Piano and collaborated with the Women’s Choir at SHSU. His passion for historical keyboards led him to study harpsichord, fortepiano, and organ under Dr. Mario Aschauer.

    A sought-after accompanist and vocal coach, Samuel brings a wealth of expertise and artistry to our team. We are proud to have him inspire and guide our students.

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    KIRSTEN BRENTS

    ASSOCIATE PIANO INSTRUCTOR

    Kirsten Brents holds a bachelor's degree from the University of Houston in Music Education, and she is passionate about the importance of quality music making from an early age. Currently, Kirsten is a member of the Houston Symphony Chorus and Casulana Women’s Choir of Houston. She is the youth choir director at St. Edith Stein Catholic Church, and prior to having her children Kirsten was an elementary music specialist in Fort Bend ISD. Outside of making music Kirsten can be found spending time with her daughters and husband, crafting, and enjoying Mexican food!

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  • A woman with long brown hair, wearing glasses and a black sleeveless top, posing with a slight smile against a neutral background.

    LISSA DE AQUINO

    ASSOCIATE PIANO INSTRUCTORS

    Lissa de Aquino is a Brazilian pianist and experienced teacher who has performed across the U.S., Europe, and South America. She earned her Bachelor’s in Piano Performance from Sam Houston State University, studying under Dr. Diego Caetano. Lissa has participated in international festivals and studied with renowned artists from Brazil, Europe, and the U.S. She is passionate about teaching and inspiring students of all levels through her love of music.

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