Meet the team
Consistent, reliable & positive
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Belinda Tietgens-Smith
Owner/Instructor
I taught in the Atlanta area for 17 years for a family music company (Courtnay and Rowe). As a teacher and teacher trainer, I learned all aspects of the company. I teach piano, guitar, string, woodwind and brass. <br/> <br/> I am originally from Florida and brought my husband Mike to visit family, and he saw why I called the area HOME! So, we decided to pack our bags and come to Florida! I am also a Life Coach for adults and children, so I care about my students in all aspects of their lives. As a life coach for children I really understand kids and empower them to build their self-esteem and confidence. Music is a big connector that makes you feel good, so when you study music, your world opens. Parents that say, "Oh my child is so shy" and then are so surprised when their child feels confident in all areas of their life after studying music. I have so much passion for what I do and enjoy building a lasting relationship with my students. It's not just about the music! <br/> <br/> As my schedule overflowed with referrals, I began hiring musically talented teachers. I have been fortunate to attract many fine teachers that have the same philosophy as me. It’s very important to me to bring my style of teaching to the community. <br/> <br/> Mike and I are so confident about our family and our teaching family, our work ethic and positive attitudes, that we are excited to bring B Amazing Music to our community.
Mike Smith
Owner/Operations
Mike is originally from Rochester, New York, but relocated to Georgia at the age of seven. He played football throughout his school years and earned a football scholarship to West Georgia College. After that, he pursued a career as a Firefighter/Paramedic, all the while nurturing his passion for football by coaching in North Georgia. His dedication to nurturing young talent, including his two sons who also played football in college, led him to work with the Atlanta Falcons youth football program. It was here that his commitment to working with children truly flourished, as he coached athletes who went on to play in college and the NFL. <br/> <br/> Mike met Belinda, and during a visit to her hometown of Mount Dora, Florida, it became evident why she cherished the area and hoped to return. Captivated by Florida's natural beauty and offerings, Mike quickly expressed a desire to make it their home, marking the beginning of their journey towards relocation. Mike retired from Firefighter/Paramedic and decided to continue the new journey of building a business with Belinda in the music industry. <br/> <br/> In addition to his work in the music industry, Mike collaborates with a Disaster Resource Group, actively responding to storm emergencies. He establishes working camps that can accommodate between 1,000 to 2,500 people, providing essential shelter for linemen who are engaged in recovery efforts following hurricanes.
Cici Smith
Teacher Liaison & Assistant
Cici is a seasoned musician with over two decades of musical experience and 15+ years in teaching. She completed a bachelor's degree in music education at Kennesaw State University and a master's degree at Florida State University in music therapy. Her research efforts focused on musical/non-musical interventions for children with autism spectrum disorder. <br/> <br/> Cici has studied/collaborated with a litany of artists and musicians including but not limited to: Wynton Marsalis, eighth blackbird, the United States Army Band and United States Military Orchestra, Babbie Mason, Christina Smith, Alfred Watkins, Judith Cole, Robert Henry, Gary Gribble, and resident artists/faculty from Julliard School of Music, Michigan State University, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, and the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra. <br/> <br/> Nothing excites Cici more than bringing out the best in students and teachers alike. She is passionate about meeting people "where they are," and helping them reach new heights through musical exploration and professional development!
Alejandro Naranjo
Piano, Voice & Guitar
Alejandro is a composer, pianist, vocalist, and guitarist. Alejandro began studying music in 2009, and he studied both at the State College of Florida and the University of Central Florida, earning his Bachelor's degree in music. He has been a part of many choral concerts around the United States as a singer and pianist throughout his professional career. He also was chosen to travel to Carnegie Hall to perform as a part of the All State Choir. <br /> <br /> Alejandro has a deep passion for composition and mainly composes piano pieces and choral works. He also enjoys the piano and guitar as mediums for composition. Alejandro has premiered his compositions at his local university and other local venues. He has also studied classical piano and classical voice as a tenor for over four years as a part of his university studies under Dr. David Brunner, Dr. Charles Turon, Randolph Locke and Dr. Jeremy Hunt, as well as other prestigious music professors. He wants his music to help people realize the gift that music is in our lives.
Andrea Léon
Cello & Piano
Music has been an essential part of my identity since the age of seven, when I began my formal training at the Conservatorio de Música de Carabobo in Valencia, Venezuela. There, I studied both piano and cello, and over the years, I completed a rigorous program that led to earning my professional musician’s diploma. My education included advanced coursework in composition, harmony, solfège, and music history, which laid the foundation for both my technical skills and my deeper understanding of musical structure and expression. <br/> <br/> Throughout my time at the conservatory, I actively participated in the symphony orchestra, performed solo recitals, and took part in chamber music ensembles, including quartets and orchestral solos. These experiences developed not only my performance ability but also my collaborative skills and musical interpretation. <br/> <br/> After relocating to the United States, I continued my piano and cello studies, expanding my musical perspective and engaging with diverse styles and teaching approaches. One of the highlights of my musical journey in the U.S. has been the opportunity to perform as a cellist in a Florida symphony, which allowed me to continue growing within a professional orchestral setting and connect with a broader musical community. <br/> <br/> My approach to teaching blends the discipline and depth of classical training with a personalized and student-centered mindset. I strive to inspire others through music, using it as a tool not only for technical mastery but also for emotional expression and cultural connection. <br/> <br/> My musical journey reflects the influence of both Venezuelan and American environments, cultures, and traditions. Through each experience and transition, I have come to view music as a powerful bridge between people and places—one that I am committed to sharing through both performance and education.
Andrew Khan
Voice, Piano, Guitar & Drums
Andrew Khan is dedicated to ensuring that all his students feel they can start playing their favorite songs from lesson one! Andrew teaches voice, piano, guitar, ukulele and drums. As a singer/songwriter, multi-instrumentalist and music producer, Andrew believes most importantly that learning music should be interactive and fun! Andrew studied Music Performance at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte and earned a Bachelor's in Music Production from Full Sail University. <br/> <br/> With 15+ years of singing experience, he participated in prestigious choirs and renowned choral festivals. He has 15 years of experience playing piano, which allowed him to understand the fundamentals of music theory and how it applies to music of all kinds. He performs live music in the genres of pop, rock, country, Disney, and more, alongside his wonderful wife, providing family-friendly music to all! Most recently, Andrew was a singer for the Voices of Liberty in EPCOT's annual Candlelight Processional at Walt Disney World. He sang within the most prestigious ensemble on Disney property, alongside a massive choir made of Cast Members and high school choral singers from around the country, and a 60+ piece orchestra. <br/> <br/> Andrew loves giving students of all ages an opportunity to unlock their potential and grow in their love of music! He also loves that he can help more experienced students grow in their prior knowledge. His biggest motivation is seeing the look of excitement and accomplishment that washes over a student's face, or what he calls the "aha!" moment, when they figure out a musical concept they struggled with before and are able to exceed so much more and play all the music they've always wanted!
Casey Hauschildt
Piano & Guitar
Casey Hauschildt is originally from Minneapolis, MN and grew up in a very musical family. He began playing drums at age four, saxophone and piano in elementary school, and moved on to bass and guitar (main instrument) at age thirteen. He began performing publicly at that time and has performed extensively regionally, nationally, and internationally with some of the finest musicians in the world, including as an Artist in Residence at the JZ Club in Hangzhou China in 2013. <br/> <br/> He began his college career studying music at Roane State Community College (TN) in 2004 where he was also honored with the Outstanding Alumni Award in 2016. And, finished at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville (Bachelor of Arts in Studio Music and Jazz Studies) while studying guitar under Mark Boling. He has been performing and teaching frequently since graduating in 2010. He and his family relocated to Central Florida in the winter of 2020, and he is thrilled to now be teaching for B Amazing Music Lessons!
Christina Liu
Violin, Viola & Piano
Christina is an enthusiastic teacher with a deep love for sharing the power of music with others. With nearly five decades of experience as a violinist, she has performed in a wide range of musical ensembles, including quartets, string orchestras, pit orchestras, and symphony orchestras. One of the highlights of Christina’s musical journey has been the incredible experience of performing with over 350 musicians in the Central Florida Community Arts Symphony Orchestra. <br/> <br/> Music has always been a consistent and comforting presence in Christina’s life. She was first introduced to it through classical LPs shared with her father, and later, through piano lessons with her mother. This early exposure sparked a lifelong love for learning and performing music. Through teaching violin, viola, and beginning piano, Christina hopes to instill in her students not only technical skills but also an appreciation for how music can bring people together and create lasting connections.
Evan Scandrett
Guitar, Piano, Ukulele & Voice
Evan Scandrett began his musical journey at the age of 13, inspired by The Beatles and a deep passion for 60s music. Starting on guitar, he quickly expanded his skills to include piano, vocals, and music theory. In high school, he received mentorship from students in the prestigious UNT Jazz programs and performed with renowned drummer JD Beck. Evan also played in various independent bands, notably winning the Battle of the Bands in Deep Ellum, Texas. <br/> <br/> After high school, Evan further honed his jazz skills in college while teaching at various music schools in Florida. During this time, he worked part-time in music retail, gaining expertise in instrument repairs and a deep understanding of musical equipment. This experience allowed him to share his passion and impart essential lessons to aspiring musicians. <br/> <br/> Evan later earned a degree in Audio Production from Middle Tennessee State University, refining his studio recording techniques and studying the production styles behind Grammy-winning albums. He also became proficient in MIDI production, synthesizers, and music programming using DAWs like ProTools, Ableton, and Logic. <br/> <br/> With extensive teaching experience in Jazz, Folk, Rock, and Pop standards, Evan is excited to inspire and educate the next generation of musicians at B Amazing Music.
George Valenzuela
Piano
Born in Newark, NJ, George has been exposed to music for most of his life thanks to choir. It wasn’t until graduating high school in Florida that he started learning piano at age 18 after watching a student piano performance. Although he had a late start and stumbled along the way with being at risk of carpal tunnel, he was determined to keep going. He graduated with a BA from Rollins College in piano with a focus on composition. In his spare time, he enjoys composing/arranging for piano.
Jarrod Cunningham
Guitar, Bass & Piano
"I love music. Any kind of music....Just as long as it's groovy." <br/> - The O'Jays <br/> <br/> Bringing the rhythm and loving rhymes, hailing from a small Florida town that shall not be named (because he does not like talking about corn) is Jarrod Cunningham. A self-proclaimed "music guy" and a connoisseur of vinyl records, Jarrod started playing the piano at the age of nine. However, it was during his teenage years he discovered his love of all things guitar. Since then, he has honed his skills through involvement with the church and various gigs, including musicals. He is an aspiring songwriter. His musical influences include guitarists George Benson and Mark Knopler, pianist Jeff Stice, and songwriters Len Chandler and Terry Callier.
Kevin Figueroa
Voice & Piano
Kevin is a screen and stage actor located in Orlando, Florida. Kevin's passion for theatre ignited during high school, leading him to explore its diverse dimensions: tech, dance, acting, and music. He honed his craft at studios and regional theatres, setting the stage for advanced studies at Florida School of the Arts, culminating in an Associate's degree in Musical Theatre. There, he delved into voice, speech, vocal anatomy, and diverse vocal techniques. <br/> <br/> After that, he attended Florida State University, earning a Bachelors of Arts degree in Theatre Performance with instruction received from faculty of both the acclaimed FSU College of Music and School of Theatre. Kevin continues to perform while pursuing continuous learning through professional classes. His goal is to provide his students with all the knowledge he gained from his institutions and experience.
Michelle Soul Evans
Voice, Piano, Guitar, Violin & Ukulele
Michelle "Soul" Evans is a classically singer. She loves to play just about anything she can get her hands on including piano, guitar, viola, etc. She is a passionate teacher, loves music, and she finds helping young musicians learn and grow through music very rewarding. <br/> <br/> She has her associate's degree in music from Seminole State College of Florida, and she double majored in psychology. She has her Bachelor's in psychology and has studied child development and lifespan development. To Michelle, music is an incredible tool, a language, and a comfort. She could go on at length about all of the different ways music can benefit the brain at any age. She believes music can help with communication, self-expression, emotional regulation, and self-confidence. These are skills that expand past the instruments we play and performances we participate in, connecting to multiple aspects of life.
Rachel Broadbent
Piano, French Horn, Trumpet
Rachel began her musical journey at the age of four, starting with piano. Over the years, she expanded her skills, excelling in both trumpet and French horn. Her passion for music led her to Southeast Missouri State University, where she pursued a degree in anthropology, minoring in music, focusing on jazz and orchestra. <br/> <br/> During her time at university, Rachel was an active member of Sigma Alpha Iota, a musical sorority, where she enjoyed performing at various community events, including visits to nursing homes, sharing the joy of music with others. <br/> <br/> As a dedicated music educator, Rachel teaches French horn, trumpet, and piano, fostering a supportive and encouraging environment for her students. She is committed to helping each student build confidence in their playing while nurturing their passion for music. Rachel believes in empowering every child to develop and reach their fullest potential, both musically and personally.
Ruth Gadbois
Piano
Ruth grew up immersed in music. Her parents were always playing something on a tape or CD, singing along, and encouraging her to do the same. She showed a natural inclination to music early on, singing "Happy Birthday" to herself before she turned two and constantly humming a melody. By the time she was five, she started singing in the children's choir at her church and showed great interest and instinctual development with the piano. <br/> <br/> Ruth's parents enrolled her the following year, and she received classical piano lessons until college. Her professional life took a different path as she pursued her college degree at Valencia, but her love for music was always present and she continued in her local church choir and playing the piano during services. She currently teaches piano and general music knowledge through a kids' program in her church community, in addition to the same children's choir she used to participate in. <br/> <br/> Ruth plans on teaching her little one piano when she gets older, in addition to teaching herself guitar. In her perspective, regardless of whether or not a person's goal is to become a professional musician, musical passion can readily provide opportunities to open community perspective on the skillful artistry of music and its creative impact in shaping our community for the better.
Seth Durbin
Voice & Piano
Seth Durbin received his Bachelor of Fine Arts in Music Education from Elmhurst College in 2015. Seth was incredibly fortunate to have mentors throughout high school and college who saw his love for music and worked to foster those skills throughout his education. Seth has experience as a full-time choir director and AP Music Theory instructor in the western suburbs of Chicago. Through that work, he enjoyed coaching his students for their Solo & Ensemble performances on both voice and piano as well as helping to prepare for audition season. Seth has been teaching private music students since 2011. <br/> <br/> Seth has recently been seen as a vocalist throughout various concert productions across the Chicagoland area. Credits include Distant Worlds: the music from Final Fantasy, Game of Thrones Concert Experience, as well as Leonard Bernstein’s Mass that aired on PBS during Great Performances. Seth is now engaged in the greater Orlando theatre community and enjoys performing with all of the wonderful performers that the area has to offer. <br/> <br/> Seth looks forward to sharing his passion of all musical styles with his students. He believes that each and every student can be successful in music with the right guidance, a bit of patience, some hard work, and a lot of fun along the way. Whether beginner or advanced, Seth enjoys meeting his students at their current skill level and accompanying them on the next chapter of their journey.
Shannon Elliott
Voice & Piano
Since the beginning of her time, Shannon has been surrounded by people with an intense love for music. Having shared a home with an upright piano and her adoring mother who loved to play it, Shannon often found herself captivated by all of the delicate melodies the keys had to offer. Over the years, she developed a deep sense of fondness and appreciation for the instrument as well as the creative process of composing. She eventually took interest in studying the art for herself and has since undergone 10 years of private piano instruction in addition to the chorus, piano, and musical theater classes she participated in during her time in high school. <br/> <br/> Shannon wholly intends to pursue further musical education as she aims for degrees in both music composition and piano performance. The resounding love and support Shannon continues to receive from her own piano teacher has been instrumental in fostering what she expects to be her lifelong passion. It is now her sincerest hope to share that very same positive experience with all of her students at B Amazing Music.
Susan Newman
Piano & Voice
Susan was born and raised in Illinois, where she began studying piano at age 5, studying violin at age 8, and formal voice training at age 13. In high school, she participated in a cappella, jazz, treble, and madrigal choirs, accompanying several groups, and singing and/or directing others. She was selected for the Illinois All State Chorus, was a voice major at the National High School Music Institute at Northwestern University and won numerous IHSA solo/ensemble contest I (one) ratings and other awards. Higher education took a turn away from music and into the legal realm, but music always remained near and dear to her heart. <br/> <br/> As an “adult” (and mother of 3), Susan was a member of the Elgin Master Chorale (aka Elgin Choral Union) for many years, and had the good fortune of performing numerous major choral pieces with the Elgin Symphony Orchestra. She was also active in community theater productions and served several years as a piano judge for the prestigious Granquist Music Competition in Geneva, Illinois. Susan’s interest in teaching began when her (now adult) children were very young and began studying music. Susan regularly “coached” them on musicality and technique to augment their lessons. This eventually expanded to “coaching” other students in piano, voice, and acting. <br/> <br/> Susan readily acknowledges that not every student will be a professional musician. But the benefits to the brain of learning music are well documented for both young and old. Never has Susan met anyone who regretted taking music as a child; but she has met many throughout the years who genuinely wished that they had done so.
Sylvie Johnson
Violin, Mandolin, Piano, Ukulele, Guitar & Voice
Sylvie has been playing the violin/fiddle and mandolin for 13 years. She has always had a great love for playing music with others through attending old-time and bluegrass jams growing up, and has gained a strong sense of community and encouragement through those environments. She and her sister learned their instruments together and eventually started a family band, and they performed together for over 10 years back in her hometown of Kalispell, Montana. <br/> <br/> Sylvie is an award-winning performer, having earned 4th place at the MT State fiddle championship, and 1st place in the twin fiddle division, as well as 4th place in the Northwest Regional fiddle competition Junior division, and 19th place Junior division at the National Fiddle Contest in Weiser, ID. <br/> <br/> Although the violin is home for her, she also plays the mandolin, piano, ukulele, guitar, and voice. Her favorite genres to play are bluegrass, Irish, swing, and old-time fiddle.
Nathanel Sivan
Piano
My name is Nathanel Sivan. I’ve got 18 years of experience playing piano and a real love for sharing music with others. I’ve learned from many amazing teachers over the years which gave me a strong and well-rounded musical foundation. I’ve also played professionally in rock bands, and I bring that same energy and creativity into my teaching style. <br/> <br/> Whether you’re a beginner, a parent looking to start your child on their musical journey, or someone returning to the keys after a break, I’m here to make learning piano exciting and approachable. I teach in a way that’s personalized, supportive, and fun, pulling from all genres like classical, pop, rock, and jazz to keep students engaged and motivated. Lessons are always tailored to the student’s interests and pace so they feel encouraged and inspired every step of the way. Let’s build confidence, creativity, and a love for music one note at a time!
Ginger Manion
Piano
Born and raised on the sunny east coast of Florida, right by the beach, Ginger has been surrounded by creativity and inspiration from a young age. Piano has been a part of her life for over 10 years, and what began as a weekly lesson quickly grew into a passion. Those early lessons weren’t just about learning notes and rhythms. They were moments of joy, challenge, and discovery that sparked a lifelong love for music. <br/> <br/> With years of experience working with children, Ginger creates a welcoming and encouraging learning environment where students can feel both supported and challenged. Drawing from a strong background in child development and behavior support, she understands how to adapt lessons to meet the needs of each individual student, helping them grow not only as musicians but as confident learners. <br/> <br/> Her teaching style blends structure with creativity, ensuring students develop technical skills while also discovering the joy of making music. Ginger especially loves helping children build confidence in their abilities, whether they’re just beginning their piano journey or working toward mastering more advanced pieces. She believes every student deserves to experience the excitement of learning music in a way that feels engaging and accessible. <br/> <br/> For Ginger, teaching piano is more than just music - it’s about sparking curiosity, nurturing growth, and guiding students to find their own voice through the keys.
Mima Majstorovic
Strings and Piano
Mima Majstorovic (born August 14, 2000) is a passionate Serbian cellist and music educator. She began playing the cello at the age of 8 and has been devoted to performing and music ever since. She studied at the unique School for Musical Talents in Ćuprija, followed by the Faculty of Music in Belgrade, where she earned her undergraduate degree. <br/> <br/> She completed her Master of Music degree at the Boyer College of Music and Dance at Temple University in Philadelphia in 2025, studying under Professor Ohad Bar-David. During her two years at Temple, Mima held a graduate assistantship, working at Temple Preparatory School and contributing to the school’s academic and performance programs. <br/> <br/> As an educator, Mima has taught strings at multiple schools in Philadelphia and various institutions in Serbia. She has experience working with students of all ages and levels, and she is deeply committed to helping each student develop both technical skills and a personal connection to music. <br/> <br/> In addition to her work as a cellist, Mima also teaches piano. She was introduced to the instrument at an early age, growing up in a musical family with a mother who is a pianist. Surrounded by music from the beginning, she developed a strong foundation in piano and went on to earn recognition in two piano competitions. Today, she brings that same musical sensitivity and care to her piano teaching, guiding students of various ages and levels with a focus on expression, technique, and creativity. <br/> <br/> Mima has performed as a soloist, chamber musician, and orchestral player. She has appeared in concerts throughout Serbia, Austria, Italy, Slovenia, Macedonia, Montenegro, and the United States. Her orchestral work has taken her to performances across Europe and the U.S. <br/> <br/> She is also a recipient of numerous awards and scholarships, including national and international competition prizes, recognizing both her artistic excellence and academic achievements.
Madison Paiva
Piano, Voice, Violin, and Cello
Madison Paiva is a piano, voice, violin, and cello instructor with over a decade of musical experience. She has always had a passion for music, beginning her journey with musical theatre in early elementary school. She since has performed in numerous community productions including The Wiz, Annie, Once Upon a Mattress, and more. <br/> <br/> Her journey with musical instruments began in middle school, starting lessons on the violin, cello, and piano around the same time. <br/> <br/> While continuing her work in musical theatre, she also performed in her middle and high school's chamber orchestras, and appeared on WKMG's Sounds of the Season. Over the years, Madison has brought her music to countless special events, from intimate gatherings to large celebrations. <br/> <br/> Madison is currently pursuing a degree in music education, as she wishes to further build upon her expertise in the area. Music is her lifelong passion and she is grateful to be able to share it with her students.
Emily Salmons
Piano, Voice, Guitar, and Clarinet
Hello, my name is Emily and I am a current UCF student studying in music and preclinical tracks. I have been playing piano for many years and also know a few other instruments such as guitar, clarinet and voice. I have a passion for composition in music as well since that is what I am studying for. <br/> <br/> Teaching and growing the love of music in individuals no matter background or age is something I love to do! Getting to teach and nurture the passion and creativity that is music is something I am passionate about and love to experience that with all students. <br/> <br/> I approach each lesson with a professional and organized attitude but still very fun and easygoing. I love to laugh and getting to have fun while also teaching, what would be better than that!
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