Our Team
At Snake River Strings Co. we pride ourselves in seeking out and hiring a versatile team of exceptionally skilled and passionate instructors, that most importantly connect with the student and help them succeed. Our instructors collaborate together to bring the best teaching strategies to every lesson. They continue their professional development, but most importantly build lasting relationships with their students!
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Shelby Murdock - Founder
Shelby Rae Murdock has been playing the violin, fiddle, guitar, and mandolin since she was 12 years old and has studied with some of the music world’s best. In 2017 she graduated with a Honors Bachelor in Music Education, on a full scholarship, from Idaho State University and studied there with Dr. Keum Hwa Cha & Dr. Hyeri Choi. Shelby has a passion for teaching and has taught hundreds of private students (violin, fiddle, cello, viola, bass, mandolin, and guitar) over the past 15 years in SE Idaho, many of which hold state, national, and regional titles and have won scholarships to study music in college. She loves to travel to compete, judge, and teach at various fiddle contests and camps around the West, and perform for events with her band, Rawhide N’ Rosin, in and around Jackson Hole, WY. Some of Shelby’s titles include the 2016 Dillon, MT, Idaho State, and Teton County WY fiddle champion. At the 2016 National Fiddle Contest in Weiser, ID she won ‘Fanciest Fiddler,’ and placed 2nd in the Young Adult Division. In 2017, Shelby was a judge for the National Old-time Fiddlers’ Contest and was the youngest on the panel. In her free time, she loves to play with her two kids, ski, crochet, and fly-fish.
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Evelyn Thomas - voice, songwriting, piano
Evelyn Thomas, well known for her music as Evie Clair, is a platinum recording artist, singer, songwriter and pianist. She was a top 10 finalist on Season 12 of NBC's America’s Got Talent a year before releasing her first full album at age 14, which hit the pop charts at #49, now with over 3.5 million streams. Evelyn continues to write and release original music, perform worldwide, keep up with her social media fans, and speak for live events and church youth groups. Evelyn’s love for music extends to all aspects of her life, not only as a performer, but as a wife, mother, and teacher. She hopes to inspire everyone she meets with the joy and faith she’s found through music.
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Karen Bechtel - Cello, Viola, violin
Karen Bechtel performed with the Honolulu symphony for 35 years, received a bachelors in Cello Performance from USC, and is a suzuki-trained cello teacher. She retired from the Honolulu Symphony and now calls Pocatello home because her family is there. She now plays cello with the Idaho State-Civic Symphony, the Idaho Falls Symphony (where she just served as the principal cellist in their last concert!), and teaches cello, violin, and viola at Snake River Strings Co. in Blackfoot and Pocatello. Throughout her career Karen has had the opportunity to perform with many famous artists including Yoyo Ma, Bela Fleck, Sammy Davis Jr, Riverdance, Liza Minnelli, and Barbara Streisand just to name a few. She was also a founding member of Chamber Music Hawaii &. the Galliard String Quartet.
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Nina Munger - Harp
Nina Munger is an accomplished professional harpist who teaches and performs, utilizing over twenty years of special event experience to delight the Jackson Hole, Wyoming area. Her presence is radiated by grace and elegance, dwelling deeply in her home life as a mother of seven (six gals and one lad) in rural Wyoming. Her joy, passion and enthusiasm for a life well lived infuse every aspect of her career and family. Beginning at age six (before she could even read), Nina was taught by the exceptionally gifted Minnesota Orchestra Principal Harpist, Ms. Kathy Kienzle. After moving out west, she continued lessons with ShruDeLi Ownbey- Director of Lyon and Healy West, and Adjunct Assistant Professor at the University of Utah. Beginning in her teen years, Nina began competing. By the age of eighteen had a first place in the Lyon and Healy International Pop and Jazz, placed into the semi finals in the National American Harp Society bi yearly competitions. She was invited to travel to Ireland for the World Harp Congress to premier her arrangement of Ghost Riders in the Sky for multiple harpists. She occasionally continues to throw her hat in the ring at various events in the intermountain area. Having been taught by the Suzuki Harp Method, it’s natural for Nina to teach this method as well. Beginning with her first student in 2004, she continues to enjoy individually coaching her students to achieve their combined goals. Mentoring and nurturing fledgling harpists in their musical pursuits is one of the most rewarding facets in Nina’s career. She is always striving to go beyond the basics and make each performance or lesson spectacular. Her published arrangements and compositions include, Classical transcriptions, Pop Standards, American Spirituals, and even a haunting rendition of the old cowboy ballad-Ghost Riders in the Sky. She also was the harpist for the Idaho Falls Symphony for several years. In her “spare time” she enjoys: crafts, crochet, cooking, camping, snowmobiling, and traveling to new places.
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Vince Crofts - Fiddle, guitar, banjo, mandolin
Vincent Crofts is an accomplished utility musician who plays guitar, fiddle, mandolin, banjo, and sings harmony. Vincent has twice been awarded a Fellowship with the Idaho Commission on the Arts, first in 2009 and again in 2015, for his work as an instrumentalist and purveyor of traditional music. Along with Rawhide N’ Rosin Vincent also works in his duet Vince & Mindi with bassist singer Mindi Palmer. www.vinceandmindi.com Vincent is a 20 year member of the Shelley & Kelly Band of Jackson, WY. He is also a founding member and fiddler with the old-time string band The Wild Coyotes www.wildcoyotes-stringband.com Vincent has worked as a side-man and toured with singer/songwriter Stephanie Davis and is often called on to fill in and work with other musicians in the area. He has collaborated with his daughters, Colette Butler and Callie Moore on a video of “Poor Wayfaring Stranger” which has generated over 1,000,000 views on YouTube http://youtu.be/COdpzwfJ2YI With his family released a very successful Christmas CD in November 2014 that charted on Billboard. “Sparrow in the Birch”; A Crofts Family Christmas. https://youtu.be/-FDI_LYL7kw Vincent has co-written the music for the songs “Where The West Begins” (Vince & Mindi CD) and “Little Pal Pinto and Idaho” for The Idaho Songs Project www.bonafidahocom/idahosongs.htm He has taught Appalachian style fiddling at the Montana Fiddle Camp and has been hired as a judge for the Teton Fiddle Contest. And other years won he No Hold Barred and Sr. divisions of that contest. Vincent has worked as a “Front Act” for or been on the same program with: Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, Charlie Daniels, Vassar Clements, Ian Tyson, Baxter Black, Mike Marshal, Mark O’Connor, Carol King, John McEuen, Steve Eaton, Darrell Anger, Mike Dowling, Sons of The San Joaquin, Michael Martin Murphy, Dave Stamey, Brenn Hill & maybe a couple more?
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Bryan Barclay - Banjo, Mandolin
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Dominick Hendricks - Guitar, bass, ukulele, songwriting
Dominick is a producer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist from southeastern Idaho. He's been playing music since junior high school when he played clarinet from 6-12th grade. He then picked up the guitar and started learning from YouTube videos and books! Soon after he learned the bass, ukulele, and began recording his own music. In 2022 he graduated from Bethel Music College with his Worship Ministry Certificate and has been playing lead and rhythm guitar at Rocky Mountain Ministries for 4 years. In 2021 he started writing, playing, recording, and producing his own music project, Gone After Midnight, which can be found on all streaming platforms. Dominick is so passionate for music and guitar that he feels the need to spread the love and joy of the art to anyone that desires to learn!
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Nathan Gregson - Drums, piano
Hi my name Nathan Gregson and my goal in life is to spread the love of music! Let me take you on a fun journey of self discovery with making something musical with percussion or piano. I am a passionate musician that has played in many different groups from rock, classical, and the ISU Jazz band to name a few. I have studied both percussion and piano at the college level. With this knowledge I will teach in a fun systematic way to you and your children! Music above all should be fun, why else would anyone make it? So yes you'll have to practice a bit but it's so worth it even as just a hobby.
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Porter Williams - Voice, Musical Theatre
Hi! I’m Porter, and I teach piano, voice, and guitar at our Pocatello and Blackfoot locations.
I’ve been performing for over 15 years and teaching for the past 2 years. I specialize in beginner to advanced piano and voice, and beginner guitar with a focus on Classic Rock.
My lessons are student-led but structured, designed to build solid technique and musical understanding—skills that can carry over to any instrument a student might want to explore in the future!
Some of my favorite bands include The Grateful Dead, The Beatles, The Moody Blues, and Creedence Clearwater Revival. I love sharing that classic sound with other musicians!
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Maggie Wight - Violin, Fiddle, Viola
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Jazmyn Becker - Piano
I grew up in Massachusetts and Texas, and I am currently studying Animal Science at Brigham Young University - Idaho. I started playing piano when I was five and truly love playing. I now use music to process everything in my daily life. I want to teach my students the power of music and the joy of playing, so my classes will be very student-led.
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Madison Hansen - Violin, Viola (sub. teacher)
Madison (Madi) is originally from Twin Falls, Idaho, and has been playing violin since she was seven. She has been actively involved in music-making and education since her teen years as a mentor in the Magic Valley Youth Symphony and a performer in the Magic Valley Symphony. After winning the youth soloist competition, she was honored to be a symphony soloist. Since then, she has worked with world-class musicians and has strived to develop her violin and viola skills as well as her skills as an educator. She graduated with a degree in Music Education and a minor in Violin Performance from Idaho State University. She studied with Dr. Hyeri Choi and Dr. Eleanor Cox while completing her undergraduate degree. She was a private instructor with the ISU Preparatory Strings Program. Though she loves to perform, her real passion is in music education. Since graduating from ISU, she has been a music educator in various settings, from preschool students to 12th-grade seniors. She has worked as a string instructor/ orchestra director in the secondary education setting and as a general music teacher in elementary schools. She works as an Elementary Music Coordinator for Bonneville Joint School District and is completing her Master's in Music Education at the University of Florida. Madi is a passionate music educator and musician whose goal is to help all young students engage meaningfully in music-making and develop lifelong music learning and performing skills. Student growth as people as as musicians is her number one priority.
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Jon Smart - Viola, Ukulele, Guitar, Mandolin
Jon Smart noticed he loved music from an early age. He would rock out with his dad to AC/DC, try to pick out the differences between superstars like Alan Jackson and George Straight, and knew all the words to Smashmouth’s “Allstar” in 1999. He started singing, trying to match his dad’s rich baritone. At age 10, he started his classical training with the District 91 elementary strings program in Idaho Falls, playing the viola. From there he picked up the guitar and pursued metal and rock. Bluegrass music took a tight hold, though, and he picked up a mandolin. He played in orchestras all through high school, including the Idaho Falls Youth Symphony and Idaho Allstate Orchestra. He sang with the IF High School choirs and played in a myriad of bands. Though he pursued English education (and teaches at Idaho Falls High School) he studied music for a short time in college and is thrilled to finally be teaching and playing music more regularly again. His primary instruments include the viola, guitar, mandolin, and voice. His favorite genres encompass everything, though bluegrass/country/folk make up his “absolute most favorite.” You’ll find him listening to Alan Jackson, Tool, Mac Demarco, James Brown, Mac Miller; jazz to classical to hip hop to emo—pick your poison!
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Katy Aillery- Voice, Piano
Katy Aillery grew up in a family passionate about music. She developed a love for music early on and continued with music into her college career. A recent graduate of Brigham Young University-Idaho with a BA in Music Education, Katy combines her strong academic foundation with a deep love for teaching and performance. During her time at college, she gained valuable experience by being active in classrooms of all different ages. After finishing Student Teaching at Idaho Falls High School, she accepted a job working there as a Resource Room Paraprofessional. She works with a diverse range of students everyday which provides valuable experience for how to be an effective teacher. Katy's teaching philosophy is rooted in creating inclusive, engaging, and personalized lessons that teach vital skills for all aspects of life. She teaches private lessons to students of all ages and abilities, specializing in Classical and Musical Theatre styles. Through her work at The Piano Place in Rexburg, she has helped students develop a love for music by building their confidence and abilities. Whether in the classroom or through one-on-one instruction, Katy strives to help each student develop a well rounded knowledge of music while developing vital vocal techniques. As an active member of the National Association for Music Education (NAfME) and the American Choral Directors Association (ACDA), Katy is committed to the lifelong pursuit of knowledge and advancement of Music Education.
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Casey Hill - Guitar, Bass, Drums
Casey Hill's life has been a rich tapestry of rhythm and melody, underscored by a deep-rooted passion for percussion and an insatiable appetite for musical diversity. With a drumming career spanning over five decades, Casey is not just a drummer; he is a storied musician, and an eternal student of the musical arts. His journey began more than 50 years ago when he picked up his first pair of drumsticks, a moment that paved the way for a lifelong journey in music. Casey's talent and dedication propelled him into the local music scenes, where he became a pivotal member of three professional bands. His versatility behind the drum kit has always been his strength, weaving intricate grooves into a myriad of styles, and contributing significantly to the sonic identity of each ensemble. However, Casey's musical abilities extends beyond the kit. He is proficient in hand percussion, guitar and bass guitar, and is currently delving into the realms of keyboard theory and up-right bass, reflecting his belief that a true musician's education never ends. Perhaps one of the most fulfilling chapters in his career has been teaching. Casey's love for sharing his musical knowledge knows no bounds, leading him to teach in the United States, the United Arab Emirates, and China. These experiences not only allowed him to impart his musical skills to students across the globe but also enriched his understanding and appreciation of diverse musical cultures. For Casey, teaching is more than just instruction; it's about igniting a passion for music in his students. He cherishes the opportunity to watch a novice drummer catch their first rhythm or a seasoned player break through a complex barrier. His teaching philosophy is deeply rooted in not only imparting technical skills but also in nurturing a profound love for music. Casey Hill's legacy is one of rhythm, passion, and education. Even as he continues to learn and explore new musical horizons, Casey's primary joy remains where it all started: with a pair of drumsticks in his hands and an unbridled passion for music in his heart.
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Kacey Kennedy- Songwriting, Voice, Saxophone, Piano
Kacey Kennedy is a multi-instrumentalist from Southeast Idaho who discovered her love of music at a very young age. With 11 years of piano experience, and 6 years of saxophone experience, she has grown to love both classical and jazz genres. At the beginning of 2023, she formed her own jazz band, performing her own compositions with some good friends. Currently attending Idaho State University for Commercial Music and Business studies, she is excited to teach music in her community and inspire other passionate musicians! She participates in Idaho State’s Piano Studio, Wind Ensemble, and Jazz Ensemble. In 2023, she began to record and produce her own music project, and has much more in store for the future. When she is not practicing piano, sleeping, or brainstorming her next composition, you can find her attempting to cook a delicious meal for herself, because just like music, cooking needs practice too!
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Kelly Francom-Piano, Voice, Ukulele, Flute, Guitar, Trombone, Trumpet, Saxophone, French Horn, Tuba, Clarinet, Tin Whistle, Euphonium, Hammered Dulcimer
Kelly is so excited to help teach and grow with your students! She has proudly earned her Master's in Music Education and has tons of experience in famous instruments like the guitar and piano, but also in lesser-known instruments like the hammered dulcimer and the euphonium!! Kelly is ready to teach with her super bubbly and encouraging personality and passion in working with her students to help them learn the way they learn best!
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Tim Hodgson- Fiddle, Guitar, Mandolin
Tim is an Idaho native and a graduate of Idaho State University. He has been playing the fiddle for over 40 years and has been with the Western-music-icons, The Bar J Wranglers, from Jackson Hole, Wyoming, for 30 years. Tim is a seven-time Idaho state fiddle champion, a four-time national winner, and has won or placed in most major contests across the United States. Tim has judged dozens of contests over the last many years and gives several fiddle and guitar workshops. Tim is married and has 4 grown kids who tolerate his fiddling addiction!
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Tessa Schuster- Cello
Tessa grew up in Idaho Falls and is proud to call South East Idaho her home. She started cello at age 7 and studied with Dr. Rebecca Lyman in High School. Tessa received her Bachelors in Cello Performance from Brigham Young University, under the direction of Dr. Michelle Kesler, in 2019. Tessa’s passion is teaching cello! She has taught for over 14 years, and enjoys working with all levels and ages. She loves all styles of music including classical, folk, rock and pop. Tessa’s teaching style is adaptable to fit the unique needs of each individual student, but most importantly, to help her students find joy in the process of learning music. Tessa has been involved in many symphonies, including the BYU Philharmonic, the Utah Symphony, and currently plays in the Idaho Falls Symphony.
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Cannnon Jay- Songwriting, Guitar, Voice, Bass, Piano
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Issac Pacheco- Voice, Beginner piano
Isaac Pacheco started his music career by playing the flute in the 6th grade. Though the instrument didn't stick for long (he only played for the next 2 years) his love of music and performing never died. In his sophomore year of high-school he took the next step into choirs and, his favorite medium, theater. He did his first musical, Guys and Dolls, the following year and he was hooked. Musical theater became his favorite because it could tell stories in such an enriching and beautiful way. He loves to share this passion with anyone who has the patience to listen and has spent the last 6 years training to be the best performer he can be.
Isaac is also a recent graduate from BYU-I with a BA in Theater Studies where he performed in 13 different shows (6 of which were musicals) on campus and at the Playmill Theater, participated in almost every field of theater production tech, and even taught technical theater skills to his fellow students.
As for musicals, some of his personal favorites are: The Clockmaker's Daughter, The Scrlette Pimpernell, and Gentleman's Guide to Love and Murder. He also really enjoys chocolate milk, grilling in the summer, and the Russian language.
#Ammon #Rexburg
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Shawnee Rasmussen- Fiddle, Violin
Hi, I’m Shawnee! I teach beginner, intermediate violin and fiddle at Snake River Strings Co. in Pocatello, with a focus on Bluegrass and Folk styles. I hold an Associate’s in Liberal Arts and a Bachelors in Zoology. As a SRSC parent and student turned teacher, I bring a joyful, foundational approach to learning—emphasizing strong technique, sight reading and fun! I welcome students of any age. When I’m not teaching, I’m homeschooling my kids, baking sourdough, gardening, or riding horses with my husband.
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Keziah Roderer Johnson- Harp
Keziah Roderer Johnson has been performing since she was six years old. She began her music career singing with the Cache Children's Choir in Logan, Utah and focused primarily on singing until she started learning the harp in 2013. Her passion truly lies with the harp and she graduated in 2023 from Brigham Young University-Idaho with her Bachelors degree in harp performance. Since then, she has been teaching as an adjunct harp professor at BYUI and has been loving every minute of being a harp teacher. She currently lives in Rexburg, Idaho with her husband and baby boy and is thrilled to be apart of the Snake River Strings Co.
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Cassius Moore- Guitar, voice, ukulele, drums, bass
Cassius Moore is a guitarist and storyteller whose love for music runs deep. Inspired by the raw energy of Nirvana, the theatrical brilliance of Queen, the introspective beauty of Radiohead, the modern melodies of The Backseat Lovers, and the haunting soul of Jeff Buckley, Cassius sees music as a bridge between emotion and art. For Cassius playing guitar isn't just about technique—it's about capturing a feeling, telling a story, and connecting with others. Whether it's channeling the grunge-inspired grit of Nirvana or exploring the ethereal tones of Jeff Buckley, he finds joy in both the diversity and depth of music. Cassius's passion for creating and sharing music comes from the belief that it can inspire, heal, and unite people, making every note feel personal and alive.
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Brad Babbel- Songwriting, sound production & recording, drums, songwriting/voice,drums,bass, guitar, ukulele
I’m Brad Babbel, a drummer and guitarist with over a decade of experience and a passion for every genre! I have experience in everything from jazz ensembles to marching band to rock/metal bands. From technical & intimate jazz to headbanging metal or even catchy pop hits, I help students master the music they love, no matter what genre of music! As an education major, I’m always excited to teach! Anyone can play—let’s make some noise!
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Chloe Richardson- voice, guitar, ukulele
Hey! I’m Chloe Richardson, and I teach guitar, ukulele, and voice lessons at Snake River Strings Co. in Blackfoot. I’ve been playing guitar for 7 years and singing my entire life! I also enjoy theater and have been the lead in musicals such as Little Women and Curtains! I specialize in Country, Folk, songwriting, musical theater, and growing/strengthening vocal range. My lessons are tailored towards each individual student and usually include less book material. It is my goal to guide students to play and sing the music they enjoy, and allow their personal motivation and love for music to guide them. When I’m not teaching, I’m probably hiking, reading, or riding my dirtbike!
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Miles Halter- guitar, bass, ukulele
Hey! I’m Miles Halter! I teach guitar, bass, and beginner drums at Snake River Strings Co. in Pocatello & Blackfoot. I am particularly an electric guitar enthusiast with over 18 years of playing and 8+ years of teaching students of all ages and skill levels. And fun fact: I've studied guitar with the fastest guitar player in the world. As an electric guitar professional, I specialize in genres like rock, blues, metal, funk, fusion, and jazz, but I love helping my students explore and learn their own favorite genres. My lessons are fun, relaxed, and tailored to your guitar-playing/ learning style, and my teaching focuses on building strong fundamentals, such as picking techniques, rhythm, and songwriting. I bring my love of guitar into every lesson, drawing inspiration from bands and artists like Van Halen, Pink Floyd, Jimi Hendrix, Pat Metheny, Steve Vai, Tool, Genesis, Gary Moore, ZZ Top, and many other incredible musicians. Outside of teaching, you can catch Miles playing board games, writing, reading, and embracing calisthenics. You can observe Miles Halter’s Miles’s lessons and guitar knowledge on the Guitarjet YouTube Channel if you want to get a feel for his teaching style.
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Myah Atchley- viollin, cello, piano
I'm Myah, and I play the violin, cello, and piano. I’ve been playing the piano for over ten years and am currently studying music at Idaho State University. I love sharing my passion for music with others and helping students build confidence while having fun along the way. When I’m not teaching or studying, you can usually find me outside running or spending time with friends and family. I believe music should be something everyone can enjoy, and I do my best to make lessons a positive, encouraging space for students to explore their creativity.
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Cesar A. Ruiz- guitar,violin,viola,bass, songwriting,production, music theory, composition
Cesar Ruiz is a young, creative, and boundary pushing musician. As a composer he’s done works for theater, plays, and movies. He approaches his scores by whatever needs to be fulfilled, no matter what genre he still puts his own flair and style into each composition. At 17 he was able to achieve qualifying as an Idaho State Viola placing #15 in the state. He’s also competed in District III Festival and has achieved a rating of Viola Superior twice, the highest rating you can achieve in the performance. In that same festival he achieved Excellent (The second highest rating you can achieve) with a String Octet and String Quartet. He has recently spent the summer of 2024 as the lead guitarist for the band, Sun Dogs, and in return they served as his backing band for the same charity performance at The Boise Hive. They plan on having a showcase every summer in order to help create and grow the Boise Music Scene. Currently attending Idaho State University, he’s on the course to achieve a BCM in Commercial Music. He’s currently the principal violist in the Idaho State University Chamber Orchestra as well as a solo act around the Boise and Pocatello music scene. “As I grow, I wish to not be classified as a composer, violist, guitarist, multi-instrumentalist, nor a teacher. I wish to be known as a musician whose passion for music grows every single day, and enjoys spreading that passion to others around the world.”~Cesar Ruiz
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Robert Wilson-violin,viola, fiddle, cello, composition
Robert Wilson is a performer, composer, and educator. He has earned a bachelor's degree in violin performance from Idaho State University, a master’s degree in violin performance from the Jacobs School of Music at Indiana University and is currently in the final stages of his doctoral degree in music education also through the Jacobs School of Music at Indiana University. While studying at IU, Robert was able to learn from some of the most renowned strings educators in the country, such as Mimi Zwieg, founder of the IU String Academy and his mentor Brenda Brenner, conductor of the IU String Virtuosi Youth Orchestra. Robert also enjoyed ten years of composition lessons with Stephanie Ann Boyd, composer in residence for the New York Ballet. Although Robert’s degrees are in violin, he has also been trained in and enjoys playing viola, cello, and bass. Robert absolutely loves thinking about, talking about, teaching, and working on strings technique. His teaching approach involves breaking down physical elements of playing into logically ordered bite-size pieces; Practice is more fun when you can feel yourself making progress! Robert supports this process by helping students to avoid and deal with common music-related stresses such as performance anxiety and perfectionism, and by teaching excellent practicing habits - an often overlooked element of musicianship. Robert also loves to help students find deeper connection to and enjoyment in their music. Currently, Robert enjoys teaching music theory classes at Idaho State University, conducting for the Idaho State University Youth Chamber Orchestra, and working to finish his doctoral dissertation.
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Gigi Moss- voice, guitar, piano, ukulele
Hi, I’m Gigi! I grew up north of Seattle around a musical family. My dad was in a band growing up, and my mom was a piano teacher. Since then, I’ve had a passion for music, and after piano lessons, I took on the guitar by myself. I grew up playing mostly piano, drums, and ukulele until I started writing my own music on guitar. After being in and out of different bands, I started a band here in Rexburg and started working for a record label, writing music. I’ve also taught guitar on and off for 5 years while in school on my own. This helped me develop a love for helping others learn guitar and have a passion for music! I’ve taught many different ages and do my best to make sure my students feel like they’re progressing and having fun! Anyone can play guitar when they have someone like me who believes in them!
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Lindi Wilcox-violin
Hello, my name is Lindi Wilcox and I have been playing the violin for twelve years. I started out like many, in my elementary orchestra class. I fell in love with it from the start and my love for violin has grown over the years. I took violin lessons from Annalee Kelly and graduated from the Suzuki method while studying with her. I then started taking violin lessons from Emma Rubinstein. I am now studying music education at Brigham Young University Idaho and I love it! I have been in many symphonies over the years, including six years with the Idaho Falls Youth Symphony, and also playing with the Idaho Falls Symphony, the Idaho All-State Orchestra, and the Brigham Young University Idaho Symphony. My favorite space to be in as a musician is in the symphony! I have been able to perform as a soloist with an orchestra and lead the Orchestra as the concertmaster many times. I took first place in the talent division for Distinguished Young Women of Bonneville county. I love all types of music, but my very favorite to play is the romantic era. I love the works of Beethoven and Tchaikovsky. When I am not practicing violin, I love running, camping, listening to music, and being with my family and friends. I am the oldest of six siblings. We have a lot of fun together! The violin has helped shape me into the person that I am today. One of the things I love most about playing an instrument is the wonderful tools it gives you that help so much in all aspects of our lives including values of hard work and dedication, teamwork, confidence, self discipline, emotional sensitivity, and more. The knowledge we gain through learning an instrument gives us the ability to help and bless others in ways that wouldn't be possible if we lived a life without music. Making music brings us joy but it is meant to be shared, and when it is shared, our joy in the music grows! The lessons I have learned from violin are countless!
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Jessica Kofoed- piano, organ
Jessica Kofoed has been a lover of music for as long as she can remember - and it shows! She has played the piano for over 20 years, and has spent the last 10 years teaching in the local area. She has also had the opportunity to play for several different churches and organizations within Rexburg and Idaho Falls, making her very community focused. Her goal is to make music accessible for ALL ages, and to ensure that each and every student she teaches feels comfortable and has fun!
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Jenet Cole- violin, fiddle
Jenet Cole has been playing Violin and Fiddle for 17 years. She has had the wonderful opportunity to learn from and work with many talented teachers, but her main mentor was Taylor Morris. Jenet grew up in Arizona and spent 3 years performing with the Gilbert Town Fiddlers. Previously, Jenet had the opportunity to work and teach at StringPlay camp, a summer camp for young musicians. Outside of teaching, she can be found in a painting studio or out country dancing. Jenet believes that the best music is shared and loves working with students to meet their goals on violin, whether that be classical violin or fiddling.
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Kaydee Haws- piano, ukulele
Kaydee Haws has been playing for 16 years and teaching for 8 years. She studied piano performance for 2 years at Snow College in Utah. Kaydee has a bachelor's degree from BYU-Idaho in Child Development and is currently pursuing a master’s degree in social work through Grand Canyon University. She is passionate about helping others discover their passions and believes in sharing the love of music in her lessons. Kaydee is married to her wonderful husband, and they have two dogs who are like their kids. Outside of playing, she enjoys reading and spending time outside with her family.
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Coming soon- Melyssa Bunn
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