Our Staff

Hand-selected educators who make learning music fun, safe, and inspiring

At Leading Note Studios, our teachers are more than just musicians—they’re mentors. Every instructor is carefully chosen for their experience, professionalism, and ability to connect with students of all ages. With backgrounds that range from performing on national stages to advanced music degrees, they share one goal: making music an exciting and rewarding part of your family’s life.

Sam is a passionate and driven drum instructor at Leading Note Studios. A Cypress native, Sam brings real-world music experience as a sound engineer and performer, blending technical know-how with creative energy. Bilingual in English and Spanish, Sam connects easily with students of all backgrounds. His friendly, hands-on teaching style helps students build confidence, rhythm, and a deep love for music. Whether you're picking up sticks for the first time or refining your groove, Sam is dedicated to helping each student thrive behind the kit.

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Yvonne is a versatile entertainment professional and trilingual artist (English, Spanish, and Music) with a rich background in sound engineering, music, acting, and marketing. She holds a degree in Sound Engineering from San Jacinto College and brings over a decade of experience in live performance, studio production, and creative leadership.
Yvonne has worked extensively in both the spotlight and behind the scenes—touring, coaching actors, recording voiceovers, and leading projects with Neon Theory. She’s also contributed to major media organizations like CBS Radio and Telemundo, gaining hands-on experience in production, engineering, and promotions.
Passionate about storytelling and community connection, Yvonne is excited to bring her dynamic skill set to Leading Note Studios, helping students grow as performers and confident communicators.

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Rhyan is a dedicated music teacher at Leading Note Studios who loves helping students discover the joy of making music! She recently graduated with her Bachelor’s degree in Music Education from Stephen F. Austin State University, where she earned spots on both the Dean’s List and President’s List.
With hands-on experience teaching in schools like Cypress Park High School and Anthony Middle School in Houston, Rhyan is an expert in choir and general music. She has worked with students of all ages, including leading daily choir classes and teaching general music. She also has a strong background in choral music, having been a Choral Scholar at both St. Cyprian’s Episcopal Church and St. Paul’s United Methodist Church.
When she’s not teaching, Rhyan enjoys volunteering at music camps like the All-State Choir Camp, helping students from all over improve their singing skills.
Rhyan is excited to share her love of music with students at Leading Note Studios, where she helps them grow into confident musicians!

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James is a passionate music educator at Leading Note Studios, where he inspires students to discover the joy of making music. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Music Education from Stephen F. Austin State University and was recognized on both the Dean’s List and President’s List for academic excellence.
With experience teaching choir and general music at Cypress Park High School and Anthony Middle School in Houston, James brings a strong background in choral instruction. He has served as a Choral Scholar at St. Cyprian’s Episcopal Church and St. Paul’s United Methodist Church, and enjoys volunteering at events like the All-State Choir Camp to help young singers grow.
James is thrilled to help students build confidence and musical skills at Leading Note Studios.

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Teri is a passionate and experienced music instructor specializing in voice, piano, and beginner percussion. With over 20 years of experience leading youth programs and music groups, Teri brings an energetic, encouraging, and student-centered approach to every lesson. Her background in choral directing and group leadership gives her a unique ability to foster confidence, creativity, and community among students of all ages.
Teri holds an Associate of Arts degree with an emphasis in Music from Weber State University and has directed children’s choirs, coordinated after-school programs, and served as a camp director for over a decade. She is known for her positive energy, effective communication, and ability to connect deeply with students, helping them grow musically and personally. Whether teaching a young beginner or guiding a developing vocalist, Teri creates a fun, structured environment where students feel supported and inspired.

Francisco is a passionate piano instructor and music educator based in The Woodlands, TX, with over a decade of experience bringing music to life for students of all ages. Trained in classical and contemporary techniques, Francisco blends technical precision with creative flair, making every lesson both structured and inspiring. With roots in Argentina and teaching experience across South America and the U.S., he's fluent in Spanish, English, and Portuguese—and equally fluent in sparking a love for music. Whether preparing students for performances or simply helping them find joy at the keys, Francisco brings energy, empathy, and artistry to every note.

Marissa has been part of our team since October 2020. A graduate of USC with a degree in Music Business, she brings both passion and professionalism to everything she does. A talented musician, Marissa plays piano, guitar, and loves to sing.
Outside of teaching, she enjoys perfecting her sourdough recipe and savoring a great cup of coffee. She was recently married in July 2024—and somehow managed to attend 15 weddings in the same year!
With her vibrant energy, warm spirit, and musical talent, Marissa is a cherished member of our team. And the excitement continues—she and her husband are expecting their first child in October 2025!

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Camille Hastings founded Leading Note Studios in Encinitas in 2009, starting with just five students. She expanded to San Marcos in 2020, and in 2021, the studio was named “National Music School of the Year.”
A graduate of Berklee College of Music, Camille has performed with legends like Barry Manilow and Vince Gill. She is also the author of From Passion to Profit: The Part-Time Music Teacher's Guide to a Six-Figure Income, a practical guide for educators looking to build a thriving music career.
Outside of music, Camille enjoys gardening, baking, and riding her Indian Scout motorcycle. Married for 30 years and a mother of three, she continues to share her passion for music and community.