Our Instructors
- Are vetted through DCF systems, Clearing House and VECHS
- Are currently active musicians and performers
- Hold degrees and have considerable educational experience
- Are athletes and artists with successful careers, or
- Are individuals in their final year of higher/graduate education
- Are continuously supported and trained in class management and school specificity
Piano
Yianni Iliadis
Mr. Iliadis is an accomplished pianist and taught high-school level piano in his native Greece between 2011 and 2013; he taught piano privately for many years, as well as at the college level. Having completed his undergraduate studies in Greece, he then graduated with an MA in Music from the Bob Cole Conservatory of Music at California State University-Long Beach where he received several awards and scholarships. He later received his DMA from the Frost School of Music at the University of Miami, where he is a part-time lecturer and accompanist of the Musical Theater class. He has participated in numerous solo recitals and chamber music concerts in the U.S. and abroad. He served on the faculty of the Killington Music Festival in Vermont, and has played in music series with the Florida Flute Association, the Florida State Music Teachers Association, the Mid-South Flute Festival and Kaleidoscope MusArt. He has served as collaborative pianist since 2014 for the New World School of the Arts, the New World Symphony, Florida International University, Miami Arts Charter School and Miami-Dade County Public Schools. Mr. Iliadis serves as a great resource for EASE after-school program and is presently teaching at the University of Miami.
Piano and Music
Pedro Camba
Pedro Camba studied clarinet, saxophone and piano. He was 20 years old when he
discovered his passion for music education. He has taught music for many years in
music conservatories, schools and academies. Throughout his career, he has received
training in the application of Suzuky, Dalcroze, Orff and Kodaly methodologies, through
which children discover that their body is like a great musical instrument that serves to
express emotions and feelings through singing, rhythm and body expression. As an
educator, he knows that when children learn music, they show improvements in other
academic subjects; develop creative thinking, expression skills and self-confidence. Mr.
Camba is committed to making the learning experience a joyful journey for his students.
He continues to learn how to play new instruments from different cultures and traditions,
which contributes to his love of teaching.
Piano and Music
Karen Arciniegas
Karen Arciniegas trained in piano and music education at Aragua Conservatory of
Music from 2006-2016 she extended her training at the Simon Bolivar Foundation
where she studied and taught piano, music theory, choral and orchestral
accompaniment. Currently, she is pursuing a specialty degree at the Berklee College of
Music. Ms. Karen prides herself in her love and talent in her expertise teaching music to
students of all ages. When asked what is her motivation to teach she states, “I grow and
learn as I teach. I love being part of the learning process in the life of my students.” We
welcome Ms. Karen as our music teacher and look forward to seeing our students’
continue to develop their skills and showcase all the benefits that music education has
to offer in cognitive and physical development.
Piano and Voice
Yordanka Acosta
Yordanka Acosta is a classical-trained pianist, singer and choir conductor. For her, it is
very important that children enjoy playing and develop an appreciation for music. Acosta
knows the benefits that early music education and playing the piano bring to children.
She has witnessed how a child who learns music early does better in math and reading,
becomes an academic achiever and develops critical thinking, confidence and
perseverance. She has also seen how, through music education and particularly piano,
kids grow stronger emotionally. In her professional career as pianist, as part of chamber
music ensembles, as accompanying pianist, choir conductor and singer, she performs
throughout the year in different venues, often bringing her students along and engaging
them in the performances as a stimulus to their intellectual growth.
Piano
Dylan Wong
Pianist Dylan Wong attended the Manhattan School of Music in New York City for both
his undergraduate and Master’s degree, the latter in Classical Piano Performance. For
over two decades, he has given solo recitals, lecture concerts and concert tours in over
100 halls both nationally and abroad, including Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts in
New York. Dylan has taught piano for seven years; his students have won prizes in
many competitions. His enthusiasm for teaching –students 3 to 30 years of age- is
remarkable. His goal for his pupils is to help bring out the best of every student’s artistic
side and to do it in a fun learning environment. He believes that the concept “work hard,
play hard” constitutes the core of creativity and inspiration.
Piano - Substitute teacher
Carlos Paez
Carlos Paez is a talented musician and educator who graduated from the Instituto
Superior de Arte (ISA) Music Conservatory. With a Latin Grammy nomination to his
credit, Carlos brings over 10 years of teaching experience to students of all ages, from
preschoolers to adults. He is dedicated to fostering a love for music and helping each
student reach their full potential, using his extensive knowledge and passion to inspire
the next generation of musicians.
Piano and Voice
Wendy Besada
Wendy Besada trained in voice and choral singing in her native Santa Clara, Cuba, at
the Technical Arts School and the Professional Arts School, and in Music History and
Theory, along with Musicology at the prestigious Instituto Superior de Arte, also in
Cuba. Her artistic experience includes singing and songwriting; serving as back-up
singer for several Cuban artists; and working with label and recording companies. She
has been a piano and voice teacher for more than 10. In her opinion, children benefit
greatly from learning music, or any other art for that matter. Youngsters who are taught
music early in life develop sensitivity, concentration, discipline, a sense of responsibility
as well as good study habits. Through the experience of music, children also release
stress. They develop creativity and become less inhibited; as a result, they learn to
express feelings and to see the world through different eyes.
Guitar and Piano
Julio Velazquez
Julio Velazquez is an experienced music educator with a Bachelor’s Degree and a
passion for teaching guitar across various age groups. With over five years of
experience, he has successfully taught students ranging from elementary school (ages
5 to 11) to high school (ages 14 to 18) and adults. Julio’s diverse teaching background
allows him to adapt his instructional methods to meet the unique needs of each student,
fostering a love for music and helping them develop their skills. His dedication to music
education and his ability to connect with learners of all ages make him a valuable asset
in any educational setting.
Music and Piano
María Mendez
María Mendez is a passionate music educator, performer, and sound therapist with a rich background in music education and performance. With over 18 years of experience, Russian native, Maria, has taught piano, voice, and music theory to students of all ages, and has performed as a soloist and background vocalist on TV shows such as The Voice Russia and X Factor Russia, as well as concerts worldwide. Holding degrees from Gnessins College of Music and Berklee College of Music, she has developed a unique approach to teaching, combining her extensive knowledge of music theory, conducting, and arrangement with her love of performance. As the founder of House of Music Malhavia, she provides personalized instruction and mentorship to students who share her passion for music. In addition to her teaching and performance career, Ms. Mendez is also a certified sound therapist, using music as a tool for healing and wellness. With her diverse experience and extensive education, María is a versatile and dedicated musician who inspires and uplifts others through the power of sound.
Piano and Violin
Saraimy Rodriguez
Saraimy Rodriguez began her journey in the world of music at a young age, starting at just 7 years old. She studied the Violin as her primary instrument and the Piano as a complementary instrument at a Professional Art School. Following this, continued her education for an additional four years in high school, ultimately graduating as a Violinist. Throughout her career, she gained a deep understanding of music’s evolution, learning to interpret pieces from various periods and styles. She has performed in a variety of ensemble formats, including chamber, symphonic, and typical orchestras, and has also studied pedagogy and harmony. After graduating, Saraimy dedicated herself to teaching Violin and Piano to elementary students while also serving as an instrumentalist in the Symphony Orchestra of the Ernesto Lecuona Lyric Theater.
Broadway, Music and Piano
Rachel Pastor
Rachel Pastor is a graduate of the National Music School (ENA) where she specialized
as a choral director, and the Superior Institute of Art in Theater. With a passion for the
performing arts, Ms. Pastor has participated in several workshops with renowned
directors and musicians, enhancing her skills and expertise. Currently, she is pursuing a
Master’s degree in Education at Nova Southeastern University in the United States.
Having studied Theater at the Instituto Superior de Arte in Cuba, Rachel Pastor brings
three years of teaching experience from the Escuela Nacional de Música in Cuba. She
has successfully taught a diverse range of students, including preschoolers (ages 18
months to 5 years), elementary school children (ages 5 to 11), and adults. She has also
received various awards in recognition of her contributions to theater, music and
education.
Broadway
Tamara Melián
Tamara Melián studied acting at the Instituto Superior de Arte (ISA) in her native Cuba,
and has continued to study acting in Miami at the Barraza Acting Studio and the Miami
Acting Studio. She is an award-winning professional actor –of film, television and
theater- recognized with a Miami Life Award for Best Actress in 2014 and an HOLA
Award in 2017. Ms. Melián also has been teaching drama to children for many years,
particularly in the Musical Theater genre, at the Parabajitos organization and the
Creativa Academy, among others. In her expert opinion, she feels that acting reinforces
children’s confidence in themselves, as well as feelings of empathy and acceptance.
Through theater games, they learn about emotions and non-verbal language;
imagination, discipline and responsibility are reinforced. Ms. Melián knows that when
children are led to understand a creative process from conception to development,
those skills benefit their performance in other subjects. Since 2021, she has worked
with EASE as Musical Theatre instructor. She taught at the Key Point Academy at
Brickell, and is now teaching at The French American School of Miami.
Broadway
Sabrina Carranza
Growing up in Argentina, Sabrina Carranza started her dance career at 6 years old. Along the way, her passion for musical theatre developed. Throughout her life, Sabrina studied and took classes with the best dance and musical theatre teachers in Buenos Aires and New York. She performed and worked with one of the most iconic Argentinian producers and also danced in Musicals on Calle Corrientes and Luna Park. After she became a mom, her career as a performer took a step back, and she has been teaching her skills since then. Sabrina’s true passion, however, lies in sharing her knowledge and experience with others, and she has found immense joy in teaching musical theatre to students of all ages. She is dedicated to nurturing the next generation of performers and helping them develop their own passion for the art form.
Broadway and Culinary Arts
Daniela Hernández
A native of Argentina, Daniela Hernández obtained a BA degree from Florida
International University and has worked teaching children for over 10 years. She is
skilled in all aspects of theater: stage design, stage management, acting, directing and
production assistance. This makes her exceptionally qualified to teach drama and
Broadway to the children we engage through the EASE program. She believes that
theater and the skills it teaches are vital to a student’s future career, but more
importantly, to his or her life. She is passionate about setting her students up for
success by teaching life skills through stage skills, like scene work, acting techniques,
script study and sets and props design and construction, all of which enable students to
experience stories from every walk of life. Her experience has taught her that children
build an appreciation for the arts in general, and for theater in particular, that helps them
develop self-confidence.
Ballet and Modern Dance
Yanetcy Morales
Yanetcy Morales, born on April 1, 1977, in Havana, Cuba, is a distinguished dancer
and educator with a rich background in ballet and contemporary dance. She completed
her high school education at the Escuela de Espectáculos Musicales, where she honed
her passion for dance. Yanetcy’s dedication to her craft led her to train under renowned
instructors Tomas Morales and Rafael Hernandez, further enhancing her skills and
artistry. Her professional journey began at the Hotel Capri, where she quickly rose to
prominence as the first ballerina. Her talent and charisma soon took her to the National
Hotel of Cuba, where she continued to shine in the same role for several years. After
eight successful years, she transitioned to the Hotel Riviera, maintaining her status as a
leading performer. In pursuit of new opportunities, Yanetcy moved to Mexico, where she
spent two decades teaching ballet, contemporary dance, and flamenco. During this
time, she remained an active performer, captivating audiences with her grace and skill.
Ballet and Modern Dance
Kamila Alarcon
Kamila Alarcon is a dedicated dance instructor, performer, and educator based in Miami, Florida. She specializes in various dance styles, including ballet, hip-hop, contemporary, and Latin. Kamila teaches at multiple studios, working with a diverse range of students from children to adults, and she is committed to fostering a love for movement and well-being among her students. In addition to her teaching, she is the co-founder of KaRa’s Angels Corp, where she utilizes her expertise in team management and event coordination. Kamila also performs with entertainment companies at various events and shows. Her background includes photography and a foundational education from the Art National School (ENA) in Havana, Cuba, which allows her to combine technical skill with a passion for teaching. Currently, Kamila is pursuing the Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) certification to enhance her ability to work with diverse learners, further expanding her skill set in the field of education.
Ballet and Modern Dance
Maria Fernanda Leon
Maria Fernanda Leon is a dedicated dance educator from Havana, Cuba, with
extensive experience teaching students of all ages, from preschoolers to adults. A
graduate of the National School of Dance, she was selected to join the Contemporary
Dance of Cuba, where she received training from renowned national and international
choreographers. Maria has taught at various institutions, including Lauren Music
School, and has conducted summer programs for children and adults. Her career
includes tours across Europe as both a dancer and a teacher, and she became a
member of UNESCO in 2022. Recently, she participated in the Lyon Biennale in
November 2023. Maria is passionate about merging joy with education in her classes,
ensuring that her students not only learn new movements but also enjoy the process of
dance.
Physical Education, Martial Arts and Soccer
Luis Marcano
Luis Marcano is a dedicated Physical Education educator with a Master’s Degree from
Universidad Pedagógica Experimental Libertador and extensive experience teaching
students of all ages, from preschool (18 months to 5 years) to adults. With a strong
background in soccer and martial arts, he has taught at various institutions, including
the Education Center Gran Mariscal de Ayacucho and National Education Unity 12th of
February. Luis is committed to promoting physical development, teamwork, and social
interaction among his students. He designs engaging lesson plans that foster spatial
awareness, conflict resolution, and overall well-being, helping students discover their
unique athletic abilities and preferences.
Physical Education and Martial Arts
Miguel Ricaurte
Miguel Ricaurte, a Quito-Ecuador native, has 15 years of experience as a Personal Trainer and Performance Coach. He holds a Master’s in Physical Activity and Sports Psychology from IUE University in Colombia. Previously, he was a professional soccer player for C.D. Catholic University of Quito and UTE, as well as a coach for youth soccer divisions. An accomplished kickboxer and WTKA black belt. Miguel aims to enhance students’ health, well-being, and quality of life through tailored programs. He fosters awareness of personal health, incorporating motivation, commitment, and self-care.
Physical Education
Maja Stoichovska
Maja Stoichovska is a dedicated personal trainer and fitness professional with a passion for helping individuals achieve their health and wellness goals. With a background in sport and fitness management, she specializes in strength training, exercise program design, and post-rehabilitation training. Maja’s engaging approach creates a fun, safe, and educational environment, providing personalized guidance and support to her students. With experience as a kickboxing instructor and group fitness instructor, she’s equipped to motivate individuals of all fitness levels to reach their full potential.
Soccer
Vicente Labbe
As a dedicated soccer teacher at Centro Mater, Vicente Labbe has extensive
experience working with preschool and elementary school students, particularly in first
grade and kindergarten. His passion for soccer began at an early age, leading him to
train with various clubs and compete in both Miami and Chile, where he developed a
deep understanding of the game. Throughout his athletic career, he has earned medals
and trophies in various tournaments, enriching his teaching approach with valuable
insights and techniques. Vicente prioritizes building strong connections with his
students, believing that engagement and motivation are essential for fostering a love for
soccer. His hands-on teaching style encourages participation and teamwork, promoting
skill development, social interaction, and personal growth in a supportive and inspiring
environment.
French and English Educator
Florisel Rubio
Florisel Rubio is truly dedicated to teaching children and uses motivational techniques to enhance their learning experience at a young age. She earned a bachelor’s degree in teaching foreign languages, where she studied both English and French. After graduating, she began her teaching journey at the esteemed French Alliance in Havana, Cuba, gaining valuable experience in working with children. Florisel has also participated in various training programs focused on language development for kids. She loves exploring new materials and educational games to engage her students, as her ultimate goal is to make learning fun and enjoyable for everyone in her classroom.
Interested in working with us?
If you are interested in being part of the EASE team, do not hesitate to contact us to apply for any of the open positions.
Contact us and apply for an available position
