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 and Music
Daila Stiven
Daila Stiven is a seasoned music educator and performer specializing in piano, viola,
violoncello, voice instruction, and music theory, with a strong emphasis on classical
music. Her teaching approach is methodical and tailored to each student’s needs,
focusing on the development of both technical skills and artistic expression. With
experience in both private lessons and classroom settings, she fosters a deep
appreciation for music while maintaining a structured environment. As a professional
violoncello performer, she has collaborated with chamber orchestras and other
ensembles, showcasing her musicality and teamwork under pressure. Additionally, her
bilingual fluency in English and Spanish enhances her ability to connect with a diverse
range of students, making her a versatile and effective educator dedicated to cultivating
musical excellence.
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 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 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
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 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.
Music
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
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.
Music & Theater
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.
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.
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.
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.
Broadway and Showtime
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
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.
Physical Education
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.
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.
Martial Arts
Samantha Cardozo
Ms. Samantha Cardozo is a martial arts teacher in Miami, Florida, with over 10 years
of experience. She has trained in Goju-Ryu Karate for 24 of her 26 years in martial arts,
first under Russ Rogg, Kyoshi 10th Dan, and now under Manny Saavedra, Hanshi 10th
Dan. Samantha has participated in four tournaments, earning Silver medals in the kata
division. Holding a 3rd Dan, she is currently working towards her 4th Dan. With
experience teaching students from preschool to adults, she excels in connecting with
her students and adapting to their learning styles, fostering growth and discipline in their
martial arts journey.
French Educator
Bella Fabien
Bella Fabien is a dedicated French educator with over 12 years of teaching experience at
institutions such as Miami Jackson High School and Montessori Schools in Pembroke Pines.
She holds a Bachelor’s degree in French Literature and a Master’s degree in Human Behavior.
As a native French speaker, Bella is passionate about instilling a love for the French language
and culture in her students. She emphasizes the importance of early language education and
cultural immersion, having observed that students who begin learning French at a young age
tend to excel academically and develop enhanced cognitive skills and global understanding.
Bella integrates language, culture, and personal growth in her teaching, inspiring her students to
explore Francophone cultures and traditions through immersive learning experiences that foster
intellectual curiosity, confidence, and emotional intelligence.
English & French 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
