MARIA CENTOLA
Artistic Director/Piano Instructor
Maria Centola is a dedicated instructor of piano with a goal of uncovering the musical potential in each student. Her teaching style honors European classical traditions including note reading, rhythm, refined technique and musical expression. She integrates the historical context of the music by exploring the period and life of composers to further develop stylistic interpretations. Â
As a concert pianist she shares her experience and guides each student through the importance of performing by imbuing the joy of practicing,  intentionality, achieving incremental goals, and gaining confidence. Â
Maria collaboratively performs classical music concerts and specializes in Argentine tango music. She studied at The Gnessin Academy of Music in Moscow, Russia where she received her B. Mus. and later continued her studies at The Hartt School of Music, University of Hartford where she earned a Graduate Piano Diploma and M.Mus.
MARKUS CENTOLA
Artistic Director/Accordion, Violin & Jazz Piano Instructor
Markus is a dedicated instructor of accordion, jazz piano, music theory, and violin with over 20 years of teaching experience. He loves to share his knowledge and pass on the gift of music to his students of all ages. His intuitive teaching style integrates a custom tailored lesson to fit the student as an individual, creating an all encompassing and well balanced curriculum of music theory, ear training, technique and musicianship. One major concept that he instills in all his students is the art of practicing and maintaining a discipline.
Markus actively collaborates with local musicians from NYC to Boston and regularly performs with Connecticut's premier Argentine tango ensemble InfiniTango and Gypsy Jazz group Chat Noir. Markus studied at The Hartt School of Music, University of Hartford where he earned both a B. Mus. and M. Mus.
DIANA LYN COTÉ
Art Instructor
Diana Lyn Coté is a fine artist who’s work includes oil paintstik paintings, resin sculpture, mosaic art, watercolor, mural instalations, and found object construction. Her art has been commissioned for public art spaces in commercial business as well as private collections for nearly 40 years. Along with being a successful studio artist, Diana has enjoyed sharing her knowledge through teaching private classes and group workshops at schools, art leagues, and art conventions around the country. At every age and any skill level she helps guide her students to find their inner three-year old, the age of pure art freedom.