Staff

Program Staff

Instructional Staff
  • Aaron Reeves

    Brass Teaching Artist (Greenwood)

    Aaron holds a Bachelor of Music in Trumpet Performance and Jazz Studies from CNU, where…
  • Andrew Dack

    Low Strings Teaching Artist (Carver)

    Andrew started violin lessons at the age of five with the Suzuki method, and continued…

  • Brandon Musko

    Jazz Band Director (Greenwood)

    Brandon Musko was born and raised in a steel mill town in Pennsylvania. He discovered…

  • Bryan Austin

    Brass Teaching Artist (Carver)

    Bryan Austin is a dedicated music educator at Soundscapes, bringing 10 years of experience and…

  • Catina Billups

    Connections Specialist (Carver)

  • Donald Hurdle, Jr.

    Jazz Integration Specialist & Instructional Swing (Greenwood)

    Donald’s childhood dream was to become an entertainer and perform for audiences. He began by…

  • Fred Williams

    Brass Teaching Artist (Carver)

    Fredrick Williams is a native of Bannettsvile, SC and 29 year old father of five.…

  • Isaiah Thomas

    Jazz Integration Specialist & Instructional Swing (Carver)

  • Joshua Sierra Delgado

    String Teaching Artist (PYO) & String Orchestra Director (Carver)

    Joshua Sierra-Delgado began studying Cello when he and his family moved to the United States…

  • Julian Cruz

    Saxophone Teaching Artist (Greenwood)

    Julian Cruz is a student at Christopher Newport University studying Music Production. Aside from production,…

  • Julieta Fahie

    Level 1 Director (Carver/Greenwood)

    Julieta has lived most of her life in San Diego, California, but was born in…

  • Marlana Chamblee

    Woodwind Teaching Artist (Carver)

    Marlana Chamblee is currently an elementary music teacher with Newport News Public Schools at Carver…

  • Meagan Chappell

    Level 1 Director (Carver)

    Meagan is a native of Baltimore, MD. She began her love for music at and…

  • Paul Sanho Kim

    Guest Orchestra Director (PYO)

    Paul Sanho Kim teaches violin and conducting at Old Dominion University and directs the ODU…

  • Peter Amos

    Rhythm Section Teaching Artist (Greenwood)

    Peter is a guitarist, composer, and educator in the Hampton Roads area of Virginia. Following…

  • Reese Tunstall

    Saxophone Teaching Artist (Greenwood)

    Reese Tunstall is a Senior studying Instrumental Music Education and Saxophone Performance at Christopher Newport…

  • Suzzane Warner

    Strings Teaching Artist (PYO)

    Suzanne Warner holds a bachelor’s degree in Humanities with dual specialties in Education and Music…

  • Taylor Williamson

    High Strings Teaching Artist (Carver)

    Taylor Williamson has been playing the violin since she was 5 years old, and has…

  • Westley Benson

    Winds and Percussion Teaching Artist (PYO) & Ensemble Director (Carver)

    Westley Benson graduated with a Bachelor of Music degree from the Peabody Institute. He began…

Aaron Reeves

Brass Teaching Artist (Greenwood)

Aaron holds a Bachelor of Music in Trumpet Performance and Jazz Studies from CNU, where he studied with Dr. Kelly Rossum. In 2015 Aaron toured with the Norfolk band Super Doppler, performing nearly 100 shows along the east coast. Aaron then joined the 10-piece horn band Brasswind as a full-time member in late 2018, playing the Trumpet II book until late 2022.

Andrew Dack

Low Strings Teaching Artist (Carver)

Andrew started violin lessons at the age of five with the Suzuki method, and continued his music education throughout grade school. He began his music degree at the University of Texas at Arlington, graduating in 2010 with a music degree in composition. He started teaching orchestra for Norfolk Public Schools in 2012, teaching elementary and middle school strings. He currently continues to teach for Norfolk Public Schools Andrew began playing pop music in the mid-2010s, experimenting with electric violins and effect in various combo groups. Andrew completed his master’s in music education with a focus on conducting from Old Dominion University in 2018, cum laude. Currently, he plays with Crazy X, a seven-piece country rock band who tours up and down the East Coast. Each year, Andrew attends the Mark Wood Rock Orchestra Camp, where he participates and helps teach progressive music on string instruments.

Brandon Musko

Jazz Band Director (Greenwood)

Brandon Musko was born and raised in a steel mill town in Pennsylvania. He discovered his passion for music at age ten, through his elementary school music teacher and a borrowed saxophone. His family recognized his ability and provided the support he needed to become an accomplished woodwind musician. He received his Bachelor of Music in Performance degree from the University of Slippery Rock in 2007. He has had a fascinating musical career including six-month stints on cruise lines and contracts with Busch Gardens Williamsburg. He currently performs with Good Shot Judy, renowned swing band, as well as teaching at Soundscapes.

Bryan Austin

Brass Teaching Artist (Carver)

Bryan Austin is a dedicated music educator at Soundscapes, bringing 10 years of experience and expertise to the classroom with a nurturing approach and a deep understanding of various genres and instruments.

Catina Billups

Connections Specialist (Carver)

Donald Hurdle, Jr.

Jazz Integration Specialist & Instructional Swing (Greenwood)

Donald’s childhood dream was to become an entertainer and perform for audiences. He began by picking up instruments and learning fast. He attended Heritage High School and Elizabeth City State University where music allowed him to perform and grow. Now, as a professional bassist and artist, he enjoys sharing knowledge back with the youth!

Fred Williams

Brass Teaching Artist (Carver)

Fredrick Williams is a native of Bannettsvile, SC and 29 year old father of five. He graduated from Marlboro County school in 2009 and Norfolk State University in 2015. His bachelor’s degree is in music education. Fred has been into music his whole life and loves teaching music to the youth! “I love the impact and difference I am able to make working for Soundscapes!”

Isaiah Thomas

Jazz Integration Specialist & Instructional Swing (Carver)

Joshua Sierra Delgado

String Teaching Artist (PYO) & String Orchestra Director (Carver)

Joshua Sierra-Delgado began studying Cello when he and his family moved to the United States more than a decade ago from Humacao, Puerto Rico. He attended Loyola University New Orleans, under the tutelage of Professor Philip von Maltzahn. Mr. Sierra-Delgado has performed with the VSO, LPO, and Nola Chamber Orchestra, and is also a Studio Cellist. He is excited to join us at Soundscapes!

Julian Cruz

Saxophone Teaching Artist (Greenwood)

Julian Cruz is a student at Christopher Newport University studying Music Production. Aside from production, Julian is primarily a jazz saxophonist and has played in the CNU Jazz Ensemble as the Lead Alto for 3 years as well as the Jazz Combo for 2 years. He has also been a member of the Marching Captains as section leader, as well as a member of the CNU Wind Ensemble during its tour to Argentina.

Julieta Fahie

Level 1 Director (Carver/Greenwood)

Julieta has lived most of her life in San Diego, California, but was born in Acapulco, Mexico. She discovered her love of music while attending music class in elementary school. She continued her music career by participating in a mariachi band, choir, and many ensembles. While attending Grossmont College in San Diego, she studied classical voice, majoring in music with a minor in musical theater.

Marlana Chamblee

Woodwind Teaching Artist (Carver)

Marlana Chamblee is currently an elementary music teacher with Newport News Public Schools at Carver Elementary. She joined the Soundscapes teaching artist staff Sept. 2018 as Level 2 Woodwinds instructor. Her primary instrument is alto saxophone. Marlana holds a bachelor’s (ECSU) and master’s degree in music education (ODU). She began her teaching career in September 2015 teaching in Camden County.

Meagan Chappell

Level 1 Director (Carver)

Meagan is a native of Baltimore, MD. She began her love for music at and early age which later led her to pursue a degree in music education with an emphasis in music media from Norfolk State University. Meagan enjoys playing multiple instruments, but her favorite is the bass guitar. Meagan believes that music is life. That’s why our hearts have beats.

Paul Sanho Kim

Guest Orchestra Director (PYO)

Paul Sanho Kim teaches violin and conducting at Old Dominion University and directs the ODU Symphony Orchestra. Named the Virginia Music Teachers Association’s 2022 Commissioned Composer, Kim’s music has been featured on NPR and by the Virginia Symphony and Symphonicity. He was formerly a violinist with the Roanoke Symphony and also a U.S. Marine.

Peter Amos

Rhythm Section Teaching Artist (Greenwood)

Peter is a guitarist, composer, and educator in the Hampton Roads area of Virginia. Following his graduation from college, Peter moved to New York City, where he performed in jazz clubs, art spaces, avant garde theater productions, converted auto-body shops, and subway stations. He now lives in Newport News, where he performs, writes, and maintains a large private studio.

Reese Tunstall

Saxophone Teaching Artist (Greenwood)

Reese Tunstall is a Senior studying Instrumental Music Education and Saxophone Performance at Christopher Newport University. Throughout his career, he has studied saxophone under Jason Hammers, Henning Schroder, David Fatek, Sheri Oyan. As a Saxophonist, Conductor, and Educator, Reese stives to be a positive role model through his attitude, character, performance, scholarship, and service.

Suzzane Warner

Strings Teaching Artist (PYO)

Suzanne Warner holds a bachelor’s degree in Humanities with dual specialties in Education and Music and a master’s from Old Dominion University. She previously served as the Conductor and Interim Administrator for Liberty Academy of the Arts. With 33 years of playing experience and 18 years of teaching and conducting experience, she brings her passion for excellence to Peninsula Youth Orchestra.

Taylor Williamson

High Strings Teaching Artist (Carver)

Taylor Williamson has been playing the violin since she was 5 years old, and has studied under Dianne Chapman, Brendan Elliot, Jeanne DeDominick, and June Huang. While a student of Old Dominion University, she participated in the symphony orchestra and the Russell Stanger String Quartet before earning her bachelor’s degree in music education with a concentration in orchestral strings.

Westley Benson

Winds and Percussion Teaching Artist (PYO) & Ensemble Director (Carver)

Westley Benson graduated with a Bachelor of Music degree from the Peabody Institute. He began studying piano and percussion at age five. He has taught piano and percussion to several students in the Hampton Roads area and continues to maintain a roster of active student musicians. He is the Music Director of the Doorway Singers.

Program Support Staff
  • Ciara Baker

    Level 1 Supervisor

    Ciara Alexander-Baker is a singer-songwriter from Richmond, Va. After graduating from Norfolk State University, Ciara…

  • Lynn Ballou

    Greenwood Program Manager

    Lynn Ballou helps young people to achieve interpersonal skills through music at Warwick High School,…

  • Rebecca Kim

    Carver Program Manager

    Rebecca Kim holds a degree in music education from James Madison University and graduate degrees…

  • Ron Boucher

    Peninsula Youth Orchestra Program Manager

    Ron Boucher has served the peninsula since 1992. He formed the Eastern Virginia School for the…

Ciara Baker

Level 1 Supervisor

Ciara Alexander-Baker is a singer-songwriter from Richmond, Va. After graduating from Norfolk State University, Ciara began to pursue her Career in Music. In 2016, Ciara began working at Soundscapes; a non-profit organization based in the Hampton Roads area of Virginia. She is currently Co-Level 1 director at Soundscapes. Ciara enjoys everything music and technology and loves to incorporate unique styles of playing. She finds great pleasure playing with her all-female band and promotes the empowerment of women in music.

Lynn Ballou

Greenwood Program Manager

Lynn Ballou helps young people to achieve interpersonal skills through music at Warwick High School, where she directs six choirs – a position she has successfully maintained for over twenty years. Since receiving her MS in School Leadership from Old Dominion University, Lynn proudly holds the position of Site Manager for the Greenwood Elementary Soundscapes location.

Rebecca Kim

Carver Program Manager

Rebecca Kim holds a degree in music education from James Madison University and graduate degrees in music performance from The Boston Conservatory and East Carolina University. She has performed with faculty of Old Dominion University and ECU, and has played abroad in Japan and the Czech Republic. For Rebecca, the best thing about music is collaborating with other creative minds to bring great ideas to life!

Ron Boucher

Peninsula Youth Orchestra Program Manager

Ron Boucher has served the peninsula since 1992. He formed the Eastern Virginia School for the Performing Arts, and the Community Alliance for the Performing Arts Fund, a non-profit organization dedicated to showcasing talented youth. In addition, he is a well noted voice teacher, and a member of the National Association of Teachers of Singing, a musical theater director, and a choreographer.

Administrative Staff

  • Reynaldo Ramirez

    Co-founder & Program Director

    Reynaldo Ramirez has served within the field of music education for over 25 years. He…

  • Carol Minter

    Executive Director

    Carol Minter has more than 15 years of management experience for nonprofits in Hampton Roads…

  • Sara Balgoyen

    Development Director

    Sara has 15 years of experience in non-profit work. She has a BS from New…

  • Katie Sackett

    Communication & Development Manager

    Katie Sackett is a nonprofit development pro with killer IT and artistic skills. She has…

  • Joe Hamm

    Creative Content Manager

    Storytelling through music composition, filmmaking, and photography engages Joe’s efforts to advance the social and…

Reynaldo Ramirez

Co-founder & Program Director

Reynaldo Ramirez has served within the field of music education for over 25 years. He was instrumental in establishing El Sistema USA and served as a founding board member and treasurer. He is a noted leader within the El Sistema movement where he has presented at universities and conferences throughout the country. He plays Horn with the Virginia Wind Symphony and freelances.

Carol Minter

Executive Director

Carol Minter has more than 15 years of management experience for nonprofits in Hampton Roads and beyond. Her areas of expertise include fundraising strategy, grant writing, and event planning. Carol has a BA in Communication from the University of Maryland, College Park and a Certificate in Nonprofit Management from the Academy for Nonprofit Excellence at Tidewater Community College.

Sara Balgoyen

Development Director

Sara has 15 years of experience in non-profit work. She has a BS from New Mexico State University and a MBA from Concordia University. Sara is originally from Virginia and after living in many other places across the US, she has returned to her home state. Sara is passionate about our shared responsibility to provide positive youth development opportunities for all children.

Katie Sackett

Communication & Development Manager

Katie Sackett is a nonprofit development pro with killer IT and artistic skills. She has more than 7 years’ experience working with nonprofits in Hampton Roads. Katie joined Soundscapes in mid-2019 because of her love of music and passion for social justice. She has a BFA from Virginia Commonwealth University. Katie lives in Hampton with her partner, Chris, and their three cats, Evie, Pancake, and Aether.

Joe Hamm

Creative Content Manager

Storytelling through music composition, filmmaking, and photography engages Joe’s efforts to advance the social and musical goals of Soundscapes. He is a professional drummer, teaching artist, recording artist, and a folder of large pizza slices. Powered by the sun, Joe lives carbon neutral with his partner Paige and their enthusiastic dogs Tidus & Luna!