“I love helping adults and children make music come alive for them.”
Chris started playing guitar at the age of nine. She picked up her sister’s guitar and a songbook, figured out some chords, and she’s been playing ever since. It was the lessons she shared with her twin brother, however, that were invaluable to her development as a musician.
In college, she started using her guitar for her real passion: leading worship. She graduated Penn State with a degree in Secondary Education. She’s been a worship leader and a youth band leader on and off for longer than she’d like to admit.
Chris has taught guitar and ukulele at BANG! Music for over 10 years. In 2023, she was voted Best Music Instructor by Stafford Magazine. Her background is in worship and she has played at several local congregations.
She currently works as Worship Director at Stafford Crossing Community Church. She loves and plays all types of music and believes in the importance of knowing music basics. Chris teaches beginners.
“Here for all of your musical needs from beginner to professional.”
Gennaro “LJ” Trotta is an accomplished drummer and producer who has been active in the music industry for 15 years. LJ has toured the globe with both national and international acts and has shared the stage with artists such as Kenny Rogers, Halestorm, and Victor Wooten.
LJ recieved both his Bachelors and Masters in Music Production and Engineering from the prestigious Berklee College of Music graduating with honors distinction on his principal instrument of drum set.
LJ owns LGenius Productions, a recording studio, that specializes in recording, mixing and mastering as well as remote drum recording and lessons. LJ has recieved numerous awards for his work including the Louis Armstrong National Jazz Award and the Friends of the Philharmonic Scholarship. LJ currently offers private instruction in the areas of drum set, percussion, and music production.
“I specialize in helping beginning instrumental students with playing issues.“
John has a BA in Music Ed. from Trenton State College, NJ. He taught junior high school instrumental music for 13 years and is a former member of the Rappahannock Pops Orchestra. He is currently the principal horn of the Fredericksburg Community Concert Band and a member of the UMW Orchestra.
“Music is to be enjoyable, and last a lifetime. I make learning music fun and clear from your first chord to advanced improvising. I focus on your musical interests and provide you with the tools you will need to achieve your goals.”
Bruce Middle is an educator, composer, publisher, and performing and recording artist with over 35 years in the industry. He has taught since 1985, and teaches beginners through advanced (ages 10 to adult) in all styles.
Member of: MENC, IAJE, BMI, WAMA Education: NVCC, GMU, UMW
Bruce is the Professor of Guitar and Director of the Guitar Ensemble at The University of Mary Washington, and is an 11-time WAMA (Washington Area Music Award) nominee.
