Teachers Who Inspire

Kathryn Evenson is the Co-Founder and Director of OLA Music Academy and an accomplished pianist, flutist, and educator with over 20 years of teaching experience. Passionate about helping students reach their fullest potential, Kathryn is known for her thoughtful, encouraging teaching style and her commitment to building confident, well-rounded musicians.

Kathryn earned her Bachelor of Music in Flute Performance from the University of Victoria and has successfully prepared countless students for Royal Conservatory of Music (RCM) examinations, recitals, festivals, and performances. Her piano students consistently develop strong technical foundations, musical artistry, and the confidence to achieve their personal goals, whether learning for enjoyment or pursuing advanced musical studies.

As an experienced piano and flute instructor, Kathryn believes every student learns differently. She carefully tailors each lesson to meet the individual needs, interests, and aspirations of her students, creating an engaging environment where curiosity, creativity, and excellence can flourish.

As Co-Founder of OLA Music Academy, Kathryn has played a key role in shaping the academy's educational philosophy and welcoming, family-centred culture. She is passionate about creating meaningful learning experiences and performance opportunities that inspire students to develop confidence, discipline, resilience, and a lifelong appreciation for music.

Kathryn believes that music education extends far beyond learning notes on a page. Through expert instruction, genuine encouragement, and meaningful mentorship, she helps students discover their potential, express themselves creatively, and experience the lifelong joy of making music.

Paula Labbe is the Co-Founder and Academy Director of OLA Music Academy, where she has spent more than a decade helping students of all ages discover confidence, creativity, and a lifelong love of the performing arts. A passionate educator, accomplished vocalist, and dedicated mentor, Paula believes that every student has unique gifts waiting to be discovered and nurtured.

Paula holds a Bachelor of Music in Opera Performance from the University of British Columbia, where she studied under some of Canada's most respected vocal educators. Throughout her performing career, she has appeared in opera productions, concerts, and community performances, including Vancouver's Fringe Festival, Street Scene, and the annual Sing-Along Messiah. Her love of performance continues to shape the way she inspires students both in the studio and on stage.

As a voice and piano instructor, Paula specializes in developing healthy vocal technique, expressive performance, audition preparation, and confidence-building. She has successfully prepared students for Royal Conservatory of Music (RCM) examinations, festivals, auditions, musical theatre productions, competitions, and post-secondary entrance programs. Her students are encouraged not only to develop strong technical skills but also to discover their own unique artistic voice.

As Co-Founder of OLA Music Academy, Paula has helped create a welcoming community where students of every age and ability can learn, perform, and create. Under her leadership, the academy has grown into a thriving performing arts community offering music, theatre, drama, and film programs that encourage artistic excellence while celebrating creativity, confidence, and belonging.

Paula believes that music has the power to transform lives. Whether working with a preschool student discovering rhythm for the first time or coaching an advanced vocalist preparing for an important audition, she is passionate about helping every student reach their full potential while experiencing the joy of sharing their talents with others.

Blake Johnson is an accomplished guitarist, performer, and educator with a passion for helping students discover the excitement of playing music. Whether introducing a beginner to their very first chords or coaching advanced musicians through complex solos, Blake creates engaging lessons that inspire confidence, creativity, and a lifelong love of music.

Beginning his musical journey with classical guitar, Blake later discovered the electric guitar and developed a deep appreciation for progressive rock and metal. Influenced by legendary guitarists such as Yngwie Malmsteen, Paul Gilbert, Steve Vai, and John Petrucci, he has become one of Vancouver's most respected rock and shred guitarists.

Committed to becoming a well-rounded musician, Blake expanded his studies in both classical and jazz performance. He studied classical guitar with Michael Strutt at Douglas College before continuing his musical education at Capilano College, where he focused on jazz performance. This diverse background enables him to teach students across a wide range of musical styles while building strong technical skills and musical versatility.

As an active performer, Blake regularly performs throughout the Lower Mainland with his progressive rock band OmnisighT, bringing current performance experience and real-world industry insight into every lesson.

At OLA Music Academy, Blake teaches guitar and bass while serving as the Head Instructor of the Rock Band Program. He leads student bands through rehearsals, helping young musicians develop the skills needed to perform confidently as an ensemble. From musical communication and stage presence to collaboration and live performance, Blake creates an environment where students experience what it's truly like to be part of a band while building lasting friendships and unforgettable memories.

Whether students dream of mastering classical repertoire, performing on stage with a band, or learning their favourite songs, Blake tailors every lesson to their individual goals. His relaxed, encouraging teaching style helps students build confidence while making each lesson both challenging and rewarding.

Blake believes music is meant to be shared. His goal is to inspire every student to develop the skills, creativity, and confidence to enjoy making music for a lifetime.

Rhythm has been at the heart of Seun Sodiya's life since childhood. Drawn to the drums from an early age, he developed his musicianship through years of dedicated practice, disciplined technique, ear training, and an unwavering passion for rhythm. Today, that lifelong commitment continues to inspire both his performances and his teaching.

Known for his dynamic playing style and musical versatility, Seun has performed across a wide range of musical genres, earning recognition for his expressive performances, strong sense of groove, and ability to bring energy and depth to every ensemble. His passion for music extends beyond performance, with a deep commitment to helping others discover the joy of making music.

For more than 20 years, Seun has taught students of all ages, creating engaging lessons that balance solid technical foundations with creativity, musicality, and fun. He believes every student learns differently and tailors each lesson to suit the individual's goals, interests, and learning style, encouraging steady progress while building confidence behind the drum kit.

At OLA Music Academy, Seun helps students develop coordination, timing, listening skills, and musical expression while fostering the discipline and perseverance that great musicianship requires. Whether a student is picking up drumsticks for the first time or preparing for live performance, Seun creates a supportive environment where every drummer can grow and thrive.

Seun believes rhythm has the power to connect people, inspire creativity, and build confidence. Through patient instruction and genuine encouragement, he helps students develop not only as musicians, but also as confident, expressive individuals.

Morgan Misic is a passionate actor, director, and educator dedicated to helping students discover confidence through performance. With professional experience in film, television, and theatre, she creates engaging classes where creativity, imagination, and self-expression are encouraged every step of the way.

Morgan began her acting career at just ten years old, working as a background performer on numerous film productions throughout the Lower Mainland. Inspired to pursue acting professionally, she continued her training before graduating from Capilano University's Acting for Stage and Screen Program. She further honed her craft in New York City at the prestigious Neighborhood Playhouse School of the Theatre, where she expanded her training in professional stage and screen performance.

As the founder of the independent theatre company Quand Même, Morgan has produced, directed, and starred in original theatrical productions while continuing to pursue professional opportunities within Vancouver's thriving film and television industry. She remains an active performer and auditions regularly through CUE Agency, bringing current industry knowledge and real-world experience into every class she teaches.

At OLA Music Academy, Morgan teaches Musical Theatre, Drama, Film & TV Acting, Early Childhood Music & Drama, and Audition Preparation. She is passionate about helping students build confidence, develop authentic performance skills, and discover the joy of storytelling. Whether students are stepping onto the stage for the very first time or preparing for auditions, Morgan creates a supportive environment where every performer is encouraged to grow.

Morgan believes that the performing arts empower students to express themselves, take creative risks, and develop confidence that extends far beyond the stage. Her enthusiastic and encouraging teaching style inspires students to embrace new challenges while discovering their unique artistic voice.

Dolores Scott is an accomplished soprano, educator, and internationally recognized performing artist whose distinguished career has taken her to concert halls, opera stages, and festivals across North America and Europe. With decades of professional performance experience, she is passionate about helping students develop healthy vocal technique, artistic expression, and the confidence to share their unique voice.

Dolores holds a Master of Music in Opera from the State University of New York at Binghamton, where she also taught voice and served as a Resident Artist with Tri-Cities Opera. Her musical journey began with studies in jazz before evolving into a celebrated career encompassing opera, musical theatre, orchestral performances, and choral music, giving her a rare versatility across many vocal styles.

Throughout her career, Dolores has performed leading operatic roles including Rosina (The Barber of Seville), Musetta (La Bohème), Josephine (H.M.S. Pinafore), and Pamina (The Magic Flute). She has also appeared as a featured soloist with numerous symphony orchestras and has earned critical acclaim for her portrayal of Tuptim in The King and I.

An active performer, Dolores is a long-standing member of the internationally acclaimed Vancouver Chamber Choir, performing and touring extensively throughout Canada and abroad. Her career has included performances for Emperor Akihito and Empress Michiko of Japan, collaborations with celebrated composer Eric Whitacre, and a special performance alongside renowned Canadian tenor Ben Heppner.

At OLA Music Academy, Dolores teaches voice and piano, drawing upon her extensive performing and teaching experience to inspire students of every age and ability. Whether preparing for auditions, Royal Conservatory examinations, performances, or simply discovering the joy of singing, she creates a nurturing environment where students develop confidence, artistry, and technical excellence.

Dolores believes that every voice is unique. Through thoughtful instruction, encouragement, and a genuine passion for teaching, she helps students unlock their full musical potential while fostering a lifelong appreciation for the performing arts.

Dean Scott is an accomplished trumpeter, respected educator, and sought-after brass specialist with decades of teaching and performance experience. Known for his exceptional musicianship and encouraging teaching style, Dean is passionate about helping students of all ages develop strong technical foundations, musical confidence, and a genuine love of performance.

A highly versatile educator, Dean teaches all brass instruments, as well as saxophone and clarinet, drawing on extensive experience across classical, jazz, concert band, orchestral, and contemporary styles. His thoughtful, personalized approach helps students build excellent technique while fostering artistry, creativity, and confidence.

Dean has taught at OLA Music Academy for many years and has also served on the faculty at Trinity Western University. In addition, he teaches at Fountainview Academy and is regularly invited by schools and music programs throughout British Columbia to work as a guest clinician and brass specialist, helping students, ensembles, and fellow educators develop exceptional musicianship and performance skills.

As an active professional performer, Dean is recognized for his beautiful trumpet tone, exceptional range, and stylistic versatility. During his studies at Western Washington University, he toured Hungary as both a trumpet soloist and ensemble member, performing works by Bach, Scarlatti, and Michael Haydn. Today, he continues to perform as co-founder of the Sheando Ensemble, presenting trumpet and soprano repertoire alongside his wife, Dolores Scott, Artistic Director of the Crescendo Operatic Society.

Whether students are preparing for school band, youth orchestra, auditions, festivals, Royal Conservatory examinations, or simply learning for the love of music, Dean inspires them to pursue excellence while enjoying every step of their musical journey.

Cindy Goebel is an accomplished vocalist, performer, choreographer, and music educator with more than 16 years of teaching experience. Passionate about helping students discover their unique voice, Cindy combines technical excellence with creativity to inspire confident, expressive performers of all ages.

Originally classically trained in piano and voice, Cindy expanded her studies in dance at MacEwan University in Edmonton before furthering her vocal training at the internationally renowned Musicians Institute in Hollywood, California. There, she refined her performance skills while participating in recording projects and collaborating with fellow musicians, laying the foundation for a diverse professional career.

Throughout her career, Cindy has performed in pop and rock bands, jazz ensembles, and musical theatre productions, showcasing her versatility as a singer, dancer, and performer. She currently performs as a backup vocalist and dancer with the Joe Cocker Experience, while also fronting a local funk and rock band and performing with a jazz trio.

Beyond the stage, Cindy has directed and produced performance showcases, choreographed musical theatre and live productions, adjudicated youth talent competitions, and presented workshops on vocal production, songwriting, the music industry, artist development, and sound therapy. Her broad industry experience allows students to gain valuable insight into both the artistic and professional sides of performing.

At OLA Music Academy, Cindy teaches voice, piano, and ukulele, while also serving as one of the vocal coaches for our Rock Band program. She enjoys helping young singers develop healthy vocal technique, strong musicianship, and the confidence to perform as part of a live band. Whether preparing for performances, auditions, or simply building confidence through music, Cindy creates engaging, personalized lessons that encourage every student to grow as both a musician and an individual.

Cindy believes that music is a powerful tool for self-expression, confidence, and personal growth. Her energetic, encouraging teaching style inspires students to embrace new challenges, express themselves authentically, and experience the joy of performing.

Elizabeth Gilchrist is a highly respected pianist, accomplished brass musician, vocalist, and educator with more than 30 years of teaching experience. Recognized for her excellence in piano instruction and Royal Conservatory of Music (RCM) preparation, Elizabeth has guided countless students through examinations, festivals, recitals, and auditions, with many consistently earning First Class Honours and marks exceeding 90%.

A graduate of the University of British Columbia with a Bachelor of Music in Trumpet Performance, Elizabeth is also a Registered Music Teacher (RMT). Her extensive musical background, combined with more than 25 years as a Church Music Director, brings a depth of artistry and experience to every lesson.

Elizabeth continues to perform professionally and most recently appeared in Hey Figaro, an adaptation of The Marriage of Figaro, with the Crescendo Operatic Society. As an active performer, she brings current musical insight and expressive artistry into her teaching, helping students develop both technical excellence and confident performance skills.

Whether teaching piano, voice, trumpet, or trombone, Elizabeth is known for her patient, encouraging approach and her ability to help every student reach their unique potential. She works with students of all ages and abilities, including those with diverse learning needs, creating engaging, personalized lessons that inspire growth and a lifelong appreciation for music.

Elizabeth believes that great music education is about more than mastering an instrument. Through thoughtful instruction, meaningful performance opportunities, and genuine encouragement, she helps students build confidence, discipline, creativity, and a love of learning that extends far beyond the music studio.

Jonathan Gagné is an award-winning lyric tenor, accomplished multi-instrumentalist, and dedicated music educator whose professional career spans opera, musical theatre, sacred music, and contemporary performance. As an active performer, Jonathan brings current industry experience, exceptional artistry, and a genuine passion for teaching to every lesson.

Jonathan holds a Bachelor of Music in Classical Voice from Université Laval and a Master of Music from the Schulich School of Music at McGill University, where he studied under renowned Canadian tenor John Mac Master. Throughout his career, he has performed with leading opera companies and theatre organizations across Canada, earning recognition for his expressive performances and remarkable vocal versatility.

His professional credits include performances with Opéra de Québec, Opera McGill, Opera Mariposa, Opera Kelowna, Crescendo Opera Society, and North Shore Light Opera. Audiences have also seen Jonathan in productions of Ride the Cyclone, James and the Giant Peach, The Wizard of Oz, Gianni Schicchi, The Magic Flute, Pagliacci, Iolanthe, and numerous concert and sacred music performances throughout Canada.

Jonathan's diverse musical background allows him to teach students across a wide variety of styles, including classical voice, musical theatre, contemporary singing, piano, guitar, and bass. Whether preparing for auditions, performances, Royal Conservatory examinations, or singing simply for the love of music, he emphasizes healthy vocal technique, expressive artistry, and confident performance.

At OLA Music Academy, Jonathan is passionate about helping every student discover their unique voice. His engaging and encouraging teaching style creates an environment where students feel inspired to grow as musicians, performers, and confident individuals while developing a lifelong appreciation for the performing arts.

At just four years old, Avery Taylor asked her mom a question that would shape her future: "Are there singing lessons in this world?" That lifelong passion for the performing arts has grown into a dynamic career as a professional performer, director, and educator dedicated to inspiring the next generation of artists.

Avery holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theatre and Performance from Simon Fraser University's School for the Contemporary Arts and is classically trained in piano through the Royal Conservatory of Music. She has built a diverse professional career performing throughout the Lower Mainland and beyond in theatre, film, commercials, and voice-over, while continuing to actively audition and work within the entertainment industry.

As a director, Avery has led numerous productions, including Little Women, Finding Nemo, Honk!, Antigone, and several original works. Her experience both on stage and behind the scenes gives students valuable insight into every aspect of the creative process, from performance and character development to collaboration and storytelling.

At OLA Music Academy, Avery teaches Voice, Musical Theatre, Film & TV Acting, and Piano. She is passionate about helping students develop strong technical foundations while encouraging creativity, confidence, and authentic self-expression. Whether students are preparing for auditions, discovering a love of musical theatre, or taking their very first lesson, Avery creates a supportive and inspiring environment where every performer is encouraged to grow.

Avery believes the performing arts have the power to build confidence, foster resilience, and create lifelong memories. She is excited to share her professional experience and passion with every student who walks through OLA's doors.

Anne Reilly is an accomplished piano instructor, vocalist, visual artist, and educator with more than 20 years of experience inspiring students of all ages. Her passion for music, creativity, and education shines through every lesson, where she encourages students to build confidence, develop strong musical foundations, and discover the joy of performing.

Anne is a qualified Royal Conservatory of Music (RCM) instructor, earned a MusicFest Gold Certificate with Honours, holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts from Emily Carr University, and completed her Professional Development Program (PDP) in Education. Her diverse background allows her to blend technical excellence with creativity, making learning both engaging and rewarding.

As a voice instructor, Anne focuses on healthy vocal technique, breath support, posture, tone production, and expressive performance while helping students discover their own unique sound. Her piano lessons are thoughtfully tailored to each student's interests and goals, combining strong technical foundations with music theory, creativity, and performance skills.

In addition to private instruction, Anne has played an important role in OLA Music Academy's Rock Band program, coaching young musicians as they rehearse, collaborate, and perform together. She enjoys helping students develop not only their musical abilities but also the confidence and teamwork that come from performing in an ensemble.

Known for her warm and encouraging teaching style, Anne believes every student learns differently. She creates a supportive environment where beginners and experienced musicians alike feel inspired to grow, explore, and achieve their full potential.

Pedro Mota is an accomplished multi-instrumentalist, producer, audio engineer, and educator whose passion for music is matched only by his passion for inspiring others. Drawing on his rich Latin heritage and a diverse musical background, Pedro blends influences from classical, rock, jazz, gospel, and world music to create engaging lessons that encourage creativity, confidence, and musical excellence.

As an active professional musician, Pedro performs and tours internationally with the acclaimed world music group Locarno, appearing throughout Canada, the United States, and Europe. He is also a member of the BC World Music Collective and regularly collaborates with local churches and community musicians, bringing real-world performance experience into every lesson.

Teaching since the age of 15, Pedro has helped students of all ages discover their unique musical voice. Whether learning piano, guitar, drums, bass, ukulele, or voice, students benefit from personalized instruction that combines strong technical foundations with creativity, improvisation, and a genuine love of making music.

Pedro's experience as a producer and audio engineer also gives students valuable insight into today's music industry, helping them understand not only how to perform, but also how music is created, recorded, and shared with the world.

Pedro believes that every student has the potential to become a confident musician. His encouraging teaching style inspires students to explore new musical possibilities, express themselves authentically, and develop skills that will last a lifetime.