Lesson Center
Lesson Centre News
Krista Wells
Owner - Lesson Coordinator
Piano & Voice
Growing up in Port Alberni, Krista trained with renowned Royal Conservatory piano teacher and examiner Patricia Miller for 10 years, played tenor saxophone in both concert and jazz bands for 6 years, and sang in numerous award-winning concert, chamber, and vocal jazz ensembles. Krista went on the Jazz Studies program at Malaspina (now Vancouver Island University) as a vocal major, and began teaching piano, voice, and woodwinds in 2002. Her enthusiasm for teaching is evident in her fun and engaging lessons, and she loves working with people of all ages, especially children. Krista graduated with her Bachelor of Social Work from VIU in 2018, and incorporates therapeutic elements into all of her lessons. She practices energy work as Soul Tuning Energetics, which uses Way of the Heart principles to address issues that her clients need support with intention, breathwork, and a combination of sound and talk therapy. Talk to Krista about designing a program of study that is unique to your needs and goals today!
John Dryden
Guitar - Bass - Ukulele
John Dryden Is an experienced professional musician, and has been playing bass and guitar for almost 50 years. He began touring Canada in his late teens, and throughout his musical career has played with a multitude of bands, including Trooper, Headpins, Toronto, Lee Aaron, and Pacheena. John has a gold CD from Trooper for his contributions on bass and vocals to the album “The Last of The Gypsies”, and toured Europe several times with Langley-based folk artist Tim Lawson. He currently enjoys teaching guitar and bass to students of all ages in contemporary rock, blues, and funk styles. John has a strong theory background and is comfortable teaching students with diverse ability levels, from beginner to advanced.
+1 (250) 720-0905
Tomoko Bonner
Piano - Flute - Voice
Music Therapy
Tomoko is an accredited Music Therapist and a trained Music Together teacher. She completed her diploma in voice teacher training at Camosun College and her Bachelor of Arts in Music Therapy at Capilano University. She has worked with children with neurodiversities, including ASD and ADHD. Her style of therapy is to support her clients to achieve their goals while offering a safe and creative musical space. In addition to music therapy, Tomoko also teaches beginner piano to ages 6 and up, as well as flute and voice lessons.
Connor Smyth
Drums
Connor is a passionate drum educator with years of experience in both performing and teaching music. Having played in several bands earlier in his career, Connor developed a deep understanding of rhythm, performance dynamics, and the collaborative nature of music. Today, he focuses on sharing that knowledge with students, helping them master drumming techniques, develop their musical ear, and build confidence behind the kit. With a patient and personalized approach to teaching, Connor strives to inspire students of all skill levels to reach their full potential and cultivate a lifelong love of music.
