Call us to register for lessons: 703-723-1154 Visit our school in Ashburn, VA Email us: info@mintonsmusic.com
Established 2002
Family Owned & Operated
Music Lessons for Children & Adults
Studio M - Rehearsal & Rental Space
Serving Northern Virginia
Ashburn | Aldie | Broadlands | Brambleton | Chantilly | Leesburg | Sterling
Teacher Bios
Alex Minton
Director of Music Instruction and Multi-Instrumentalist
(Brass, Woodwinds, Strings, Vocal, Piano, Guitar & Bass)
Alex Minton is a highly accomplished musician, educator, and director with a lifelong dedication to music. Trained by award-winning musicians along the East Coast—including Emmy Award winner Laurence Minton from the age of three—he has studied under esteemed instructors such as James Browne, Luis Cruz, and John Ford. As a multi-instrumentalist, Alex teaches all brass and woodwind instruments, as well as violin, viola, cello, guitar, piano, and more. He has also completed the entire Schirmer’s Library for upper intermediate and early advanced piano, with multiple students earning high honors in judged recitals and national competitions. In addition to his expertise in performance, Alex is trained in recording and sound engineering, allowing him to guide students in both musicianship and production.
As the Director of Music Instruction at Minton’s Academy of Music, Alex has played a pivotal role in shaping the next generation of musicians. With 17 years of teaching experience and 9 years in leadership, he has helped students achieve remarkable success, including placements in All-District Jazz, District Band, and Solo & Ensemble competitions on multiple instruments. He also manages all Studio M events and leads the Academy’s House Bands, including the Purple Voyagers, providing students with invaluable performance opportunities. Additionally, he serves as a sponsor of the Loudoun Community Bands and has been an active member, board member, and previous business manager of Loudoun County Symphonic Winds, performing on trombone, euphonium, baritone, and French horn.
Beyond teaching and performance, Alex is an essential figure in the local music community. He has dedicated over 20 years to supporting small businesses and musicians in Loudoun County since his days with his High School & College Bands. His expertise extends to instrument repair, ensuring students and professionals alike receive high-quality maintenance for their instruments. Through his leadership, passion, and technical skill, Alex continues to inspire and elevate musicians at every level.
Dan Perriello
Percussion (Drum) Instructor
Dan Perriello is a seasoned drummer, songwriter, and educator with over two decades of experience in performance and music instruction. A graduate of George Mason University (1999), his career has spanned major music venues, award-winning recordings, and critically acclaimed original compositions licensed by major television networks.
As a dedicated percussion educator, Dan specializes in hand technique, having mastered Jim Chapin’s Moeller Method, Joe Morello’s free stroke approach, and Alan Dawson’s Rudimental Ritual. With nearly 20 years of teaching experience in Fairfax and Loudoun County, his students have consistently earned top placements in school jazz ensembles and All-District bands, with many advancing to collegiate music programs and professional careers.
Dan has been a valued instructor at Minton’s Academy of Music since 2009, where he continues to inspire and mentor the next generation of drummers. You can catch Dan performing all over Northern Virginia and Hosting The Monthly 2nd Sunday Open Jazz Jam!
Katherine Baek
Strings Instructor
Katherine Yeon-Jung Baek is a highly accomplished violist with a Master of Music in Viola Performance from the Eastman School of Music in Rochester, NY, and a Bachelor of Arts in Music Performance from Seoul National University in Seoul, Korea.
An experienced performer, Katherine has played with esteemed ensembles such as Ka-Eum Soloists, Brighton Symphony Orchestra, Westchester Chamber Orchestra, Sol String Quartet, and Trinity Chamber Orchestra. Her passion for music extends beyond performance—she is a dedicated educator who finds joy in sharing her love for music with her students.
Since joining Minton’s Academy of Music in 2020, Katherine has been an inspiring mentor, helping students develop both technical excellence and a deep appreciation for their craft.
William Mercier
Vocal Instructor
William Mercier is a dedicated vocal instructor committed to helping students discover their unique voice and develop their personal style. With extensive experience in performance and education, he previously served as an adjunct professor of music and voice at Castleton University in Vermont.
As a conductor, William has led ensembles at the Basilica of the National Shrine of Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton in Emmitsburg, MD, and the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington, DC. His performance career has taken him across the United States and internationally to Italy and Cuba, where he has appeared in oratorios, choral and orchestral concerts, small vocal ensembles, musical theater productions, and cabarets.
In addition to his work as a high school choral director and church music leader, William specializes in vocal technique, relaxation methods, and audition preparation. His students have consistently excelled, with several earning NCA Cappies awards for their performances.
At Minton’s Academy of Music, William continues to inspire and equip singers with the skills and confidence needed for success in their musical journeys.
Dani DeGooyer
Piano, Vocal, Guitar, Songwriting & Preschool Music Specialist
Dani DeGooyer is a dedicated musician and educator with a passion for inspiring students of all ages. She began her music career singing in youth groups, weekly piano lessons, and performing in local production musicals, such as Annie and Guys and Dolls. Dani then began playing guitar at the age of 13, honing her skills as an acoustic indie singer-songwriter. Dani was a standout vocalist throughout her years in LCPS, earning placements and solos in All-County and All-District multiple years. Her performance career includes appearances at Leesburg First Fridays and Crossroads Music Festivals as the lead singer and guitarist of Dani + The Wired Sky.
Now, as a full-time instructor at Minton’s Academy of Music, Dani teaches piano, voice, guitar, and songwriting, sharing her deep love for music with students of all backgrounds. She also serves as the Preschool Music Fun Time instructor, blending her musical expertise with her extensive experience in early childhood education. Having worked in multiple daycares and preschools, she is certified in CPR, MAT, and Early Childhood Development, ensuring a nurturing and engaging learning environment for young musicians.
With her warm, encouraging spirit and versatile teaching style, Dani helps students grow not only as musicians but as confident performers. Whether guiding an aspiring songwriter, coaching a vocalist, or introducing a young child to the joys of music, she brings enthusiasm, patience, and expertise to every lesson.
Robert Friedensen
Bass, Upright Bass and Guitar Instructor
​With a music career spanning over five decades, Robert Friedensen is a seasoned guitarist and bassist with deep roots in the jazz and live music scene. Born in Long Island, NY, he comes from a family of musicians, including two uncles who were professional jazz bassists in New York City.
Since beginning his musical journey in the 1960s, Robert has mastered guitar, bass guitar, and upright bass, becoming an in-demand live performer across Virginia. His passion for music is evident in every aspect of his work, both on stage and in the classroom.
As an instructor at Minton’s Academy of Music, Robert brings over 50 years of experience to his students, inspiring them with his expertise, dedication, and love for music.
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Derek Evry
Bass, Guitar, Ukulele & Piano Instructor
Derek Evry is a seasoned musician, songwriter, and producer with over two decades of experience in the music industry. His career began at age 11 with the Washington Opera Company at The Kennedy Center, setting the stage for a lifelong journey in music. He briefly attended Berklee College of Music before launching into a dynamic career as a performer and bandleader. Derek’s original compositions have been featured on multiple episodes of the ABC crime drama Castle, and he has released several solo albums while also producing and performing on numerous projects for DC-area artists.
As a live performer, Derek has played at some of the most renowned venues and festivals in the country, including Washington D.C.’s 9:30 Club and the Punk Rock Bowling Festival in Las Vegas. He regularly gigs at venues across the region, including Farm Brew Live, where audiences can experience his energetic performances and original music. His deep-rooted passion for diverse musical styles allows him to bring a unique perspective to his students, blending technical skill with real-world performance experience.
At Minton’s Academy of Music, Derek shares his extensive knowledge through lessons in bass, guitar, ukulele, and piano. His well-rounded approach to teaching ensures that students not only develop strong foundational skills but also gain insight into songwriting, production, and live performance. With his enthusiasm and industry expertise, Derek helps students of all levels grow into confident, expressive musicians.
Jon Jeziorski
Guitar, Bass & Piano Instructor
Jon Jeziorski has been immersed in music since the age of seven, studying both piano and guitar with a passion for creativity and collaboration. In high school, he founded a Jam Club and recorded eight albums of original music alongside fellow young musicians.
He earned his bachelor’s degree from George Mason University, where he played a key role on the executive board of the GMU Music Production Club, helping to organize and run weekly open mic nights. During this time, he also established himself as a versatile fill-in musician, performing on electric bass, guitar, and piano for bands across a wide range of genres.
Inspired by a desire to foster musical growth in his community, Jon began teaching lessons at the onset of the pandemic, creating a positive and collaborative learning environment for his students. At Minton’s Academy of Music, he continues to share his experience, adaptability, and passion for music with the next generation of musicians.
Daniel Boci
Guitar & Piano Instructor
​Daniel Boci is a skilled guitarist and pianist whose musical journey began at just five years old with piano lessons at Minton’s Academy of Music. By the age of seven, he transitioned to guitar, dedicating himself to mastering the instrument and developing a versatile playing style.
As a lead guitarist, Daniel has captivated audiences with his intricate solos and dynamic performances, playing in both rock and jazz bands across a variety of venues, including breweries, schools, auditoriums, and as an opening act for other bands. His ability to blend technical precision with expressive musicianship has made him a standout performer.
Beyond music, Daniel is also a dedicated athlete, playing for the Loudoun Soccer Club Travel Team. His commitment to both music and sports reflects his discipline, passion, and drive—qualities he brings to his students at Minton’s Academy of Music, where he inspires them to develop their skills and confidence as musicians.
Patrick Kennedy
House Band Assistant Director & Multi-Instrumentalist
Patrick Kennedy is a highly skilled multi-instrumentalist and dedicated mentor with a deep-rooted history at Minton’s Academy of Music. A student of the Academy for over a decade, he has mastered the full piano, guitar, and bass curriculum under the guidance of Alex Minton. As a former long-standing member of the House Band, Patrick’s exceptional technical ability and versatility across all genres made him a standout performer before stepping into his current role as Assistant Director.
Patrick has been an integral part of nearly every House Band concert, either as a performer or mentor, offering invaluable support and guidance to developing musicians. His extensive knowledge of music theory and history, combined with his practical experience, makes him a key figure in shaping the next generation of performers at the Academy.
With a passion for both performance and education, Patrick brings a disciplined yet creative approach to his teaching and mentorship. His technical expertise, deep understanding of music, and dedication to helping students grow ensure that Minton’s House Band continues to thrive as a premier program for young musicians.
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