Our Instructors and Staff

Mike has been playing music for 41 years and performing since he was 15. He has over 25 years experience as a music instructor for drums, bass, and guitar. Mike is a graduate of M.I.T., Musician Institute of Technology, Hollywood, CA. and he began his career in Santa Rosa, CA. before moving to Tucson 20 years ago and becoming an integral part of the music scene here. He is looking forward to helping students reach their full potential with Drums, Bass, and Guitar lessons.

Nico is a pianist who started his music journey at the age of seven on a humble Casio keyboard. Nico is a patient yet practical teacher with a Bachelor's in Jazz Performance. He challenges his students to meet their music goals by creating a non-judgmental fun environment and preparing them with knowledge to take on the piano. But come prepared with an open mindset and willingness to put in the time to truly excel. In his free time Nico records/composes music, plays video games, and gigs on weekends.

Nick DiBiasi is a drummer, performer, and drum instructor at Tempo in Tucson, AZ. With a passion for rhythm and a background in live performance, Nick brings energy and expertise to every lesson -- helping students of all levels find their groove.

Mike studied piano until age 13 when his parents finally gave in and gifted him with his first drum kit. Mike progressed from playing with Cholla High School marching band to the USN Drum Corps and eventually playing drums professionally for over 30 years for multiple bands and projects. Mike’s main influences are Steve Gadd, Stewart Copeland, Joe Morello and Jimmy Cobb. Mike is here to help all levels of students whether they are just beginning with percussion or hoping to reach the next level.

When I was very young, my grandfather showed me his violin. I told him I was going to be a violinist. I started playing at the age of 10. In High School I joined the Oakland Symphony Youth Orchestra. We were able to tour parts of Europe and the Caribbean. I attended college at the University of Wyoming on a full scholarship paid for by Walter Scharf (the man who orchestrated the old Willy Wonka and the Chocolate factory movie). I've played in numerous orchestras across the country and now Tucson is my home. Teaching is a blast-I've been teaching for more than 40 years! Music is for all ages and there are so many kinds of music to explore!

I'm a Tucson-based violinist, vocalist and songwriter with over two decades of touring, recording, and teaching experience. I've played music all over the world, from Red Rocks to local venues, mostly with Head for the Hills, a four-piece bluegrass band, and Whiskey Blanket, an unconventional hip-hop trio integrating classical influences. I teach violin, and music in general, with a focus on real-world skills like chord chart reading, live performance, band collaboration, music business basics, and more!

Gena received her BS in Music Education from Tennessee Tech University, where she studied clarinet, voice and piano. She specializes in vocal and piano instruction. She loves working with all ages, experience, and ability levels. Her background includes familiarity and comfort working with individuals with special needs. She enjoys teaching multiple musical and personality styles. Her performance opportunities include
both solo and ensemble work in a variety of professional settings.

Tim Ronan is a Tucson-based multi-instrumentalist, with a background in classic rock, blues, folk, and bluegrass. He has been teaching music for 2 years and playing for 16 years, with proficiency playing drums, guitar, bass, piano, banjo, mandolin, and voice. Tim has a fun, relaxed teaching style and enjoys teaching adults and kids of all ages.

Heather has been a music educator and provided private lessons at the beginner, middle school, and high school level for over 20 years. She has a Bachelor's and Master's Degree in Music Education. Her goal for students is be able to have fun with their instrument while learning a new skill set. Since Heather is new to the Tucson area, her hobbies outside of teaching include exploring everything Arizona has to offer!

John studied Music Composition and Music Theory at Ball State University. He has over 25 years of experience as a music educator including 8 years as a Montessori music teacher for Pre-K through 6th grade. John is adept at developing both budding musicians and players of all levels with guitar, violin, and banjo.