Meet Our Teachers
At Circle of Fifths, music isn’t just taught—it’s shared. Our team is made up of professional musicians, educators, and access-minded innovators who lead with empathy and creative brilliance. Whether coaching vocals, guiding an ensemble, or translating sound into tactile rhythm, each Circle Leader helps make music possible and personal for every learner. Professional bios will be coming soon!!
Emilia Edmonson
Coming soon
Michael Gordon
Adaptive Movement, Musician Fitness, and Regulation Support
Mike Gordon leads the development of our musician fitness and regulation program with a level of precision, creativity, and joy that is unmatched. A meticulous and deeply access-oriented instructor, Mike designs individualized movement and endurance practices that support the physical demands of musical performance—without ever sacrificing safety, dignity, or fun.
Through adaptive kayaking, rhythmic movement, and team-based outdoor sessions, he helps musicians build stamina, bilateral coordination, breath control, and self-regulation—skills essential for maintaining focus and endurance during rehearsals and live performances. His work also strengthens collaboration and confidence, turning movement into a pathway for connection, communication, and emotional balance.
Mike brings pure joy to our community, and we are honored to have his leadership shaping how musicians with complex sensory and physical profiles prepare their minds and bodies for artistic success.
David Lamont
Coming soon
Phil Montfort
Band Instructor, Percussion Teaching Artist, & Circle Leader
Phil guides students through the beat and body of music. As our percussion and band instructor, he adapts instruments, routines, and group arrangements to meet diverse sensory and communication needs. Phil fosters confidence, collaboration, and musical risk-taking—one rhythm at a time.
Dan Redner
Jazz Piano Instructor & Improvisation/Ensemble Coach
Dan’s love of jazz runs deep—and so does his commitment to accessibility. As a piano instructor, he adapts jazz theory and improvisation techniques for students of all abilities. His sessions are rhythmic, exploratory, and always student-led, designed to unlock musical communication in any form.
James Suter
Jazz Upright Bass Instructor & Improvisation/Ensemble Coach
James is a gifted jazz performer and an insightful educator. His basslines ground more than just music—they help anchor student confidence, rhythm, and improvisation. In ensemble settings, James fosters a spirit of collaboration, creativity, and mutual respect that defines our approach to inclusive jazz.
Christa Tumlinson
Vocal Ensemble Instructor & Vocal Instructor
Christa leads our flagship inclusive choir, The Sound Collective, with heart, humor, and harmony. She creates a safe and joyful environment where neurodivergent and non-disabled singers find their voice, grow in community, and experience the transformative power of singing together.
Andres Vargas
Classical Piano Teaching Artist & Circle Leader
With deep roots in classical repertoire and intuitive skill in adaptive teaching, Andres transforms the piano bench into a bridge. His teaching is tactile, relational, and built on the belief that artistry is for everyone. Andres meets each student where they are—and invites them to soar.