THE FACULTY

PIANO · VIOLIN · VIOLA · CELLO · GUITAR · FLUTE · VOICE · COMPOSITION · THEORY

ANILA ALIU
Piano Faculty, College-Preparatory
HEAR Mozart, Piano Concerto No. 27 in B-flat Major, K. 595
Atlas Arts Media

New Music School’s award-winning faculty is comprised of an exceptional team of world-class musicians dedicated to our students’ success. Each faculty member is an active, real-world professional with a lifelong commitment to their craft.

We believe this level of artistry and professional engagement is fundamental to a comprehensive music education. It provides students with invaluable first-hand insight, mentorship, and meaningful opportunities for growth.

We invite you to learn more about our distinguished faculty below.

ARTIST DEVELOPMENT FACULTY

  • Sean Bennett, New Music School Artist Development Faculty

    Sean Bennett

    Artist Development Faculty
    Artist Faculty, Piano

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  • Francisco Ybarra, New Music School Artist Development Faculty

    Francisco Ybarra

    Founder, New Music School
    Artist Development Faculty

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Piano Faculty

Artist · Young Artist ·
College Preparatory · Early Development

MIKA MATSUYAMA
House of Ravel Student (Level 4)
Student of Jeffrey Panko, Mary Sauer, Sean Bennett

“I thoroughly enjoy working with the pianists at New Music School. They are beautifully taught and play with a high level of artistry and commitment. Their excitement and enthusiasm about the music was nearly palpable; clearly, something wonderful is happening at NMS!”

— Alan Chow
Head of Piano, Eastman School of Music

STRINGS FACULTY
Violin · Viola · Cello · Guitar

Artist · Young Artist
College Preparatory · Suzuki

“My residencies at New Music School are all around wonderful experiences! From first discussions to the residency coming to fruition, all encounters with faculty, staff, and students were easy and joyful. The facilities and concert hall are beautiful and inviting. The recital collaboration with faculty members Steve Yepez (flute) and Jeff Panko (piano) was a musical highlight for me and a real testament to the quality of musicianship at the school. Working with the students was a really fun experience both in the masterclass and private lessons.  I found each one of the students engaged and excited about learning. What a gem New Music School is for the city of Chicago!”

— Jennifer Gunn
Piccolo and Flute, Chicago Symphony Orchestra

Steve Yepez

Flute Faculty

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VOICE FACULTY

COMPOSITION
MUSIC THEORY
FACULTY

  • Augusta Read Thomas, New Music School Composition Faculty

    Augusta Read Thomas

    Composition Faculty
    Artist Level

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  • Gonzalo Garrido-Lecca, New Music School Composition Faculty

    Gonzalo Garrido-Lecca

    Composition and Theory Faculty
    Artist Level

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  • Daniel Nass, New Music School Theory Faculty

    Daniel Nass

    Theory Faculty
    Early Development + College-Preparatory Level