Meet Our Faculty & Staff
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AsheLee Bonham Gahagan
Cello, Chamber Music
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Sofia Castalia
Violin & Viola
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Teresa Lopez-Jones
Violin & Viola
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Julia Malone
Piano, Cello, Ukulele
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Morgan Butzow
Piano
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Sean Sullivan
Piano & Guitar
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Karis Pelikan Sullivan
Voice & Piano
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Kade Zobel
Voice & Piano
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Gina Patalano
Voice & Piano
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Molly Coley
Voice, Piano, Ukulele
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Will Taylor
Voice & Piano
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Logan Valdmets
Piano/Jazz Piano, Classical Guitar
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Niko Lalangas
Guitar, Electric Guitar, Bass
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Casey Allen
Guitar, Piano, Drums
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Julia Gonzalez Acevedo
Guitar
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Dr. Thiago Bottega
Flute
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Emily Casey
Woodwinds & Ukulele
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Jack Smid
Brass, Trumpet Specialist
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Eric Grush
Brass, Low Brass Specialist
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Trevor Jennings
Drums
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Hope Ingling
Office Manager
AsheLee Bonham Gahagan Cello, Chamber Music
Founder & Lead Instructor
With over 25 years of teaching experience, AsheLee Bonham Gahagan is a passionate music educator, accomplished cellist, and arts advocate. She has taught in both public schools and private studios, inspiring students of all ages through her personalized and creative approach to music instruction.
AsheLee holds a Bachelor of Music in Cello Performance from East Carolina University. She pursued graduate studies in cello performance at Converse College and then furthered her studies at American University, where she focused on Arts Administration.
Her teaching career began in Wilmington, NC, where she directed middle school string orchestras and taught private cello lessons at the Wilmington Academy of Music. Her interest in arts leadership led her to Washington, DC, where she served as Communications Manager for the American String Teachers Association and later as Editor of the American String Teacher journal. She went on to found thriving music studios in both Brooklyn, NY, and Maplewood, NJ, while actively performing in orchestras and chamber ensembles.
In 2018, AsheLee and her family returned to North Carolina, where she founded Ashe School of Music in Holly Springs. Under her leadership, the school has grown into a dynamic hub for young musicians in Southern Wake County.
AsheLee is also an experienced conductor and clinician, having led youth orchestras and summer music camps across the Carolinas, and is currently the Artistic Director and Conductor for the Holly Strings Youth Orchestra. As a performer, she has played with ensembles including the Brooklyn Community Symphony Orchestra, Long Bay Symphony, and Wilmington Symphony Orchestra.
She serves on the board of the Holly Springs Rotary Club and is a member of the Music Teachers National Association and the American String Teachers Association.
Sofia Castalia Violin & Viola
Sofia Castalia is a dedicated and versatile music educator with nearly two decades of teaching experience. Since 2006, she has been inspiring students of all ages in violin and viola, and since 2012, she has expanded her work to include teaching and mentoring in universities, high schools, and youth theaters.
Sofia holds a degree in Violin Performance and has led a dynamic and wide-ranging performing career. Her credits include musicals, operas, orchestras, and chamber ensembles, with notable performances for Cirque du Soleil and productions such as Ragtime, Beauty and the Beast, and Les Misérables.
As an educator, she has led masterclasses and technique workshops for beginner and intermediate violinists, and has also taught music, choir, and theater at the elementary school level. Her teaching style blends technical training with a broader exploration of music theory, history, acoustics, practice strategies, and performance skills.
Sofia is passionate about nurturing each student’s unique musical journey. She believes in meeting students where they are—adapting to their learning styles and goals—and empowering them to grow as confident, expressive musicians.
Teresa Lopez-Jones Violin & Viola
Teresa Lopez-Jones is a committed music educator who believes that music is a universal language—one that should be accessible and enriching for all. Originally from Rochester, New York, Teresa holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Music Education with a concentration in strings from Nazareth University (2013), and a Master’s Degree in Music Education with a specialized focus on the connection between music and language development in bilingual children.
Teresa has worked with students of all ages, from preschoolers to adults, and brings warmth, creativity, and purpose to every lesson. She served as Orchestra Director for ROCMusic, a community-based initiative providing high-quality music instruction to students in Rochester, and led beginner orchestral students in the 2022 Rochester City School District Music Showcase.
Currently, Teresa is a music educator in the Wake County Public School System, where she continues to foster a love of music and learning in young musicians.
Outside the classroom, Teresa enjoys reading, visual arts, crocheting, and spending quality time with her husband and daughter. She is committed to nurturing confidence, creativity, and joy through music.
Julia Malone Piano, Cello, Ukulele
Julia Malone is a cellist, pianist, and dedicated music educator based in the Raleigh area. She began studying cello in 2016 with Dr. Jim Waddelow, conductor of the Raleigh Symphony Orchestra, and continued her training with Virginia Ewing Hudson in 2018. Julia earned her Bachelor of Music in Performance from Meredith College in 2023.
Throughout her studies, Julia performed in masterclasses and recitals, and performed with the Meredith College Philharmonic and in chamber ensembles such as piano trios and cello quartets.
In 2021, Julia was named the winner of the Meredith College Concerto/Aria Competition, earning the opportunity to perform Elgar’s Cello Concerto with the Raleigh Symphony Orchestra.
Julia currently performs with the Raleigh Symphony Orchestra and teaches both cello and piano lessons.
Morgan Butzow Piano
Morgan Butzow is an accomplished pianist and experienced teacher with over two decades guiding students of all ages on their musical journeys. A graduate of Meredith College (2000), she holds a Bachelor of Music in Piano Performance with a concentration in Piano Pedagogy.
Morgan began studying piano at the age of seven, quickly discovering a natural passion for music. Her love for the instrument led to early recognition—she was the 1994 winner of the Raleigh Concerto Competition, where she performed the first movement of Robert Schumann’s Concerto in A Minor with the Raleigh Symphony Orchestra.
Since 1999, Morgan has taught private piano lessons in academic settings, home studios, and music schools. Her experience also includes substitute instruction, adjudicating piano competitions, and leading group classes. Many of her students have gone on to excel in competitions and pursue music at the collegiate level.
Morgan tailors her instruction to each individual’s goals and interests. In addition to teaching, she enjoys performing at weddings and special events throughout the Triangle.
She is an active member of both the North Carolina Music Teachers Association and the Raleigh Piano Teachers Association.
Sean Sullivan Piano & Guitar
Sean Sullivan is an outstanding musician and educator with a deep passion for performance and teaching. A North Carolina native, Sean began his musical journey at the age of five with piano lessons—a foundation that has grown into a rich and varied career in music.
Sean has studied under esteemed instructors including Steinway Artist Dr. Kent Lyman (Meredith College), Dr. Richard McKee, and Grammy-nominated Dr. Adrien Re (both of Campbell University). In 2021, he earned first place in the Concerto IV category of the Young Artists Competition for his performance of George Gershwin’s Concerto in F.
Expanding his musical versatility, Sean began studying guitar in 2018 under local Triangle performer Michael Krause. He has participated in numerous workshops and music festivals across North Carolina, further honing his skills in both classical and jazz styles.
Sean is a graduate of Campbell University, where he focused on classical and jazz piano performance. While there, he performed in a variety of ensembles, served as an accompanist for both vocal and instrumental performers, and contributed actively to the university’s musical community.
Since 2022, Sean has been teaching private lessons and group music classes, sharing his love for music with students of all ages. He is passionate about helping others discover their musical potential and aspires to a lifelong career in performance and music education.
Karis Pelikan Sullivan Voice & Piano
Karis Sullivan is a talented pianist and music educator who brings warmth, energy, and professionalism to everything she does. A California native who has spent most of her life in North Carolina, Karis was born into a deeply musical family and began studying piano at the age of six. Since then, her love for music has only grown—leading her to participate in numerous piano competitions, festivals, and choral ensembles.
Karis is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Music in Piano Pedagogy at Campbell University, where she studies under Dr. Hexin Qiao. In addition to her academic work, Karis serves as Concert Hall Manager, helping coordinate and manage major campus events including instrumental and vocal performances.
She is an active performer with both the University Choir and Campbell Voices scholarship choir, and contributes to the university’s jazz ensembles under the direction of Grammy-nominated Dr. Adrien Re.
Karis finds true joy in teaching and is committed to sharing her enthusiasm for music with students of all ages and backgrounds. Her goal is to inspire a lifelong love of music in each student she teaches.
Kade Zobel Voice & Piano
Kade is an innovative music educator with almost ten years of experience teaching piano and voice to students of all ages and skill levels. Her love for music began early and led her to earn a Bachelor’s Degree in Music Education from Catawba College in 2019.
She is trained in Kodály and Orff-Schulwerk methodologies, and has attended numerous workshops to deepen her understanding of these student-centered, creative approaches to music learning. Kade’s teaching style blends structure with play, encouraging both technical growth and a lasting love for music.
Her goal is to create a supportive and engaging environment where every student can thrive—whether they’re just starting out or continuing their musical journey.
Gina Patalano Voice & Piano
Originally from Miami, Florida, Gina Patalano is a talented vocalist, pianist, and music educator who has been immersed in music since the age of five. Her early performance experience included both private and group productions with North Carolina Theatre (NCT), setting the stage for a lifelong passion for the performing arts.
Gina began her formal training in Vocal Performance at Appalachian State University’s Hayes School of Music, where she focused on opera. She later transferred to Berklee College of Music in Boston, earning a Bachelor of Music with a concentration in Songwriting. At Berklee, she expanded her expertise in music theory and analysis, ear training, vocal pedagogy, and contemporary songwriting, complementing her foundation in classical technique.
As an educator, Gina draws from her diverse background to create a dynamic and supportive learning environment. She blends classical training with modern creativity, helping students develop both technical skills and authentic artistic expression. Her teaching philosophy centers on nurturing the unique voice and spirit of every student, empowering them to grow as confident musicians and individuals.
Molly Coley Voice, Piano, Ukulele
Molly Coley is a talented vocalist, educator, and lifelong musician who brings a dynamic and holistic approach to music education. She has been teaching since 2015 and has experience working with students of all ages and levels across a wide range of styles, including jazz, classical, musical theatre, pop, rock, and more.
Originally from Boston, Massachusetts, Molly earned her Bachelor of Music in Jazz Studies (Voice) from the New England Conservatory in 2019. She later moved to North Carolina to pursue her Master’s Degree in Musicology at Duke University, graduating in 2021.
Molly has taught in a variety of settings, including several years as a music teacher in a Montessori school, where she developed a love for creating multi-disciplinary and student-centered music experiences. With a strong foundation in music theory, vocal performance, and music history, she empowers her students with the tools of musical literacy while encouraging creativity and authentic self-expression.
Molly believes in honoring each student’s unique voice, interests, and strengths, while gently guiding them to grow beyond their comfort zones. Her teaching philosophy centers on building confidence, curiosity, and a lifelong love of music through a nurturing and engaging learning environment.
Will Taylor Voice& Piano
Bio coming soon
Logan Valdmets Guitar/Classical Guitar & Piano/Jazz Piano
Logan Valdmets is a versatile musician and passionate educator with a strong foundation in both classical and jazz traditions. He earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Music Performance with a concentration in Music Composition and a Certificate in Jazz Studies from Appalachian State University in 2021.
During his studies, Logan trained in classical guitar under Dr. James Douglas, while also exploring jazz guitar and piano with Anderson Page and Todd Wright. His dedication to jazz performance led to featured roles in Jazz Band I and the High Country Jazz Initiative, where he performed alongside renowned musicians including Matt Wilson and Wynton Marsalis.
In addition to performance, Logan has a deep interest in music theory. He served as an assistant to Dr. Jennifer Snodgrass and worked as a Music Theory Tutor in the Music Learning, Research, and Technology Lab at the Hayes School of Music. These academic experiences continue to shape his holistic teaching approach—integrating performance, theory, and creativity to help students become well-rounded, inspired musicians.
Logan believes in nurturing each student’s unique musical voice and equipping them with the tools they need for a lifelong journey in music.
Niko Lalangas Guitar, Electric Guitar, Bass & Operations Manager
With nearly three decades of experience, Niko Lalangas is a seasoned music educator and performer who has been teaching guitar since 1995. Proficient in both acoustic and electric guitar, Niko works with students of all ages and skill levels—from young beginners to advanced adult musicians. His teaching spans a wide range of genres including rock, pop, country, folk, jazz, funk, reggae, classical, and more. He has a dual role as Operations Manager at ASM and oversees staff support and ensures smooth execution of all our programs and events.
Niko began his teaching career in New York at the Westchester Music School, where he worked under the mentorship of renowned accordionist Professor Carmen Carrozza. He continued teaching at several music schools throughout New York until relocating to North Carolina in 2009, where he now teaches full-time. In addition to private and school-based lessons, Niko has worked with church groups, summer camps, hospitals, and organizations such as the Boys & Girls Clubs of America.
As a performer, Niko brings a wealth of diverse experience. He has played both on stage and in pit orchestras for musical theater productions including Godspell, Rent, Pippin, and Aida. His original music has been featured on regional television programs across NY, NJ, CT, and PA, and he was featured in a television pilot in 2005 centered on guitar culture. He has also recorded at top studios, including the legendary Hit Factory in New York City.
A longtime enthusiast of guitar technology, Niko contributed regularly to Line 6’s blog, with his writing featured in their monthly newsletters for over two years. He remains active as a performer, composer, and mentor in the North Carolina music scene.
Casey Allen Guitar, Piano, Drums
Casey Austin Allen is a versatile music educator with over 16 years of performance experience across a wide range of genres. His journey began at age 11, when an unexpected gift of a drum set from his parents changed the course of his life. He credits his family’s unwavering support, especially from his late father, as the foundation of his musical path and continues to honor that legacy through every note he plays and teaches.
Casey studied under renowned drummer Ivan Hampden and holds degrees from North Carolina State University and Johnston Community College. Throughout his career, he has performed with multiple bands, toured nationally, and shared the stage with well-known acts. He is also a Shorty Award winner and has released music under several record labels.
Casey brings both professional experience and heartfelt passion to teaching guitar, piano, and drums. His goal is to help students feel connected to music, build confidence, and develop the skills they need to express themselves fully as musicians.
Julia Gonzalez Acevedo Guitar
Julia C. González Acevedo is a dedicated music educator and performer with over a decade of experience working with young musicians. Originally from Puerto Rico, Julia’s love for guitar began with a broken nylon-string instrument tucked away in her aunt’s closet—a discovery that sparked a lifelong passion for music.
She began her formal music studies in classical guitar at the Music Conservatory of Puerto Rico and later pursued jazz guitar at the Inter-American University. During her undergraduate journey, Julia shifted her academic focus and earned a B.A. in History, with a minor in Popular Music. She went on to complete a Master’s degree in ESL, bringing together her love of teaching, language, and culture.
Julia has performed at festivals and community events while maintaining a strong commitment to private instruction for children and teens. After relocating to North Carolina following Hurricane María, she continued teaching in public schools as an ESL and History teacher, always keeping music at the heart of her work.
Julia brings a student-centered, culturally responsive approach to the guitar studio. She believes music is more than just playing the right notes, it’s a form of self-expression, connection, and creative growth. Whether a student is strumming their first chord or refining their technique, Julia meets them with warmth, curiosity, and a deep respect for their unique learning path.
Dr. Thiago Bottega Flute
A native of Brazil, Dr. Bottega is an award-winning flutist with an active career as a performer and educator across the Americas. He has received top honors in both solo and chamber music competitions, including the Southern Flute Festival, Louisiana Flute Festival, and Fundarte Young Artist Competition.
As a soloist, Dr. Bottega has performed with orchestras throughout South America and the United States, captivating audiences with his expressive and dynamic playing. He holds a Doctor of Musical Arts in Flute Performance and Pedagogy and a Master of Music from the University of Southern Mississippi, as well as a Bachelor’s Degree from the Federal University of Santa Maria in Brazil.
His musical journey has taken him to numerous festivals and concert tours throughout the Americas, where he has performed with orchestras and participated in masterclasses with some of the world’s most celebrated flutists, including Marianne Gedigian, Ransom Wilson, Carol Wincenc, and Raffaele Trevisani.
Now based in the NC Triangle area, Dr. Bottega is an active freelance flutist and a member of the Raleigh Flute Choir, continuing to share his artistry with students and audiences alike.
Emily Casey Woodwinds & Ukulele
Emily Casey is an exceptional music educator and clarinetist originally from Liverpool, a suburb of Syracuse, New York. She earned her Bachelor of Music in Music Education from the State University of New York at Fredonia, with clarinet as her primary instrument, and later completed a Master of Arts in Music Education from the University of Nebraska at Kearney.
Emily is a National Board Certified Teacher in Early/Middle Childhood Music and currently serves as the Director of Bands at Moore Square Magnet Middle School in Raleigh, NC. There, she leads a thriving program that includes four concert bands, a jazz band, and a percussion ensemble.
Before joining Moore Square, Emily revitalized the band program at Hunter Magnet Elementary, where she also introduced a Junior Band Program using Nuvo Instruments for 2nd grade students. In addition to band, she taught ukulele and general music, sharing her enthusiasm for music with young learners of all levels.
Emily is committed to the belief that music is for everyone. She fosters a warm, inclusive, and family-like atmosphere in her teaching studio, where each student is encouraged to grow, express themselves, and find community through music. Her goal is to make music education accessible, joyful, and meaningful for every student—regardless of background or experience.
Jack Smid Brass, Trumpet Specialist
Jack Smid is a dynamic performer and dedicated music educator based in Raleigh, North Carolina. A passionate advocate for both performance and teaching, Jack has built a career that bridges orchestral excellence with meaningful instruction.
Before moving to North Carolina, Jack lived and worked in Michigan, where he earned his graduate degree from the University of Michigan School of Music, Theatre & Dance. While there, he maintained a full private studio and performed with the Adrian Symphony Orchestra. He completed his undergraduate studies at the Indiana University Jacobs School of Music, performing with a wide range of ensembles including the Philharmonic Orchestra, Brass Choir, Baroque Ensemble, and Marching Hundred. It was at IU that Jack discovered his calling to pursue both performance and education in equal measure.
As an orchestral musician, Jack has performed with prestigious ensembles including the North Carolina Symphony, Columbus Philharmonic, Carmel Symphony Orchestra, and Evansville Philharmonic.
He is also an avid opera musician, having toured internationally in Mexico with OperaMaya and performed major works like Wagner’s Parsifal as Principal Trumpet.
Jack’s recording credits include work with Maestro Arthur Fagen on Naxos' American Classics series, as well as a contribution to the Grammy Award-winning recording of John Luther Adams’ Sila: Breath of the World.
Currently, Jack serves as an Adjunct Professor at Fayetteville State University, where he is developing a growing and vibrant trumpet studio. When not performing or teaching, Jack enjoys spending time at home with his partner, Anna, and their dog, Harley.
Eric Grush Brass, Low Brass Specialist
Eric Grush is a highly experienced music educator who believes that creativity is inherently collaborative. He sees himself as a co-learner alongside his students, fostering a supportive environment where everyone grows through shared discovery and mutual respect.
With a focus on efficient and effective practice, Eric teaches students how to achieve meaningful progress with thoughtful, targeted effort. His approach emphasizes listening deeply, staying rhythmically grounded, identifying challenges independently, and applying the most effective strategies to improve. He often says that great music-making is a full-body workout—physical, mental, and emotional.
Eric has been a full-time band director in the Raleigh area since 1991, serving students from elementary through high school at schools including Oberlin Middle (formerly Daniels), Cary Academy, Washington Elementary, River Bend Middle, and Pine Springs Preparatory Academy in Holly Springs. Over the years, more than 280 of his students have earned recognition at regional, state, and national levels.
Originally from Pittsburgh, PA, Eric has lived in the Raleigh area since second grade and began his musical journey as a member of the Raleigh Boychoir (now Raleigh Youth Choir). He later performed in choir, band, and theater at Ligon Middle and Enloe High School. A member of the first class of NC Teaching Fellows, he earned his Bachelor of Music Education from UNC Greensboro.
A two-time leukemia survivor, Eric is now considered cured following a successful stem cell transplant. Outside the classroom, he enjoys time with loved ones, his two beloved “grandcats”, cheering on the Pittsburgh Steelers, UNC Tar Heels, and Carolina Hurricanes, and planning his next trip to Disney.
Trevor Jennings Drums
Trevor Jennings is a versatile and accomplished percussionist, timpanist, and music educator with a strong presence in the classical music scene. He currently serves as Section Percussionist with the Durham Symphony and has performed with several esteemed ensembles including the North Carolina Symphony, Raleigh Symphony Orchestra, and Tar River Symphony.
In addition to his orchestral work, Trevor is a highly regarded freelancer and teacher in the Triangle’s vibrant music community. He brings energy, expertise, and a deep passion for percussion to every performance and lesson, inspiring the next generation of musicians while engaging audiences with his expressive and dynamic artistry.
Trevor holds a Master of Music in Percussion Performance from the Mannes School of Music in New York City, and a Bachelor of Music in Performance from Appalachian State University. Known for his musical precision and innovative approach, Trevor continues to push the boundaries of percussion performance, always striving for excellence both on stage and in the classroom.
Hope Ingling
Office ManagerHope Ingling brings her enthusiasm for both music education and music business as ASM’s office manager. She has a strong background in piano studies and music business, having graduated magna cum laude from the University of North Carolina at Wilmington with a B.A. in Music Technology and a minor in Creativity and Innovation.
Hope combines her musical training with deep technical knowledge, specializing in the use of digital tools, audio software, and recording equipment to enhance music creation, production, and performance. Her expertise includes sound engineering and mixing; electronic music synthesis; and live performance technology. With a strong foundation in music theory and acoustics, she brings a dynamic, modern approach to the music school environment.
When she’s not supporting students and staff at Ashe, Hope enjoys producing music and relaxing with a good thriller or rom-com novel.