About
Music, Dance & Theatre Programs
Our Philosophy
Founded in 2002, CW Music & Performing Arts is dedicated to guiding students of all ages and skill levels toward their artistic goals. We provide a nurturing, non-competitive environment that encourages creative individuals to develop a deeper appreciation of the arts while striving for personal excellence.
Our Core Disciplines
Our highly qualified teachers offer both in-person and online classes across a wide variety of subjects, providing a unique and personalized method of learning:
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Music Instruction: Piano, Voice, Guitar, Drums, Ukulele, Violin, Viola, and Bass.
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Performing Arts: Dance, Musical Theatre, Acting, and Runway.
Specialized Programs & Pathways
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Royal Conservatory of Music (RCM): We provide comprehensive preparation for RCM piano, theory, harmony, and history examinations.
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Music Therapy & Autism Funding: We proudly offer music therapy for students of all ages, backgrounds, and conditions. Families may qualify for government assistance, as CW Music is a registered organization for Autism Funding with the Ministry of Children & Family Development.
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Award-Winning Rock Band: Our acclaimed Rock Band program has been featured on CTV and Vancouver Television. Students have performed at the Massey Theatre, the Aria Convention Centre, the Canada Day Parade, and even internationally for benefit concerts.
The Multi-Discipline Advantage
Because we are a comprehensive Performing Arts School, students have the unique opportunity to explore multiple creative avenues under one roof. Our 'multi-discipline lessons' offer exclusive tuition savings. A student can choose to learn two instruments in one sitting, study piano one day and dance the next, or join multiple group classes ranging from hip-hop to acting.
Community Impact & Performances
Performance is at the heart of what we do. Students prepare for bi-annual concerts and frequently use their talents to give back to the community. To date, CW Music has proudly raised over $20,000 for the BC Cancer Foundation and the Tour de Cure.
Spread your wings and ignite your passion with us!
Student Information Booklet (2026–2027)
Your Comprehensive Guide to CW Music
Our official Student Handbook is designed to answer most of your questions and provide a clear roadmap for the upcoming academic year. We highly recommend all students and families review this document carefully.
Inside the Booklet, You Will Find Details On:
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Tuition & Savings: Comprehensive fee structures and available family discounts.
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RCM Certification: Guidelines for Royal Conservatory of Music exams across all levels.
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Live Concerts: Schedules, expectations, and details for our seasonal performances.
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Academic Programs: In-depth overviews of our specialized tracks, including Sparks (A & B), Conservatory, Triple-Threat Musician, and Performance programs.
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School Policies: Essential safety guidelines, operational protocols, and general expectations.
Meet Our Instructors
Our highly qualified faculty brings years of professional performance experience and a deep passion for arts education. Proudly, several of our teachers are CW Music alumni themselves, returning to our halls to foster the next generation of talent. Together, they provide a uniquely personalized, nurturing environment dedicated to guiding every student toward true "Musicianship Excellence".
James Gonzales
PIANO. VOICE. THEORY.
Baritone James Gonzalez is an accomplished soloist and chorister based in the Lower Mainland, known for his rich, warm, and controlled voice, expressive phrasing, and ability to bring emotional vulnerability and connection to his singing. With his strong command of dynamics and storytelling, he seeks to engage audiences on a deep emotional level, creating performances that resonate long after the music ends.
James is currently pursuing his Bachelor of Applied Music at Vancouver Community College, where he studies under Dory Hayley. He was awarded the Third-Year Music Scholarship, the Ian Docherty Scholarship, and the Music Jury Scholarship in recognition of his dedication and artistic growth. Previously, he studied voice under Gail Suderman, who also directed the Kwantlen University Chorus and Chamber Singers. He was also a member of the Kwantlen Opera Ensemble under Dale Throness. Additionally, he performed with the Coastal Sound Youth Choir under the direction of Carrie Tennant.
As a soloist, James performed his graduation recital in April 2026. As well as a solo mini-recital in January 2025. He also sings as a soloist for the West Vancouver United Church choir under Gerald van Wyck. Formerly, he was the bass soloist for the West Vancouver Presbyterian Church choir. In 2017, James competed against nearly 100 contestants in the British Columbia Chinese Bridge Mandarin Singing Contest, where he earned third place, demonstrating his versatility and ability to connect with diverse audiences.
A passionate choral singer, James has performed with the Kwantlen University Chorus, the Kwantlen Chamber Singers, and the Coastal Sound Youth Choir. He was also singing with Spirit Alive Chorale under Tony Araujo. His choral repertoire spans classical masterworks such as Mozart’s Requiem, Brahms’ Requiem, Schubert’s Mass in G, and Vivaldi’s Gloria, as well as modern compositions by Eric Whitacre, Pärt Uusberg, Ola Gjeilo, and Morten Lauridsen. With the Coastal Sound Youth Choir, he has performed in prestigious venues, including the Vogue Theatre, the Chan Centre for the Performing Arts, Christ Church Cathedral, St. Andrew’s Wesley United Church, and MacDougall United Church in Edmonton for the Voices West Choral Festival.
At VCC, he is currently preparing for the Concerto Competition and is playing Ben in the opera, The Telephone by Gian Carlo Menotti. He and his classmate Lucia Delgado conduct the Vox Nova Community Choir in east Vancouver as a way to give back to the community.
Beyond performance, James is also passionate about teaching voice and piano, aiming to share his love of music with aspiring singers and musicians. With a deep commitment to artistic growth and musical storytelling, he continues to expand his presence in both solo and ensemble settings.
Rachel Yip
PIANO. UKULELE. BASS. GUITAR.
Rachel has been a dedicated musician her whole life. Starting classical piano performance training at the Vancouver Academy of Music at the age of 5, she has completed her RCM Grade 10 practical exam, finishing with First Class Honours with Distinction. In her time at VAM, she has also competed in the Vancouver Academy of Music Senior Performance Certificate exam, where she won bronze and silver medals in 2024 and 2025 respectively.
In addition to her classical training, Rachel has performed in her high school senior jazz band, orchestra, and concert bands. As well as playing instruments such as guitar, ukulele, electric bass, and has accompanied the theatre department as a keyboardist for several productions. Rachel is currently active as a piano teacher and accompanist.
More than she loves music, Rachel is passionate about helping others discover their own love of music. She has been teaching since 2023 and incorporates modern twists on classical training. She believes that learning music should be enjoyable at every stage of learning and emphasizes building strong habits early on. She strives to create a supportive and encouraging environment where students can feel confident and play their best.
Jeffrey Chow
VIOLIN. VIOLA.
With over 26 years of teaching experience, Jeffrey Chow believes that a strong classical foundation—encompassing technique, ear training, music literacy, and fundamental theory—empowers students to explore any genre with confidence and creativity. Committed to fostering healthy playing habits, he guides students with care, patience, and individualized attention, making music both fulfilling and meaningful.
Jeffrey’s approach is informed by his extensive training in violin and viola, as well as the Alexander Technique, which enhances posture, sound production, and holistic body awareness. His instruction emphasizes musical excellence alongside personal growth, drawing on his professional experiences and collaborations with world-class artists.
He designs lessons tailored to students of all ages and skill levels, covering a broad range of areas, including:
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Technical proficiency
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Posture and body mechanics
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Expressive and versatile sound production
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Rhythm and ensemble skills
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Essential music theory and ear training
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Effective practice strategies
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Performance techniques and stage presence
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Audition preparation
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Professionalism and career development
Above all, Jeffrey is dedicated to nurturing well-rounded, thoughtful musicians, equipping them with the skills, confidence, and curiosity to thrive both on and off the stage.
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Luciano Rigobelo
GUITAR. BASS. DRUMS. PIANO.
Luciano Rigobelo is a Brazilian guitar player and music teacher. His musical journey began with piano lessons at the age of 8 before he transitioned to the guitar at 13. Luciano furthered his skills in jazz guitar at the Conservatório Musical Souza Lima in São Paulo, Brazil, where he delved into music improvisation. Additionally, he complemented his studies with an online Berklee jazz improvisation course under the guidance of the renowned vibraphonist, Gary Burton. Since 2019, Luciano has made Vancouver his home, dedicating over two decades to his role as a music teacher and professional musician. He has demonstrated his musical versatility as a band leader, vocalist, and guitarist, performing across various music genres like rock, pop, and jazz ensembles in Vancouver. Notably, his musical portfolio includes the release of 5 EPs, 2 singles, and 1 album on Spotify and other digital streaming platforms. One of his works was produced by the acclaimed Brazilian musician and music producer, André Abujamra. He helps students compose and record their own music and release them on digital platforms. Luciano’s teaching philosophy centers on creating a deep love for music while providing students with a solid foundation in both theory and practice. He believes in tailoring his approach to each student’s unique learning style, abilities, and interests, ensuring that lessons are engaging and relevant. He prioritizes a holistic musical education that includes not only technical skills but also creativity, expression, and an understanding of the cultural and historical contexts of music. Through patient guidance, encouragement, and a nurturing environment, he aims to empower the students to explore their musical potential, build self-confidence, and develop the skills necessary to become independent and expressive musicians.Jeffrey’s approach is informed by his extensive training in violin and viola, as well as the Alexander Technique, which enhances posture, sound production, and holistic body awareness. His instruction emphasizes musical excellence alongside personal growth, drawing on his professional experiences and collaborations with world-class artists.
He designs lessons tailored to students of all ages and skill levels, covering a broad range of areas, including:
-
Technical proficiency
-
Posture and body mechanics
-
Expressive and versatile sound production
-
Rhythm and ensemble skills
-
Essential music theory and ear training
-
Effective practice strategies
-
Performance techniques and stage presence
-
Audition preparation
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Professionalism and career development
Above all, Jeffrey is dedicated to nurturing well-rounded, thoughtful musicians, equipping them with the skills, confidence, and curiosity to thrive both on and off the stage.
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Jafnel Flores
GUITAR. BASS. PIANO.
Jafnel Flores is an Upcoming and Eager Jazz guitarist making his way into the scene. He is a Versatile musician with backgrounds in multiple genres from Jazz, Rock, Gospel, and R&B and a recent graduate from Capilano University. Jafnel’s time at Capilano has earned him a Bachelor’s degree in Jazz Performance and Composition and a consistent Dean’s list recipient. Jafnel has had the privilege during his time at Capilano to study under the esteemed Ron Samworth. His influences include Ron Samworth, BIll Coon, Joe Pass, Grant Green, and Lenny Breau. In addition, Jafnel has garnered practical experience by playing gigs throughout Vancouver. This hands-on experience has not only honed his skills but also reinforced his reputation as a dedicated team player with a passion for music. Beyond his academic
achievements and playing ability, he is a committed collaborative spirit who works well with anyone in any type of situation. His love for music has proved him to be a great team player and a musician ready to take on this new chapter of his life in creating and performing music in his hometown of Vancouver.
He designs lessons tailored to students of all ages and skill levels, covering a broad range of areas, including:-
Technical proficiency
-
Posture and body mechanics
-
Expressive and versatile sound production
-
Rhythm and ensemble skills
-
Essential music theory and ear training
-
Effective practice strategies
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Performance techniques and stage presence
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Audition preparation
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Professionalism and career development
Above all, Jeffrey is dedicated to nurturing well-rounded, thoughtful musicians, equipping them with the skills, confidence, and curiosity to thrive both on and off the stage.
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Dale Capistrano
PIANO. THEORY.
After being a student at CW Music, Dale is now teaching piano and theory at the studio. Music is one his greatest passions, finding ways to both express himself and share the beauty of music. He is widely involved in music, whether it is playing piano for his church choir or being the pianist for several jazz bands. Dale has also studied and completed up to RCM Level 10 in both Piano and Harmony. At his school, Vancouver College, Dale finds an inviting community and brotherhood through its music program, furthering his passion for the art. Dale’s identity has been largely shaped by music over the years, which to him, proves that music is something truly captivating. He wishes only to relay this passion of his to others: to ignite the spark that allows students to reach their full musical potential.achievements and playing ability, he is a committed collaborative spirit who works well with anyone in any type of situation. His love for music has proved him to be a great team player and a musician ready to take on this new chapter of his life in creating and performing music in his hometown of Vancouver.
He designs lessons tailored to students of all ages and skill levels, covering a broad range of areas, including:-
Technical proficiency
-
Posture and body mechanics
-
Expressive and versatile sound production
-
Rhythm and ensemble skills
-
Essential music theory and ear training
-
Effective practice strategies
-
Performance techniques and stage presence
-
Audition preparation
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Professionalism and career development
Above all, Jeffrey is dedicated to nurturing well-rounded, thoughtful musicians, equipping them with the skills, confidence, and curiosity to thrive both on and off the stage.
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Rosie Murano
PIANO. VOICE. MUSICAL THEATRE. THEORY.
Rosie Murano is a vocalist, pianist, and theory enthusiast who recently completed her
Bachelor of Music in Jazz Studies -Education Stream at Capilano University. With a
passion for music since a young age, Rosie grew up on Nancy and Randall Faber’s
Piano Adventure books, then moved on to the Royal Conservatory of Music curriculum
for piano, voice, and theory, achieving exam results as high as First Class Honors with
Distinction (top 10% of Canada).
Well-versed in classical, jazz, pop, and musical theatre music genres, Rosie performs in
various venues across the lower mainland and has been cast in 8 different operas,
plays, and musicals including Amal and the Night Visitors, Grease, Hairspray, Rock of
Ages, and Mama Mia. Before heading to University, Rosie won the Director’s Award at
her high school for her music leadership and pedagogy as well as an Outstanding Vocal
Performance Award at the KPU International Music Festival. Using her theory
knowledge and music artistry, Rosie is currently writing her debut pop EP.
When Rosie is not embarking on her musical and teaching journeys, she trains for half
and full marathons. Rosie’s teaching style involves helping the students develop their
musical craftsmanship and technique in a fun and engaging way that best suits each
student’s learning style, allowing them to unlock their musical talent and inner artist.
Aldrix Aniceto
PERCUSSION. ROCKBAND.
Aldrix has been playing the drums since the age of 7. He is a drummer, guitarist and vocalist and gigs as a soloist and with various bands in Vancouver. He has been teaching percussion for a decade and is proud of his students’ accomplishments over the years. Aldrix leads the award-winning Performance Rockband Program at CW Music.
Patricia Fernandez Garcia
PIANO. VOICE. THEORY.
Patricia Fernandez Garcia studied piano under the tutelage of the late Maestra Fe Espaldon. She was part of the St Paul College Pasig Music Ministry from 1997-2003 and became VP of the Doña Juana Youth Choir.
She trained in Trumpets Shangrila Musical Theater(2001) and Douglas Nieras Power Dance (2008). She took theater subjects as part of her course in Up Diliman (BA Speech Communication -performance studies). She was a former alto singer of the UP Singing Ambassadors (2004-2006) and the UP Campus Music Ministry Member (2003-2007). She trained for Voice for Musical Theater in Ryan Cayabyab School of Music (Robinsons branch) in 2016 and in the Up College of Music X in 2022.Patricia won Bb Pilipinas International in 2008 and was part of the training committee for young girls for the international stage (2009-2012).
Aaron Ricafrente
GUITAR. BASS.
Aaron Ricafrente is a Professional Recording Artist, Bass Guitarist of the award-winning band Callalily, specializing in Alternative Rock.
He studied Conservatory of Music at the University of Sto. Tomas, one of the top schools in his country, the Philippines.
In his 15 years of career, he has toured all over the Philippines and even internationally. Aaron has performed in Major TV networks and Radio stations including ABS-CBN, GMA, Wish 107.5 and more. In addition to this, his band was also able to create hit albums that earned Gold and Platinum Records!
Now a father, one of the things that keeps him busy nowadays is teaching preschool kids Music and Movement! He also has a Youtube channel that gives easy access to kids who want to learn numbers, letters and children songs!
Aaron looks forward to being able to pull knowledge from his personal experience as a professional, touring musician and blending it with his expertise of teaching students of all ages, including children.
Alice Lee
PIANO. THEORY. CLARINET.
Alice graduated from The University of Hong Kong with a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) Degree. She began piano training from the age of five and attained Trinity College London ATCL Diploma in Piano Recital (equivalent to RCM ARCT). She has had extensive experience performing in recitals and live concerts. Alice competed in many music competitions before coming to Canada and she was a prize winner in the 56th Hong Kong Schools Music Festival in Piano Solo. She is a keen educator and strives to teach students at all levels from the heart, which can be reflected by the outstanding teaching awards that she has received in the last decade. Alice believes in the joy of piano learning and sees music as an integral part of child growth and development.
Nikkaela Valencia
PIANO. VOICE.
NIKKAELA is a Vancouver-based R&B singer/song-writer who emerged onto the music scene with her unique sound and heartfelt lyrics. She has solidified her status as a key inspirational muse in the development of Vancouver’s thriving arts culture. NIKKAELA displays artistry beyond her years. Self-assured in where she’s been and where she’s going; she’s an enthralling powerhouse of confidence and hopes to share that with her students. It’s clear that her wisdom is derived from personal experience, writing through heartfelt sentiments and soulful sensibilities; It’s no doubt there is much to learn through her experience and perspective on music. She invites all to join a transformative musical journey of healing and self-discovery through the voice.
Christine Adela
PIANO. VOICE. THEORY. SCHOOL DIRECTOR.
Christine is a versatile musician with a wide range of experience in both classical and pop music. She’s been teaching since 2002 and is an RCM-certified teacher. Christine holds a BA in Music with a minor in Psychology from UBC, where she was a Golden Key Honour Society member, and a Classical Music Diploma from Capilano University.
Her lessons combine theory, vocal technique, ear training, and custom song arrangements, helping students learn to sing confidently while accompanying themselves on piano.
As a performer, Christine has sung at Carnegie Hall with ensembles such as The Capilano Singers, Good Noise, and Richmond Chorus, and previously played the Changgo with the UBC Korean Drumming Ensemble. Outside of music, she’s worked as a host and junior producer for Vancouver Television, held the title of Miss Vancouver, and has participated in the Tour de Cure since 2011.
Christine believes in a balanced, encouraging approach to music-making. She emphasizes smart practice, self-trust, and respect, and loves helping students discover what they’re capable of doing with their unique musical gifts.
Kaori Takahashi
MUSIC THERAPY.
Kaori Takahashi, BA, BMT, MTA: graduated with a Bachelor of Music Therapy from Capilano College and is a facilitator of the Bonny Method of Guided Imagery and Music (Fellow, Association for Music and Imagery). She enjoys working with a variety of populations, and is currently focusing on children and young adults with special needs. In addition to music therapy, Kaori has many years of experience working with young adults with special needs as a life-skill instructor. She practices using a client-centred approach, which assists each client in discovering and maximizing their potentials through a positive musical experience.
Andrea Tremblay-Legendre
PIANO. THEORY. HARMONY. HISTORY.
Currently working toward her Diploma in music performance at University of British Columbia with Corey Hamm, Andréa Tremblay-Legendre holds a Bachelor Degree from the Conservatoire de musique de Saguenay with Monique Robitaille and a Master’s Degree from University of Ottawa with David Jalbert.
In 2009, she received the Lieutenant Governor’s medal for Community Involvement and for achieving the highest grades in her area of study and also the Governor General’s Medal for post-secondary studies. The year after, she was selected to perform in the Young Artist’s concert of the Jeunesses musicales du Canada in Saguenay Lac-St-Jean.
In the past several years, Andréa performed in master classes for Angela Hewitt, Jean Saulnier, Jacques Rouvier, Robert Levin, Benedetto Lupo, Jean-Philippe Collard, Suzanne Beaubien-Lowe, André Laplante, Jean-Paul Sévilla, Paul Stewart, Raoul Sosa and Marilyn Engle. In 2012, she won third place in the Virtuoso 1 category at Festival de musique du Royaume as well as first place in the Virtuoso 2 ensemble category. In 2013, she won the first place in the piano category 23 years old at the National Final of the Canadian Music Competition.
Andréa is one of the co-founder of the Festival Tang-aux-Foins, a tango music festival in St- Fulgence (QC) that was celebrating is 5th edition in October 2014. Since 2009, she is the pianist of the group Guardia Nueva, specialised in Argentine tango, who recorded their first album in 2012. Two years ago, she created a scholarship in remembrance of Réal Lavoie, a CMS employee who died from cancer in 2011, which is awarded once a year to the most remarkable student of the Conservatoire de musique de Saguenay.
Louise Maldo
PIANO, VOICE, GUITAR, THEORY.
Louise Maldo is a dynamic singer-songwriter on a musical journey, currently pursuing a Bachelor of Music in Jazz Studies with a focus on vocals and a secondary emphasis on piano. From the tender age of eight, Louise embarked on her musical odyssey, honing her craft through dedicated piano and vocal lessons at CW Music. A proud alumna after a decade of immersive study, she has seamlessly integrated her classical training with contemporary flair.
Louise’s musical prowess extends beyond the classroom, as she has graced the stage with live bands and showcased her talents in captivating recitals. A true artisan, she finds joy in the art of composition and production, weaving together melodies that resonate with her audience on a profound level.
Beyond her own musical pursuits, Louise is a beacon of inspiration, eagerly sharing her expertise to empower aspiring musicians. With a genuine desire to nurture the next generation of talent, she champions the dreams of young students, encouraging them to reach for the stars and unlock their full potential in the world of music.
“Music produces a kind of pleasure which human nature cannot do without” -Confucius
