Meet The Instructors

Meet Dia Ibrahim, an educator and musician whose life story is a symphony of passion and ambition. Originally from Lebanon, Dia holds a bachelor's degree in mathematics and a master's in education from the Lebanese University. Her love for the piano led her to earn a bachelor's degree from the Lebanese Conservatory.

Her dedication to early childhood education reached new heights with a certification from the Royal Conservatory of Music (RCM) in their Smart Start program. In September 2022, Dia made Oakville her new home, joining the Toronto French School as a full-time math teacher.

But her dream didn't stop there. Destiny united her with Sara Kahwaji, offering a space at "Arabic Park" for her to bring her music school dream to life. Her passion for piano knows no bounds, and she shares it with her two boys, who are budding pianists themselves.

When she's not immersed in music, she finds tranquility in yoga and treasures every opportunity to learn and explore. Frederic Chopin's compositions resonate with her heart.

Now in Oakville, Dia is ready to inspire a new generation of musicians, turning her dream into a reality. Her music school is a place where melodies come alive, and dreams find their symphonic voices.

Principal Cello Chair supported by Charlotte Cleland

Principal cellist of the Niagara Symphony Orchestra, Gordon Cleland has performed across North America. He has appeared as a soloist with the Niagara Symphony (Schumann Concerto in A minor and Vivaldi Double Concerto in G minor with cellist Gisela Depkat) and for the Debut Series in Montreal. He has extensive experience as a chamber musician, notably as a member of Trio Surgite with Erika Reiman on piano and fellow Niagara Symphony member Vera Alekseeva on violin. He is a regularly featured artist for the Encore! Series at Brock University. Gordon has broadcast frequently for CBC FM Radio and has performed on TV5, the international French television network. His strong interest in contemporary and Canadian music is reflected in the repertoire he performs. In addition to his activities as a performer, Gordon has made a strong commitment to music education. He teaches cello at Brock University and is an instructor with Suzuki Niagara and the Niagara Youth Orchestra. He has been a featured performer for the Concertino Program of Jeunesses musicales, whose artists are carefully chosen for their pedagogical skills and their ability to communicate with young people. Gordon has adjudicated music festivals across Canada and runs a private studio in the Niagara region. Gordon started his musical training in London, Ontario, and completed his studies with a Master of Music degree from Boston University. His principal teachers were George Neikrug, Walter Joachim, and Gisela Depkat.

Valentyn Zadoianov is a highly accomplished guitarist, composer, and educator with extensive experience in both performance and teaching. He specializes in classical, blues, and rock guitar, and holds a Master’s degree in music. Over the years, Valentyn has trained numerous students, many of whom have gone on to pursue successful careers as teachers and professional musicians.

As a concert performer, Valentyn is a multiple award winner and has performed in a wide range of settings—from solo concerts and ensembles to appearances with symphony, chamber, and jazz orchestras. He is also actively involved in organizing concerts, competitions, and festivals.

In addition to his work as a performer and teacher, Valentyn is a prolific composer with over 20 years of creative output. He has published 13 collections of original works for classical guitar and guitar duo, and his musical versatility spans styles such as classical, jazz, blues, rock, country, and ethnic music.

Valentyn teaches in English, Ukrainian, and Russian, and brings a wealth of knowledge, creativity, and dedication to every lesson—whether working with beginners or advanced students of all ages.

James Duff – Multi-Instrumentalist & Educator

An accredited music educator with a Bachelor of Music and a recently completed Bachelor of Education, James Duff brings over eight years of experience in both classroom and private instruction. Passionate about fostering musical growth, he specializes in guitar, bass, ukulele, drums, and piano, with additional expertise in Orff instruments.

James integrates technology, hands-on learning, and differentiated instruction to engage students of all levels. His strong communication skills, creative approach, and bilingual proficiency in French make him a dynamic educator. Currently seeking opportunities as an occasional teacher in Ontario school boards.

Zayd Nawaz is a graduate from the Mohawk College Applied Music Program, and is set to receive his bachelors degree from McMaster University in April 2025. He has been teaching (as well as playing shows and recording) since he was a teenager. Many instruments, genres, and teachable age ranges have been added to his skill set over the years. He earned a spot as a Peer Tutor during his post secondary studies thanks to his academic achievements, fuelled by a deep love for music theory. Since graduating he has been working at various music schools in the Hamilton and Burlington area as well as hustling as a freelance player across the GTA. As a teacher he is warm, caring, and versatile. Tailoring each lesson to the needs and interests of his students. He brings a positive and energetic atmosphere to the classroom stemming from his belief that music enhances each of us.

Shahd Ghozlan began playing the piano at the age of five and has dedicated the past 13 years to mastering her craft. By 12, she was performing both as a soloist and an orchestra musician, spending five remarkable years with the Emirates Youth Symphony Orchestra. Throughout her journey, she has graced concert stages and competitions, sharing music as a universal language to inspire and promote peace worldwide.