Meet The Instructors
From Lebanon to Oakville Symphony of Dreams
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.
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Meet Nadya Poklad
Nadya Poklad is a highly accomplished composer, music theorist, and educator with over 17 years of teaching experience, including more than a decade dedicated to preschool music education. She holds a Master’s degree in music pedagogy and composition and completed her PhD thesis at the Tchaikovsky National Music Academy of Ukraine.
Nadya’s passion for music education is rooted in her belief that it should be joyful and engaging, fostering essential skills like self-confidence, leadership, and socio-emotional intelligence. Her teaching philosophy aligns perfectly with the Suzie Sunshine program, which she considers a wonderful way to introduce young children to the world of music.
As a composer, Nadya has received numerous awards at regional and international composition competitions. Her works, including symphonic, chamber, and vocal music, have been performed worldwide in countries like Ukraine, Belgium, Spain, Germany, and Canada. Recently, her piece “Imagination” had its world premiere with the Oakville Symphony, and her piano composition “Bells Under the Water” was performed in Toronto.
Now based in Oakville with her family, Nadya is also a qualified RCM (Royal Conservatory of Music) teacher. She is dedicated to sharing her expertise and love for music with her students, inspiring the next generation of musicians.
Welcome to a world of music, joy, and learning with Nadya!
Gordon Cleland
Principal Cello
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.
Meet Sony Alex: Inspiring the Next Generation of Musicians
With over a decade of experience in the music industry, Sony Alex brings a wealth of knowledge as a touring and studio artist, music educator, and film scorer. Certified with Grade 8 Guitar from Trinity College of Music, London, and currently in the third year of the Applied Music program at Mohawk College, Sony’s dedication to music is unwavering.
Sony's recent single, "Delta," showcases musical artistry, while contributing scores to Indian cinema highlights a diverse range of talents. With 9 years of teaching experience, Sony Alex is passionate about providing personalized instruction that not only empowers students but also cultivates a lifelong love for music.
Meet Zayd Nawaz: Passionate Music Educator and Multi-Instrumentalist
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.
Introducing Chen Li: Your Accomplished Piano teacher
With a decade-long mastery of the piano, Chen Li has refined his craft to a true artistry. Achieving the prestigious Level 10 piano certification and honing his skills to a graduate-level performance in his youth, he now brings his exceptional musical talents and patient teaching approach to aspiring pianists. Whether guiding beginners or polishing the skills of intermediate players, Chen seamlessly blends his profound understanding of composers like Debussy and Chopin with a gift for simplifying complex techniques. Beyond the piano, Chen's diverse accomplishments include designing financial products, leading e-commerce teams to exponential growth, and earning his CFA Level 1 certification. With a passion for the piano arts and a track record of excellence, Chen Li is poised to take your musical journey to new heights.