Carrie Selbee has been teaching piano students young and old for the past 27 years. Several of her students have pursued careers in music and many, many have enriched their lives through music making. She has both a Bachelor of Music degree in Piano Performance, and a Master of Music degree in Piano Performance and Pedagogy. Carrie believes everyone can learn to play the music they have always wanted to play, from popular songs to classical favorites.  Her own performing experience is diverse, from soloing with symphony orchestras to playing popular music at a piano bar.   She has a special affinity toward the classic jazz piano styles of boogie-woogie and stride. Carrie is also the pianist and music worship leader at Manistee United Methodist Church.  “I believe there are many of you, young and old, who have always wanted to learn to play the piano.  Learn the music you have always wanted to play, in a fun, positive, encouraging environment. You can do it!”

Roger Tarczon

Originally from Manistee, Michigan, drummer Roger Tarczon has over 40 years performing and recording experience throughout the United States and extensively in the Los Angeles, California music scene. He studied with two of the best drum teachers in the country: Freddie Gruber and Murray Spivack. Roger’s recording and performing credits include: David Crosby of Crosby Stills and Nash, Tim Drummond of Neil Young and Crazy Horse, J.J. Cale, Drew Abbott of Bob Seger and The Silver Bullet Band, Taylor Hicks (American Idol), Kidd Rock among others. He was the drummer for Manistee’s very own Red Apple Road band.

Roger was the drum technician at the Interlochen Center for the Arts and has taught percussion instrument maintenance classes at Northern Michigan College. A master of drumming technique, he has a passion for helping drummers learn not only how to play correctly and musically, but how to interact with fellow musicians in a group setting. Roger is excited to return to the Manistee area to share his experience and knowledge with the community.

John Applegarth has been playing and studying music his entire life, beginning as a trumpet player in the Grand Rapids Youth Symphony and the Saint Cecilia Music Society. He has won awards as a jazz trumpeter. Later, John took up the bass and guitar. He has played in bands in the East Lansing area and is currently a member of the Manistee United Methodist Church Praise Band and teacher at River City Music School.

Melinda Lise

Ms. Melinda graduated from Albion College, with honors in Music Performance and Economics and Management.    Melinda enjoys playing clarinet, sax, piano and dabbling with mandolin and other strings.   Melinda is passionate about Kindermusik and educating the next generation of music lovers and music makers!! Teaching the premier children’s music and movement program in northern Michigan is something that brings great happiness to Ms. Melinda every single day!   Early children’s music education is so important for developing skills in every area of a childs’ young life which  will positively impact them in school and beyond!