OUR INSTRUCTORS
DANIEL
Piano - Songwriting - Composition
Daniel is the founder of Blackbird School of Music and a dedicated music educator with a background in the Royal Conservatory of Music. Alongside teaching, he is an active professional music producer, songwriter, and composer, bringing real-world industry experience into every lesson. Daniel has worked across genres and projects, from composing for film, TV, and games to producing original songs and albums.
At Blackbird, Daniel inspires students of all ages to explore their creativity, develop strong musical foundations, and discover their own artistic voice—whether at the piano, through songwriting, or in the studio.
MAX
Drums
Max first started playing the drums when he was 8 years old.
Throughout his musical education, Max had been in numerous bands, drumming for his school theater program and becoming the main drummer for his church worship team. He also continues to attend workshops and drumming seminars to deepen his understanding of drumming fundamentals.
Max is a recent graduate of the Victoria Conservatory of Music.
DOUG
Guitar - Ukelele - Voice - Recording
Doug Towle is one of Canada’s premier guitarists. He has performed across North America in such prestigious events as Guitar Player Live in San Francisco, the Vancouver International Jazz Festival, The Zihuatenejo Guitar Festival in Mexico, several appearances at the Juan De Fuca Festival and the Harmony Arts Festival among countless other festival and club stages.
In 2009 Guitar Player Magazine selected Doug from among thousands of hopefuls as a top ten finalist in their Guitar Superstar Competition, solidifying his reputation as one of the top players not only in Canada but globally.
With 25 years of teaching experience Doug has taught hundreds of students in private lessons as well as classes and clinics. His passion for the instrument comes out in every student he inspires.
KIMBERLY
Voice
“"Music has always moved me. I’m told I was singing before I could talk. My goal as your vocal coach is to help you connect with the music that inspires you and discover a voice that is confident, expressive, and authentically yours.”
Kimberly Denness-Thomas (Kimmee) is a singer, vocal coach, recording artist, director, and arts educator who believes every voice has a story to tell.
Her training includes mentorship with renowned vocalist Ralph Cole of The Nylons, Italy's Metodo di Canto Crossover® with Giovanna Gatusso, and Somatic Voicework™: The LoVetri Method. She is also the founder and Artistic Director of Tumbleweeds Theatre, where she coaches young performers for theatre, television, and film. As a songwriter and recording artist, Kimmee has collaborated with Daniel Martins, creating and recording music as The Cavaliers.
Kimmee's own musical journey spans punk, rock, musical theatre, and contemporary styles, performing as both a lead and backing vocalist. This diverse experience gives her a unique understanding of different genres and the confidence to help singers discover their own authentic sound.
With over 20 years of experience coaching singers at South Island Studio, she welcomes students of all ages and experience levels, from those singing their very first note to seasoned performers preparing for auditions, recordings, or life on tour.
Known for her encouraging, down to earth approach, Kimmee creates a supportive environment where singers can build strong technique, grow in confidence, and develop the freedom to express themselves through music.
CHELSEA
Piano
Chelsea has been playing piano for eight years and has developed a well-rounded musical background through her experience with a variety of instruments, including bass and vocals. She currently participates in her school’s rock band program and performs with her own band outside of school.
Chelsea is actively involved in several music-focused classes and continues to look for new opportunities to develop her skills and broaden her musical experience. As a Student Teacher at Blackbird School of Music, she brings her enthusiasm, experience, and genuine passion for music into her work with both younger & neurodivergent students.
JENNY
NeuroMovement
Jenny is our resident Certified NeuroMovement Practitioner, (All levels completed, including Children's, Healthy Aging and High Performers Mastery levels)
She has been studying Chi Nei Tsang/Tao Touch, nearing completion. Relating as both a professional, and a parent of a child with special needs, supporting families as a Behavioural Interventionist.
Jenny has extensively researched nutrition and science-based holistic and traditional modalities in combination.
When she is not booking clients through her private practice at Blackbird School of Music, Jenny can be found offering her NeuroMovement services to artists and touring musicians, at recording studios and on the road. Jenny's work with musicians and performers of all levels, puts the artist at ease, allowing them to create, perform and produce their best possible work.