Mariela Cingo (principal)
Concert Pianist, Choir Master and Theory Specialist
Mariela Cingo started playing the piano at the age of six, inspired by her mother (an opera singer) and her first ever piano teacher Mr Petrika Mele. Mariela gave her first piano concert at the age of 7. By the age of 12 she had won her first competition and played Haydn Piano Concerto with a Philharmonic orchestra.
In 1995, Mariela won a scholarship to study at the London College of Music.
Mariela is the winner of several renowned festivals and piano competition including Croydon, Reigate Festival etc.
Her repertoire includes famous classical composers such as: Beethoven, Mozart, Grieg, Mendelssohn, Rachmaninoff and many more. Mariela plays regularly with various orchestras such as: The BBC Ariel, Whitehall, Blackfriars, Amici, Tonbridge Philharmonic, Hillingdon Philharmonic, Northdowns Sinfonia and many more in venues such as St John Smith Square, Cadogan Hall and Barbican.
Want to contact Mariela? Click here
Tomorr Kokona (Creative director)
Creative Leadership Business Coach and Best Selling Author
Tomorr Kokona is a creative leadership business consultant, coach and mentor. He has a background as an elite international arts practitioner specialising in theatre, movement and choreography. Otherwise known as the English National Opera Artist who trained the Scotland Yard Officers. Tom uses this wealth of experience and wide array of skills to help individuals and businesses prosper.
Through consultations and seminars Tom has inspired positive change for thousands of creative people worldwide; unlocking potential, stimulating growth and transforming lives.
This vast experience stems from a history of creating large-scale cultural events, bespoke programmes and creative businesses. Tom works as a solo arts entrepreneur and also in partnership with private and public organisations.
Want to contact Tomorr? Click here
Hannah
Piano Teacher
Hannah is a solo and ensemble pianist interested in a wide range of Classical/Contemporary Classical and Jazz repertoire, alongside her own compositions and arrangements. She trained to Master’s level at the Goldsmiths University of London achieving a Distinction in Music Performance and Related Studies. Hannah has performed in concert halls and on stage with bands and singer-songwriters. One of her favourite performance venues was in the Belfort Citadel in Northern France, on tour with an electronic pop band.
Hannah believes the primary reason we’re attracted to music is that it captures a feeling that cannot be expressed in words, and it gives us a way to connect with others meaningfully. Music enriches and gives value to people’s lives, giving them the opportunity to share around a campfire with friends and family, or in a concert hall.
One of her favourite composers John Luther Adams quotes, “I believe that music has the power to inspire a renewal of human consciousness and culture”. Hannah treats every student as if they hold the power within them to create a positive change through their music. She strives to create a warm, encouraging space, hoping to guide children in exploring their individual artistic expressivity, helping them to become the best version of themselves. Her ethos resonates with Stage Talent when it comes to teaching: “to build confidence, enhance creativity, and strive for excellence.”
Video of Hannah performing a programme with works by John Cage, Olivier Messiaen, and John Luther Adams.
Mira
Piano Teacher
My musical journey began at age of six. After years of going to music school, I realised that I have a passion for music and that I would like to be a piano teacher. For the last 30 years, I have been teaching and am now in my 6th year of teaching for Stage Talent Academy. Teaching is a challenging job. I have to be adaptable, organised and creative. Each of my students has a different learning style, therefore, each lesson is unique. Our classes are full of joy, fun and the ability to learn. My main motto is to pass my passion and love to play the piano to all my students. One of my favourite music quotes, “ life is like a piano, what you get out of it depends on how you play it”.
Shyam
Shyam, also known as Shama, is a Kenyan Guitarist and Singer based in London with a mission to spotlight the diversity of Kenyan music on the global stage. After a successful stint as the Band Leader of the renowned Kenyan Rumba Band Orchestra Masika Afrika (2015-2019), he made the move to London in 2019. Since then, Shyam has actively participated in the UK music scene, collaborating with acts such as Grupo Lokito, Matondology Riot, Busi Mhlanga, and more. His latest EP, ‘Leo ni Leo’ (2023), delves into pressing global issues, from the threat of climate extinction to cultural loss and colonization. This release follows a consistent pattern of socially conscious music, reflected in his past albums with Orchestra Masika Afrika, namely ‘Twende Afrika’ (2017) and ‘Dunia ni Maja’ (2019). Beyond his role as a performing musician and composer/arranger, Shama is a dedicated music educator. Currently, he is in the final stages of postgraduate studies in Ethnomusicology, showcasing his commitment to both musical expression and academic exploration. Shyam’s multifaceted approach demonstrates his passion for addressing societal issues through his music and nurturing the next generation of musicians through education
Rob
Rob Daniels, a prominent figure in the music industry, is an accomplished audio engineer and multi-instrumentalist with a primary focus on guitar and computer-based music. Renowned for delivering top-tier musical entertainment, he has become a sought-after name in the function and corporate market. With a versatile skill set, Rob has mastered the art of audio engineering, ensuring the delivery of high-quality sound experiences. His proficiency extends to multiple instruments, with a notable emphasis on the guitar, where his exceptional artistry shines through consistently. Rob is not only a skilled musician but also an advocate for the transformative power of education in society and the broader world. He firmly believes that education is the cornerstone for positive change and innovation.
Ada
Ada Tindall, a classically trained pianist, holds Bachelor and Masters degrees in piano performance from the Royal Academy of Music and the Royal Northern College of Music. Her versatility and expertise extend across various genres, including classical, music hall, and cabaret jazz. Ada has graced prestigious London venues such as Ronnie Scott’s Bar, Wilton’s Music Hall, Soho Theatre, and St James Theatre with her musical prowess. As the music director of Tiny Wallops since 2008, Ada has led the group to sell-out shows at renowned venues like Wilton’s Music Hall and has been a featured performer at music festivals such as Secret Garden Party and Wilderness Festival. Beyond her performances, Ada is deeply passionate about teaching piano. She imparts creative and enjoyable lessons to her students, showcasing her dedication to music education. Ada consistently enhances her teaching skills by actively participating in both online and in-person piano pedagogy courses, ensuring that she remains a progressive and effective music educator.
Egle
Egle embarked on her musical journey at the age of 5, immersing herself in singing and piano. Her dedication led her to the prestigious Lithuanian Academy of Music and Theatre in 2002, where she mastered classical music and choir conducting for both piano and voice. Her talent gained recognition when she became the runner-up in the Lithuanian reality TV show ‘Dangus’, which also earned her an audition for the Eurovision Song Contest. In 2008, Egle ventured to the UK to pursue further vocal studies at Tech Music Schools (Vocal Tech) in Acton. By completing the Cert HE course in 2011, she amalgamated her classical foundation with contemporary music styles, shaping her distinctive artistic flair. Today, Egle imparts her musical expertise by providing piano and singing lessons across London. Her journey reflects a harmonious blend of passion, determination, and versatility, as she continues to inspire aspiring musicians and leave an indelible mark on the music scene.
Sergei
Sergei Noskov, originally from Russia, went through music school, then Music College, and finally graduated from the Conservatoire. For over 35 years, he worked as a music teacher, conductor of a music school’s string orchestra, and a composer, first in Russia and later in England. Recently, Sergei joined the Stage Talent Academy, finding joy in working alongside professional and friendly colleagues. Despite his wealth of experience, he appreciates the opportunity to continue sharing his love for music in a supportive and creative environment. Sergei’s commitment to music education remains strong as he contributes his expertise to the collaborative and talented community at Stage Talent Academy.
Millie
Office and Media Assistant
Millie Ralph is a Freelance Creative Coordinator for Stage Talent. She has come from a background in the Arts and Holistic Wellbeing, bringing a diverse approach to her attitude and work. She also teaches Meditation, Yoga Nidra and Sound Therapy, as well as her most important role to date – becoming a new Mother. Millie passionately believes the power of music can enhance children’s (everybody’s) emotional, mental and physical wellbeing. She is a cheerleader for Stage Talent and the work they produce.
Alice Taylor
PR and Copywriter
Alice Taylor was born in the UK but has lived in Malta and Cyprus before settling in Albania in 2017. She started studying the violin at the age of four after being inspired by Disney’s Fantasia. She progressed to Grade 7, at the same time taking up the piano (Grade 5), voice (Grade 5) and dabbling with the cello. A freak accident at 16 stopped her musical career but she still enjoys listening to classical music and the benefits that her musical education gave her. She has a young daughter who attends regular music classes and enjoys piano. Alice is a professional journalist but adores writing about music. She is an advocate of gentle, child-led learning and believes in nurturing creativity and self-expression to create well-rounded children.
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