About us

Music Is Our Life

Here at Elliott School of Music, we believe that every student should have access to high-quality music education, regardless of their skill level or background. We are dedicated to providing a supportive and inclusive environment for beginner and intermediate students, where they can explore their musical interests, develop their skills, and build their confidence.

We offer lessons that are once per week, 30 minutes long, and one on one. We focus on teaching the basics that you need to know, but if you or your student want to go in a specific direction, learn a specific song or style, etc, please don’t hesitate to ask.

We are more than happy to continue teaching what you need to know while also teaching what you want to play.

Meet The Instructors

One of the key features that sets us apart from other music schools is our team of highly-qualified and experienced instructors.

Our teachers are passionate about music and are dedicated to helping students reach their full potential. They are knowledgeable, patient, and encouraging, and they are always available to provide guidance and feedback. Whether a student is just starting out or looking to build on existing skills, our instructors will work with them to create a customized lesson plan that meets their specific needs.

Elliott Denkers

Owner • Guitar • Bass • Piano

Elliott started his musical journey with a very influential elementary music teacher. After being referred to a local guitar teacher, he fell in love with the instrument and has been playing for over 20 years and teaching for over 10 years. After opening Elliott School of Music in 2022, he has enjoyed growing the program to better serve beginner musicians in the area. His musical tastes are eclectic and he enjoys teaching all types of styles.

Anna Waters

Woodwind • Brass

Anna Waters is an engaging and exciting music educator that has a passion for helping individuals find their voice in music. After graduating from Western Carolina University with a degree in Music Education she has performed with various groups in the Charlotte area, taught numerous private lessons, and is currently the band director at a Gaston County middle school.

Abby Belcher

Guitar • Piano • Vocal

Abby Belcher is a multi-instrumentalist with years of performing and teaching experience. As a teacher, she has helped beginners of all ages reach their musical goals. As a performer, she has experience in bands and solo projects ranging in style from funk to country and everything in between.

Zack Robinson

Guitar • Bass • Ukulele

Zack has been playing guitar since he was a child and has participated in musical performances including rock bands, stage performances, and solo projects. He has over a decade of teaching experience with beginner to intermediate students of all ages. In addition to teaching privately, Zack is also the music teacher at a small Christian School in the Charlotte area.

Marc Pericles

Drums • Piano • Music Production

Marc Pericles has been a musician since the age of 10 when he was introduced to percussion in the school band. Throughout the years he has played drum set within local churches as well as holding leadership positions in various marching drum corps. Although Marc began his musical journey on drums he has also been playing piano for over 15 years. This experience along with his great personality makes him a fantastic teacher for beginners and intermediate players of all ages.

Emily Howe

Piano • Vocal

Emily is a Western Carolina University graduate with a degree in music education. She has always had a passion for singing and music since a young age and enjoys teaching and spreading the love of music. Emily has been professionally trained in vocal techniques and spends her time continually growing her musical abilities through service at her church. When Emily is not teaching music, she works as a pre- k teacher at the Bridge of Hope Daycare.

Chris Cook

Guitar • Bass • Vocal

Chris has been a professional touring musician for over 30 years and has over 40 years experience in genres ranging from blues and country to rock and bluegrass. He is also a talented vocalist and songwriter. Chris is the perfect teacher for any experienced player looking to take their musicianship to the next level.

Dave Holmes

Guitar • Bass

Dave is a renowned guitarist/multi-instrumentalist, producer, and songwriter hailing from Canada. David is a founding member of the internationally acclaimed instrumental band Dub Trio. David studied guitar performance at Berklee College of Music before moving to NYC where he collaborated with artists such as Lady Gaga, Snoop Dogg, Mastadon, Adam Lazzarra, and Matisyahu. Dave is well versed in most styles of music.

The Areas We Proudly Serve

Conveniently located at 318 B S. South St. B4 in Gastonia NC, your musical future is closer than you thought! We are proud to serve all of Gaston County area including, Gastonia, Bessemer City, Belmont, Cramerton, Mount Holly, Dallas, Cherryville, Stanley, Lowell, Lincolnton, Shelby, Lincoln County, Cleveland County and the greater Charlotte area. We specialize in beginner and intermediate music lessons that are custom tailored to fit each student’s needs and musical preferences.

View Our Virtual Tour