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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.

Imani Brown

Piano • Music Theory

Imani has dedicated herself to sharing the joy of music, beginning piano lessons as a child. Graduating with a Bachelor of Arts in Music from Salem College in Winston Salem, NC, Imani earned the Music Program Prize and established a small piano studio. Beyond her studio, Imani directed and accompanied youth choirs and enriched worship services. Transitioning from teaching elementary school to educational programming, she remains committed to providing students with not only technical proficiency but also a deep appreciation for music's transformative power.

Chris Heavner

Piano • Theory • Brass

As a lifelong musician, Chris has developed the skills and knowledge to help students discover their full potential on their instrument. Chris is primarily a jazz pianist, but also has performed in various big bands on trombone including Unifour Jazz Ensemble. Chris has a BS in Music Merchandising from Appalachian State University with a concentration in Music Performance and studied Studio Music and Jazz and the University of Miami.

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.

Rich Filippone

Guitar • Ukulele • Piano

Rich started his guitar journey during the height of the alternative rock and grunge scene in the 90s. From there, he dove deep into all types of music from the prior decades. Rich has played in various bands along the east coast including a Bruce Springsteen cover band based out of New York City. His all-time favorite band is Rush but also enjoys listening to acoustic solo artists such as Andy McKee, Michael Hedges, Doug Smith and Tommy Emmanuel. Rich's main instrument is the guitar but also has knowledge in teaching piano and ukulele.

John Phipps

Drums • Piano

With experience playing many different styles of music, Jonathan is well-equipped to help his students meet their musical aspirations. Whether you want to learn Jazz, Latin, Broadway tunes, Rock, Hip-Hop, Funk, Metal, Fusion, Country, or Classical music; he will help you acquire the skills necessary for success. Jonathan covers a variety of gigs throughout the Carolinas, some of which include broadway musicals, jazz combos, classical ensembles, latin bands, worship groups, jazz fusion groups, R&B artists, and top 40s cover bands.

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.

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