Artista Staff
DirectorsDr. Janet Hamilton, Ph.D.
Dr. Hamilton holds a Doctorate in Music Education & Vocal Pedagogy. She is a former choral director of N.Y.C. as well as In Harmony. She has performed with the C.B.C., won numerous awards and scholarships, and is a published composer. Janet is a member of N.A.T.S. (National Association of Teachers of Singing) and is also a lifetime member of the prestigious Musical Arts Club of Ottawa. As well as teaching piano and voice, Janet is instrumental in the continuing success of our Musical Theatre Showcase and our Scholarship/Awards Program.
Juliette Kirk, A.Mus, A.V.C.M., B.Mus., M.Mus
Juliette Kirk received an Associate of Music in Performance in Voice, as well as an Associate of Music in Teaching from the Conservatory of Music in Victoria, BC, at the age of nineteen. Ms. Kirk continued her studies by receiving a Bachelor of Music in Vocal Performance, and then a Masters of Music degree in Vocal Literature and Vocal Performance from the University of Western Ontario. Juliette studied with such vocal greats as Lois Marshall and Joan Maxwell. She has sung in recital in Ontario, Quebec and British Colombia. She teaches voice (all styles and genres), piano, violin, rudiments of theory, harmony, history and solfege (sight reading/ear training). Juliette has extensive background as an adjudicator and examiner for vocal examinations and festivals. As a co-owner and Director of both Allegro Music Schools and Artista Music Schools, and a faculty Associate, Professor of Music of Voice at Carleton University, Juliette enjoys sharing and encouraging the love of music with her students.
Jamie Ilagan, B.Mus, B.Ed.
Jamie received his Bachelor of Music, Honors in Music Education and Bachelor of Education degrees from the University of Western Ontario. During his time at the Don Wright Faculty of Music, Jamie studied voice with Canadian tenor Torin Chiles. He is the recipient of several honours and awards including the Meriam School of Music Award for excellence in Music Education. Jamie has also been an active member of the musical community in and around the Ottawa area.
Robert MacSpurren, B.Mus.
Robert graduated with honours from the music program at Cambrian College of Applied Arts and Technology in Sudbury, Ontario and has graduated from the guitar/composition program at University of Ottawa. He has vast experience in rock, marching band and classical styles and has taught guitar and theory for thirteen years. Robert teaches guitar and beginner piano in both French and English.
Melissa Reuben
Melissa has been studying the violin for 18 years, and has taken part in various concerts and recitals in the Montreal area. She has been teaching for 3 years in both English and French, and also plays for private functions or events.