Welcome!
Voice in the Valley Music Studio is proud to embark on their our 8th year at our location in the heart of Maple Valley, WA. We are excited to serve your musical needs both online and in-person. Our highly educated and passionate teaching faculty boasts a combined teaching experience spanning over 150 years! Voice in the Valley Music Studio is a fun, energetic, family-based studio where classic education meets modern, musical instruction. No matter your age or experience level, we can help you reach your full musical potential! Voice in the Valley Music Studio has been encouraging the musical talents in the greater Maple Valley area since 2010. We are excited to serve the musical needs of our local community offering private Voice, Piano, Viola, Violin, Guitar, and Ukulele Lessons, Group Voice Classes for young beginners, Summer Camps, and year-round performance opportunities!
ABOUT JESSI
Owner and Instructor, Dr. Jessica Jumper completed her Doctorate of Arts in Music and Vocal Performance from Ball State University in 2011. She began teaching in 2004 and thrives on a career that includes solo performance, as well as student education. Jessi founded Voice in the Valley Music Studio in 2010 and enjoys supporting and encouraging the musical needs in the greater Maple Valley area. She is incredibly grateful that God has given her this opportunity to share her musical passion with the talented youth in Maple Valley. Her and her husband, Travis, continue to raise their two youthful boys, Jamesson and Jasper along with their four-legged child, Jax.
ABOUT SERENA
Soprano SERENA EDULJEE’s effortless high notes and full, beautiful tone has earned her much praise. Serena has a full performance schedule of operas, concerts, recitals, and gala events as one of the most sought after singers in the greater Seattle area. Her recent performances include leading roles with Seattle Opera, Northwest Opera, Puget Sound Concert Opera, Pacific Northwest Opera, and Opera Bend. Serena has been an honored singer of the Seattle Opera Guild and received their Opera Plus Artist Scholarship for her work, as well as the Encouragement Award from the Metropolitan Opera National Council, and National Finalist for NATSAA. Serena’s education and training include OperaWorks Advanced Artist Program in Los Angeles and a Bachelor of Music in Voice Performance from the prestigious Jacobs School of Music at Indiana University where she studied under world renowned opera star, Carol Vaness.
Serena has been teaching since 2005! Her education includes the study of music history, music theory, conducting, movement training, ballet, Alexander Technique, acting, yoga, stage craft, songwriting, improvisation, other languages, diction and the International Phonetic Alphabet, voice science and anatomy, vocal pedagogy, and piano education since 1996. Serena provides a fun and focused learning experience where there are no "wrong" questions, and everybody's unique voice is celebrated! Many of her students have gone on to study music in college, have co-written and recorded albums, have landed lead roles in musical theatre, choir solos, All State and All Northwest choirs, and won awards in singing competitions. She teaches all genres: opera/classical, musical theatre, pop, rock, jazz, and more! She also teaches beginner-intermediate piano lessons.
Serena's teaching philosophy is to provide an environment where learning and solid technique are the foundations upon which we build authentic expression, creativity, and artistry. She currently resides in Issaquah, WA with her fiance, Kellen; and their sweet corgi, Koda. Serena has been teaching our talented voice and piano students since 2019.
ABOUT ROSIE
Hailing from the suburbs of Washington, DC, Rosie Barry, relocated to the pacific northwest to pursue her career in music therapy. Rosie graduated Magna Cum Laude from East Carolina University in 2018 with a bachelor’s degree in Music Therapy, her primary emphasis in voice and secondary emphasis in guitar. An avid singer, guitarist, and pianist, Rosie employs her talents as a music therapist by facilitat
ABOUT MARIA
ABOUT MARS
Hailing from the greater Chicago area, guitarist, Mars Licciardi, boasts a professional career spanning over 25 years. Mars began his musical journey at William Rainey Harper College, in Palatine, Illinois where he studied theory, composition, and jazz guitar. A driven musician and passionate educator, his hunger for performance and music education grew, allowing him the opportunity to work in the US and abroad, including collaborations with multi-platinum/Grammy award winning producers, Johnny K and Warren Riker, as well as performances with dozens of national acts at some of the Midwest’s premier venues. In partnership with Consolidated Music of Barrington Illinois, Mars co-founded Rockstar 101, one of the most successful independent rock schools in the Chicago area. A passionate musical philanthropist, Mars has been highly active in non-profit Arts organizations fronting music marathons for non-profit entities such as: United Way, American Heart Association, American Cancer Association, Make a Wish Foundation and Harmony Hope and Healing. Equally at home on the contemporary worship stage, Mars has served as Music Director and Worship Leader at several churches, including Advent Lutheran Church in Charlotte, NC and Mathews United Methodist in Mathews, NC. A versatile musician now based in the Seattle/Tacoma area, Mars specializes in contemporary worship music, rock, blues, country, R&B, indie/alternative, country, and acoustic genres. His musical collaborations can be found on iTunes with bands, Elston and The Last of the Showmen. An active volunteer in his field, Mars currently serves as a music and arts performing practitioner for SINGRLY, a Seattle based arts engagement platform, offering musical therapy for dementia patients. A sought-after guitarist, vocalist, and music educator, Mars excels at creative songwriting and arranging, as well as inspiring and mentoring players and singers of all ages. Mars’ vibrant energy and unwavering work ethic are his trademark characteristics. He understands that each student is unique and works hard to adapt his teaching style to the strengths and needs of the individual. In his spare time Mars loves to cook! He enjoys whipping up new and old Italian dishes for his girlfriend, family, and friends. He is excited to join our teaching team and work with our talented guitarist and aspiring vocalist at Voice in the Valley Music Studio!
ABOUT KAITIE
Washington native, Kaitie Wade is a country/pop recording artist, songwriter, and active performer. She moved to Nashville right out of high school and graduated with her Bachelors Degree in Vocal Performance with an emphasis in Commercial/Contemporary Music in 2016 from Belmont University. Along with performing in some of Nashville’s most famous showcase venues and honkey-tonks, Kaitie completed a nation wide radio tour and opened for notable artists such as Russel Dickerson, Adam Craig, and Riley Green. A sought after entertainer, Kaitie consistently performs at fairs, festivals, rodeos, casinos, pubs, and private parties. Kaitie boasts numerous original songs on Spotify and iTunes and is currently cutting her second studio album. A sought after instructor and vocal coach, Kaitie has been working with our talented vocalists since 2018.
ABOUT MAURO
We are thrilled to welcome the newest member of our Voice In the Valley family, Mauro Bonfanti. Mauro and his wife just recently moved to the Pacific Northwest with their two beautiful children from Italy! Baritone and singing teacher, Mr. Bonfanti graduated with honors from the II Level Biennium in Singing at the Equalized Music Institute of the Aosta Valley in Aosta. Mauro graduated with honors in Discipline of the Arts in Musical Entertainment from the State University of Turin, with a thesis on 'Religiosity in the Works of Giuseppe Verdi.' He graduated from the Academy of the Maggio Musicale Fiorentino and from the Professional Training Course of the Arturo Toscanini Foundation in Parma. He has had the privilege to study voice under Bianca Berini, Giampiero Mastromei and Alessandra Rossi. He also had the honor of being one of the last pupils of Luciano Pavarotti for whom he sang in two operas and a concert. Mauro was the recipient of the Absolute Second Prize at the XI Edition of the “Domenico Alaleona” International Opera Competition in Fermo. In his 20-year career Mauro has performed almost 40 opera roles all over the world. He also sang with Renato Bruson and collaborated with Josè Carrares and many others. He also has had the privilege of performing with Andrea Bocelli in a concert in the Vatican. For 10 years Mr. Bonfanti has been passionately dedicated to teaching singing to students of all ages. He believes that vocal technique is unique to all musical genres. He particularly enjoys teaching cross over, pop, and traditional styles. In Italy he taught at the famous TV talent show “Amici,” leading one of his students to the final victory! Mauro is President and Founder of the “Santa Gianna Beretta Molla” International Opera Competition. He is excited to embark on this new adventure in America and looks forward to sharing his musical passion with our voice and piano students!
ABOUT ARIEL
Hailing from the great state of Idaho, pianist Ariel Faith Candies began her musical journey at a very young age. Raised in an artistically inclined family,Ariel was afforded the opportunity to begin formal Suzuki piano lessons when she was just four years old, studying sight-reading, music theory, and history, in addition to classical piano techniques. When she was ten years old Ariel had the honor of studying under Danny Wayne Beal, a well-known piano icon who toured the west coast for several decades. Growing up, Ariel and her talented family frequently performed together throughout Idaho, Montana, California, Oregon, and Washington, participating in Sonatina festivals, recitals, concerts, weddings, conventions, and competitions; she even recorded an album with her violinist brother entitled, “The Potter’s Hand.” Ariel began her formal academic career at Gem State Adventist Academy in Caldwell, Idaho, acting as lead accompanist for the choir program, where she also sang in an elite vocal octet that toured the west coast and Canada in 2006. After high school, Ariel continued to study music at the collegiate level enrolling as a music major at Oakwood University in Huntsville, Alabama. Wanting to return to her roots, Ariel returned to Idaho where she served as Musical Director at both Nampa Seventh Day Adventist Church and St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Caldwell.Ariel officially launched her teaching career in 2009 at St. Luke’s Elks Rehabilitation Hospital in Boise, Idaho, offering lessons to children transitioning out of therapy; a position that fostered her love for piano and while supporting her desire to serve others, especially children. Her passion for early childhood education continued to grow and the following year Ariel began teaching at both New Way Montessori and Five Mile Montessori schoolswhere she served as an instructor from 2010 to 2013. Ariel’s unique teaching style provides tailored instruction for all ages and skill levels, from beginner-to-advanced. Her collaborative approach respects the individual interests, skill-level, and goals for each student, while upholding high musicianship standards. Ariel is excited to work with the skilled piano students at Voice in the Valley Music Studio and looks forward to nurturing and empowering their musical talent!
ABOUT JOSEPH
Illinois native and lyric tenor, Joseph Muriello received his Bachelor’s of Music in Vocal Performance with a minor in Piano Performance from Illinois Wesleyan University in 2012. Upon graduation, Joseph relocated to Seattle to pursue his graduate studies at the University of Washington. Muriello completed his Master’s in Vocal Performance in 2014 and will begin his doctoral studies in 2019. A passionate music educator and avid performer, Joseph continues to perform in the greater Puget Sound area, and has made appearances with Seattle Modern Opera Company, Northwest Opera In Schools, Etc., Operamuse, and Pacific Musicworks. An eternal learner, Joseph actively studies modern vocal pedagogy techniques and enjoys helping students understand their instrument through a tailored instructional approach. A voracious music lover, Muriello enjoys teaching all genres from opera and musical theatre to jazz and pop. Joseph is currently completing his doctoral studies at the University of Washington. He is thrilled to work with our talented online voice and piano students since 2019.
ABOUT ALIA
Alia Uffenorde is a Maple Valley local with a deep love for music. She began studying piano at the age of eight, and fell in love with it. Her passion for music expanded to violin studies starting at age 11. Since then, she has participated and placed in several competitions, she has become a first violinist of the Tacoma Youth Symphony and concertmaster of the Tahoma High School Orchestra. Several of her music mentors include Lisa Hogg, Julie Swienty, Dr. Paul-Elliot Cobbs, and Dr. Maria Sampen. She knows firsthand of the many benefits that come with quality music education and that finding the right learning environment is key to musical success. In her spare time, Alia enjoys spending time with her younger siblings and family, reading, camping, and making art. She is excited to teach our violin and piano students!
ABOUT JOHN
Pianist, John Chamberlin is excited to join the teaching team at Voice in the Valley! John began studying piano at age 5 and quickly fell in love with music. A hardworking and driven piano student, John currently studies with Julie Swienty and has been successful in a number of different piano competitions in King County and Washington state. His musical journey continued to expand as he explored his interest in vocal music, with the guidance of Rachel Olson and Nancy Gregory. A junior at Tahoma High School, John has become heavily involved in the Performing Arts program as a member of Chamber Choir and Jazz Choir. He acknowledges that a solid foundation in technique and theory is necessary to enhance the musicality one possesses. In his spare time, John loves to read, run, hike, volunteer at his church, and spend time with his family! He looks forward to working with the budding piano students at Voice in the Valley!
ABOUT JANELLE
California native, Janelle Burris, is excited to join the teaching team at Voice in the Valley! Janelle’s passion for music started at a young age when she joined her first choir at five years old. Throughout her life, she has been actively involved in numerous choirs ever since. She has also been a prominent worship leader, music director, accompanist, and soloist at several churches throughout Southern California for nearly three decades. At the age of eleven she began taking piano lessons and quickly fell in love with it. Throughout her career she has had the opportunity to embark on over fifteen choir tours across the U.S.. Ms. Burris holds a Bachelor's degree in Music with an Emphasis in Piano Performance from California Baptist University, as well as a Teaching Credential in K-12 Vocal Music from Biola University. During her time at CBU she was a member of the University Choir and Orchestra where she served as a section leader for four years. From 2012 - 2022, she had the privilege of singing with the renowned Pacific Chorale in Southern California, where she had the opportunity to perform at prestigious venues such as Carnegie Hall for Philip Glass, the Walt Disney Concert Hall for Gustavo Dudamel, and the Hollywood Bowl with the LA Phil. In 2019, she was part of the Pacific Chorale's Grammy-winning performance of Mahler’s 8th Symphony, which received the award for Best Choral Performance in 2021. Janelle is currently a member of the Seattle Symphony Chorale, where she contributes as an alto in their performances at Benaroya Hall in Seattle. In 2012 she released her first EP, which showcases her vocal talents beyond choral singing. In addition to her passion for performance, Janelle has dedicated her career to teaching music. She began teaching private piano and voice in 2005 and spent fifteen years growing as a teacher and musician alongside her students. During this time, she also taught elementary music and middle school choir for five years, followed by five additional years of teaching high school choir and a cappella groups. Sharing her love for music with her students has been incredibly rewarding and a major highlight of her life. Outside of music, she enjoys various hobbies and activities such as camping, traveling, photography, reading, writing, baking, watching old movies, and spending time in nature. These interests allow her to explore different facets of creativity and relaxation. Overall, her journey in music has been filled with incredible experiences, achievements, and a deep love for the art. She is excited to continue growing as a musician and sharing her passion with her students at Voice in the Valley!
ABOUT JACK
Washington native, Jack Trandum, is thrilled to join the teaching team at Voice in the Valley Music Studio! A longtime vocalist and multi-instrumentalist, Jack has over twenty years of live performances experience, sharing stages with artists like Allen Stone, Aubrey Logan, Brandon Ghorley of the BGP, Kuni Mikami, Christian Fabian, and bands such as Groove for Thought and Straighter Road. A multifaceted musician, composer, and entertainer, Jack feels comfortable teaching and performing a wide range of styles from Jazz, Pop and Musical Theatre, to Gospel, R&B and Soul. Jack studied jazz vocals and music theory at Bellevue college, where he learned the art of songwriting and scat singing. Throughout his expansive career, Jack has also served the musical needs of several area churches as Choir Director and Online Worship Curator.As an instructor Jack encourages his students to embrace and study songs that they connect with. He recognizes that learning these songs gives students a strong foundation to growing their understanding of and ability to use their voice in a way that inspires them. This deeper musical connection also encourages students to find their own unique style making each performance distinctive and one of a kind. Jack has a reputation for being exceedingly easy to connect with through his joyful spirit and whole-hearted teaching approach. Students will ALWAYS leave their lesson feeling accomplished and encouraged. Beyond the walls of music, Jack has a heart and passion for helping non-profits. For over ten years he worked in philanthropy forming and encouraging sound partnerships with donors. He currently combines his love for philanthropy and music through his volunteer work at Center Stage Theatre in Federal Way, running sound and lights for their musical theatre productions. In his downtime Jack enjoys spending quality time with his family, homeschooling their three kiddos. Their favorite family hobby is “Superhero Saturdays” (hero movies every Saturday morning). He looks forward to working with the talented vocalists at Voice in the Valley Music Studio!
ABOUT KAILEY
Iowa native, Kailey Nelson, is thrilled to be a part of Voice in the Valley as a vocal and piano instructor! Kailey graduated from Northwestern College in Iowa in 2018 with a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education. Growing up in a musical family, music has been a part of her life since she can remember. Her father was in a college quartet and a lead worship singer. He now is the lead singer of a local traveling band in Iowa. She began taking piano lessons at a very young age and took voice lessons all through grade school. In high school Kailey participated in many musical activities including school musicals, choir, small groups, talent shows, recitals and church choir. One of her favorite Middle School experiences was being the lead in her school musical, Annie. She gained a lot of experience and musical perspective from her vocal and piano instructors. Every Memorial Day her choir director accompanied on the piano while she sang the “Star Spangled Banner” in local community centers and cemeteries. She remembers these various experiences that ultimately shaped her love and appreciation for music. While in college she met the love of her life, Jared Nelson. She was on a traveling worship team in college and thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to sing and play piano. After graduation her and her husband moved to Black Diamond, WA. Wanting to use her talents to serve her local community, Kailey joined the Praise and Worship Team at New Community Church in Maple Valley, WA. She has enjoyed being able to use her voice to serve and uplift others. Her favorite genres to teach are Pop, Contemporary Christian, Country, Classical and Musical Theatre.When she is not engaged in music and performance, Kailey enjoys teaching and being around children. Teaching and music are her two biggest passions. She is excited to exercise these passions with her private voice and piano students at Voice in the Valley. Her teaching philosophy is simple: engage with students through common interests and shared passions. With this straightforward approach, students can thrive, learning new musical skills and techniques while steadily progressing toward their individual musical goals. She cannot wait to share her passions with the students at Voice in the Valley!
ABOUT CHLOE
Chloe Kim is excited to join the teaching team at Voice in the Valley Music Studio! Ms. Kim is currently finishing up her sophomore year at Tahoma High School where she has played in the 1st Violin section of the school symphony orchestra since 2019. She also served as the President of the Korean Club, ASB Class Secretary, and was recently awarded student of the Quarter in her English class. Equally passionate about serving the needs at her church, Chloe serves on the Worship Team as a singer with the band helping lead their worship services. Ms. Kim also serves as a Teacher’s Assistant for her church’s Vacation Bible School each summer. Ms. Kim’s musical skills are quite exceptional for her age. In addition to her vocal skills, her primary instrument is the violin, which she has been studying for over 10 years, as well as playing the piano for 4 years. Chloe loves working with kids and is excited to share her musical passions with young musicians at Voice in the Valley Music Studio!
ABOUT COURTNEY
We are thrilled to have talented pianist/harpist and budding instructor, Ms. Courtney Crawford join our team! Courtney has been playing piano for 11 years as her primary instrument. Music has always been very important to Courtney and she loves to expand her horizons. During the pandemic, she began to learn the harp. She has now been playing for 3 years and is a member of the Maple Valley Youth Symphony Orchestra. She played flute in middle and high school band for 4 years before switching gears and joining choir at Tahoma High School. When not practicing, Courtney can be found knitting, reading, baking, and spending time with her family. Courtney is so excited to teach beginner through intermediate piano students at Voice in the Valley!
ABOUT KELLY
Recognized for her commanding stage presence and rich timbre, American
soprano Kelly Lynn Ferguson embraces the operatic scene. In 2018 Ms. Ferguson attended Dolora Zajick’s Institute for Young Dramatic Voices and the American Wagner Project. Ms. Ferguson studied at the Accademia Vocale Lorenzo Malfatti di Lucca and the Berlin Opera Academy In 2017, where she performed the title role in Ariadne auf Naxos by Strauss. Previous season highlights include performances of Suor Angelica in Suor Angelica, Dido in Dido and Aeneas, Donna Elvira in Don Giovanni and Aunt Norris in the West Coast premiere of Mansfield Park. Ms. Ferguson attended the Advanced Artist Program at OperaWorks, the International Vocal Arts Institute, Patricia Racette’s Integrative Artistry Workshop and the Bay Area Summer Opera Theatre Institute. In addition to performing at the Bay Area Summer Opera Theatre Institute, she was the 1st Prize and Audience Choice recipient at the first annual Aria Competition. She also received 1st prize at the East Bay Opera League Opera Competition, was a grand semifinalist for the Elizabeth Connell Prize for Aspiring Dramatic Sopranos in Zurich and was the winner of the WA district of the Metropolitan Opera National Council Auditions in 2016 and 2017. Ms. Ferguson holds a Bachelor, Masters and Post Graduate degree in Vocal Performance from the San Francisco Conservatory of Music, under the guidance of Cesar Ulloa. In addition to performing, she is also an active music educator and is excited to join the teaching team at Voice in the Valley Music Studio.
ABOUT SKYLER
Skyler Milburn, a young and enthusiastic pianist, is eagerly embarking on a new chapter as he joins the Voice of the Valley team. His lifelong passion for music has been evident since he was just 6 years old, dedicating countless hours to refine his skills in musical composition and piano performance. Beyond his musical talents, Skyler has demonstrated a deep sense of community and altruism by dedicating his time to volunteer work at his local church. Through his engagement with young children, he imparts not only musical knowledge but also invaluable life lessons, fostering a positive and nurturing environment for these young minds to thrive. While the piano has been his primary medium of artistic expression, music's significance in Skyler's life extends far beyond its melodic notes. Throughout his academic journey, he encountered challenges that he triumphantly overcame, graduating with straight A’s at the age of 15. His secret? The peace and resilience he derived from playing the piano, which provided him with the mental fortitude and emotional support needed to excel academically. Skyler's aspiration reaches beyond his personal accomplishments; he ardently desires to share his insight into the transformative power of music. He firmly believes that music is not a diversion, but a potent avenue to discover inner peace and resilience, a message he wishes to convey to fellow students and aspiring pianists. At Voice in the Valley, Skyler's distinctive mission is to establish authentic connections with each pianist he encounters. With an empathetic approach, he seeks to understand the individual journeys of his students, fostering an environment of mentorship and guidance that extends beyond musical technique. Looking towards his future, Skyler envisions an academic pursuit that parallels his passion for music. He harbors a deep fascination with the dynamics that shape our world, fueling his ambition to study political sciences at Harvard. Through this path, he aims to gain a comprehensive understanding of the complex factors that influence our global affairs. As Skyler Milburn forges ahead, his trajectory is one characterized by unwavering dedication to both music and academia. His impact on those around him, whether through his piano melodies or his sincere commitment to supporting growth, is a testament to his remarkable potential and his ability to enrich the lives of others.
ABOUT ADENA, Manager
Adena Pasibe is a smart, friendly, highly-organized, master-juggler, and local super-mom that helps keep us sane and keep our music lessons on track! You will often find Adena helping onboard students, prepping for recitals, and basically keeping families and teachers happy and balanced; and for that we are truly grateful! What a blessing it is to have her on board!