Our TEam
It takes a village
TO RAISE STELLAR MUSICIANS
There is a large team of dedicated professional musicians and music advocates who work tirelessly to ensure that GVYMA students receive only the best musical experience.
We go above and beyond.
NinaFalcos
Conductor - Jazz Band Director
GVYMA Artistic Director
Founder
Nina began conducting at 15 and founded the GVYMA at 19 after studying with Dr. Robert Taylor at UBC and assisting him with the UBC Concert Winds.
Nina began her musical journey as a clarinetist, pianist and violinist. In post-secondary she earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Music from the University of British Columbia with a focus on secondary education, studying saxophone with Dr. Julia Nolan and conducting under the baton of Dr. Robert Taylor. Her Undergraduate Thesis was on “Collective Creativity – Rehearsal Techniques for the Ultimate Wind Ensemble.” She is currently writing a book based on her eight years of work with the GVYMA wind ensembles and jazz groups.
Nina directs all four GVYMA ensembles while maintaining a full studio of 30 students, specializing in preparation for university entrance auditions. She is also a professional pianist.
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TheCoaches
GVYMA's side-by-side mentorship is instrumental to its success. Each ensemble is assisted by coaches that sit in each section and work closely with the students. This one-on-one teaching within the rehearsals ensures that each students receives a fully-comprehensive education.
These coaches are professional musicians or advanced university students currently studying to be music educators.
SENIORCOACHES
Ashley Meadows, flute
Nina Falcos, saxophone
Janelle Julian, high brass (French Horn specialty)
Devon Atkinson, trombone
Ryan Brodeur, euphonium & tuba
Kaiya Gazley, percussion
JUNIORCOACHES
Miranda Wheeler, clarinet
Zach Mozel, clarinet/saxophone
Ryan Brodeur, low brass
Angie Lam, percussion
BoardOf
Directors
The GVYMA is a non-profit organization.
Nina Falcos, President
Dr. David Branter, Vice President
Devon Atkinson, Treasurer
Ashley Meadows, Secretary
Janelle Julian, Member-at-large
Robin Holburn, Member-at-large
Cheryl St.Pierre, Member-at-large
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THE GVYMA CAN'T DO IT ALONE
We are grateful for any support our organization and our students receive.
If you are interested in sponsoring or supporting the GVYMA in any way, please feel free to contact us at gvyma.board@gmail.com.
We appreciate your assistance!