Michael C. Wheeler, MFA, MA, BA, MC, Dip (Executive Director, Voice, Piano, Hindusthani)

Michael C. Wheeler is the Executive Director of the Jean Bechtel School for Music. He possesses an extensive academic foundation that includes a an MFA in music composition, an MA in Ethnomusicology, and a BA in Music History, supplemented by diplomas in psychology, sociology, and philosophy. This multifaceted intellectual background informs his unique approach to leadership and education. Throughout his career, Michael has made significant contributions to the music world, recognized for his publications and performances across North America, India, Japan, the UK, and Italy. His work as a lecturer has spanned institutions of higher education in North America, Europe, and Asia, while his artistic endeavors in film and multimedia have engaged with a global clientele.​
A prolific author, Michael has published numerous influential works that reflect his diverse expertise. His collected essays, such as "Considering Mentorship" and "Talking to Euterpe," explore profound themes within the artistic community. He has also authored essential instructional texts, including "Voice in Practice," "A Practical Method for Taus, Dilruba, and Esraj," and "Crafting the Stage," among many others. With this extensive knowledge and multidisciplinary background, Michael C. Wheeler brings a unique and vital perspective to his role. His commitment to the Jean Bechtel School for Music fosters a vibrant and enriching environment, ensuring the success and growth of aspiring musicians and scholars alike.

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 Kimberly Eichman, A.A. (Pre-K, Piano)
Kimberly Eichman holds an Associate of Science in Early Childhood Development. She is a highly skilled and dedicated piano instructor and preschool teacher who is passionate about providing her students with a high-quality music education. She believes in creating a positive and enjoyable learning environment for her students, where they can develop a lifelong love for music. Kimberly's teaching philosophy is rooted in the belief that music has the power to transform lives. She strives to instill not only technical proficiency but also a deep appreciation for the art form in her students. Her unique approach combines traditional teaching methods with cutting-edge concepts, tailored to suit each student's individual needs and goals. With a background in early childhood education, Kimberly understands the importance of engaging and effective instruction. ​
She incorporates a wide variety of music activities that reinforce and expand on the concepts taught at the piano. By using computers, keyboards, and other interactive tools, she creates a comprehensive approach that helps students become well-rounded, skillful, and knowledgeable musicians. Kimberly's track record speaks for itself, as she has successfully taught hundreds of students and achieved remarkable results. Her blend of traditional methods and innovative teaching concepts ensures that her students learn easily and enjoyably, paving the way for a lifelong connection to the enchanting world of music.




​Taylor Bennett BA, MS, MBA (Violin/Viola/Cello, Piano, Voice)

A musician since the age of seven with a decade of instructional experience, Taylor Bennett has been involved with local youth choirs and orchestras since 2007 and is proficient in violin, cello, piano, viola, and vocal performance. The Umpqua Chamber Orchestra featured youth soloist in 2019, she has performed violin solos in multiple venues across the county. A longtime student and colleague of Michael Wheeler, Taylor continues to study the art of music performance as she helps young students discover the same passion for music she did so many years ago. With a bachelor's degree in elementary education, an MS in curriculum/instruction, and an MBA, Taylor is excited and equipped to instruct students of all ages and instruments.
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Michael Hansen,  (Violin, Cello, Musical Oddities)​
Michael Hansen is a seasoned and versatile multi-instrumentalist, boasts an impressive 20-year journey in the realm of music. With a focus on the violin and cello. Michael's musical odyssey has taken him far and wide, allowing him to absorb the rich influences of genres ranging from soul-stirring southern bluegrass to the evocative melodies of Irish and Scottish folk traditions.
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Driven by an unwavering passion for music, Michael's true calling lies in the art of teaching. With infectious enthusiasm, he imparts his vast knowledge and expertise to aspiring musicians, nurturing their talents and igniting a deep appreciation for music. Combining technical precision with heartfelt expression, Michael's mastery of multiple instruments serves as a testament to his dedication and unwavering commitment to his craft.
Through his patient and engaging teaching style, he brings out the best in his students, guiding them toward their full potential as musicians. His genuine love for music shines through in every note, as he cultivates a lifelong passion for this timeless art form within those he has the privilege to teach.



Matthew Krepky (Woodwinds)

Matthew Krepky has a history in Jazz performance with an emphasis on improvisation theory and performance techniques with 18 years playing saxophone; he is skilled in Alto, Soprano, Tenor, and Baritone saxophones, and clarinet. Matthew is an active performer in the area with over a decade's experience in large live shows, competitions, and professional recording. He has completed two albums with a third in production. Matthew teaches basic instrument techniques all the way to advanced music theory and jazz performance and everything in between. As a professional performer, Matthew is invested in providing the most diverse background of skills from his experiences to best create a foundation for success in the music industry, from performing to recording or anything else his students might want to pursue.

Samantha Johnson, HDip (Performance Coaching/Beginning Voice/Beginning Piano)
Samantha Johnson holds diplomas in both Alexander Technique as well as Music Therapy. She is currently enrolled in a Master of Arts Degree in Vocal Pedagogy. Her love for the performing arts is what has inspired her to embark on her musical journey. From a young age Samantha has done several forms of performing arts focusing intently on various varieties of dance, on-stage acting, and on some occasions choreographing for musicals or stage managing a show. With the experience and confidence performing gave her, as well as her basic teachings of the piano, Samantha dove into the world of music and singing. Since starting this journey it has only solidified her love for the artistic world and has given her opportunities such as performing in a choir, singing solo in front of crowds, and even auditioning for musicals! 

Still on the forever journey of being an artist Samantha Johnson not only teaches and shares the tips and tricks of being a performer and musician, but also builds the confidence, discipline, and knowledge a young student needs to perform to the best of their abilities. From the very basics, to learning how to read even the most difficult sheet music, Samantha will be there for every step of the way, not just teaching but building up students confidence and self esteem in way that will benefit them for many years to come. 

Sebastian May, BSc (Piano, Voice, Bass, Guitar)

Sebastian May is a composer and music instructor born and raised in Roseburg, Oregon. He has been singing and playing instruments since early childhood, developing a lifelong passion for music and performance. Sebastian holds an Associate of Applied Science degree in Music Technology and Sound Engineering from Lane Community College. He teaches music fundamentals, voice, piano, guitar, and bass, with a strong focus on making music exciting, accessible, and engaging for each student. In addition to teaching, Sebastian has extensively toured throughout the Pacific Northwest as a solo artist and with a variety of music projects, bringing real-world performance experience into his instruction.