Meet our Newest Team Members!

As we celebrate our 10th anniversary at SOUNDS Academy, we are thrilled to introduce the newest members of our team—staff, board members, and teachers—who are joining us in our mission to transform lives by empowering youth through teaching music and character values. Each of these individuals brings unique talents, experiences, and a shared passion for making music education accessible in the valley. As we look ahead to the next decade and beyond, their dedication and expertise will help us continue to inspire creativity and foster the next generation of musicians and leaders. Join us in welcoming them to our vibrant SOUNDS Academy community!

STAFF

Matthew Fox (Program Manager):

Matthew joined our team back in January with his extensive experience and interest in music education and saxophone performance. He has shared the stage as a saxophonist with many big names in music, including Roxy Coss and Robert Young. To learn more about Matthew, click here. 

Ethan Fox (Operations Administrator):

Ethan is a graduate from Arizona State University with a degree in music performance and a musical background in percussion. He enjoys biking and hiking in his free time. To learn more about Ethan, click here.

Danyelle Brown (Operations Administrator):

Danyelle is a Detroit native with a background in nonprofit work. She is passionate about advocacy, building connections, and empowerment. To learn more about Danyelle, click here.

Jackie Marotta (Marketing and Development Intern):

Jackie is an ASU student studying communications and saxophone performance, with a background in music education (She used to be a SOUNDS Academy teacher!). In her free time, Jackie enjoys reading and working out. To learn more about Jackie, click here. 

TEACHERS

Elizabeth Jones (Strings):

Elizabeth joins us from Idaho, with a degree in music education. She is passionate about mentoring students by helping them see their potential and go beyond it. To learn more about Elizabeth, click here. 

Susan Knighton (Piano):

Susan is currently a K-4 music teacher in the Peoria School District with many years of teaching and performing experience. She enjoys working one on one with her students and is looking forward to work with the piano students of Sounds Academy. To learn more about Susan, click here.

Daniel Nakazono (Trombone):

Daniel is an experienced trombone performer and educator, currently working on his doctoral project at Arizona State University. He has performed with high-level ensembles such as the Phoenix Symphony and Phoenix Chorale. To learn more about Daniel, click here.

Taylor Simpson (Woodwinds):

Taylor is an experienced educator and performer from Boulder, Colorado with a saxophone performance degree from Arizona State University. She has performed with esteemed ensembles like the Phoenix Symphony and in her free time enjoys hiking and exploring the mountains. To learn more about Taylor, click here.

As we celebrate our 10th anniversary, the addition of these talented teachers, and staff marks an exciting new chapter for SOUNDS Academy. Their diverse skills and shared dedication to our mission will help us continue to expand our programs and make a lasting impact on our community. We’re grateful for their commitment and look forward to the incredible work we’ll accomplish together in the years ahead. Stay tuned for more updates as we embark on this next stage of our journey!