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Instructors

Dance

Arian Witt

As the Executive Director of Studios in the Center, Arian brings a wealth of experience and passion from her local upbringing. With a deep connection to dance, gymnastics, and music, she began teaching dance at just 14 and later transitioned to coaching gymnastics. At 24, Arian made a bold move by enlisting in the United States Navy, where she dedicated 12 years of service and proudly attained the rank of Chief Petty Officer. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Arts with a minor in Dance and a Master’s Degree in Justice Administration, and she's currently pursuing a Master's Degree in Music Business. After stepping away from the artistic world for too long, Arian felt the call to return to her roots and reimmerse herself in the arts.

Piano, Violin, and Viola

Grace Cox

Grace creates a welcoming atmosphere, celebrating beginners and valuing every step in the musical journey. She understands students' unique strengths and guides them to overcome barriers while nurturing their curiosity. Her gentle, empathetic teaching fosters a safe environment for growth, emphasizing that musical expression is about authenticity rather than perfection. With Grace, students of all ages find joy and confidence in embracing new challenges.

Piano

Kathy Fernan

Kathy holds a Bachelor’s degree in Music Education as a piano major from Ithaca College and a Master’s degree in Elementary Education from Elmira College. She is a retired music teacher from the Elmira City School District and has been privately teaching piano lessons for over 40 years. Her combined experience in music and education helps her in meeting the individual learning styles of her students. She has helped numerous students learn to enjoy playing the piano while developing good musical skills.

Horn Instructor

Mike Cuomo

With a Bachelor of Music degree from Ithaca College and a Master of Music degree from Binghamton University, Mr. Cuomo brings horn instruction to the Center. He is the Music Teacher at Notre Dame High School and has taught in the Binghamton City School District, the Elmira City School District, and at Elmira College. Currently, he is the bugler for the Chemung County Honor Guard and plays in the Corning Area Community Concert Band.

Voice

Mark Cox

Mark’s passion is people and his favorite tool is the voice. He has always participated in singing and by the time he was out of college he had studied under some of the best voice teachers and personally coached individuals and groups to win state and national competitions. He holds a bachelor degree in music and counseling. Mark has developed a method of wellness for the whole person - mind, emotions, and body - grounding oneself in beautiful reality. His challenge to anyone he works with is, “how can you release your tension and find full freedom?” Mark believes life is a gift meant to be enjoyed.