Teacher Directory

Anna Sheppard

Learn More:
www.annasheppardtrumpet.com

Contact:
Anna Sheppard

Email: ashepp228@gmail.com
Phone: Contact Sound Hall Studios

Anna Sheppard – Trumpet

Anna Sheppard is a freelancing trumpet player and teacher in the greater Richmond area, performing with such ensembles as the Richmond Symphony, Williamsburg Symphony, Charlottesville Symphony, and more. She is a graduate of the University of Cincinnati-Conservatory of Music, earning a Master’s Degree in Trumpet Performance in 2024. While at Cincinnati, Sheppard held an assistantship performing and coaching in the CCM Graduate Brass Quintet. She also holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Instrumental Music Education and a Certificate in Trumpet Performance from Appalachian State University. As a teacher, she derives from a mix of pedagogical approaches for the trumpet as well as utilizing books from J.B. Arbans, Herbert L. Clarke, Max Schlossberg, and more. During her free time, Sheppard loves to go hiking, bike riding, and catching up on her favorite TV shows.

Jazz Academy of Richmond

Learn More:
www.jazzacademyrva.org

Contact:
Michael Hawkins
Email: jazzacademyrva@gmail.com
Phone: Contact Sound Hall Studios

The Jazz Academy of Richmond

Jazz Academy of Richmond is a community-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to jazz education, preservation, and performance opportunities for youth and adults throughout the Richmond area. Through a rich offering of programs — including youth and adult small ensembles, a youth orchestra, and applied lessons — the Jazz Academy is committed to fostering a vibrant musical dialogue and passing the jazz tradition on to the next generation of musicians. Sound Hall Studios is proud to welcome the Jazz Academy of Richmond as part of our growing instructor community.

Jacob Smith, woodwind and piano teacher at Sound Hall Studios, wearing glasses and a navy button-down shirt in a professional headshot.

 

Contact:
Jacob Smith
Email: daremusicstudio@gmail.com 
Phone: Contact Sound Hall Studios

Jacob Smith – Saxophone, Clarinet, Flute, Piano, & Accordian

A native of West Virginia’s eastern panhandle, Jacob began his musical journey at age 10 at Ellsworth Music on piano. Several years later, he picked up the saxophone and never stopped. Jacob graduated with a Bachelor’s in music performance from Cleveland State University where he studied under Dr. John Perrine (classical saxophone) and Mr. Bobby Davis (classical clarinet). Well versed in many genres from classical to jazz, Jacob will be able to help you on your musical journey. He also developed his skills on the accordion and has performed solo at wineries and weddings. He has played as a permanent or freelance musician in various jazz big bands, wind ensembles, and small groups across the DMV and Northeast Ohio and at festivals from All Good to Watermelon Park Fest. Jacob currently runs his own accordion trio Rococo Vin and accompanies choirs on both piano and organ.

Michael Auman, Percussion Instructor at Sound Hall Studios, holding a drumstick while standing among columns

 

Contact:
Michael Auman
Email: michael@soundhallstudios.com
Phone: Contact Sound Hall Studios

Michael Auman – Drum/Percussion 

Michael Auman is a Virginia-based drummer, percussionist, educator, and recording musician with experience across live performance, studio work, marching percussion, and music education. A former member of the Crossmen Drum & Bugle Corps, Richmond Philharmonic, and Waynesboro Symphony, he is also a Sabian Education Artist and Vic Firth Education Artist.