Faculty

The SJAM music faculty aims to develop the arts appreciation among younger and older generations developing compassionate, well-rounded human beings. They are committed to the highest levels of professional and personal growth and excellence. They are performing musicians specializing in Classical music, Jazz music, or both.

Private lessons offer the student the undivided attention of his/her teacher. Our teachers are highly - credentialed teachers, who love to teach and who have chosen music education for the profession and careers. This makes all the difference in the world to the quality of lessons you will receive. SJAM teachers are not only highly professional, but also very positive, friendly and thorough.

Faculty Members:

Ophelia Raboca

Piano Teacher/SJAM
Director

Ophelia started her piano lessons at the age of 6 and began performing at the age of 7. She received her Teacherís Diploma in Piano and B.M. in Piano Performance at the University of the Philippines under a full scholarship. more...

Eric “Ericsson” Barlaan

Piano Teacher

Ericsson Barlaan's earliest memory of the arts is of a Roland digital piano in the 80's. At the age of three, he remembers that digital green screen that came on midi keyboards, and to a kid that's that's one fascinating screen. more...

Tomas Montoya

Guitar Teacher

Tomas is a native of Wheatland, Wyoming and a graduate of San Jose State University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Music. His musical career has three distinct dimensions, namely: a Guitar Teacher at Gavilan Community College in Gilroy, California, a long-time world music DJ at KKUP FM in Santa Clara, California, and a much sought after guitarist for his wide-ranging musical knowledge. more...

Evamarie Raboca Barlaan

Violin Teacher

Evamarie Raboca Barlaan is a music educator, violin soloist, active orchestral member, and chamber musician. She made her orchestral debut with the El Camino Youth Symphony in Palo Alto, California, performing Edouard Laloís ìSymphonie Espagnolî at the age of 17. more...

Kristal Schwartz Barlaan

Harp Teacher

Kristal Schwartz Barlaan is a professional harpist with over a decade of performing and teaching achievements. She is a graduate of the San Francisco Conservatory of Music, earning a Masters in Performance with Honors, as well as a Bachelors of Music Performance from Thomas Edison University. more...

Lea Nasciemento , Piano Teacher Assistant

Leah was a student at the San Jose Academy of Music and Art for 12 years.
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Graham Hsu , Violin Teacher Assistant

Graham studied at the San Francisco Conservatory of Music with Wei-He receiving his Bachelor of Music in Violin Performance.
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Victoria Tsoi , Piano Teacher Assistant

Being a daughter of a piano teacher, Virginia began her piano training since the age of 3.
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