Our Team

Shelby Rae Murdock has been playing the violin, fiddle, guitar, and mandolin since she was 12 years old and has studied with some of the music world’s best. In 2017 she graduated with a Honors Bachelor in Music Education, on a full scholarship, from Idaho State University and studied there with Dr. Keum Hwa Cha & Dr. Hyeri Choi. Shelby has a passion for teaching and has taught hundreds of private students (violin, fiddle, cello, viola, bass, mandolin, and guitar) over the past 15 years in SE Idaho, many of which hold state, national, and regional titles and have won scholarships to study music in college. She loves to travel to compete, judge, and teach at various fiddle contests and camps around the West, and perform for events with her band, Rawhide N’ Rosin, in and around Jackson Hole, WY. Some of Shelby’s titles include the 2016 Dillon, MT, Idaho State, and Teton County WY fiddle champion. At the 2016 National Fiddle Contest in Weiser, ID she won ‘Fanciest Fiddler,’ and placed 2nd in the Young Adult Division. In 2017, Shelby was a judge for the National Old-time Fiddlers’ Contest and was the youngest on the panel. In her free time, she loves to play with her two kids, ski, crochet, and fly-fish.

Jayden starting playing the guitar when he was nine years old, and it quickly became a vital part of his life. Growing up in Pocatello, Idaho, Jayden has performed with groups of various sizes, specializing in electric and acoustic guitar. He has placed in numerous music competitions, winning the title of all-state guitarist in the state’s top jazz band, and performing at TreeFort Music Fest in Boise. Jayden loves to teach and focuses on helping even the youngest students understand and enjoy music. He loves working with students of all ages. Jayden has a passion for psychology and music therapy and works especially well with students with special needs. If a student is hesitant about learning the guitar, just give them one lesson with Jayden and they will leave with excitement and energy to create music! Jayden’s passion is contagious.

Gracie England was 11 when she began playing the violin in her school’s fifth grade orchestra and has since also picked up the viola and guitar. She loves fiddle music and won first place in her division of the ISU Fiddle Competition in 2019. She has played with multiple western bands throughout Eastern Idaho, and has participated in music camps and festivals across Idaho, Montana and Utah. Along with her love of fiddling, she has a passion for classical violin, has been awarded multiple scholarships for classical performances, and even participated in the IMEA All-State Orchestra in 2019 and 2020. She won first place in the IMEA District Solo Ensemble Competition and moved on to receive a high score and ranking at the IMEA State Solo and Ensemble Competition in 2019. In 2021, she was named the Distinguished Young Woman of Snake River, and went on to win 1st alternate as well as the overall talent award at the state program. Gracie had the incredible opportunity to study violin on a scholarship at BYU-Idaho with Dr. Dallin Hansen and perform with the BYU-Idaho Symphony under the direction of Dr. Robert Tueller. During her time at BYU-Idaho, she had the opportunity to go on tour with the BYU-Idaho Chamber Orchestra performing in cities throughout Texas and Louisiana. Besides music, Gracie also enjoys running her own baking business called “Grace Bakes”, which specializes in decorated sugar cookies, cupcakes and cakes. In her spare time, she loves to spend time with her family, camp, go horseback riding, dirt biking, painting and drawing. Gracie loves teaching music and enjoys helping all of her students to accomplish goals and reach their highest potential.

Karen Bechtel performed with the Honolulu symphony for 35 years, received a bachelors in Cello Performance from USC, and is a suzuki-trained cello teacher. She retired from the Honolulu Symphony and now calls Pocatello home because her family is there. She now plays cello with the Idaho State-Civic Symphony, the Idaho Falls Symphony (where she just served as the principal cellist in their last concert!), and teaches cello, violin, and viola at Snake River Strings Co. in Blackfoot and Pocatello. Throughout her career Karen has had the opportunity to perform with many famous artists including Yoyo Ma, Bela Fleck, Sammy Davis Jr, Riverdance, Liza Minnelli, and Barbara Streisand just to name a few. She was also a founding member of Chamber Music Hawaii &. the Galliard String Quartet.

Nina Munger is an accomplished professional harpist who teaches and performs, utilizing over twenty years of special event experience to delight the Jackson Hole, Wyoming area. Her presence is radiated by grace and elegance, dwelling deeply in her home life as a mother of seven (six gals and one lad) in rural Wyoming. Her joy, passion and enthusiasm for a life well lived infuse every aspect of her career and family. Beginning at age six (before she could even read), Nina was taught by the exceptionally gifted Minnesota Orchestra Principal Harpist, Ms. Kathy Kienzle. After moving out west, she continued lessons with ShruDeLi Ownbey- Director of Lyon and Healy West, and Adjunct Assistant Professor at the University of Utah. Beginning in her teen years, Nina began competing. By the age of eighteen had a first place in the Lyon and Healy International Pop and Jazz, placed into the semi finals in the National American Harp Society bi yearly competitions. She was invited to travel to Ireland for the World Harp Congress to premier her arrangement of Ghost Riders in the Sky for multiple harpists. She occasionally continues to throw her hat in the ring at various events in the intermountain area. Having been taught by the Suzuki Harp Method, it’s natural for Nina to teach this method as well. Beginning with her first student in 2004, she continues to enjoy individually coaching her students to achieve their combined goals. Mentoring and nurturing fledgling harpists in their musical pursuits is one of the most rewarding facets in Nina’s career. She is always striving to go beyond the basics and make each performance or lesson spectacular. Her published arrangements and compositions include, Classical transcriptions, Pop Standards, American Spirituals, and even a haunting rendition of the old cowboy ballad-Ghost Riders in the Sky. She also was the harpist for the Idaho Falls Symphony for several years. In her “spare time” she enjoys: crafts, crochet, cooking, camping, snowmobiling, and traveling to new places.

Vincent Crofts is an accomplished utility musician who plays guitar, fiddle, mandolin, banjo, and sings harmony. Vincent has twice been awarded a Fellowship with the Idaho Commission on the Arts, first in 2009 and again in 2015, for his work as an instrumentalist and purveyor of traditional music. Along with Rawhide N’ Rosin Vincent also works in his duet Vince & Mindi with bassist singer Mindi Palmer. www.vinceandmindi.com Vincent is a 20 year member of the Shelley & Kelly Band of Jackson, WY. He is also a founding member and fiddler with the old-time string band The Wild Coyotes www.wildcoyotes-stringband.com Vincent has worked as a side-man and toured with singer/songwriter Stephanie Davis and is often called on to fill in and work with other musicians in the area. He has collaborated with his daughters, Colette Butler and Callie Moore on a video of “Poor Wayfaring Stranger” which has generated over 1,000,000 views on YouTube http://youtu.be/COdpzwfJ2YI With his family released a very successful Christmas CD in November 2014 that charted on Billboard. “Sparrow in the Birch”; A Crofts Family Christmas. https://youtu.be/-FDI_LYL7kw Vincent has co-written the music for the songs “Where The West Begins” (Vince & Mindi CD) and “Little Pal Pinto and Idaho” for The Idaho Songs Project www.bonafidahocom/idahosongs.htm He has taught Appalachian style fiddling at the Montana Fiddle Camp and has been hired as a judge for the Teton Fiddle Contest. And other years won he No Hold Barred and Sr. divisions of that contest. Vincent has worked as a “Front Act” for or been on the same program with: Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, Charlie Daniels, Vassar Clements, Ian Tyson, Baxter Black, Mike Marshal, Mark O’Connor, Carol King, John McEuen, Steve Eaton, Darrell Anger, Mike Dowling, Sons of The San Joaquin, Michael Martin Murphy, Dave Stamey, Brenn Hill & maybe a couple more?

Dominick is a producer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist from southeastern Idaho. He's been playing music since junior high school when he played clarinet from 6-12th grade. He then picked up the guitar and started learning from YouTube videos and books! Soon after he learned the bass, ukulele, and began recording his own music. In 2022 he graduated from Bethel Music College with his Worship Ministry Certificate and has been playing lead and rhythm guitar at Rocky Mountain Ministries for 4 years. In 2021 he started writing, playing, recording, and producing his own music project, Gone After Midnight, which can be found on all streaming platforms. Dominick is so passionate for music and guitar that he feels the need to spread the love and joy of the art to anyone that desires to learn!

Grace Solomon is a violinist and pianist of 15 years who is passionate about sharing her love of music through teaching. She has played in several symphonies, including the Helena Symphony, Magic Valley Symphony, Idaho State Civic Symphony, and the International Pride Orchestra. She was also a finalist in the Idaho Falls Concerto Competition, performing Mendelssohn’s Violin Concerto in E Minor. Grace has worked with students of all ages for the past eight years, including young children, adults, and the elderly. Her teaching style is adaptable to fit the unique needs of each individual student, and she uses a shame-free approach to help her students find joy throughout the process of learning the violin and piano. In high school Grace founded the Kimberly High School Orchestra, participated in the Idaho All-State Orchestra for four years, and served as the concertmaster of the Magic Valley Youth Orchestra for two. These experiences led Grace to firmly believe that music cultivates community and connection, an understanding that she seeks to share with her students. Currently studying Violin Performance at Idaho State University, Grace plans to continue her education by pursuing a Master's degree in pedagogy. Her ultimate goal is to provide an inclusive and empowering music education that fosters growth, both for her students and their community. When she's not playing or teaching music, Grace can be found enjoying the outdoors by hiking, backpacking, and biking through the beautiful landscapes of Idaho.

Hi my name Nathan Gregson and my goal in life is to spread the love of music! Let me take you on a fun journey of self discovery with making something musical with percussion or piano. I am a passionate musician that has played in many different groups from rock, classical, and the ISU Jazz band to name a few. I have studied both percussion and piano at the college level. With this knowledge I will teach in a fun systematic way to you and your children! Music above all should be fun, why else would anyone make it? So yes you'll have to practice a bit but it's so worth it even as just a hobby.

#Level2 #Blackfoot #Pocatello

Porter Williams is a seasoned music performer who has taken the stage in over 20 performances in the past decade. Porter has made a name for himself as a versatile singer and actor. However, his favorite role to date has been his portrayal of Jon in Tick Tick Boom! Porter's love for music started at a young age, growing up with the sounds of iconic bands such as Credence Clearwater Revival, and Van Halen. As he got older, his music taste continued to expand, with The Grateful Dead, Jefferson Airplane, Queen, ELO, and The Moody Blues becoming some of his favorite bands. Throughout the years, Porter has been dedicated to his craft, working tirelessly to hone his skills and perfect his performances. With each new performance, Porter brings his unique style and energy, captivating audiences with his passion. On top of his music career, Porter has also made a name for himself in the theater community, placing in the top 4 in three different state competitions for both drama and vocal performances. Whether it's singing on stage or acting out a scene, Porter's dedication and passion shine through in every performance. Despite the challenges and setbacks that come with the music industry, Porter has remained focused on his love for music. He continues to push the boundaries and evolve as an artist, always striving to create something new and exciting for his audience.

#Level2 #Blackfoot #Pocatello

I grew up in Massachusetts and Texas, and I am currently studying Animal Science at Brigham Young University - Idaho. I started playing piano when I was five and truly love playing. I now use music to process everything in my daily life. I want to teach my students the power of music and the joy of playing, so my classes will be very student-led.

Madison (Madi) is originally from Twin Falls, Idaho, and has been playing violin since she was seven. She has been actively involved in music-making and education since her teen years as a mentor in the Magic Valley Youth Symphony and a performer in the Magic Valley Symphony. After winning the youth soloist competition, she was honored to be a symphony soloist. Since then, she has worked with world-class musicians and has strived to develop her violin and viola skills as well as her skills as an educator. She graduated with a degree in Music Education and a minor in Violin Performance from Idaho State University. She studied with Dr. Hyeri Choi and Dr. Eleanor Cox while completing her undergraduate degree. She was a private instructor with the ISU Preparatory Strings Program. Though she loves to perform, her real passion is in music education. Since graduating from ISU, she has been a music educator in various settings, from preschool students to 12th-grade seniors. She has worked as a string instructor/ orchestra director in the secondary education setting and as a general music teacher in elementary schools. She works as an Elementary Music Coordinator for Bonneville Joint School District and is completing her Master's in Music Education at the University of Florida. Madi is a passionate music educator and musician whose goal is to help all young students engage meaningfully in music-making and develop lifelong music learning and performing skills. Student growth as people as as musicians is her number one priority.

Ryan is primarily a singer-songwriter and audio engineer with a diverse musical skill set, allowing him to produce most, if not all, of the music he creates. His repertoire of instruments includes the piano, guitar, bass, vocals, violin, and more. His music is a captivating blend of AfroSoul, Afro Jazz, R&B, with influences spanning from Reggae to blues, and everything in between. His mission is to infuse positivity into a world often overshadowed by negativity through his music. Ryan's vocals are described as soothing and calming, while his songs are akin to a refreshing glass of water on a hot day. He expresses himself in multiple languages, including English, French, Portuguese, Spanish, and his maternal tongue, Fante. His lyrical themes explore topics like friendship, pain, religion, everyday life, the lessons he's learned, and the various facets of love. Since 2016, Ryan has been sharing his expertise by teaching languages and music. Currently a junior in the Commercial Music Program, he is diligently crafting his debut EP, slated for release in March 2024.

Camden Welker has been taking piano lessons since he was 8 years old, and vocal lessons since he was 11. His love of piano and voice has allowed music to be a crucial part of his life. He has performed in countless recitals, performances, and more recently a gala. He has competed in competitions for both piano and voice, placing third in the Bennett Cup Piano Competition, and first in the Bennett Cup Vocal Competition. From there, he received a choir scholarship to Idaho State University and is currently studying voice with Dr. Anderson, conductor of the Idaho State University Choir, as well as piano with Mark Neiwirth, piano professor at Idaho State University. At Idaho State University, Camden is majoring in Music B.A. with a piano focus, and minoring in voice. Camden has accompanied many soloists, both vocalists and instrumentalists, and has accompanied quartets, church choirs, and orchestras. He has worked as a church organist, children’s church choir accompanist, and was a church seminary pianist. He has sung in many choirs, musicals, and group ensembles. When he isn’t working on music, he spends his time painting, reading poetry, and enjoying his time with friends.

Jon Smart noticed he loved music from an early age. He would rock out with his dad to AC/DC, try to pick out the differences between superstars like Alan Jackson and George Straight, and knew all the words to Smashmouth’s “Allstar” in 1999. He started singing, trying to match his dad’s rich baritone. At age 10, he started his classical training with the District 91 elementary strings program in Idaho Falls, playing the viola. From there he picked up the guitar and pursued metal and rock. Bluegrass music took a tight hold, though, and he picked up a mandolin. He played in orchestras all through high school, including the Idaho Falls Youth Symphony and Idaho Allstate Orchestra. He sang with the IF High School choirs and played in a myriad of bands. Though he pursued English education (and teaches at Idaho Falls High School) he studied music for a short time in college and is thrilled to finally be teaching and playing music more regularly again. His primary instruments include the viola, guitar, mandolin, and voice. His favorite genres encompass everything, though bluegrass/country/folk make up his “absolute most favorite.” You’ll find him listening to Alan Jackson, Tool, Mac Demarco, James Brown, Mac Miller; jazz to classical to hip hop to emo—pick your poison!

Bethany started learning Piano when she was 5 years old and later on at 11 learned Violin, Voice, and Ukulele. She started Cello lessons at 13. She is self-taught on guitar, and sings in the audition choir at Blackfoot High School. She has a huge passion for music and wants to share it with others around her. She's performed in many concerts and many different solo performances over the years. Bethany found music to be one of her biggest coping methods while undergoing chemotherapy treatments. She has a true love of the music she plays and wants to help others learn to love what they play as well.

Casey Hill's life has been a rich tapestry of rhythm and melody, underscored by a deep-rooted passion for percussion and an insatiable appetite for musical diversity. With a drumming career spanning over five decades, Casey is not just a drummer; he is a storied musician, and an eternal student of the musical arts. His journey began more than 50 years ago when he picked up his first pair of drumsticks, a moment that paved the way for a lifelong journey in music. Casey's talent and dedication propelled him into the local music scenes, where he became a pivotal member of three professional bands. His versatility behind the drum kit has always been his strength, weaving intricate grooves into a myriad of styles, and contributing significantly to the sonic identity of each ensemble. However, Casey's musical abilities extends beyond the kit. He is proficient in hand percussion, guitar and bass guitar, and is currently delving into the realms of keyboard theory and up-right bass, reflecting his belief that a true musician's education never ends. Perhaps one of the most fulfilling chapters in his career has been teaching. Casey's love for sharing his musical knowledge knows no bounds, leading him to teach in the United States, the United Arab Emirates, and China. These experiences not only allowed him to impart his musical skills to students across the globe but also enriched his understanding and appreciation of diverse musical cultures. For Casey, teaching is more than just instruction; it's about igniting a passion for music in his students. He cherishes the opportunity to watch a novice drummer catch their first rhythm or a seasoned player break through a complex barrier. His teaching philosophy is deeply rooted in not only imparting technical skills but also in nurturing a profound love for music. Casey Hill's legacy is one of rhythm, passion, and education. Even as he continues to learn and explore new musical horizons, Casey's primary joy remains where it all started: with a pair of drumsticks in his hands and an unbridled passion for music in his heart.

Nicole is a fifth-generation Idaho farm kid, and proud of it. Her love for

music started at a young age when she would ride around with her dad in

his pick-up listening to Bon Jovi, Journey, and other ‘80s classics. Nicole

started taking piano lessons when she was eight years old (Nicole wanted

to learn to play the violin, but her mom thought she should start with the

piano instead…Mom won). Now Nicole enjoys playing Beethoven, Billy

Joel, and everything in between. Nicole finds that music is the best therapy,

whether it be from listening, playing, or singing at the top of your lungs.

Besides music, Nicole enjoys crocheting, reading, puzzles, and

watching the Utah Jazz with her family.

Kacey Kennedy is a multi-instrumentalist from Southeast Idaho who discovered her love of music at a very young age. With 11 years of piano experience, and 6 years of saxophone experience, she has grown to love both classical and jazz genres. At the beginning of 2023, she formed her own jazz band, performing her own compositions with some good friends. Currently attending Idaho State University for Commercial Music and Business studies, she is excited to teach music in her community and inspire other passionate musicians! She participates in Idaho State’s Piano Studio, Wind Ensemble, and Jazz Ensemble. In 2023, she began to record and produce her own music project, and has much more in store for the future. When she is not practicing piano, sleeping, or brainstorming her next composition, you can find her attempting to cook a delicious meal for herself, because just like music, cooking needs practice too!

A current student at BYUI studying art and music. Clara grew up in a small town with a big family and music has always been a central part of her life. One of her favorite ways to make music is by playing the piano! Clara has been learning and playing piano since first grade and has been singing my whole life long. She loves anything from Broadway to County to Classical and all the in between. She also loves finding new songs and new music, hearing others share what they love and learn, and growing in the world of music! Clara loves to learn, write, sing, play, and experiment with new and creative ideas and I love to make music with others! She always excited to learn more about herself and to share that with the people who she is blessed to meet!

Kelly is so excited to help teach and grow with your students! She has proudly earned her Master's in Music Education and has tons of experience in famous instruments like the guitar and piano, but also in lesser-known instruments like the hammered dulcimer and the euphonium!! Kelly is ready to teach with her super bubbly and encouraging personality and passion in working with her students to help them learn the way they learn best!

Tim is an Idaho native and a graduate of Idaho State University. He has been playing the fiddle for over 40 years and has been with the Western-music-icons, The Bar J Wranglers, from Jackson Hole, Wyoming, for 30 years. Tim is a seven-time Idaho state fiddle champion, a four-time national winner, and has won or placed in most major contests across the United States. Tim has judged dozens of contests over the last many years and gives several fiddle and guitar workshops. Tim is married and has 4 grown kids who tolerate his fiddling addiction!

Tessa grew up in Idaho Falls and is proud to call South East Idaho her home. She started cello at age 7 and studied with Dr. Rebecca Lyman in High School. Tessa received her Bachelors in Cello Performance from Brigham Young University, under the direction of Dr. Michelle Kesler, in 2019. Tessa’s passion is teaching cello! She has taught for over 14 years, and enjoys working with all levels and ages. She loves all styles of music including classical, folk, rock and pop. Tessa’s teaching style is adaptable to fit the unique needs of each individual student, but most importantly, to help her students find joy in the process of learning music. Tessa has been involved in many symphonies, including the BYU Philharmonic, the Utah Symphony, and currently plays in the Idaho Falls Symphony.

Originally from Fenit, Ireland, Orla grew up playing traditional Irish music. She started her musical journey on the penny whistle, and has played the fiddle since she was 7 years old, learning different styles and taking up different instruments along the way. Orla came to the United States in 2017, and received her BA in Music from Idaho State University in May of 2021, under the guidance of Professor Kathleen Lane. Graduating with a Bachelor's in Music from Idaho State University in 2021 and later completing her MBA in December 2023, she now works at the ISU College of Business while continuing her musical pursuits on the side. Having traveled and studied in different places, Orla is a fan of many different styles of music. Her roots lie in Irish folk and that is where her passions in music stem from. Orla has played in many different groups, ranging from fiddling in jam sessions to singing in a jazz combo.

Mia’s love for music started at a very young age. She has played several instruments throughout her whole life, including growing up playing with all her siblings. She’s enjoyed playing in several bands, playing at weddings, and other events. She loves writing music and currently have two songs available on streaming platforms. Her favorite class was choir and she loved performing within it. In her free time she enjoy painting, building legos, making jewelry and hanging out with friends. Mia currently is studying cosmetology and loves dying her own hair and having a high interest in fashion!

Marshall Dennert has been playing the guitar since he was 10 years old. He’s always had a passion for guitar and has loved to explore it through many genres such as country, pop, rock, jazz, and many more. Marshall was previously employed at the Bar T-5 in Jackson, WY., where he had the opportunity to perform in a 4-piece western band for approximately 300 guests every night throughout the summer, and he can’t wait to share his performing tips and tricks with his students! Marshall has also sung with multiple choirs throughout middle school and high school, where he attended All-State and participated in other vocal competitions. Recently, Marshall has been taking private voice lessons from a Professor at BYU-Idaho. He plans to add an emphasis on singing on top of his primary focus on guitar to help his students become well-rounded musicians!

Shawnee is a passionate educator and outdoor enthusiast who grew up in the picturesque mountains along the Salmon River. Nestled in the wilderness, Shawnee spent her life surrounded by nature and music. Her mornings often began with the warm sounds of her dad playing tunes around the table, instilling a deep appreciation for creativity and community. With an associate degree in liberal arts from CSI and a bachelor’s in zoology from ISU, she’s always been drawn to the wonders of the natural world. As a devoted mom of five and a homeschooling advocate, Shawnee cherishes the opportunity to nurture curiosity and a love for learning in her children. With 22 years of marriage, she cherishes the moments spent with her family, building memories together in their mountain paradise. Home is her sanctuary, where she finds fulfillment in gardening, exploring the outdoors, and horseback riding. She also enjoys teaching and playing the fiddle, sharing her passion for music with others. Although Shawnee started getting lessons as an adult, she has participated in numerous fiddle contests, earning trophies that reflect her dedication to her techniques. Crafting and caring for her farm animals add to the richness of life, allowing her to embrace both the simple pleasures and the beauty of mountain living.

Harlee Gregersen, at 21-year-old, is a dedicated individual with a profound passion for the arts. From a tender age, Harlee's life has been intertwined with the world of artistic expression. Her interests encompass a diverse range, including drawing, reading, theatrical performances, and vocal artistry. When it comes to indulgences, Harlee's palate often gravitates towards the delectable combination of Cheez-Its and Gatorade, providing the necessary energy for her creative pursuits. Notably, Harlee had the privilege of studying under distinguished mentors, Paul Page and Jana McBride, enriching her artistic journey with their invaluable guidance. As the eldest sibling in her family, Harlee has fostered a fascination for the world of dinosaurs, appreciating their historical and scientific significance. A daily pursuit for Harlee involves seeking reasons to smile, a practice she finds joyous in both her life and in hearing the stories of others. Currently, Harlee is dedicated to her academic journey at Brigham Young University-Idaho, where she is diligently pursuing a degree in the theatre arts. Outside the classroom and rehearsal studios, Harlee can be found in the company of friends and family, savoring every moment, or swiftly enjoying a snack to fuel her next adventure of the day.