01 / Inside our school

Peoplemakethe magic.

Great lessons start with great people. Meet the musicians, artists, and educators who make our school feel like somewhere you belong.

Meet the teachers

02 / The people

Meet your
creative crew.

Each teacher brings a different craft, perspective, and personality. Explore the names to discover who's behind the lessons.

01Natalie WrenFounder / Music & piano

A performing musician and educator, Natalie brings piano and vocal experience to the heart of the school. Her work includes school music programs and a performance at the Jazz Education Network Conference in New Orleans.

PianoVoiceMusic education
02Lilli FitzgeraldFounder / Visual arts

Lilli works across painting, drawing, sculpting, and creative storytelling. As Art Program Director, she helps students develop their own artistic voice through hands-on exploration and individual expression.

DrawingPaintingSculpture
03Julie MarquezLead piano instructor / Student development

Julie is a music educator whose background includes classical piano, saxophone, jazz, and theory. She brings a patient, encouraging approach to helping students build skills and confidence.

PianoSaxophoneMusic theory
04Galilea CastroPerformance arts / Ensembles

Galilea brings performance and ensemble experience, including a WGI championship, into lessons that emphasize encouragement, expression, and confidence on stage and beyond.

PerformancePianoEnsembles
05Samantha McRedmondVoice / Musical theatre

With a background in vocal performance and musical theatre, Samantha guides students in technique, breath, musical expression, and performing with confidence.

VoiceMusical theatreMusic notation

03 / The way we teach

Their interests.
Their pace.
Their moment.

01 / LISTEN

Start with the student.

Teachers learn what each student wants to create before shaping the lessons around them.

02 / EXPLORE

Make room to try.

From a new instrument to a different artistic medium, curiosity can lead the way.

03 / GROW

Build real confidence.

Individual goals, encouragement, and steady practice make learning feel possible.

04 / Your story begins here

Find your
kind of teacher.

Tell us what you're interested in, and we'll help you find the right lesson and available instructor. No experience necessary.

Text our team
Bakersfield School of Art & Music · © 2026