Scroll down for individual bios.

Sandy Ervin: High Priestess
Sandy Ervin is our fearless leader at Crescendo Music Loft handling all aspects of teaching in addition to running the business. Classically trained in music (opera) but having heard the southern calling of the blues, Sandy has used her musical exposure and skills to develop a unique and personalized teaching

Ted Ervin: Factotum
Factotum of the Loft Ted Ervin is Crescendo Music Loft’s Minister of Technology and the “go to guy” for needs regarding scheduling our rehearsal and performance space and anything related to equipment, be it backline, PA, or instruments. While we don’t hold it against him, Ted is a more than

Kirsten Livingston: Architect of Operations & Cash Flow
Kirsten Livingston was the first hire at Crescendo Music Loft and remains the most senior member of our team. With more than 25 years of experience in graphic design and project management, she has become the structural backbone of the studio. As Architect of Operations & Cash Flow, Kirsten oversees

Melissa Greenberg: Minister of the Monetary Flow
Melissa oversees all Accounts Payable and financial operations at Crescendo Music Loft, ensuring teachers are paid on time, the rent is covered, the heat stays on in February, and even the pizza is paid for before rehearsal. She manages payroll, vendor payments, and the steady rhythm of outgoing funds that

John Hurley: Dr. Solfege
We are delighted to welcome John Hurley as Assistant Teacher and Guitar Instructor at Crescendo Music Loft. Some of you will recognize John as our “Staff Sergeant.” He has worked quietly and diligently in the background at Crescendo making tracks and charts for students, even correcting homework at times. John is

Justin Paglino: Doctor of Ivory Tickling
Although Justin’s background in science and medicine is noteworthy, it is of virtually no use to him as a piano player and teacher. Fortunately, he also has many years of experience as a professional gigging piano player and as a piano teacher. Justin and Sandy go way back as bandmates

Samantha Foggle: The Pitch Enchantress
We are so excited to welcome Samantha Foggle as our newest music teacher at Crescendo Music Loft! Samantha teaches voice, piano, guitar, and ukulele at the studio—basically, she is a one-stop shop! One fun fact about Samantha is that she is actually a former Crescendo student herself. Born and raised

Steve Shelton: Fretboard Philosopher
Meet Guitar and Ukulele Instructor Steve Shelton. Steve currently plays with the local jazz band Aureus Jazz Octet. He has played in many local bands, like The Muddy Rudders, The Racket Downstairs, and The Reactions. Now that Steve has “retired,” he’s sharing his knowledge, skill, and love of the guitar

Kailyn Toussaint: Duchess of Dramatic Arts
Kailyn is the newest addition to the Crescendo staff and is excited to support the growing student community. Originally from Phoenix, AZ, she moved to New York City in 2018 to pursue a career in musical theater. Kailyn spent five years traveling the world performing on cruise ships, where she