Have Fun & Be You, at Kx2
Meet The Team
Our instructors are all certified, multi-instrumentalists with professional industry experience, but it’s their genuine passion for music and dedication to their students that truly makes the Kx2 team so special.
The Dynamic Duo - Kayla & Kurt
Founders of Kx2 Music
Kayla Paige
Kurt Roberts
Hi, I’m so glad you’re here! Whether you're just starting your musical journey or preparing for the big stage, I’m here to help you shine.
I believe that music is the heart of creative expression. I’m an honors graduate from University of Connecticut with a Master’s in Music Education. I hold additional certifications in Songwriting from Berklee College of Music and The Science of Wellbeing from Yale University. I work with students of all ages and backgrounds!
My roots are in musical theatre, having performed in Off-Broadway productions at Alvin Ailey Studios and New World Stages in NYC. I’ve had the privilege of training with Met Opera singers and Broadway artists. I’ve also had the honor of singing the National Anthem at Yankee Stadium.
When I’m not teaching, I’m deeply immersed in the industry. I’ve had the incredible opportunity to hear my original songs air on the radio, collaborate with Rihanna’s producer, and open for Bernie Williams at the Paramount Theatre. I actively perform around the tri-state area and have toured internationally, singing my way through Germany, Italy, Austria, Switzerland, and the Czech Republic.
More than anything, I am passionate about passing these experiences on to you. There is nothing I love more than seeing my students gain the confidence to own their talent. Whether we are diving into technical skills or exploring your favorite songs, our lessons and classes are sure to be an absolute blast. I can’t wait to help you reach your goals and have a lot of fun along the way!
Hi everyone!
I’m an actively performing musician and educator whose musical world covers everything from classical to rock, jazz, and pop. As a multi-instrumentalist, I teach and perform on upright and electric bass, piano, guitar, drums, clarinet, and trumpet —and I even have a passion for the art of beatboxing!
I’m a graduate of the University of Connecticut, where I received my Master’s in Music Education. My background as a former elementary school teacher and my service as a Sound Engineer and bandsman for the Army National Guard have shaped my well-rounded approach to music education. During my service, I also had the distinct honor of performing for the Governor.
I stay deeply connected to the professional music scene, whether I’m performing across the tri-state area or hitting stages in Providence and Boston. I’ve had the incredible opportunity to work with Lady Gaga’s producer, and I am an active producer myself—my work is currently available on Spotify, Apple Music, and all major streaming platforms.
I love helping my students explore new genres, master their instruments, and find their own musical rhythm. Whether we are diving into music theory or modern production techniques, our lessons are designed to be tons of fun while building the skills you need to shine.
Jack Riley
Jack R. is a passionate music educator and versatile multi-instrumentalist specializing in voice, piano, guitar, bass, and drums. A graduate of The Hartt School of Music with a BFA in Jazz Studies, Jack fell in love with the process of helping students develop a personal, lasting connection to music. Although Jack had been playing since childhood, it was through teaching that they rediscovered the magic of playing a song all the way through for the first time, which is feeling they now strive to create for each of their students.
Jack’s musical journey began with piano lessons at age six. They started learning songs by ear, which naturally led to singing, songwriting, and forming their own bands. Along the way, Jack expanded their musicianship to include guitar, bass, and drums, embracing the philosophy that if there’s an instrument in the room, it’s meant to be played. During high school, Jack also participated in drumline, further enriching their wide-ranging musical experiences.
Jack’s teaching approach is deeply student-centered. Having once felt insecure during their own early lessons - despite practicing extensively and exploring music independently - Jack understands the importance of making music accessible, expressive, and enjoyable. They tailor lessons to each student's interests, whether that's learning to read music, playing by ear, or writing original songs. Jack believes the key to musical success lies in discovering what excites and engages each student, and they look forward to helping you find your own unique musical voice.
Brooke Stillman
Brooke is a versatile musician born and raised in Danbury, Connecticut. Originally learning songs by ear only, Brooke grew her musicianship within Danbury Public School’s musical theater and choral programs. She went on to further her skills at Western Connecticut State University, exploring both jazz and classical vocal techniques.
With over a decade of choral experience, Brooke has performed at Carnegie Hall and Lincoln Center, as well as numerous collegiate showcase choirs around the East Coast (2023 CMEA, 2024 ACDA East, 2024 ACDA National conference, 2025 NAFME All-Eastern) with the WCSU University Singers.
During her time at WCSU, Brooke was part of the university’s first and only Treble A Capella group. Since its establishment in 2022, Brooke held a leadership position within the club, providing musical guidance to her peers as well as running the club’s social media platforms.
Brooke earned a Bachelor of Arts in Music with a Minor in Psychology. She plans to combine her knowledge of creative expression and mental health to connect with her community. She is passionate about individualized teaching methods, and is a strong advocate for diversity within the arts. Brooke makes safety and comfort a top priority in musical settings, and believes learning and fun go hand in hand!
Nori Ishikawa
Nori’s musical journey began in college in Japan, where he delved into blues, rock & roll, and jazz, showcasing his talents on the blues harp, drums, and guitar. His passion for music led him to pick up the alto saxophone and later, the shakuhachi. He then moved to the United States to immerse himself in jazz studies, eventually enrolling in the Music Department at City College of New York as a Woodwind Major. Nori has graced stages with solo performances, including one at La Mama Gallery in New York City. He was also a member of Trio Los Diplomaticos (later known as Diplomat Samurai Band), performing at New York City clubs like Saint and Peridium, and making television appearances on Channels 5 and 7. More recently, he joined the Port Authority Bus Terminal Band, the Fishbowlers, for performances at the terminal. Currently, Nori is an active member of two bands: one specializing in Techno-fusion Jazz and another focusing on standard Modern Jazz.
For over 25 years, Nori has dedicated his time to teaching numerous young & adult students on various instruments, including Saxophone, Drums, Flute, & Harmonica.