Have Fun & Be You, at Kx2
Meet The Team
All of our instructors are professional multi-instrumentalists with Masters degrees, but their passion for music and love for their students are what make the Kx2 team so special.
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The Dynamic Duo - Kayla & Kurt
Founders of Kx2 Music
Kayla Paige
Kurt Roberts
Hi everyone!
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As a former middle and elementary school teacher, I have extensive experience working with a wide range of students of all age groups, diverse backgrounds, and varying skill levels. l am an honors graduate from the University of Connecticut, where I received my Master's in Curriculum and Instruction, along with a B.S. in Education and a B.A. in Music.
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I grew up in musical theatre, having performed at Alvin Ailey Studios in NYC and Tarrytown Music Hall. I have also enjoyed music directing numerous children's theatre productions!
I have a love for songwriting. My original songs have aired on the radio, and I had the privilege of playing my music as the opening act for Bernie Williams at the Paramount Theatre. I am an actively performing musician around the tristate area, but I have also had the wonderful opportunity to sing in Germany, Italy, Austria, Switzerland, and Czech Republic.
Hi everyone!
I am an actively performing musician and educator, around the New York Tri-State local area, whose musical knowledge extends through many avenues. As a multi-instrumentalist with exceptional proficiency on upright and electric bass, piano, guitar, clarinet, trumpet, and violin, I enjoy performing in various types of venues, with musical genres ranging from classical to rock, jazz, and pop.
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In addition to instruments, I have also found a passion for beatboxing! l am a graduate of the University of Connecticut, where I received my Master's degree in Curriculum and Instruction. Through my experiences as a former elementary school teacher and Army National Guard bandsmen, have become a well-rounded educator. In addition to my love for music, l also enjoy cooking, learning about modern technology, and spending time with family and friends.
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.
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.