Teacher Profiles
Susan Phelan
2006 – Present
Guitar teacher / Music School Director
Exam Boards Taught
Trinity Rock and Pop Acoustic / Electric guitar
Rock School Acoustic / Electric guitar
Registry of Guitar Tutors Acoustic guitar
LCME (London College of Music Exams) Acoustic Guitar (also known as Registry of Guitar Tutors)
Background
Susan Phelan (Nee. Callaghan) (BA) is the Director of the Lucan School of Music which she set up in 2006. Susan received a FETAC Level 2 award in Music Technology at Kylemore College; and BTECH Higher National Diploma in Sound Operations and Production and an Honours Bachelor of Arts Degree in Media Production and Management (Ballyfermot College of Further Education). In recent years, Susan has participated in the Kodály Society of Ireland summer course, and completed the International Summer School for Kodály-based Music Pedagogy in the Kodály Institute of the Liszt Ferenc Academy of Music in Kecskemét, Hungary.
Growing up in Lucan, Susan played the flute in the Lucan Concert Band for over 10 years. She has played guitar since 1993 and has taught guitar since 1999. As a songwriter / singer / guitarist / sound engineer Susan has worked with bands in a variety of styles both playing live and recording. Susan has played guitar with the Spook of the Thirteenth Lock’s Electric Guitar Orchestra, and the soul group AGSA as well as working on her own original music which is available on www.suecallaghan.com. Susan has worked on a range of recording projects, as a session musician and completed various media projects. For the last 12 years Susan has been working as Musical Director of a range of community choirs of different ages and abilities. For three years she worked with the organisation Music Matters in particular working with groups with intellectual disabilities / restricted mobility. She still teaches the Lorcan singers in Santry each week, a vibrant group of amateur singers organised by an active residents association.
Susan Says
“What I love about teaching is helping my students achieve their goals; that means something different for everyone. For some it is sitting exams or playing at a school assembly, others want to write their own songs or get into more technical electric guitar. Some students are happy when they can strum guitar chords and sing along, while others love fingerstyle picking or playing melodies. I’m happy to tailor the classes to each individual / group to keep it fun, encourage practice and foster a love of music. By doing this, my students gain valuable techniques that can be applied in many contexts as their goals change through the years.”
Vita Galla
2006 – Present
Piano / Theory
Exam Boards Taught
ABRSM (Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music)
RIAM (Royal Irish Academy of Music)
Leinster School of Music
Background
Vita Galla graduated Riga Teacher Training and Education Management Academy, where she received a BA degree in piano teaching and performance. Vita plays accompaniment for RIAM / ABRSM exams and has worked accompanying choirs such as Latvian choirs ‘Elvé’ and ‘Diva Voces’. She has worked in two kindergartens in Latvia as a music teacher teaching pre-instrumental classes with singing, dancing, co-ordination exercises, analyses of dynamics and tempo, pitch, and developing exercises for rhythm. As well as working well with beginners and younger children, Vita can teach up to Senior Certificate level, and a varied repertoire for more experienced students.
Kathryn Toolan Coakley
2006 – Present
Piano / Resident Accompanist
Exam Boards Taught
RIAM (Royal Irish Academy of Music)
Background
Kathryn Toolan Coakley was awarded a scholarship with the RIAM at age 11. She attended under Miss Copeman for five years and did ‘in house’ Academy exams during this time in Performance, Theory and Harmony. She was successful in Dublin Feis Ceoil, Feis Maitin and Sligo Feis Ceol at this time.
As a performer, Kathryn plays in the Powerscourt Townhouse Centre and Finnstown Castle Hotel. As an accompanist Kathryn plays in Griffeen Educate Together School once a week, accompanying the school assembly’s singing, as well as doing RIAM accompaniment for instrument and voice.
Kathryn Says
“I try to ‘pass on’ the invaluable range of techniques passed on to me by Miss Copeman, and introduce the student to a wide range of musical styles. My main aim is to instill a love of music in the student.”
Dermot Behan
2006 – Present
Guitar / Music Technology / DJ Skills
Exam Boards Taught
Trinity College London
Background
A guitar player from the age of 12 Dermot graduated Ballyfermot Senior College in Audio Production and Multimedia before starting out in recording studios working with international recording artists including Robbie Williams, U2 and Carole King. Mixing and recording sound for film and television including writing music soundtracks and remixing tracks for Irish artists including Academy Award winner Glen Hansard. He left studio work and established himself in the live music scene with high calibre tribute shows that have played all the countries major venues including The Olympia, Vicar St, The Academy and The Button Factory for over 15 years. His extensive experience has helped guide previous students who became involved in bands to success in winning competitions and headlining show cases.
In his classes Dermot teaches rock / acoustic / classical / improvisation techniques on the guitar, as well as Studio Recording and Engineering, Computer Music Composition and Production, Computer Music Systems, Live Sound for Small Venues, Audio Post Production, Music Studio Production, Sound Creation and Manipulation, and Public Performance Technology.
Dermot Says
“Each student is unique, so patience and empathy are a must to let the student progress at a pace that suits their needs and time constraints. I let them choose the songs of their favourite artists and use them as a way to explore music theory and improvisation to give them a well rounded understanding of what music is really all about. Part of that understanding includes thinking for themselves through applied knowledge, a hard habit to establish as students spend so much time just repeating what they are told in school. For younger students a sense of fun and positive re-enforcement of their ability will give them confidence and a self belief that will develop good practice habits.”
Antonio Garcia-Lopez
2010 – Present
Violin / Theory / Ensemble
Exam Boards Taught
RIAM (Royal Irish Academy of Music)
Background
With a BA in Music from the University of the Americas, Mexico, Antonio Garcia-Lopez first moved to Ireland to pursue his MA in Community Music from the University of Limerick. The strong tradition of music in Irish culture was the reason that Antonio chose Ireland, and he is well versed in Irish traditional music which he brings into his classes as well as classical music. Antonio started the Lucan School of Music’s chamber orchestra, where students can come together to learn ensemble playing skills.
Antonio is the founding member of Mariachi San Patricio (St Patrick’s Mariachi), bringing the traditional music of Mexico to the Irish audience. He arranges the music for the group who regularly play events for the Mexican Ambassador. 2016 was their biggest year yet, playing support to Jerry Fish in Vicar St, and Rod Stewart in Nolan Park, Kilkenny, and Electric Picnic!
Antonio Says
“I work with a music facilitation approach, this moves away from the traditional Teacher / Student concept. The student is an active participant in the process, not a passive receptor of the teacher’s knowledge. The student’s initiative and creativity is the most important thing and needs to be encouraged.”
Gill Carr
2012 – Present
Piano / Keyboard / Theory
Exam Boards Taught
RIAM (Royal Irish Academy of Music)
ABRSM (Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music)
LCM (London College of Music)
Background
Gill Carr has achieved the following qualifications: BMus NUIM (2:1 Honours) ARIAM Associate Teacher Diploma (RIAM), and Senior Certificate in Pianoforte (RIAM). She teaches Classical, Contemporary, Pop, Rock, and Beginners Jazz piano / keyboard styles.
As a performer Gill has been an active member of Maynooth University’s ensemble Schola Gregoriana since 2013. This included travelling to Hungary in July 2014 to represent Ireland and Maynooth University, in the V International Gregorian Chant Festival in Vac. She performed the keyboard in Jesus Christ Superstar with UCD Community Musical (2014) and in Phantom of the Opera with UCD Community Musical (2013).
Gill Says
“Every class is tailored for individual students, of all ages, to give them an understanding of music to enable them to enjoy playing at whatever level they can. Those wishing to take examination grades will cover all aspects tested in examinations; technical exercises, aural skills, theory and performance. All classes are conducted in a relaxed manner with an emphasis on enjoyment.”
Andrii Kryzhanivskyi
2017- Present
Classical Guitar / Electric Guitar / Violin / Ukulele / Theory
Exam Boards Taught
RIAM (Royal Irish Academy of Music)
ABRSM (Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music)
LSMD (Leinster School of Music and Drama)
Background
Andrii Kryzhanivskyi Graduated with Tchaikovsky National Music Academy in 2005. During studying years, he began his concert activity from the tour in Southern Italy. Since 2002 Andrii becomes a soloist of the Zhytomyr Regional Philharmonic named after S.Richter. After completing full post graduate Andrii moved to Ireland and continue his career as a performer and teacher appearing on many stages in classical and contemporary music styles. Andrii had master classes with such remarkable musicians as Paolo Pegoraro, Marco Tamayo. Andrii has received a certificate as a RIAM Spotlight Awards Teacher 2025 for his students achievements.
Andrii is professional classical/electric guitar teacher and performer with the experience since 1996. He is registered with the Teaching Council in Ireland from 2017. Andrii has guided students through national and international guitar competitions such as 1-st prize on the Classical Guitar Competition in Dublin at Feis Ceoil in April 2019 and March 2017, the 3-rd prize on the Newpark Music Festival in February 2017, 2-nd prize on the Classical Guitar Competition in Dublin at Feis Ceoil in March 2016, 3-rd prize in “Amarante” international classical guitar competition (Portugal). Andrii takes an individual approach to classes with students of different age and taste of music. As well as classical music, he can teach pop, jazz and jazz rock improvisation based on John McLaughlin School, Electric Guitar based on Steve Via and Joe Satriani schools.
His Audio CD was presented in USA on KRZA FM by American composer Richard Cameron-Wolfe. Andrii’s repertoire consists of works of composers in different epochs and styles. Andrii is known as an arranger and the first performer of new original works written by modern guitar composers such as Jo Spork and Alexander Khodakovsky. In 2021 Andrii created his transcriptions of “Acoustic Alchemy” music and published a book “Acoustic Alchemy For Guitar Duo”.
Andrii Says
“In the process of teaching and studying the most important thing is giving the maximum effort which leads to the best result. However, in performing and composition – the inspiration is the guide which should not leave even any of the audiences indifferent; furthermore it should give unforgettable elated spirit.”
Holly Packham
2021 – present
Piano and theory teacher
Exam Boards Taught
ABRSM (Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music)
RIAM (Royal Irish Academy of Music)
Background
Holly Packham has achieved her Bachelor of Music TCD (2:1 Honours), as well as completing Grade 8 in Pianoforte (RIAM) and Piano to Organ Conversion Course (RIAM). She has experience teaching both Associated Board of the Royal School of Musicians and Royal Irish Academy of Music.
Holly’s lessons are always approached in a way that best suits each student, whether they are looking for something intensive or casual. She often uses games and activities to help young students improve their understanding of music and encourage learning in a fun way.
Holly Says
“Above all, I hope to pass on my love of music and piano to every student and create a fun and positive learning environment. “
Georgia O’Toole
Voice teacher 2025 – present
Exam Boards Taught
LAMDA (London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art)
Background
With a Bachelor’s Honours Degree in Commercial Modern Music in vocals (BIMM Institute), Georgia specialised in vocals, focusing on vocal biology, technique, stylistic versatility, live performance, music production, business, and songwriting, earning distinctions across performance, technical, and style modules.
Professionally, Georgia works as a private singing teacher at Showstoppers Stage School preparing students for London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art (LAMDA) examinations and singing competitions, with a focus on vocal health, technique, and performance confidence. She is currently undertaking training with the British Association of Singing Teachers (BAST) to further refine her practice as a vocal coach. In addition, Georgia facilitates songwriting workshops in schools, guiding students in adopting a contemporary approach to composition. These sessions are designed to strengthen creative development, encourage artistic confidence, and equip students with practical tools to craft original, authentic work.
As a performer, Georgia spent five years as an alto in the National Children’s Choir, she has experience of ten years of guitar showcases featuring original and cover work, and three years with PAA (Performing Arts Academy) where she trained in singing, dance, and acting, performing in productions such as Alice in Wonderland, Grease, and Bugsy Malone. Georgia is a founding member of Porge, an alternative pop/indie band established in 2024, creating music that promotes mental health awareness and provides a safe, inclusive space for listeners. She has performed as a soloist at the Celbridge Festivals for three consecutive years.
Georgia bases her classes around five core elements (physical warm ups, vocal warm ups, technical application, stylistic application, and performance skills). This integrated approach ensures that her students cultivate both technical proficiency and the confidence necessary to grow as expressive, versatile vocalists. Above all, her classes are designed to provide a safe, constructive, and creative environment in which aspiring singers can develop their skills, build good vocal health, develop control, explore their artistry, find their individual style, and thrive in a supportive fun environment.
Georgia Says
“My aim as a vocal teacher is to support students in developing analytically, creatively, and confidently as artists. I encourage singers to think critically about their technique and musical choices so they understand not only how to sing but why particular approaches are effective, fostering independence and long-term vocal health. I prioritise creativity, creating a safe and encouraging environment where students feel comfortable exploring interpretation, improvisation, and their own artistic voice. Confidence is built through structured guidance, constructive feedback, and achievable challenges that allow students to recognise their progress and potential. “
Joce Cristovao
Acoustic Guitar / Bass Guitar / Ukulele teacher 2023 – present
Exam Boards Taught
Trinity Rock and Pop Acoustic Guitar/Bass
Rock School Acoustic Guitar/Bass
Background
Joce Cristovao is a Brazilian/Italian professional musician, session musician, and music tutor with over 13 years of teaching experience and a career in performance spanning more than a decade. Joce holds an Undergraduate Degree in Music from UCS (Universidade de Caxias do Sul), Brazil, a Postgraduation in Musical Practices and BA in Business (Ireland). Joce has built a diverse career performing across Brazil and Europe since 2012. Experienced as a sideman in live shows, dance productions, and studio recordings across multiple genres, he has collaborated with renowned artists and producers.
Now based in Dublin since 2018, Joce actively performs with respected artists and bands across Ireland while continuing to develop his solo instrumental project. As a dedicated educator, he teaches bass guitar (all levels), acoustic guitar (beginner to intermediate), and ukulele to students of all ages, both privately and through established music schools.
Joce is a resident musician in Dublin’s Temple Bar, he has recorded over 100 songs in studio, teaches at Lawless Music School (Portmarnock) and music Academy (Baldoyle) and has played with Irish YouTube sensation Allie Sherlock on her performances and videos.
Joce Says
“As a lifelong live performer who remains actively involved in the music scene, I bring real-world stage experience directly into my teaching. Performing professionally has shaped my understanding of musicianship, discipline, creativity, and confidence — and I share these lessons with my students in every class. I strongly value each student’s input and believe their voice should be heard and respected. My teaching approach is student-centred, supportive, and encouraging, with the goal of helping each individual grow both technically and musically. Above all, my mission is to inspire and share the wonderful passion for music in an engaging and meaningful way.“