Staff, Music Learning Band

The Music Learning Staff are the most dedicated musicians and educators in Texas. Each of our band directors has the heart of a teacher and the experience of a world class musician, combined to give your child the most rewarding band experience imaginable. Our office staff members are also committed to providing outstanding support to parents, students, and our teachers. With 11 different directors and more than 250 cumulative years of experience, the Music Learning staff is ready to help your child love band as much as we do.

Jerry Bishop – Founder & CEO, Drum & Percussion

972-499-0831 ext. 111

Mr. Bishop co-founded Music Learning in 1984. He attended the University of North Texas where he played with the One O’clock Lab Band.

E-Mail Mr. Bishop

Ken Utz- Vice President of Operations, Trumpet & Brass

972-499-0831 ext. 112

Mr. Utz is the first Music Learning Alumnus to join the Music Learning Staff. He joined the staff in 1999. While at the University of North Texas, he was a member of the Concert Band and numerous Lab Bands.

E-Mail Mr. Utz

Suzie Llewellyn – Office Manager & Billing Coordinator

972-499-0831 ext. 130

Mrs. Llewellyn is a great addition to our staff. She is available in the office to help answer questions about upcoming concerts, registration, tuition, Saturday Band, and more.

E-Mail Mrs. Llewellyn

Josh Chiuminatto – Band Director, Alto Sax, & Woodwind

972-499-0831 ext. 125

Mr. Chiuminatto is yet another Music Learning alumnus who began teaching with our program beginning in the summer of 2013. Mr. Chiuminatto, a Bishop Lynch Alumnus, attended the University of Arkansas at Monticello, earning a degree in music..

E-Mail Mr. Chiuminatto

Katrina Chiuminatto – Band Director, Flute, & Woodwind

972-499-0831 ext. 114

Mrs. Chiuminatto is another Music Learning Alumnus who has joined the Music Learning Staff. She attended the University of North Texas where she was a member of the flute choir, summer lab band, and symphonic band.

E-Mail Mrs. Chiuminatto

Chris Cullen – Band Director, Trumpet, & All Brass

972-499-0831 ext. 123

Mr. Cullen is also a Music Learning Alumnus who has returned to teach as a member of our staff. While attending University of Texas at Arlington, he was an active member of their jazz ensembles.

E-Mail Mr. Cullen

Shelby Denton – Band Director, Clarinet & All Woodwinds

972-499-0831 ext. 128

Mrs. Denton brings much excitement and enthusiasm to the Music Learning Staff. Mrs. Denton attended the UT Arlington earning a degree in music education. She performed as part of the marching band and drumline. .

E-Mail Mrs. Denton

Christian Dorn – Band Director, Drumset, & Drumline

972-499-0831 ext. 127

Mr. Dorn is a Music Learning alumnus who has assisted with Spring Tours, Band Camps, Saturday Rehearsals, and other special events since the summer of 2010. Mr. Dorn will join our staff as a full time band director in the summer of 2015.

E-Mail Mr. Dorn

Tom Faver – Band Director, Guitar, Bass, & All Brass

972-499-0831 ext. 115

Mr. Faver joined the Music Learning Staff in 1985. He attended the University of North Texas and the University of Texas at Arlington and played in lab bands at both schools.

E-Mail Mr. Faver

Christine Ladner- Choir Director, General Music

972-499-0831 ext. 131

Mrs. Ladner

joined the Music Learning Staff in 2017. While at SLU, Christine performed in band, choir, and several opera productions. Christine continues to remain an active cantor and professional vocalist in multiple Dallas Diocesan churches and through the Praise and Worship ensemble, R.A.Y.N.

E-Mail Mrs. Ladner

Chris Milyo – Band Director, Saxophone, & All Woodwinds

972-499-0831 ext. 126

Mr. Milyo joined the Music Learning Staff in 2015. Pursuing his masters degree from the University of Texas at Arlington, Mr. Milyo is an active performer within the DFW metroplex.

E-Mail Mr. Milyo

Myles Tate – Band Director, Keyboard, & All Brass

972-499-0831 ext. 122

Mr. Tate joined the Music Learning Staff in the fall of 2012. Mr. Tate brings a wealth of knowledge to our students with his experience as a professional jazz musician in both the Chicago & Dallas areas.

E-Mail Mr. Tate