Meet our Instructors
Dr. Joshua Medrano
Josh holds the Doctor of Musical Arts degree in piano performance from Louisiana State University, the Master of Music degree in piano performance from Missouri State University, and Bachelor of Music in piano performance from Texas State University-San Marcos. Uniquely, Josh did not start formal piano instruction at a young age, but began his studies at seventeen years old. With dedication, top-tier teachers, and undeniable persistence, Josh has been able to complete his formal studies and is excited to focus on teaching and sharing his passion for music with his students. While studying at the collegiate level, Josh was given the opportunity to perform and study abroad with renowned teachers, such as Yong-Hi Moon and Julian Martin at the Valencia International Piano Academy in Valencia, Spain and with Enrico Elisi and Sophia Gulyak at AmiCaFest in Grammichele, Sicily. His former teachers include, Gregory Sioles, Hye-Jung Hong, and Washington Garcia.
As a teacher and active member of MTNA, Josh believes in being adaptable during each lesson in order to better connect with each student. Attending to individual learning needs in a lesson allows for a positive and engaging musical experience that promotes appreciation for the piano and its repertory. Josh also strives for each student to play colorfully at the piano and encourages them to seek out their inner artist.
Loriana Medrano, M.M.
Loriana holds the Masters in Vocal Performance from Missouri State University, and a Bachelors in Vocal Performance from Texas State University. She also received her Music Education Certification K-12 from Louisiana State University. Most recently, Loriana taught General Music at the Elementary Level and enjoyed teaching the fundamentals of Music Education. She is a firm believer of Music fundamentals being fun, engaging, and rigorous and makes sure to incorporate these beliefs with beginning elementary pianists and vocalists. As a vocalist, she focuses on ear training, melodic phrases, and pitch recognition to create musically empathetic individuals. Loriana aims to help guide each student to find their inner love for music, perseverance in lessons, and the patience to aid in creating a lifelong interest in a music.
Brad Zurita, B.M.
With years of playing experience and a Bachelors Degree in Music, Brad brings great knowledge and passion to his teaching. He is very dedicated to helping students of all ages and skill levels discover the joy and art of playing the guitar. Throughout his journey as a guitarist, Brad has explored a wide range of musical genres, including classical, rock, flamenco, acoustic, and more. This diverse background allows him to offer a well-rounded and comprehensive approach to teaching, and creating lessons to meet the unique interests and goals of each student.
Brad's academic background in music has provided him with a deep understanding of music theory, composition, and performance techniques, which he integrates into his lessons. Whether you are a beginner looking to learn the basics or an advanced player seeking to refine your skills, Brad has the expertise to guide you on your musical journey.
Christian Briones
Christian Briones is an aspiring musician, currently attending the University of the Texas Rio Grande valley for a Bachelor in Music education. Christian has had numerous feats in musical performances during his school career! He is a proud former TMEA Texas All Stater, in which the chances in achieving is but only one percent in the whole state of Texas. As a senior in high school he contributed to the prestigious HCISD Performing arts conservatory in 2021. During his time there he obtained minor roles in the musical “Legally Blonde” and “Man of La Mancha.” In the musical “Man of La Mancha” he had the opportunity to perform a Solo. In 2021, Christian competed in a national virtual competition held during the Covid-19 pandemic and was awarded The most outstanding classical singer award. In the years 2017 and 2018, Christian performed a total of two times with the Honors performance series at New York’s Carnage Hall.
Christian now trains to become a music teacher and has the goal to start his very own music teaching studio in the future! Christian desires to inspire children to pursue their musical talents and dreams, and to prove with hard work and dedication that they can travel to new frontiers and obtain success!