Staff
“The best way to get past any barrier is to come at it from a different direction, which is one reason it is useful to work with a teacher or coach”
– Anders Ericsson
Ryan Harring
Associate Director of Bands and Orchestra
Mr. Harring began teaching at J. W. Mitchell High School in 2016, where he started as the associate Band Director. In 2017, he started the J.W. Mitchell High School Orchestra, the second high school orchestra program in the county, and the first one in West Pasco. Since then, the Orchestra program has continued its development, growing in size and musical standards. Mr. Harring received his Bachelors Degree in Instrumental Music Education from the Florida State University, where he graduated Magna Cum Laude. While studying music, he performed with numerous performing ensembles inside and out of the university, including the FSU Symphonic Band, the Renegade Four Trombone Quartet, the FSU Scottish Ensemble, The FSU Old Time Ensemble and the FSU Marching Chiefs. Mr. Harring has also performed with the high level drum corps Carolina Crown and Phantom Regiment. His class responsibilities include teaching the Marching Band, Concert Band, Symphonic Band, AP Music Theory Class and leading the Orchestra Program.
Private Lessons Studios
To enjoy making and sharing your music with other people requires practice. The more a student practices, the more comfortable you become, and the more fun that you have! The best way to practice is by following specific, deliberate practice goals from a musical professional on your instrument. We have multiple contacts in our area that are willing to provide private instruction to YOUR student.
Kathryn Mihalyo is a professional Violist living in the Wesley Chapel area. She is an experienced string teacher, having taught professionally as a public school Orchestra teacher for over twenty years. She offers lessons on all string instruments, and hosts her lessons on campus. You can reach her at mihalyostrings@yahoo.com
Renee Knight is a professional violinist and composer in the New Port Richey area. She is an active teacher, trained in the Suzuki violin technique. She teaches both violin and piano students during the school day, and after school. To contact her to set up a lesson, email reneeknight555@gmail.com
