Daniel S., Guitar Student

“I am so proud of what Daniel has accomplished in his time here at Roots. From the first guitar lesson we had together, I knew that he was incredibly passionate about music, and already very talented as a singer and guitar player. Every week, he comes in prepared for his lesson, and equally prepared for any challenge I try to throw his way. As talented as he is as a musician, he is equally as humble and genuinely a great person to get to hang out with each week. It is such a pleasure to be a part of his musical journey and I am excited to see what he accomplishes in the new year ahead of us.”

– Kevin Dempsey, Mentor

Kevin Dempsey, Guitar Mentor

“When I think of Kevin, one word comes to mind: consistent. Kevin has a positive attitude toward seemingly everything, and that shows in how he mentors his students too. Even throughout this crazy pandemic year through the transition to virtual learning and back into the studio, Kevin continued to create a quality and positive learning experience helping his students grow and learn in new ways. I’m so thrilled to get to honor Kevin this month and celebrate the person and mentor that he is!”

– Emily Lindsey, Music Director

Our Junior Company Acro class is made up of ROOTS competitive dancers ages 9-12…and this class is no joke! Each week, these dancers are challenged to push themselves past their limit, be fearless in the pursuit of their goals, and encourage each other along the way.

“I am the luckiest teacher on the planet. Not only do the Acro students in my class encourage, love, and inspire one another… they have also learned to lead each other with compassion and grace when someone’s feeling down.” – Jordan, ROOTS Mentor

Kaitlyn McDermitt was born and raised in Jackson, New Jersey. She began her classical training at the Academy of Dance Arts, where she was a successful candidate of the Royal Academy of Dance examinations. Fun fact…she’s a certified barre/TRX/flexistretcher instructor!

Joslyn Evans has trained in Contemporary/Modern, Ballet, Jazz, and Tap Dance. It is Joslyn’s mission to create space for students to thrive in the art of dance. She believes dance is an empowering tool and hopes to use dance to inspire and empower children of all ages.