Marilyn Doore

4 Years Teaching Experience

INSTRUMENTS

VoiceAdvanced
PianoBeginner

GENRES

CountryJazzPop

LANGUAGES

English

Mentor Mission Statement

My mission is to instill a lifelong love of music and the arts by meeting students exactly where they are, creating a safe and encouraging space to grow, and helping them understand that every voice has value and a place in the musical world.

about Marilyn

Marilyn Doore knew early on that music would be more than a pastime — it would be a calling. As a child, she was captivated by musical variety shows on TV. By second grade, Marilyn already knew she wanted to earn a living singing. Music wasn’t just entertainment: it was possibility!

Growing up surrounded by instruments, Marilyn taught herself to read music on the family piano and organ before formally choosing guitar at age eleven. She loved that the guitar allowed her to accompany herself anywhere, often becoming the soundtrack to family camping trips around the fire. Singing, however, was always at the center. With a naturally powerful voice and steady encouragement from those around her, Marilyn embraced her musical identity early on.

One of the most influential mentors in her life was her voice teacher in New York City, Liz Caplan. Even after Marilyn had earned her college music degree, Liz helped her unlock a freer, stronger voice and discover that teaching was one of her greatest gifts. That experience shaped Marilyn’s belief that every voice deserves encouragement and opportunity.

Marilyn has been in several regional productions in CT, NY and WI including “The Pirates of Penzance”, “Little Shop of Horrors”, “The Lion King”, “Merrily We Roll Along” and “The Music Man” and has performed in many professional musical revue shows, professional choirs and done solo studio work in NYC.

At ROOTS Academy, Marilyn focuses on building confidence through healthy vocal technique, consistent practice habits, and a supportive learning environment. Her certification in Vocology through NYU allows her to guide singers of all levels in developing strong, sustainable voices.

Outside of ROOTS, Marilyn performs, works as a Guest Teaching Artist with TPAC, and continues exploring the evolving art of the voice.

Teaching Philosophy

I believe in creating a safe space where students feel free to express their vulnerabilities. The voice is an instrument of the entire body so any held tension is heard in the voice. Once students feel safe, they relax both physically and emotionally so the breath – which is key to supporting the voice – is then free to move. My goal is to have each student recognize and relearn muscle memory, producing a more relaxed instrument in all parts of their range while retaining their authentic sound.

What’s been the highlight of your professional career — like your biggest spotlight moment to date?
“I was called back for a second audition for Camelot on Broadway. That was pretty exciting!”

What type of student will excel best with you as his/her mentor?
“I think anyone who has a passion for music and really wants to feed it is a great fit for me. I sing and teach anything from country to rock, jazz standards to R&B as well as musical theater and contemporary Christian. And I love working with all ages, including teens and adults! I also teach beginning piano. I want to show students what music can do for them.”

What does being a “Mentor” mean to you and why are you excited to step into this role?
“‘Mentor’ is defined as a trusted guide or experienced advisor. I have been doing this thing called music since I was 5 and I love to share the experience and knowledge I have with others who are finding their way. It’s a right of passage that can be made painful with poor guidance, or super fun and exciting with someone passionate and I want to be that person for students!”

What type of music did you grow up listening to? How did it influence your artistry?
“I listened to mostly Top 40 , R & B and Rock & Roll while growing up. My dad loved Country so I heard that often as well. These genres gave me a feel for rhythm and the diversity of sound in the instrumentation and vocals. I listened carefully to voices and copied the nuances of each one so that I was a diversity of sound as well.”

Where is your favorite local spot? (Venue, restaurant, coffee shop, park, etc.)
“I love spending time hiking in the Warner Parks or watching a sunset at Harlinsdale Farm. For live music, I go to American Tap House in downtown Franklin or The Listening Room in Nashville.”

What is your go-to Karaoke song?
Independence Day by Martina McBride or I Will Survive by Gloria Gainor

When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?
“I definitely wanted to be a jingle singer!”

If you could meet one author/performer/creator who would it be and what wold you ask them?
“Garth Brooks. I would ask him what he thinks his pivotal moment was when he knew he would be able to make a living doing music.”

THE ROOTS MENTOR PHILOSOPHY

Our mentors play a crucial role in shaping not just artists but well-rounded individuals equipped with a growth mindset, character, determination, confidence, and grit — skills that will serve them for a lifetime.

Beyond the Notes: Our Teaching Philosophy

Our approach to music education goes beyond the traditional. While we undoubtedly focus on developing your musical talent, we understand that life's most valuable lessons extend far beyond the notes on a staff.

Our music mentors are passionate about nurturing your artistic abilities and your personal growth.

At ROOTS, we recognize that music is a powerful vehicle for character development. Our mentors instill qualities like discipline, responsibility, and respect through the art of music. Whether you're mastering the piano or perfecting your vocals, you'll also be enhancing essential life skills.

Learning an instrument or refining your singing takes patience and perseverance. Our mentors are there to guide you through the challenging moments, teaching you the importance of determination and grit – qualities that transcend music and apply to all areas of your life.

Self-confidence is a cornerstone of success. Our mentors help you build it through music by celebrating your achievements and nurturing your self-belief. As you hit those high notes or conquer a complex piece, you'll feel your confidence soar.

When you embark on a musical journey with ROOTS, you're not just gaining proficiency in your chosen instrument. You're also acquiring essential life skills that will serve you well in your academic, professional, and personal endeavors.

At ROOTS, it's not just about the music lessons. It's about the profound impact our music mentors have on your life.

At ROOTS, we are proud to have mentors who are actively engaged in the music industry. They're not just teachers; they're performers, composers, and artists who live and breathe music. This unique perspective enriches your learning experience, providing insights that go beyond the lessons.

In the heart of Music City's vibrant music scene, ROOTS Academy mentors often balance roles as musicians and educators. While their occasional commitments on the road or in the studio may lead to mentor substitutions, we're dedicated to keeping you informed about any lesson changes. In the rare event of an unmissable touring opportunity, rest assured that our team will facilitate a seamless transition to a new mentor.

Join us today to embark on an artistic and personal journey that will shape you into the best version of yourself. Experience the difference of mentorship at ROOTS Academy — where performing arts education becomes a transformative life experience.

THE ROOTS WAY

Our mission is to develop extraordinary artists and exceptional humans through transformative performing arts education. Through music, dance, and theatre, we inspire creativity, nurture character, and empower our students to positively impact their community and the world.

mindset
matters

(How we Think)

We believe mindset shapes not just who we are in the studio, but who we become in the world.

excellence
matters

(What we Do)

We believe excellence flourishes when preparation and vision align with discipline and passion.

people
matter

(How we Act)

We believe in creating spaces where everyone feels safe to create, supported to grow, and inspired to excel.

questions?

If you have any questions about our program, please don’t hesitate to call, text or email us. We’re here to help you Monday through Friday, 10am-6pm CST.

Emily Lindsey – Music Director
Josh Ashley – Systems & Strategy Manager
Marta Palombo – Music Operations Coordinator
Kinsey Overdeer – Scheduling Coordinator

EMILY LINDSEY
Music Director
JOSH ASHLEY
Music Operations Manager
ALEXYS HALSTENSGARD
Music Operations Coordinator
LORI KAIRDOLF
Schedule & Billing Coordinator