Mya Ray

2 Years Teaching Experience

INSTRUMENTS

VoiceAdvanced

GENRES

CCMClassicalCountryJazzPopRock

LANGUAGES

English

Mentor Mission Statement

My mission is to create an environment where personal and musical growth are celebrated—where students feel known, supported, and free to take risks. Through encouragement and strong technique, I hope to help students build confidence in their voices and in who they are, both on and off the stage.

about Mya

For Mya Ray, music has always been a central part of life. Growing up, she spent countless hours attending her dad’s shows as a keyboard player in bands that ranged from worship music to musicals and reggae. Those early experiences immersed her in a wide variety of musical styles and showed her how powerfully music can express emotion and bring people together.

Mya’s musical journey began with singing on her own, choosing songs in her bedroom that matched how she felt. That instinct to process emotion through music eventually led her to musical theatre, where she discovered the joy of storytelling through song. What began as a personal outlet soon developed into a serious pursuit, leading her to train across multiple vocal styles including pop, musical theater, jazz, classical, and a cappella.

Throughout her development, Mya has worked with influential mentors who recognized her potential and helped refine both her vocal technique and artistic voice. She has had the opportunity to work with acclaimed jazz vocalist and ten-time Grammy Award winner Cedric Dent and has performed on notable stages including Nashville’s historic Ryman Auditorium.

At ROOTS Academy, Mya brings both professional training and real-world experience to her teaching. She enjoys preparing students for auditions, helping them develop strong vocal technique, confidence, and stage presence. Having experienced both encouragement and rejection throughout her own journey, she is especially passionate about supporting students as they grow in confidence and discover their unique voice.

Outside of ROOTS, Mya continues performing through local gigs, auditions, and ongoing training in acting, dance, and voice.

Teaching Philosophy

My teaching philosophy is about teaching anyone how to be confident in sharing their love of music with others, and guiding them to channel their emotions into an experience that an audience can connect with.

What’s been the highlight of your professional career — like your biggest spotlight moment to date?
“My favorite career highlight was singing at the Ryman Auditorium as a fundraiser for the Ray of Light Foundation. It was an honor to be involved in such a wonderful cause, and to get to perform on a stage that has so much history behind it.”

What type of student will excel best with you as his/her mentor?
“Any student who wants to learn more about music and who wants to build confidence in their voice. I can teach a variety of styles from pop music to classical music. Putting yourself out there can be vulnerable, and I want to build an encouraging environment.”

What does being a “Mentor” mean to you and why are you excited to step into this role?
“Being a music mentor is honestly such a joy for me. I have spent a lot of time studying music from my personal mentors, and I am so excited to pass on all that I’ve learned to the next generation of musicians.”

What type of music did you grow up listening to? How did it influence your artistry?
“I grew up listening to Contemporary Christian music, Pop, Country, and even Reggae music. The wide variety of music I heard around me gave me a deeper appreciation of music, and helped me to understand the many ways music can impact people.”

Where is your favorite local spot? 
“I like to eat at Connor’s Steakhouse. I go there after band rehearsals, and it’s a fun way for everyone to decompress. I’m also a big fan of Just Love Coffee.”

When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?
“I wanted to be everything under the sun. A gymnast, a fashion designer, a pop star! You name it I did it!”

If you could meet one author/performer/creator who would it be and what wold you ask them?
“I would want to meet Celine Dion, and I would ask her what has been the best piece of professional advice she has ever received.”

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 – Music Program Manager
Marta Palombo – Music Program Coordinator
Kinsey Overdeer – Customer Experience Lead

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