Zoe Nygaard

8 Years Teaching Experience

INSTRUMENTS

VoiceAdvanced
PianoBeginner
SongwritingAdvanced

GENRES

ClassicalCountryJazzPopRock

LANGUAGES

English

Mentor Mission Statement

My mission is to guide students through the discovery and mastery of their gift with joy and purpose, creating a space built on trust, compassion, and hard work—so they can express themselves through music when words fail.

about Zoe

Zoe Nygaard knew early on that music would shape her life. At just eight years old, she was cast in the Broadway musical The Wizard of Oz, and from her first performance she knew performing was something she wanted to pursue seriously. Soon after, she began weekly voice lessons with a coach who took her goals seriously and helped lay the foundation for a focused musical journey.

At fourteen, Zoe attended a songwriting intensive at Interlochen Center for the Arts, where she discovered a deep love for songwriting. Being surrounded by other young artists helped her realize she wanted to pursue music professionally. Her path was further shaped by her late voice coach, Jennifer Kincer, whose mentorship left a lasting impact on both Zoe’s artistry and her approach to teaching.

Zoe later attended Berklee College of Music on a full scholarship. While there, she faced the challenge of catching up in music theory while navigating the high expectations of a competitive program. The experience strengthened her confidence, discipline, and resilience—qualities she now encourages in her students.
Teaching became deeply meaningful when Zoe stepped in to continue lessons for one of Jennifer Kincer’s students, eventually carrying on that mentorship after her coach’s passing.

At ROOTS Academy, Zoe focuses on creating a safe and supportive environment where students can grow in both confidence and technique. She blends healthy vocal practices with a modern, creative approach to artistry.

Outside of ROOTS, Zoe performs, writes, records, and produces music for film and television.

Teaching Philosophy

My teaching philosophy has always been centered around vocal health, mindfulness, and the development of individual artistry. I strive to set an example of gratitude, professionalism, and optimism in everything.

What’s been the highlight of your professional career — like your biggest spotlight moment to date?
“Singing in a choir for Eagles on The Hotel California Tour”

What type of student will excel best with you as his/her mentor?
“Creative, open-minded, and motivated students”

What does being a “Mentor” mean to you and why are you excited to step into this role
“Being a “mentor,” to me means showing my students how incredibly talented and capable they are through the work that we do together. I strive to set an example of gratitude, professionalism, and optimism in everything. I’m excited to step into this role because my own music mentors have made such a positive impact on my life, and it means the world to me to be able to have that opportunity now.”

What type of music did you grow up listening to? How did it influence your artistry?
“I grew up listening to the Motown, soul, and blues rock records my grandparents collected in Detroit in the 60’s and 70’s. I have a lot of their collection here with me in Nashville and I cherish them so much. Music from this era has influenced the center of who I am as a vocalist, as well as most of contemporary music today.”

Where is your favorite local spot? (Venue, restaurant, coffee shop, park, etc.)
“My favorite local spot is The Blue Room for live music”

If you could meet one author/performer/creator who would it be and what wold you ask them?
“I would love to meet Florence Welch and ask her how she keeps so much stamina on stage”

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