INSPIRATION THROUGH MUSIC

Malik G. Burks grew up playing drums in church, and he also joined the percussion section in 5th grade at Shaker Heights Schools. Malik continued playing percussion all the way through 12th grade graduation, and in that time he and his classmates were gifted an opportunity of a lifetime to play overseas in Istanbul, Turkey and its surrounding cities. Thereafter, he proceeded to complete the Traditional Theory course at Tri-C. Malik taught music at Rainey Institute from 2014-2020, and now he is currently teaching with Arts Reaching Kids Inc. Malik found a passion for helping others learn various percussion instruments whilst teaching music theory as well!

Keyboard & Voice Teaching Artist

A committed third-year music education major, Alyssa is deeply passionate about breaking down barriers to music and championing inclusivity within the musical realm. Alyssa’s foundation in classical and jazz music has not only shaped their academic journey but has also fueled their enthusiasm for diverse musical expressions.

Having taken center stage in several bands, Alyssa has honed their skills as a versatile musician and performer. Beyond the spotlight, their commitment extends to the community. Alyssa has actively engaged with music education programs across Cleveland, Ohio, striving to make the transformative power of music accessible to all.

Whether conducting workshops, collaborating with local initiatives, or participating in musical outreach, Alyssa’s goal is to contribute to a vibrant, inclusive musical landscape. Through their experiences and dedication, Alyssa aims to inspire a love for music and ensure that it resonates with people from all walks of life.

Guitar Teaching Artist

Daniel Rodríguez is a Costa Rican musician, specializing in guitar and percussion.

As a student, he was part of the UCR Guitar Orchestra and UCR Percussion ensemble, with which he played in the most important venues in Costa Rica, as well as on various international tours in Nicaragua, Argentina (Festival Guitarras del Mundo 2012), Mexico and the United States. Masterclasses and advanced instruction include notable teachers, such as Rafael Aguirre, Roland Dyens, Fernando Meza, Marvin Diz, Bokyung Byun, among others. Also, he became a finalist in the “IV Vivace” International Guitar Competition held in Lima, Peru in 2013.

Mr. Rodríguez served on faculty as a teacher in highly regarded institutions in Costa Rica, such as the University of Costa Rica (UCR), Music Education National System (SINEM), and UCCART, among others.

As a performing artist he accumulates wide experience, having worked with the Heredia Concert Band, the University of Costa Rica Symphony Orchestra (OSUCR), the Cartago Municipal Symphony Orchestra (OSMC), indie band YAU, Cleveland Ballet, as well as a freelance musician.

He holds Graduate degrees in music with Emphasis in Percussion and Guitar, both from the University of Costa Rica, where he studied with maestros Luis Zumbado, Jorge Luis Zamora, Ramonet Rodríguez, Manrique Méndez and Ricardo Alvarado. In 2022, he earned a Teaching Degree at San Marcos University (Costa Rica). He currently studies at the Cleveland Institute of Music with Professor Jason Vieaux and works for the Cleveland Classical Guitar Society and the Center for Arts Inspired Learning.

Violin Teaching Artist

Ethan Sheils is the violin instructor for Inspiration Through Music, with sessions at Cudell Recreation Center and Thurgood Marshall Recreation Center.

Ethan taught instrumental and classroom music from 1998-2006 in the Cleveland Municipal School District, where he earned National Board Certification in Early/Middle Childhood Music, and taught beginning strings and middle school bands and orchestras in the Solon City Schools from 2006-2011. Ethan has taught at The Music Settlement since 2012, delivering outreach instruction, conducting numerous string ensembles, and teaching private lessons. In addition to performing as a violinist in orchestras, string quartets, and big bands, Ethan also enjoys playing the saxophone in jazz, blues, and rock bands in the Cleveland area. Ethan earned a Bachelor of Music Education at the University of Minnesota-Duluth.