Learn music in the key of you
Our Teachers
Nick Carione
Drummer | Guitarist | Bassist | Writer | Producer | Educator
Nick Carione has been performing, writing, and teaching music for over 30 years. As a versatile multi-instrumentalist, he plays drums, guitar, and bass, and has built a career that spans live performance, recording, songwriting, and music education.
Nick’s early years were spent performing with an original band across Ontario, gaining experience in professional studios, videos, and touring. His band enjoyed radio play and had the incredible opportunity to open on the side stage for Smash Mouth and Lenny Kravitz at Toronto’s Molson Amphitheatre, as well as sharing stages with other international artists. Later, Nick expanded his performance career by playing with corporate bands and in theatres, all while building his music school, INKEY Music School, alongside his wife Lisa.
Today, Nick is back to writing and producing original music, drawing inspiration from every genre—jazz, reggae, calypso, rock, and classical. At the same time, he continues to teach, passing on his wealth of knowledge and passion for music to the next generation.
Nick’s teaching style is dynamic, encouraging, and rooted in real-world experience. He focuses on building strong fundamentals while inspiring creativity, helping students discover their own voice as musicians. Whether guiding a beginner or mentoring an advanced player, Nick creates a fun, engaging, and supportive learning environment.
Lisa Carione
Musician | Vocalist | Piano Instructor | Co-Founder of INKEY Music School
Music has been the heart of my life for as long as I can remember. I’m a vocalist, pianist, and proud graduate of the Jazz Program at Humber College. Over the years, I’ve had the joy of performing in a wide range of vocal harmony groups and bands, experiences that have shaped me into the well-rounded musician and educator I am today.
I began teaching piano and voice when I was just 15 years old, and now, with over 30 years of experience, I still find so much joy in helping students of all ages discover their own musical voice. My teaching style is energetic, encouraging, and deeply personalized—I believe in creating a supportive space where students can grow in skill and confidence, whether they’re learning classical pieces or their favourite pop song.
At INKEY Music School, which I co-founded with my husband in the heart of Caledon East, we’ve built a vibrant, welcoming community where music education is tailored to each individual. I teach both traditional RCM piano and voice, as well as contemporary styles, helping students connect to music in a way that feels authentic and exciting.
Whether you’re just starting out or returning to music after years away, I’m here to inspire, challenge, and guide you on your musical journey.
David Carione
Musician | Bassist | Educator | Recording Engineer
A graduate of the Music Industry Arts program at Fanshawe College, David Carione brings a wealth of experience both on stage and in the studio. He offers lessons in bass guitar, drums, and recording engineering, while also providing professional recording services for artists of all levels.
David has performed with multiple bands throughout Toronto and the surrounding area, with a recent highlight being an opening performance at the legendary Horseshoe Tavern. Beyond performing, he has collaborated with a variety of artists on songwriting and recording projects, helping shape their sound and creative vision.
As a teacher, David’s style is energetic, approachable, and tailored to each student’s goals. Whether guiding beginners through their first rhythms or coaching advanced students in live performance and studio work, he inspires creativity, builds confidence, and makes learning music an exciting journey.
Rick Hopkins
Vocalist | Guitarist | Pianist | Educator
Rick Hopkins is a seasoned performer and educator with a career that has taken him across the country, sharing his talents as a vocalist, guitarist, and pianist. Over the years, he has toured extensively, performing with a wide range of acts, including a popular Supertramp tribute show, as well as collaborating with numerous local artists.
Rick has been part of the INKEY Music School family for over 20 years, bringing both his professional experience and passion for teaching to every lesson. His teaching style is interactive, fun, and student-focused. He tailors his approach to each learner—whether they’re playing for personal enjoyment, preparing for the stage, or building strong technical foundations.
With his warm and engaging style, Rick inspires confidence, creativity, and a lifelong love of music in every student he teaches.
Christopher Stephens
Pianist | Woodwind Specialist | Educator
Christopher Stephens is a versatile musician and dedicated educator with a Bachelor of Music from McMaster University and a Jazz Diploma from Mohawk College. He teaches piano as well as woodwind instruments including flute, clarinet, and saxophone, offering students a wide range of musical pathways to explore.
Beyond teaching, Chris is an active performer with his band The Link, who are currently recording their debut album. His strong background in both classical and jazz traditions allows him to prepare students for Royal Conservatory of Music (RCM) practical and theory exams from beginner through advanced levels.
Chris’s teaching style is supportive, engaging, and adaptable to each student’s needs. He encourages solid technical foundations while fostering creativity, helping students not only achieve their musical goals but also develop a genuine love of music that lasts a lifetime.
Laila Silva
Vocalist | Pianist | Student Musician
Laila Silva is a passionate vocalist and pianist currently enrolled in the Regional Arts Program at Mayfield Secondary School. She has been a dedicated student at INKEY Music School for nearly 10 years, where she has studied both piano and voice. Laila is presently working toward her RCM Level 8 piano certification, continuing to challenge herself and refine her skills.
Throughout her musical journey, Laila has performed in numerous school choirs and band ensembles, gaining valuable experience in both solo and group performance. Her dedication to music shines through in every setting—whether on stage, in rehearsal, or at the piano bench.
With her strong foundation in both classical and contemporary styles, Laila continues to grow as a versatile young musician with a deep love for performance and learning.
