Drums / Percussion
Jack Gordy
Guitar, Ukulele, Drums,
Percussion
Jack Gordy is a multi-instrumentalist who studied business and music theory at West Georgia Tech and the university of West Georgia. He specializes in stringed instruments and has had experience with percussion, brass, electronic, and wind as well. He has over three years of studio experience where he has learned to record/produce music for artists and has played live performances at venues in the surrounding Atlanta area as well as other states and cities. He's performed as a guitarists for many musical projects over the years and has not only taught instrumental work but also, he shows others how to record and produce the music they create.
James McDaniel
Drums, Percussion
James McDaniel is a Music Educator and Percussionist with a lifelong passion for music and learning. Surrounded by a musical family and church, his love for music blossomed early. From Elementary through High School, James participated in numerous band, percussion, and choral ensembles including the Carolina Crown Drum and Bugle Corps. He has a wide range of experience playing drum set, including praise music, Rock, and many R&B styles. After high school, James attended Mercer University, and later transferred to Jacksonville State University where he completed his Bachelor of Arts in Music Education. James played in many concert, percussion, jazz, and marching ensembles from Chamber Winds and Advanced Quintet to Jazz Combos and New Music Ensembles. His final year with the JSU Marching Southerners, he served as Snare Section Leader. James also toured with Phantom Regiment and Spirit of Atlanta Drum Corps. James began teaching percussion upon high school graduation, working with numerous local high schools. While finishing his degree at JSU, he helped develop the marching percussion program at Carrollton High School. The indoor drumline program at Carrollton rose to national ranking, finishing 10th at WGI Scholastic A World Finals. James is the Director of Percussion at East Paulding High School.
Eleye Mostai
Drums
Eleye Mostai, a drum instructor with a lifelong love for percussion. I’ve spent my entire career teaching drums, and nothing brings me more joy than working with children and adults with a desire to learn music. I’ve always believed that music has the power to inspire and transform, and I strive to make drumming fun and accessible for young learners and adults. My teaching style is rooted in patience, creativity, and enthusiasm, and I take pride in helping others build confidence and skill as they discover their own rhythm. I've played in many groups in my career - most recently I am performing locally and regionally with The Venus Kings. Watching my students grow and develop through music is what drives me every day.
Dr. Michelle Thomas
Brass, Winds, Percussion, Drums
Dr. Michelle Thomas served five years as Assistant Band Director at McIntosh High School in Peachtree City Georgia and has just completed her PhD in music education at Georgia State University. Mrs. Thomas is a native of Peachtree City and alumna of McIntosh High School. She holds a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Music Education from Jacksonville State University in Jacksonville, Alabama. During her career Mrs. Thomas has served as a percussion instructor for Weaver High school and McIntosh High School. She has taught private lessons in trombone, percussion, and euphonium for many years. Mrs. Thomas has performed as a Marching Southerner, Symphonic band, and A Cappella choir member. She currently performs with the Peachtree Wind Ensemble and the Peachtree Wind Ensemble Brass Quintet.
She would like to thank her family, friends and husband for always being her support system. She is happy to have joined the teaching staff at The Music Garden and is looking forward to sharing her talents as an educator and musician with her students.