Our Instructors and Staff

Dedicated Educators for the Next Generation of Artists

Meet our exceptional team of instructors and educators, renowned artists ranging from recording artists and producers to band directors and music therapists. Our teaching staff is skilled in diverse styles including Classical, Jazz, Gospel, R&B, and Rock, and they are globally recognized for their talents. With a passion for nurturing creative expressions, we are here to help you shine in your artistic journey, honoring Philadelphia’s artistic legacy and influence.

Professor Randy J. Gibson

Owner and Artistic Director, Piano & Organ Instructor

Professor Randy J. Gibson is the founder and the artistic heartbeat of our music & arts school. As the lead instructor for piano and organ, he has mentored countless students globally, guiding them to significant achievements in music and life. His wisdom and dedication have enriched many lives, fostering talents that have graced churches, concert venues, and prestigious award ceremonies.

Wilhemina Gibson

Executive Director

As Executive Director, Wilhemina Gibson oversees all operations at the Gibson School of Music & Arts, leading projects that enhance our school’s mission. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management and a minor in Accounting from Temple University. She is also an active board member of the Olney Culture Lab, further tying our school to the community.

Masha Smith

Piano, Vocal & Cello Instructor

Known as Masha-T, she is a vibrant entertainer and teacher with a global perspective. Her extensive experience spans classical orchestras to R&B and pop performances across continents. Masha-T’s dynamic approach enriches her students’ musical journeys at our school.

Shirley Baker

Office Manager

Shirley Baker manages daily operations at our school, bringing over 40 years of community involvement in Philadelphia to her role. She is also a passionate advocate for quartet gospel music, organizing numerous music events in the school and local churches and other cultural activities for the community.

Carrie Lessene

Piano, Vocal, Violin & Flute Instructor

Carrie Lessene offers extensive expertise as a music instructor and therapist, with a rich history in teaching diverse musical instruments. As Director of Music at Berean Presbyterian Church and in other roles, she has profoundly impacted our community through music.

Winston Gay

Bass and Guitar Instructor

These two words are the definitive description of legendary Philadelphia-born musician and performing artist known as Winston Gay.

Those who are unfamiliar with his music are always caught ‘off guard’. Fans who have already heard him, know to expect the unexpected. You see his face, and immediately, your mind tells you what you think you are about to hear when he opens his mouth to sing. You will be wrong at least fifty percent of the time.

Rod Berry

Saxophone, Trumpet, & Trombone Instructor

With a career of more than two decades of teaching and performance, Rod Berry’s expertise spans multiple wind instruments. A veteran of the Philadelphia music scene and an educator in our local schools, Rod brings a deep passion for music that inspires his students with every lesson they take.

Sean Tate

Art & Animation Instructor

Sean Tate combines over 20 years of experience in art and animation with a passion for teaching. A graduate of the Art Institute of Philadelphia, Sean has contributed to projects for high-profile clients like MTV and Nickelodeon. His educational approach encourages students to blend artistic techniques, like Japanese and Western animation.
For more details visit his site.

Tim Ragsdale

Upright and Electric Bass Instructor

With 25 years of guitar experience, Tim Ragsdale specializes in a broad range of music styles, from R&B to alternative rock. His engaging teaching style helps students understand the nuances of each genre and explore their creativity.

Shannon Lee

Piano & Violin Instructor

With a strong background in both Piano and Violin instruction, she brings a wealth of experience to her teaching. She holds a Bachelor of Music in Violin Performance from Seoul National University (1994) and a Master of Music in Violin Performance from Temple University (1998), where she studied under the renowned Helen Kwalwasser. Her dedication to excellence in music education has earned her the prestigious Teachers Ovation Award from the Philadelphia Youth Orchestra.

Tony Day

Drummer/Percussionist Instructor

Tony Day is a versatile drummer, percussionist, and bandleader with extensive experience across various music genres. A U.S. Army Band veteran and music educator, he has performed with top acts and led his own jazz groups. Currently, he directs the Sunday Night Jazz Concerts in Atlantic City and teaches at the Chicken Bone Beach Youth Jazz Institute.

Karena Banks

Choreographer

Karina E. Banks, a native of Harrisburg, PA, began her dance journey at age three at Sharon’s School of Dance, competing nationally until she was 18. Her training spans Jazz, Ballet, Modern, Hip-Hop, and gymnastics. She earned her BFA in dance from Temple University and further honed her skills studying modern jazz in Rome, Italy. Now based in Philadelphia, Ms. Banks works as a choreographer and artist developer for hip-hop and gospel artists.

Our Advisors

Alberta Brennan, Esq.

(2014-Present)

Carrie Lessene

(2014-Present)

Diane Mills

(2014-Present)

Nettie Williams

(2014-Present)

Lou Ambrose

(2014-Present)

LET'S MAKE ART

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