About The Mini School of Music
The Mini School of Music was established in January 2024 and has quickly grown into a full creative studio!
The 1200 square-foot space includes:
- Three lesson rooms
- Digital pianos with grand piano hammers, which means the feel and touch of the weighted keys are identical to that of a grand piano. The volume can be adjusted, but otherwise, this piano exactly mimics a 'true' piano
- Professionally crafted acoustic panels
- A theory area in each room, equipped with flashcards, theory work pages, and activity books
- A sensory-friendly waiting room with toys, books, colouring, puzzles and games - a perfect place for siblings to wait, do homework, or relax during lessons
We invite you to check out the space and decide if it's the right place for your child's musical journey! Remember: your first lesson is free to give you the opportunity to decide if this studio is the best fit for you!
The Mini School of Music is a music studio designed for everyone. Our focus is on creating sensory-informed music lessons that are fun, exciting, and accessible for students of all ages, abilities, and learning styles. Each of our teachers focuses on encouraging their students and helping them build confidence through positive reinforcement, support, and a positive attitude. At The Mini School of Music, students feel pride in their accomplishments while developing skills that will last a lifetime - and they have a blast at every lesson!
Dominique Lalama
Founder/Piano, Voice, Early Childhood Music Teacher
I've been a private music instructor since 2018 and have experience teaching students from 6 months to 80 years old!
I am a graduate of the University of Toronto's jazz program, where I earned an Honours Bachelor of Music in Jazz Performance (Vocals). I received Grade 8 Theory and Piano Certifications from the Royal Conservatory of Music by age 14 and am currently working on Grade 9 material. I also completed an Early Childhood Educator course, and I plan to continue my education with additional courses in this field.
My biggest goal is to help students see that music is not only educational, it's also SUPER fun. I focus on uplifting my students, supporting them, and helping them tackle challenges with compassion and encouragement!
My lessons are open to students of all ages, abilities and learning styles. Let's make some music!
Music Education
Honours Bachelor of Jazz Performance Vocals
2016-2020
University of Toronto
Grade 8 Piano Certification
2011
Royal Conservatory of Music
Grade 8 Theory Certification
2012
Royal Conservatory of Music
Our Team
Paisley Perrett
Piano, Voice, Early Childhood Music Teacher
I’m a passionate music educator and vocalist with a Bachelor of Music in Voice from the University of Lethbridge. I’ve been teaching music lessons since 2019, working with students of all ages - from infants to adults.
With experience in piano, voice, theory, and composition, I strive to make music both accessible and enjoyable. My teaching approach is supportive and encouraging, helping students grow their skills while building confidence and creativity.
Whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to refine your abilities, I’m excited to guide you on your musical journey. Let’s make learning music fun and rewarding!
Music Education
Bachelor of Music, Voice
2019 - 2024
University of Lethbridge
Grade 8 Vocal Certification
2016
Royal Conservatory of Music
Calistra Nair
Piano, Early Childhood Music Teacher
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Hi, I’m Calistra! I have a degree in Music Education from the University of Victoria and have spent many years teaching music to students from Kindergarten to Grade 6. During that time, I taught everything from singing and theory to recorder, ukulele, and a mix of classroom instruments. Currently, I am a grade 5/6 teacher.
My teaching style is all about creating a fun, positive space where students feel comfortable taking risks, being creative, and growing their skills. I love helping students discover what they enjoy about music and making each lesson something they look forward to.
Education
Bachelor of Music
2010 - 2014
University of Victoria
Bachelor of Education
2014 - 2016
University of Victoria
Montessori Early Childhood Diploma
2021
North American Montessori Center
Simrita Tiwari
Junior Piano, Early Childhood Teacher
I am a dedicated teacher with a passion for sharing the joy of music with students of all ages.
I have been studying piano for more than 10 years, and I am currently working towards my RCM Grade 8 Piano and Theory certifications. I have also been trained on various other instruments like voice, clarinet, and trombone, and I have lots of experience working with children.
Focusing on confidence and creativity, I tailor my lessons to each student’s goals and skill level, helping them develop technique, musicality, and a love for music. Whether teaching a beginner or a more advanced student, I am committed to creating a supportive and inspiring learning environment.
Music Education
Grade 8 Piano Certification
Ongoing
Royal Conservatory of Music
Grade 8 Theory Certification
Ongoing
Royal Conservatory of Music
Chloe Patrick
Voice, Piano Teacher
I’m a vocalist, theatre performer, and passionate music educator who loves helping students discover the joy of making music. I’ve been involved in music since childhood, attending music-focused schools from Grade 5 through high school, where I sang in multiple choirs and performed in musical theatre productions.
I hold a Bachelor of Education and a Bachelor of Drama from Queen’s University, where I developed a strong foundation in teaching, performance, and creativity. I’ve also taught in a variety of educational settings, working with children of all ages and abilities, and I’m thrilled to bring that experience into the music classroom.
My teaching style is encouraging, patient, and tailored to each student’s needs. Whether it’s a young child learning their first piano notes, a budding singer finding their voice, or a student preparing for a performance, my goal is to make every lesson both engaging and confidence-building.
Let’s learn, create, and make music together!
Education
Honours Bachelor of Dramatic Arts
Queen's University
Bachelor of Education
Queen's University
Annette Tsang
Piano, Early Childhood Teacher
I have been actively pursuing my studies in piano performance throughout Europe, Asia, and North America. I hold both a Bachelor’s and a Master’s degree in Piano Performance from McGill University. Throughout my studies, I have participated in numerous masterclasses and summer festivals and worked under the tutelage of distinguished pianists, including Kyoko Hashimoto, Marina Mdivani, André Laplante, Stéphane Lemelin, Margit Haider-Dechant, and more.
I currently work as an orchestral librarian with the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra while continuing my work as a pianist and educator. I have been involved in SSHRC-funded research examining the relationship between aging and musical identity, with a particular focus on the role of music in shaping “possible selves” in older adulthood. This work informs my pedagogical approach and my commitment to fostering sustained musical engagement across generations.
I am dedicated to cultivating thoughtful musicianship and creating meaningful intergenerational music-making opportunities within both educational and community settings.
Music Education
Bachelor of Music , Piano Performance
2018
McGill University
Master of Music, Piano Performance
2022
McGill University