Teacher Bios
Mars Mauro Giammarco is a multi-faceted music artist whose extensive skill set encompasses songwriting, arranging, producing, recording, editing, mixing, mastering, live performance, live sound, and teaching. With over 25 years of experience, he has consistently captivated audiences, performing close to one hundred shows per year alongside some of the best musicians in Toronto and the surrounding areas. His dedication to his craft and commitment to excellence have solidified his reputation as a highly respected figure within the professional music community.
In 2025, Mars is set to redirect his focus toward his personal music career with the release of his highly anticipated new record, "Save Me." This endeavor marks a significant turning point in his journey, as he aims to further explore his creative vision and share his unique sound with a broader audience. Mars's commitment to his artistry is evident not only in his performances but also in his teaching, where he has inspired countless aspiring musicians to hone their craft.
Mars' discography showcases an eclectic mix, including rock, reggae, folk, blues, pop, hip hop, and rap, demonstrating his versatility as an artist and producer.
He contributed his talents to various projects in film and television, showcasing his ability to transcend traditional musical boundaries. His diverse experiences have enriched his understanding of the industry, allowing him to collaborate effectively with an array of artists and creative’s.
Driven by a passion for music and a relentless pursuit of artistic growth, Mars continues to leave an indelible mark on the music landscape. His energy, talent, and dedication serve as a testament to his enduring legacy, making him a prominent figure poised for new heights as he embarks on this exciting chapter of his career.
Career Highlights:
Emmy Award Winner - Selling of Innocence
Juno Nominated - The Peacemaker's Chauffeur
Juno Nominated - Jonah
Juno Nominated - Thomas Wade & Wayward
Gemini Nominated - CBC Newsworld
Gemini Nominated - Foodstuff
2025 Canadian Folk Music Award Nominated - Ashara
Recorded with Ali Campbell (UB40), Ron Sexsmith, Pee Wee Ellis (James Brown, Van Morrison),
David Swarbrick (Fairport Convention), Mike Reno (Loverboy), David G. Rose (David Wilcox),
Blake Manning (Matthew Good, Andy Kim, Tom Cochrane, Alex Lifeson),
Stuart Cameron (Crash Test Dummies); too many more to mention.
Hi there! My name is Leilana Muniz. I have had the pleasure of teaching at Hit That Note since 2016. It feels like a full-circle moment, as my first few years at the studio were as a student.
Over the years, I have earned my Grade 8 vocal and my Grade 5 violin certificates from the Royal Conservatory of Music. Along the way, I expanded my musical skills to include guitar, piano, and ukulele. With 15 years of violin experience, 12 years of guitar, 11 years of piano and ukulele, and a lifelong passion for singing, I’m extremely grateful to share my love for music with others.
I’ve had the privilege of performing in various settings since I was child, from recitals, talent shows, and band concerts to hockey games, parties, graduation ceremonies, and galas. I am currently a musician in my church orchestra.
Music isn’t just my hobby or my job - it’s my passion, and I am thrilled to be able to help my students discover and develop their own musical abilities. I look forward to accompanying you on your journey and helping you explore your full potential!
Blair Garrison is an accomplished multi instrumentalist of guitar, bass, piano, drums and voice; fluent in many styles of music. A double major student York University of Journalism and Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree. He has performed across Canada and the U.S. in a variety of different Music bands and projects and also a well versed session musician and song writer with radio and industry charting success. His diverse stylistic, definitive musical styles create signature sounds all his own.
He has been teaching private music instruction and enjoys educating students of all ages learning and help progessing in their passion for music.
Marco Marrone...Saxophones/Clarinet/Flute/Piano.
Marco is a musician and teacher fluent in many styles of music. He received a Bachelor of Fine Arts Honours degree in music from York University and a Bachelor of Education degree from the University of Toronto. A soulful clarinet and saxophone player, he has performed and continues to play with many musical ensembles throughout the GTA. He recently retired from St John Henry Newman Catholic High School in Scarborough, a position he held and loved for 35 years. As arts department head he taught instrumental and electronic music to thousands of students. As an electronic musician/composer skilled at using midi and digital applications, he has scored original music for short films and live performances. Marco has been giving private music instruction since 1984.
Hi I am Olivia De Francesco, I am 19 years old and am currently in my second year of University studying Kinesiology and Health Science. I love to play the piano, play soccer, ski but especially love teaching and educating young minds. I am so excited for this year.
Hi, my name is Serghei Grosu and I'm a professional violinist. I have practiced for 42 years and studied for 17 years, It's my central interest ever since it was introduced in to my life. In my early years I have studied and gradated as a violin performer, teacher and an orchestra conductor from a university of music for a richer idea and experience. For many years I have worked in schools to provide the children an understanding in the life of music. I have taught and trained these students on the fundamental basis of playing a violin and from there I have increased the difficulty to further develop their skill. As I violinist, I have performed in many countries such as the states, Japan, Germany, Italy, France and so forth. Through these rich cultures I have seen different styles of violin plays and from there I have expanded my skill to a substantial level. As I teach music to my pupils I introduce different styles to their liking from classical up to such as country and salon music. In doing so, my students have a better vision and taste in music. While in the field of music teaching I had been around the world performing my talents in music to several countries such as Egypt, Japan, France and so forth. I finally settled my world tour with my own CD that me and my fellow musicians have published called "Sergiu Grosu Salon Music".
JUNO Nominee and Award winning singer-songwriter and producer, Carlo Coppola crafts musical gems that transcend the generation gap.
With a style that incorporates intelligent pop, melodic rock, and heartwarming ballads, Coppola showcases his remarkable voice and superb musicianship both in the studio and on stages around the world.
Staying true to his roots is a testament to Coppola's stylistic influences while offering a fresh definitive musical statement all his own.
A top 10 San Remo finalist and a multi-talented artist and gifted performer, Coppola sings and writes in English, Italian, Spanish and French and has created the platform from which to capture the attention of audiences around the world.
Coppola continues to forge forward winning over audiences and fans, all the while continually contributing songs and music to other artist camps and film and television.
Danielle Rossi is currently enrolled in the music program at Humber College and is excited to complete her music degree. She always looks forward to teaching and watching her students grow with knowledge.
Danielle has received her grade 8 vocal certificate and cannot wait to continue achieving more! Along with her vocal achievements Danielle is currently working towards receiving her grade 8 piano certificate and is learning to conduct her own musical theatre classes. She has taken place in the Peel Music Festival where she has competed in the following categories; musical theatre, piano, and vocal. Danielle has made us proud in achieving first place each time.
Danielle loves to work with children! She started her secondary education working towards her early childhood education diploma but felt that she needed to do more. Danielle has been volunteering her time to work with children that have disabilities and realized that music and children are her calling. She decided to put the two things she enjoyed doing most together to come up with her career. Music has always been such a big part of Danielle's life that she wishes to bring the same joy upon her students.