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Music Staff
Meet the Keen Team of Keen School of Music.
Aaron Keen
Aaron is the Co-Founder and one of our teachers here at Keen School of Music. Aaron went to school at Vol State and MTSU for Music Composition, and has nearly two decades of teaching experience.​​
Teaches:
Piano, Guitar, Bass, Voice, Banjo, Drums, Ukulele, Songwriting, Mandolin, Harmonica, Melodica, Music Theory, Songwriting, and Violin
Adam Shea
Adam in the Co-Founder of Keen School of Music, as well as one of our teachers, and our Instrument Repair Tech. Adam went to school at McNally Smith College of Music for Guitar Performance, and has taught music lessons for over a decade. In addition to his teaching endeavors, Adam also works as the Music Director and guitarist for Ryan Daniel.
Teaches:
Guitar, Songwriting, Piano, Bass, Ukulele, Drums,
Music Theory
Ryder Smith
Ryder holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Music Composition with a focus in Jazz Piano from MTSU and teaches piano at the beginner, intermediate, and advanced levels. he works with children, teens, and adults, and lives locally in Gallatin, TN. His musical tastes include artists like Thelonious Monk, Yes, and Keith Emerson.
Teaches:
Piano, Music Theory
Full Bio Coming Soon
Emily Metcalf
Emily is a multi-instrumentalist with 20+ years on French horn, plus experience on violin, viola, trumpet, and piano. She’s also an operatically trained soprano with a background in musical theater, opera, and a cappella. When she’s not making music, she teaches ABA therapy at JoyBridge Kids.
Teaches:
French Horn, Trumpet, Piano, Vocal, Violin, Viola, Ukulele, Music Theory
James Chiodo
​James Chiodo is a Belmont-trained drummer with 20+ years of performing and studio experience. Raised in a musical family, he studied under world-class drummers and has played top Nashville venues and studios. James creates personalized, inspiring drum lessons that build confidence, spark creativity, and help students find their unique rhythm.
Teaches:
Drums | Percussion
Sarah Eitel
Sarah Eitel is a Magna Cum Laude graduate of Middle Tennessee State University with a Bachelor of Music in Industry and Jazz Guitar Studies. She teaches guitar, piano, bass, ukulele, and songwriting at Keen School of Music, working with students of all ages and skill levels. With experience in both private and group instruction across the Nashville area, Sarah is passionate about building confidence, strong musical foundations, and a lifelong love of music in every student she teaches.
Teaches:
Guitar, Songwriting, Piano, Bass, Ukulele, Music Theory
KSOM Operations Staff
Kalyn Keen
Director of Operations
Kalyn Keen is the Co-Owner of Keen School of Music and has been instrumental in the school’s operations and growth.
She earned her Associate’s degree in Entertainment Media from Volunteer State Community College in 2019 and has worked in music education management since graduating.
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Born and raised in Gallatin, Tennessee, Kalyn is proud to serve the community she calls home. She is dedicated to creating an organized, welcoming environment where students and families can thrive.
Lex Bogs
Senior Intern
Lex Bogs is a senior at Liberty Creek High School and serves as an intern at Keen School of Music.
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Her ability to connect naturally with children makes her a valued part of the KSOM team.
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Following graduation, Lex plans to pursue her Bachelor’s degree in Music Composition with a minor in Audio Production at Middle Tennessee State University.
Background Checks
All employees of Keen School of Music undergo a background check through the state of Tennessee to ensure the safety of our students.