Silvia Gopalakrishnan

B.A. in Music

Flute, Clarinet & Saxophone

Silvia Gopalakrishnan is a teacher, woodwind doubler, and composer from Chester, CT with a musical upbringing in fife and drum. While studying at the University of Connecticut, they earned a Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction, a Bachelor of Arts in Music, and a Bachelor of Science in Music Education.

They have performed and taught in various professional and collegiate ensembles including pit orchestra, Latin jazz band, NOLA brass band, orchestra, wind ensemble, marching band, and pep band. Apart from performing, they have composed and orchestrated music for a puppet musical, as well as instrumental chamber ensembles.

Silvia is excited to work together with students at the Middlesex Music Academy to create goals that they are excited about, and that provide them with a solid musical foundation. To work towards these goals, Silvia helps students navigate the emotions of building habits that will benefit their confidence and musicality.

Alex Kelsey

B.A. in Music

Flute, Clarinet & Saxophone

Alex is a Woodwind teacher and a Middletown native. After graduating from Ithaca College with a Bachelor's in Music Education, Alex returned to Middletown to teach and perform in Connecticut. He has been playing his primary instrument, saxophone, for over 15 years and has experience in a wide range of instruments. He has both performed and taught in a wild variety of styles and ensembles including concert bands, chamber music, marching bands, pep bands, jazz bands, solo performance, and pop music.

Alex believes that musicianship is built upon a strong foundation of technical proficiency, listening skills, and, above all, a love for music. He seeks to provide each students with fun, effective, and fulfilling musical experiences through exercises and performances tailored to them.

Maria DeFreitas

B.A. in Music

Flute, Clarinet & Saxophone

Maria DeFreitas is a saxophonist born and raised in New Hampshire. After developing a love for music at a very young age, she attended Berklee College of Music in Boston where she earned a Bachelor’s degree in Professional Music. While at Berklee, Maria studied privately with world class saxophonists and devoted much of her time to performing with multiple big bands and jazz ensembles.

She believes that a strong passion for music coupled with a solid foundation of music theory and ear training are the most vital tools for a musician. Whether it is a hobby or a career, music provides a fun and challenging outlet that you can continue to enjoy for the rest of your life. Maria is looking forward to learning and having some fun playing music with you!