Activator Academy Staff Bios, A vailability
We are pleased to present the bios and
schedules of our staff members. At Activator Academy, in partnership
with CROYA, we specialize in empowering young people to learn and to
bring out the best in themselves. Our qualified Music Instructors
build a positive relationship with students - allowing them to
feel encouraged, respected and valued...This in turn, helps students to
become more creative and more capable. We see GREAT potential in every
young person that enters our doors every day!
PLEASE CONTACT US AT activatoracademy@gmail.com
or call #847-477-7967 to make a reservation or to discuss placement questions.
Tony Porter- Violin, Viola, Cello and String Ensemble.
Available: Online Lessons: Monday, Thursdays, Friday's & Saturdays
Tony Porter is our string instructor at Activator Academy. Tony has performed all over the world and has mingled with the greats, including Yo-Yo Ma. He has decades of teaching experience and is a perfect choice for beginning or advanced students.
Sam Subar
Drummer / Percussionist / Piano
Live at CROYA: Available
2pm- 6pm Monday & Thursdays
Sam Subar, a native of the Chicagoland area, began playing drums at age 11. With a natural sensibility behind the kit and the ability to learn by ear early on, Sam’s relationship with rhythm and music bloomed quickly. It didn’t take long for him to realize music would be a passion he’d want to pursue for the rest of his life. Sam’s adolescent years revolved around continually improving behind the drum set through: practicing at home and taking private lessons, participating in his high school music program, and playing professionally with a variety of groups in various musical contexts both locally and internationally. After graduating high school, Sam had the great fortune of attending Berkeley College of Music on scholarship where he took his drumming to new heights and graduated with honors in 2019. Once completing his degree, Sam moved back to Chicago where he currently spends his time pursuing a freelance career in teaching, performing, producing, and djing. Sam is passionate about spreading his love for rhythm and music with others. He mentors individuals of all ages through sharing everything he’s learned and teaches the necessary techniques to open one’s heart, mind, and four-way coordination to the endless musical possibilities that exist behind the drum set.
Nick Christofalos
Drum & Beginner Guitar Teacher
Online Lessons: Available Monday's, Tuesdays, Thursdays after 3pm.
Nick has played in many cover bands and in several accomplished original, indie rock bands as a drummer. He enjoys writing original music on guitar and drums, and has spent a lot of time in the recording studio over the years. He enjoys helping young people discover a love and interest for music in many forms, and has a talent for making learning easy and lessons fun. Nick & his wife Shelia are the founders of Activator Music Academy and he has taught for over 20 years.
Michael Salgado
Guitar, Bass, Voice & Piano
Live at CROYA
Jazz to Rock!
Available Thursday's
Bio Coming soon!