Belleville - Theory Lessons

Kyle DiTomaso

Kyle began his musical journey at the age of 12 with the Sea Cadets in Belleville, where he developed a passion for brass instruments ranging from tuba to trumpet. Since then, he has built a diverse performance career, playing with ensembles such as The Commodores, The Frank Howard Orchestra, The Quinte Symphony, The Nepean All-City Jazz Band, and the 8 Wing Brass & Reed Band.

Today, Kyle is an active performer in the Quinte area, playing with Cue The Funk, Brass Action, The Hastings County, the Trenton and Belleville Concert Bands, and the 8 Wing Band, along with many other local projects.

In addition to his performance experience, Kyle manages the Lesson Centre and Band & Orchestra department at Long & McQuade in Belleville. He is passionate about helping students of all ages find the right teacher, instrument, and pathway to achieve their musical goals. His future aspirations include directing a concert band and continuing to share his love of music through both performance and promoting music education.

Contact Kyle directly at:
E:[email protected]
P:343-600-0125
Snail Mail:
Long & McQuade Lesson Centre
28 Roy Boulevard
Belleville, Ontario
K8N 0L9

Jimmy Rodgers (Guitar, Ukulele, Mandolin, Merlin, Bass Guitar, Theory)

Online Lessons:

Teaching Day(s): Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday

Jimmy began playing guitar at around 12 years old and has been immersed in music ever since. Growing up in a musical family, he learned by watching and playing alongside relatives, which helped him develop a strong foundation and a deep love for music. Over time, his curiosity and dedication led him to explore a wide range of stringed instruments, expanding both his skills and his musical reach.

A passionate performer, Jimmy is well known in the Hastings and Quinte regions as one half of the popular local duo The Rodgers Boys. He also showcases his talent as the lead guitarist for the rock band Beyond the Call, gaining valuable live performance experience that he brings into his teaching.

Jimmy’s approach to instruction is flexible and student-centered. He tailors each lesson to the individual, regardless of age, level, or musical background. His teaching is not limited to any one genre—instead, he focuses on helping students reach their goals, whether that means understanding complex music theory or simply learning to play their favorite chords.

“Meeting people at their level is my main focus in teaching,” Jimmy says, and that commitment is reflected in every lesson he gives.

Lesson Rate: $29 per half-hour session.

Jimmy offers private music lessons on acoustic and electric guitar, bass guitar, mandolin, ukulele, Merlin, and banjo to students of all ages at Long & McQuade Belleville.

Joëlle Turner (Voice, Piano, Ukulele, Songwriting, Theory, Recording, Guitar)

Online Lessons:

Teaching Day(s): Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday

Want to sing or play your favorite songs with confidence? Joëlle offers personalized music lessons in voice, piano, guitar, and ukulele—specializing in Pop, R&B, Lo-Fi, Folk, and Rock. Whether you're a total beginner or looking to take your skills to the next level, Joëlle will meet you where you are and help you grow from there.

Passionate about creativity and self-expression, Joëlle also offers guidance in songwriting and music production. Lessons can include hands-on time in a cozy, welcoming studio—designed to support students as they explore their unique sound and bring original songs to life in a comfortable, creative environment.

With over 20 years of teaching experience and more than 30 years in performance, songwriting, and recording, Joëlle brings a wealth of knowledge to every lesson. They hold a Bachelor of Music in Jazz Performance (Voice) from the University of Toronto and continue to deepen their expertise by studying vocal anatomy and pedagogy with renowned educator Dr. Shannon Coates.

Joëlle is also an active recording artist. With their band Ten Moon, they are releasing four new singles this year—catch them on tour this August!

Lesson Rate: $30 per half-hour session.

Mark Chartier (Guitar, Bass Guitar, Ukulele, Theory, Looping)

Online Lessons:

Teaching Day(s): Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday

Mark began playing music at the age of 12 and has spent the past 45+ years traveling, performing, and developing his skills across North and South America. With decades of experience on both acoustic and electric instruments, Mark brings a rich musical background and a flexible teaching style to every lesson.

He specializes in tailoring lessons to each student’s goals, whether that means playing by ear, learning songs, understanding theory, or reading standard notation and tablature. His approach works for beginners just starting out, as well as more advanced players looking to expand their technique and musical knowledge.

In addition to teaching, Mark continues to write, practice, and record original music from his home studio. His passion for music is lifelong, and he’s dedicated to helping others explore the joy and creativity that music can bring. For those who prefer, lessons can also be taught in French or Spanish.

Lesson Rate: $29 per half-hour session.

Mark Chartier offers private music lessons on guitar, bass guitar, and ukulele to students of all ages at Long & McQuade Belleville.

Spencer Barriage (Piano, Theory, Ear Training)

Online Lessons:

Teaching Day(s): Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday

Spencer began studying piano at age 11 through the Royal Conservatory method. His musical journey quickly progressed before pursuing formal music studies at Western University, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Music and Philosophy.

After completing his degree, Spencer worked overseas with the Daegu Theatre Group in South Korea as a piano accompanist and musical director. Upon returning to Canada, he continued to teach privately, perform with local bands, and collaborate with theatre groups across the region.

Spencer's lessons are tailored to each student’s goals—whether that’s preparing for RCM certification, building strong technique, improving ear training, or simply enjoying the process of learning music. His well-rounded, goal-oriented approach ensures that students build both skill and confidence as they grow.

Lesson Rate: $30 per half-hour session.

Spencer offers private music lessons in piano, Royal Conservatory of Music (RCM) exam preparation, theory, and ear training to students aged 7 and up at Long & McQuade Belleville.