Victoria Taylor

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about Victoria

Born and raised in the San Francisco Bay Area, Victoria has been Teaching music to youth for over 2 decades and actively involved in performing arts since age 8. Raised on copious classical piano & vocal training, Victoria’s first solo performance was at her home church. She likes recounting her families excitement, as her first solo aired on a local radio station. This experience inspired Victoria to continue performing and later help other students pursue their various passions in music.

Throughout High School and College, Victoria sang in choirs, talent shows & bands, appearing in UC Santa Barbara & Westmont College events, where she graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree. After college, Victoria studied with vocal coach Judy Davis studios (Bammy award winner) in Berkeley, Ca. Judy Davis worked with greats such as; Barbra Streisand, Mel Torme, Bernadette Peters and Sammy Davis Jr.

Over the last 25 years, Victoria has performed in gospel, pop and musical theater productions across the US, with the likes of Bebe & CeCe Winans, Billy Cox & Mitch Mitchell (original drummer & guitarist for Jimmy Hendrix). She has also been a worship leader serving at various congregations such as Saddleback and Walnut Creek Presbytarian church, to name a few.

In 2019 Victoria performed in the Bay Area musical “Singin’ in the Rain”. Writing & performing original music is another important piece to Victorias experience, earning her ASCAP status (2005) when her music was broadcast on various radio stations Worldwide. In addition to her music, Victoria has studied acting technique with Marc Munroe productions in SF, TVI Actors Studio & Nick Dowd in Hollywood, Ca. She appeared in numerous movies, commercials & television shows such as Grey’s Anatomy, Ninja Turtles 2, House, ER & Ally McBeal. All of her performing has lead to teaching youth. Her teaching experience includes; model and talent agencies, Southcoast & Tennessee Repertory theaters (Broadway for teens) Community Arts (City of Walnut Creek)where she created “Studio Acting” & “Little Voices”, Blue Moon School of the Arts, YMCA-National Teen Camps, Creative Kids (Hairspray), Afterschool Programs, Los Angeles Institute of the Arts, California Music Studios (Teacher of excellence award) and Music Vault Academy, in the OC & LA areas.

Victoria loves sharing her passion for music and is encouraged by helping students find their own voice and creativy.

Teaching Philosophy

Do your best then rest! Work hard then play! Enjoy learning! It’s a process.

Why do you love teaching and mentoring?
“I love seeing self confidence grow! I also enjoy reaching goals individually and seeing my students perform.”

What’s been the highlight of your professional career?
“Earning my ASCAP publishing. What an honor!”

What type of music did you grow up listening to? How did it influence your artistry?
“All kinds; Rock, pop, christian, country. Barbara Streisand really influenced me in the areas of musical theater and phonetic structure. Ironically, I ended up taking voice lessons from Judy Davis (who helped Ms. Streisand put together her 1st 2 albums) and studied phonetics. Full circle moment.”

If you could meet one author, performer who would it be and what wold you ask them?
“Amy Grant- to share her testimony and journey.”

Salty Treat: Macadamia nuts

Sweet Treat: Chocolate orange sticks

Fast Food Restaurant: Chipotle

Sit Down Restaurant: Cracker Barrel

Coffee Drink: Peet’s major Dickinson pods

Movie/Show: Elvis

Place to Shop: Nordstrom Rack

Candle: Vanilla

Musician/Band: Lauren Daigle

Travel Destination: Oakland, CA

Gift cards I love to receive: Starbucks, Trader Joe’s, Mani/pedi

meet our
other music mentors
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Teaching isn't just about learning techniques. Our students are led by passionate and well-trained professionals who recognize their greater role in students' lives. To refine your search for a music mentor, select your desired instrument from the options below. 

THE ROOTS MENTOR PHILOSOPHY

Our mentors play a crucial role in shaping not just artists but well-rounded individuals equipped with a growth mindset, character, determination, confidence, and grit — skills that will serve them for a lifetime.

Beyond the Notes: Our Teaching Philosophy

Our approach to music education goes beyond the traditional. While we undoubtedly focus on developing your musical talent, we understand that life's most valuable lessons extend far beyond the notes on a staff.

Our music mentors are passionate about nurturing your artistic abilities and your personal growth.

At ROOTS, we recognize that music is a powerful vehicle for character development. Our mentors instill qualities like discipline, responsibility, and respect through the art of music. Whether you're mastering the piano or perfecting your vocals, you'll also be enhancing essential life skills.

Learning an instrument or refining your singing takes patience and perseverance. Our mentors are there to guide you through the challenging moments, teaching you the importance of determination and grit – qualities that transcend music and apply to all areas of your life.

Self-confidence is a cornerstone of success. Our mentors help you build it through music by celebrating your achievements and nurturing your self-belief. As you hit those high notes or conquer a complex piece, you'll feel your confidence soar.

When you embark on a musical journey with ROOTS, you're not just gaining proficiency in your chosen instrument. You're also acquiring essential life skills that will serve you well in your academic, professional, and personal endeavors.

At ROOTS, it's not just about the music lessons. It's about the profound impact our music mentors have on your life.

At ROOTS, we are proud to have mentors who are actively engaged in the music industry. They're not just teachers; they're performers, composers, and artists who live and breathe music. This unique perspective enriches your learning experience, providing insights that go beyond the lessons.

In the heart of Music City's vibrant music scene, ROOTS Academy mentors often balance roles as musicians and educators. While their occasional commitments on the road or in the studio may lead to mentor substitutions, we're dedicated to keeping you informed about any lesson changes. In the rare event of an unmissable touring opportunity, rest assured that our team will facilitate a seamless transition to a new mentor.

Join us today to embark on an artistic and personal journey that will shape you into the best version of yourself. Experience the difference of mentorship at ROOTS Academy — where performing arts education becomes a transformative life experience.

THE ROOTS WAY

Our mission is to develop extraordinary artists and exceptional humans through transformative performing arts education. Through music, dance, and theatre, we inspire creativity, nurture character, and empower our students to positively impact their community and the world.

mindset
matters

(How we Think)

We believe mindset shapes not just who we are in the studio, but who we become in the world.

excellence
matters

(What we Do)

We believe excellence flourishes when preparation and vision align with discipline and passion.

people
matter

(How we Act)

We believe in creating spaces where everyone feels safe to create, supported to grow, and inspired to excel.

questions?

If you have any questions about our program, please don’t hesitate to call, text or email us. We’re here to help you Monday through Friday, 10am-6pm CST.

EMILY LINDSEY – Music Director
JOSH ASHLEY – Music Operations Manager
ALEXYS HALSTENSGARD – Music Operations Coordinator
LORI KAIRDOLF – Schedule & Billing Coordinator

EMILY LINDSEY
Music Director
JOSH ASHLEY
Music Operations Manager
ALEXYS HALSTENSGARD
Music Operations Coordinator
LORI KAIRDOLF
Schedule & Billing Coordinator