We promote wellness through music education + performance

Scott purchased Tim’s Music from his good friend Tim Lawrence in 2005. He expanded it from a standard combo music store to include repairs, lessons, and more band and orchestra oriented instrument sales and rentals. He also expanded services to include road services and educational programs at local schools, bringing the business in line with his vision: to promote wellness in society through music education and performance.

“Whether we’re turning screws and straightening bent keys or selling students the correct accessories for their journey, positively influencing people is really where my passions lie.”

He has played the euphonium for over 50 years.

Melissa holds a Bachelor of music and piano performance. She taught piano lessons privately for 35 years before she and Scott bought Tim’s Music. Melissa has served as president of the Music Teachers Association of California (MTAC), Sierra branch, and is currently on the Certificate of Merit council for the state MTAC organization. She has sung in a women's ensemble for 27 years.

“I love that music is so unifying. For example, we have a ukulele student who's turning 90. Now her granddaughters and daughters have all purchased ukuleles and prepared to play “Singin’ in the Rain” for her 90th birthday! I just love that it gives them something so positive and wonderful to do together.”

In the music business for over 30 years, Tim has successfully cultivated relationships with local and national musicians as well as most leading instrument and audio manufacturers. An established leader in the Sacramento music scene, Tim has worked and collaborated with Producers, Artists, Promoters and Educators in helping to bring musical instruments and equipment into the hands of new and experienced musicians. The resident string expert at Tim’s Music, he has played and performed violin for over 40 years and is well versed in string product knowledge. When not at Tim’s Music, you will find Tim continuing his studies in the Martial Way or spending time with his family.

“Promoting wellness in society through music education and performance is ingrained in everything that we do from the ground up. It’s what drives this whole company.”

Jim oversees sales, marketing, and educational outreach for all the schools. He handles all aspects of instrument repairs from schools—from outreach, to bids and pricing, to pickup and delivery. He also purchases the store’s inventory from the manufacturers.

For over 20 years, Jim was a Band Instrument representative. While calling on stores to offer instruments, he met Scott, and the two became friends. When Scott opened up the new Tim’s Music facility, Jim saw an opportunity to join Scott and help him build the business into what it is today.

“Everyone here is trained to step into the shoes of the client. We’re here to help.”

Joshua, a Renton Technical College graduate, is an expert in brass and woodwind repair. He operated the band and orchestra repair department at another local store for three years, later moving to New Orleans to pursue his dream of playing trombone. Joshua worked as a technician at Uptown Music Exchange prior to joining the repair team at Tim’s Music. In his free time Josh loves to spend time with his wife and play trombone with his friends and fans! If you are out and about you might see Josh ripping on stage at any local venue.

“The coolest thing about repair is bringing an instrument back to life—especially an instrument that’s close to someone’s heart.”

Kennedy graduated from Sacramento State University with two Bachelors of Music in French Horn performance and music education. After training with Scott for four years, Kennedy joined the Tim's Music team in 2021, and now splits his time between repairing brass instrument and working as a sales associate on the floor.

“If you have an instrument that doesn't work, it's not a fun time. So the main thing we do for people is ease their pain.”

Korryn has been with Tim's Music since 2016 where she is an apprentice in the repair shop. She graduated from Sacramento State's School of Music in 2016 where she played clarinet, trombone, and saxophone in some of the various ensembles. Korryn also taught elementary school band for 3 years. When she isn't wearing a blue polo you can find her playing trombone at the Sacramento Republic games, doing photography, or spending time with family and friends.

“The thing that I like the most about my job is the impact it has on the person. When they go out into the world to interact with other people, they can spread that happiness.”

Taylor recently graduated from Renton Technical College in Seattle, Washington. He has an extensive musical background, having worked with Sacramento musicians from the Duke of Corps and teaching students from 4th–6th grade at many schools in the Sacramento community. He became interested in instrument repair after witnessing many students being held back by the instruments. He joined the repair team to help struggling students whose instruments didn’t function their best.

Taylor plays saxophone and clarinet.

“I love being able to be part of someone’s journey, to be part of making their horns better and give them a better experience.”

Christian Rittmann comes from a family of musicians. Following in his father’s footsteps, he has played the trumpet for almost 40 years, performing in the Sacramento Youth Band and Concord Blue Devils Drum and Bugle Corps. He has also toured the Netherlands with the Big M.I.L. Band. Most recently, Christian was a member of the Ophir Prison Marching Band and the Alpentanzer Schuplattler, a Sacramento-based Bavarian-Austrian folk music group.

Christian joined Tim’s Music in 2013, where he enjoys sharing his music passion and knowledge for music and brass instruments to all who visit the store.

Teaching experience: All brass beginner, low brass intermediate and advanced

Education: BA in Music Composition and Theory, UC Davis, MM is Music Composition and MM in Tuba Performance, CSU Sacramento

My musical journey: I started playing in the fourth grade on clarinet. When I joined band in high school, I switched to bass clarinet and then eventually fell in love with the tuba and have been playing it ever since.

Recent experience: In the fall, I play in a German oompah brass band for Oktoberfest season. I have played in regional orchestras and wind bands, brass quintets, low brass ensembles, marching bands, brass bands and much more.

"I love spreading the joy of music to everyone as a teacher and performer. When I am teaching, I try to make my students feel comfortable in their own musical journeys. I provide customized tools and techniques for each student which gives them a sense of ease in a positive working environment. As a performer, I want the audience to know that 'you can do this too!'”

Teaching experience: Flute and piano

Education: Bachelor’s degree in Instrumental Music and Masters in Music Education.

My musical journey: I started flute at age 9, then added piano in middle school. Along the way I have learned a lot of other instruments as well.

Recent experience: I sub flute and piccolo in the Folsom Lake Symphony and am a member of the Camellia City Flute Choir.

"I love music and teaching, so am grateful to do both."

Teaching experience: Acoustic guitar, Electric guitar, Electric bass, Ukulele

Education: Completed a Bachelor of Music in Music Theory and Composition

My musical journey: Started studying music in middle school through college

Recent experience: Multiple past performances. Regularly gigging around the greater Sacramento area. Currently in a community Theater production of the musical, The Spitfire Grill.

"My passion for music has always been very strong since I was a young boy. It is the only field I ever see myself working for the rest of my life. My enthusiasm for music combined with the love of sharing what I know has transformed me into the educator that I am today."

Teaching experience: Piano, Voice

Education: Master of Arts – Music Education - Piano and Voice - Saint Cecilia Conservatory of Music in the State of San Paulo, Brazil. American River College Music Education.

My musical journey: I was born in Brazil and was raised in the Latin and European cultures. Started to play the piano when I was 7 years old and my beloved piano teacher inspired and motivated me to continue my studies of classical piano and voice. Later I started to explore other styles like Pop, Folk and Latin music. I used to end my classical recitals with an exciting piece of Latin music. With over 30 years of experience in teaching piano, voice, band and choir I taught numerous students of all ages and experience levels.

Recent experience: Love to perform in Weddings and special events and I sing a cappella in my church choir as a mezzo soprano.

"My goal is to keep inspiring and motivating students with creative teaching skills and to instill in them the love of music to last a lifetime!"

Teaching experience: Professional Trumpet and French horn. Intermediate Trombone

Education: I have a B.A. in music and business and a M.M. in composition

My musical journey: Played a toy keyboard when I was 2. Violin lessons in 4th and 5th, and band instruments since 6th grade. Played jazz starting in 7th grade. Currently playing in mariachi band, symphony, independent groups, theater groups, and doing some composing and arranging for various people and groups.

Recent experience: Playing at the Mondavi center in April for the 3rd consecutive year.

"First of all, playing music is fun. It's a great way to meet people and form personal connections that can sometimes last your entire life. It's an effective way to stimulate and maintain brain function and development. It also contributes to a healthy lifestyle both physically and mentally (playing a wind instrument is comparable to long-distance running as far as heart and lung exercise). Playing shows for thousands of people is one of the best experiences in life you can have. Seeing the personal development and musical journeys of your students and friends is also one of the most satisfying experiences in life."

Jonah grew up in a musical family playing piano and trombone. He graduated from CSU, Sacramento with a degree in biology and a minor in chemistry. He worked for 15 years in dental practice management and 10 years as a dental consultant for Delta Dental Insurance Company. His passion for computers and experience with dental scheduling makes him a natural fit for the Lesson Coordinator position at Tim's Music. In his free time, you will find Jonah remodeling his house, riding his bike or working in his garden.

“I love spending time in my garden watching nature thrive under my stewardship. I grow flowers for the pollinators, have feeders for the birds and provide an organic home for everything in my garden. I feel the same fulfillment working at Tim’s Music ensuring that everyone is cared for.”

Teaching experience: Double Bass, Violin, Viola, Cello

Education: Bachelor of Music - Music performance for Double bass from University of the Pacific under Tom Derthick. Also studied with Christian McBride and David Allen Moore.

My musical journey: I started violin first when I was five and added double bass four years later. I played in jazz ensembles, fiddle groups, symphony orchestras, and baroque ensembles growing up, specializing more into orchestral and baroque playing through adulthood.

Recent experience: North State Symphony, Stockton Symphony, Apollo Symphony, Sierra Master's Chorale, Sacramento Master Singers, Modesto Symphony and Opera Modesto.

“I've always been interested in the body in motion, how movement and mechanics affect performance, and work to integrate the two, athletics and musicianship. Understanding proper posture and body exercise allows effortless performance. We do not exist separately from the music, but rather it inhabits our bodies and motions and is expressed through them.”

Teaching experience: Trumpet, Trombone, French Horn, Baritone/Euphonium

Education: I have my undergraduate degree in jazz studies from the University of Nevada, Reno and am finishing my master's degree in trumpet performance from CSU, Sacramento in June.

My musical journey: I started playing the Trumpet in 2005. My musical upbringing was through programs such as the Sacramento City Youth Jazz Band and marching programs like the Sacramento Mandarins, where I marched from 2009-2014.

Recent experience: I currently play in numerous professional ensembles and productions from the Reno Jazz Orchestra to Broadway Sacramento's Music Circus. I also play classical style in professional orchestras and even in rock and funk groups.

“My passion for music is something that has always been there with me. I am listening to and discovering music every day. It is something you can talk to a stranger about and instantly connect with somebody. You can travel halfway across the world and play songs with people that don't speak the same language as you. Educating and getting people excited about this phenomenon is always my mission. It starts with setting personal goals, listening to the greats and learning the history.”

Teaching experience: Saxophone Advanced, Flute Advanced, Clarinet Advanced

Education: I am currently completing my last semester of undergraduate studies at CSU Sacramento. I am double majoring in Music Theory and Composition, and Jazz Studies.

My musical journey: Like many, I started my musical journey in 5th grade beginning band. Once I started playing jazz in high school I began to take music more seriously and decided to pursue a career in it.

Recent experience: I currently lead my own jazz quartet along with playing in many local big bands and smaller jazz groups.

"Music education is important to me because as I was growing up playing music, my music educators were always people that I could look up to and aspire to become. I hope that I can provide that same kind of support and inspiration for my students."

Teaching experience: Flute, Piccolo, Bb Clarinet, Bass Clarinet, Soprano Sax, Alto Sax, Tenor Sax, Baritone Sax, Oboe, English Horn, Bassoon

Education: Some College - University of the Pacific (Music Education Flute focus)

My musical journey: Started musical journey playing Violin/Cello at the age 11. Later started studying flute at the age of twelve with Carole Romans assistant principal of the Stockton Symphony. Throughout my high school years I participated in the San Joaquin County Honor Band, All Northern California Honor Band, and the California All State Honor Band. In addition, I also held the position as principal flautist of the Center Valley Youth Symphony Orchestra 2009 through 2014. I later went to attend San Joaquin Delta College where I studied Clarinet with Art Holton and Flute with Angelica Nuby. After two years at Delta I went to study music education (BM) with a concentration in Flute with Matthew Krejci at the University of the Pacific, Conservatory of Music

Recent experience: I have performed all across the United States and internationally in Mexico, and Canada. I have also performed with many great artists like Grammy award-winning Saxophonist Chad Lefkowitz Brown, Chris Brubeck, Greg Tardy, David Post, and Grammy nominated Saxophonist Donny McCaslin. I have been seen on many Broadway Tours like the 25th Anniversary Tour of Chicago the Musical, National Tour of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, The Musical, National Tour of Hairspray, National Tour of Chicago, The Musical, and a sub reed player for the Broadway National Tour of Beautiful a Carole King Musical. I maintain an active schedule as a woodwind doubler performing with the Stockton Civic Theater, Woodminster Summer Musicals, Travis Air Force Band of the Golden West, Festival Napa Valley Orchestra, Solano College Theater, Berkeley Community Chorus and Orchestra, Oakland Municipal Band, Modesto Performing Arts, YES Company, Stockton Concert Band, Golden Gate Park Band, Downtown Theatre Fairfield, The Valley Concert Band, and Golden Gate Symphony Orchestra and Chorus.

"As a child, it was inescapable that I would be asked the question ‘what do I want to be when I grow up?’ Of course, being ignorant, and youthful, I came up with the threadbare phrase such as the famous, "I want to be the President of the United States." not having the slightest clue what it would take to become one. As I have grown older thankfully, I've become aware of the reality that becoming President of the United States was not my pursuit in my middle school years. Going into middle school, I had no clue what I wanted to be. It tormented me that in a short amount of time I would have to make the decision of where I wanted to be as a young adult. I knew that if I wanted to be self-reliant and successful I would have to discover the one thing that I could not only see myself pursuing and loving, but learning from everyday. That one thing was music; music has always been something that I found joy in. Music has led me to this point in my life where the stress happiness and love for the arts has grown upon me. I once doubted whether or not I was making the right decision to go into music rather than business, but a wise man once told me, 'Do something you love and you will never work a day in your life."

Teaching experience: Piano, Ukulele, Voice

Education: I sang in church and school choirs from fourth grade on; added voice training in HS; majored in voice in college; always learning and applying.

My musical journey: I was about 8 when I started piano lessons, practicing down in the cold, scary basement, with my mom singing along while preparing dinner at the top of the stairs in the kitchen!

Recent experience: For eleven years, I performed regularly on a local TV show that was broadcast weekly. I loved it and felt safe in front of a camera! Lots of solos in church and for funerals, fashion shows, special events, and voice overs.

"Music connects us to ourselves and life in a very special way. We learn awareness of emotion and truth that refines us in a way that nothing else can. Music is good for the body, mind, and soul. My life is enriched by listening, learning, and sharing through teaching and performing."

Teaching experience: Cello, Piano

Education: I graduated from the Lviv Music Academy and did postgraduate study in chamber music, participating in Chamber music masterclasses in Europe.

My musical journey: 1982-1993 Music School, 1993-1998 Music Institute, 1998-2001 Postgraduate study (Music Academy)

Recent experience: Principal cello in New Symphony Orchestra Lemberg (Ukraine - Switzerland), the Lviv Virtuosos Academic Chamber Orchestra, and the Kendlingers K&K Philharmoniker (Austria). I’ve participated in various European and Great Britain competitions and festivals as a member of the Klassic - Modern string quartet.

"Music is the best medicine and heals the mind and body."

Teaching experience: Guitar - beginner to advanced. All styles and genres.

Education: I hold a Bachelor's degree in Jazz Studies and a Master's degree in Guitar Performance -- both from CSU Sacramento

My musical journey: I've played guitar for more than 50 years and have taught guitar for more than 30. I was the Director of Music Instruction, Skip’s Music, Sacramento, CA from 1977 to 1984 and was the co-creator and manager for the summer music program and “Stairway to Stardom,” a winner of the National Association of Music Merchandisers (NAMM) Outstanding Educational Program Award. My additional responsibilities included the hiring and evaluation of teaching staff.

Recent experience: I currently perform throughout the Sacramento area with my own jazz trio as well as solo guitar performances. I am also the principal guitarist for the Ron Cunha Big Band. In addition, I have worked with numerous jazz artists including Dave Pietro, Tim Ries, Geoffrey Keezer, Julia Dollison, and Scott Whitfield and appeared at the Santa Cruz Jazz Festival, the Reno Jazz Festival, and the Monterey Next Generation Festival.

"My teaching philosophy centers around the belief that every student has the potential to learn and grow, especially when given the right support and encouragement. I aim to foster a learning environment that is both supportive and inspiring. I tailor my teaching methods to accommodate different learning styles and paces. By breaking down complex techniques into manageable steps, I make the learning process accessible and enjoyable. I emphasize the importance of practice and patience, encouraging students to celebrate their progress, no matter how small. Music is a powerful tool for expression, and my goal is to help students find their unique voice."

Teaching experience: Violin, Viola

Education: Starting at 6, I had lessons with that teacher every week until I went to college.

During that time, I completed the Certificate of Merit exams every year, this is a standardized music curriculum that includes performance technique, music theory, ear training, sight-reading, etc. up until the final level 10 I completed my senior year of high school. I had always played by myself but in high school, I joined orchestra where I learned a new skill of being in a bigger ensemble. In the meantime, I also played piano for 6 years.

During my senior year, I joined the American River College Orchestra, where I learned more advanced repertoire. This experience prepared me for college, where I earned my bachelor’s degree in Violin Performance. Throughout my studies, I had the privilege of working with incredible musicians and professors who helped me improve my musicianship and love for my instrument.

I have performed with the Sacramento Youth Symphony, Solano Symphony Orchestra, and Sacramento State Symphony Orchestra, where I worked my way up to concertmaster by my senior year. In addition to performing, I developed a passion for teaching through Sac State’s String Project, a music education program designed to give young musicians an engaging learning experience with student teachers. This program taught me how to lead larger groups and cultivate a dynamic, supportive learning environment.

I have also been teaching private violin lessons for six years, helping students develop both technical skills and a love for music.

My musical journey: I started playing violin at the age of 4, we had a family friend from Russia who is an extremely skilled violinist and musician. At first, I didn’t enjoy it at all—let’s be honest, what kid likes to practice? But I stuck with it, and by the time I reached high school, I began to appreciate having a skill that not many people had. I could connect to other people who had the same interests. It was a community where we understood each other's challenges, supported one another, and could work together to create something really fun.

Recent experience: I was part of many performances in college, played through a lot of orchestra repertoire, and many recitals. I think getting through my solo recitals was the most difficult thing. It’s scary to get up and perform in front of people. It gets better the more you do it but I still see a huge difference from when I practice by myself and then perform in front of someone. One thing I try to keep in head is a saying that I've heard which is to practice like you're performing, and to perform like you're practicing. It’s a universal struggle, a lot of people feel this way but I just try to remember that everyone who is listening is rooting for you and is supporting you and thinks the best of you. We’re all learning together!

Currently, I play occasionally for orchestras around the area if they need extra players, holiday times are always very busy!

"I gained so much more love and appreciation for music in college especially. That is really where I found my sound as my own player. It's so inspiring to be around other musicians who have the same goals and passion as you and we are all there to help each other get better. I learned so much about musicianship and theory that gave me a different perspective on what music is, its never just notes on a page, it's art and there is so much thought that gets put into everything musical that we can't even see, whether its learning an instrument or a really hard piece. I want to share this knowledge and passion to younger generations. Even if you don't take it too far, it's so important to know about this art form and musical culture. It sparks a different part of your brain, especially learning it as a kid. But its never too late to enjoy it even as a hobby. I love teaching and its so rewarding when I see how much a student has improved or is trying their best to learn something new, or is inspired from something they saw or heard and has the determination to figure it out. I will always try my best to create a positive and cheerful learning experience for all my students."