Our Team
Nikita Labdon: Owner
“Hi! I am the owner of Labdon Studios. I have been teaching private music lessons for over 10 years and have my Bachelor of Music Vocal Performance degree from the University of Manitoba. Music has always been a big part of my life. As a child, I was involved in piano and voice lessons, band, choir and Musical Theatre productions. I am currently an active member of our performing arts community and have had the pleasure of performing Opera, Jazz and Musical Theatre in Winnipeg and abroad. Being able to have music as a part of my life from such a young age allowed me to not only develop my passion for performing, but helped me discover my love for teaching and fostering a love for music in others.”
Cecilia Cormier: Piano, Flute, Piccolo Guitar and Theory Teacher
Hello! I’m Cecilia Cormier, and I’m currently a third-year Bachelor of Music student at the University of Manitoba, where I specialize in teaching flute, piano, guitar, and music theory.
I am truly passionate about fostering a positive, inspiring environment where my students can grow their skills and deepen their love for music. My own musical journey started back in school bands and solo competitions, which gave me a strong foundation in both ensemble and individual performance.
Outside of the studio, you can usually find me training as a member of the University of Manitoba track and field team—I really enjoy staying active and spending time in nature!
Arielle MacKinnon: Voice Teacher
Hello! I’m Arielle, and I’m so excited to work with you. I hold a Bachelor of Arts in Sacred Music and am currently pursuing a Post-Baccalaureate Diploma in Performance to continue growing as both a performer and an educator.
My passion for teaching is rooted in my own experience on stage, where I’ve had the joy of performing principal roles in productions like The Pirates of Penzance, HMS Pinafore, and Anne of Green Gables. Having grown up leading children in skits and musicals, and spending years in various childcare and activity-coordinating roles, I love helping young learners find their confidence.
My teaching philosophy is simple: every student is unique. I believe in meeting you exactly where you are in your musical journey, helping you discover your own voice and reach your full potential in a way that is encouraging and meaningful. Whether you’re just starting out or working on advanced technique, I tailor my approach to your specific goals.
When I’m not teaching, you’ll likely find me singing Disney songs or hunting for new music to add to my playlist. I can’t wait to meet you and help you develop your love for music!
Sarah Schellenberg: Voice & Piano Teacher
Hello! My name is Sarah Schellenberg. I have been teaching at Labdon Studios for four years, and I am proud to be a graduate of the Bachelor of Music program. I am currently continuing my education at the University of Manitoba, where I am pursuing my Bachelor of Education.
Music has always been a central part of my life, and I love having the opportunity to share that passion with my students. I look forward to continuing to make beautiful and fun music with you!
Ariel Recksiedler: Voice & Piano Teacher
i! I’m Ariel Recksiedler, and I’ve loved music for as long as I can remember. I started playing piano at the young age of three and later began taking voice lessons. I’ve had the pleasure of gaining experience through band, choir, and many musicals along the way.
I am currently in my fourth year studying voice at the University of Manitoba. I have always looked up to the music teachers who shaped my life, and I am so excited to step into that role and teach students of my own!
Emily NG:
Piano, Clarinet and Saxophone Teacher
Offers lessons in Cantonese and Mandarin
Hello! I am Emily Ng, a graduate of the University of Manitoba, where I majored in Clarinet. Music has always been a huge part in my life and I have always loved how expressive and joyful it can be. I started with the piano when I was young and later picked up the clarinet and saxophone. I am really looking forward to working with students of all levels and sharing my love of music in a fun and supportive way!
Victor: Voice
My name is Victor, and I am a fourth year Bachelor of Music student in Music Education at the University of Manitoba, specializing in voice. I have been teaching voice for two years with the U of M Prep Studies Studio, and I am very excited to join Labdon Studios and continue teaching.
I have always loved sharing my passion for singing with others, and I look forward to teaching anyone who is ready to learn!
- I am able to deliver Lessons in both English and Korean!
Herbert Pauls: Piano Teacher
Hi! I’m Herb Pauls, and I’ve been teaching at Labdon Studios for the past 3 years.
I was born in Saskatchewan, where I completed my Bachelor of Music under the guidance of pianist Robin Harrison. In my late teens and early 20s, I was deeply involved in the music scene, competing nationally, participating in regional CBC broadcasts, and performing concerts with some of Saskatoon’s top musicians.
Later, physical challenges with my right hand required me to step back from performing, which led me to earn advanced degrees in music theory and history. During this time, I also lived in Germany for three years, from 2005 to 2008. While there, I became fluent in the language and served as the principal translator for Spektral Records, translating over 100 of their CD booklets.
I’m incredibly grateful that, over the last decade, extensive care and treatment have gradually restored my hand to health, and I am now able to perform again. Today, my focus is on building my studio and sharing my love for music with students of all ages and levels—I look forward to meeting you!
Jessica : Voice, Guitar, Ukulele and Piano Teacher
My name is Jessica I am a fourth year music therapy student at CMU! I’ve been singing for as long as I can remember, and have been playing guitar for just over 10 years now. Since coming to CMU, I have expanded my music knowledge to become well-versed in a variety of instruments and styles.
I became a music teacher to fuel my passion for music! I wanted to spread my love of music to others in hopes that my students feel the same love for it one day too.
Valerie Verstegen: Piano, Violin, Fiddle, Theory
Hello to All! My name is Valerie Verstegen. Music has been my passion since I was able to dance along to it and keep a beat. I am currently an undergraduate studying music therapy at the Canadian Mennonite University, hoping to become a certified music therapist and music teacher. I have been studying piano and theory for 10 years and fiddle/violin for 6. While piano is my main instrument, I am very eager to play anything that makes a sound and brings joy to others.
I am excited to help my students grow in their musical capabilities. Anyone who has a song in their heart is able to make music, and therefore I say let them make a joyful noise. While my own pedagogy is still growing, I believe that students should be encouraged to be creative, do what they love, and learn to flourish inside and outside of the practice room.
Outside of school and the studio, you may find me to be active in my church community teaching Sunday school, reading a good book, or on a walk experiencing what nature has to offer.
Rocco: Guitar
Hi! My name is Rocco and I recently graduated from Oak Park High School. Music has always been a big part of my life ever since I was a kid. I grew up surrounded by everything from jazz and classical to folk and rock, which helped me shape my appreciation for all kinds of music.
During my time at Oak Park, I played in my school’s jazz band and perform with my own band outside of school. Through teaching, I hope to help students build confidence, develop solid technique, and most importantly enjoy playing music.