Play the Music
You Love.

Mia Giovanna Longo is a classically trained vocalist and graduate of The College of Saint Rose, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Music Industry with a concentration in voice. With a background in performance, songwriting, and bandleading, Mia combines strong technical training with firsthand industry experience to help students grow as confident, expressive singers.

During her time at Saint Rose, Mia studied under the tutelage of Adjunct Professor of Voice Elizabeth Cohen. She developed a strong foundation in both classical and contemporary vocal technique, and specializes in applying classical fundamentals to modern genres. Her expertise is especially helpful for students interested in pop, rock, indie, or recording-based careers.

Mia performs under the stage name VANNA, a project she began during college as a solo acoustic act. While still a student, she wrote and performed original music throughout Albany, laying the foundation for what would later evolve into the electrified four-piece band VANNA & THE VONBONS, with Mia as frontwoman and bandleader. Known for high-energy sets and emotional songwriting, the band has performed at WCDB’s annual Battle of the Bands, venues like No Fun and Son of Egg, while regularly performing at a host of Albany DIY shows. Through these performances, VANNA has made a name for herself in the Capital Region’s DIY music scene. Mia wrote, sang, and recorded her debut album BITTER SWEET HEART, which is available on all major streaming services.

Whether you’re just starting out, preparing for the studio or stage, Mia brings a personalized, encouraging approach to every lesson, helping each student find their unique voice.

Zammy Oswald is an Afro-Rican jazz pianist and composer with a deep passion for music that began at age six under the guidance of his uncle, Mmadu Onyeuwa. He grew up in Mayagüez, Puerto Rico, immersed in jazz and contemporary keyboard styles, and later pursued formal training at the Conservatory of Music of Puerto Rico from 2021 until his graduation in 2025. Zammy has performed at notable venues including The Gallery Inn and The Cannon Club, and has collaborated with prominent jazz musicians such as Pete Rodriguez and Miguel Zenón, from whom he continues to receive mentorship. He also attended the Clazz International Music Festival in 2024 in Arcidosso, Italy, where he trained with renowned Italian jazz pianist Andrea Pelligrini, further expanding his musical perspective. Now based in Averill Park, New York, Zammy teaches piano, improvisation, and expressive musicianship. He brings creativity, technical expertise, and real-world performance experience to the classroom, helping students build strong technique, develop their own voice, and gain confidence in performing. Zammy’s lessons combine structured theory, hands-on guidance, and encouragement, fostering both skill and a lifelong love of music.

Gabe Stallman is a musician to the core, having been drawn to instruments (guitar, bass, keyboards, voice) as far back as he can remember. As a formally trained graduate of the SCCC School of Music, Gabe approaches teaching like a musician, believing that the most important part of playing is identifying, developing and enhancing a love of the music. Gabe has been playing out professionally since the age of 16 having toured the northeast playing original music with his acclaimed band, Ampevene. You can hear his music on popular local radio stations like WEQX and WRPI. Gabe believes that the educational experience should be as exciting as the music itself. In lessons, Gabe works with students to identify the music they love from all genres, to understand the theory that explains why they love it, and to help them develop the auditory and technical skills to play and create the sounds that drive their passion. Gabe is excited to be teaching with the family at Modern Day Music, and seeks to give his students the best education they can get.

Declan Fields is an Albany based musician who wants to share and expand his love and knowledge of drums. He began his drumming career at 14 years old with Kris Russell at the Drummer’s Studio in Massachusetts. Kris has worked with legendary drummers such as Ronald Bruner jr, Trevor Lawrence jr and Tony Austin. Declan graduated from the College of Saint Rose with a degree in Music Industry, studying under some of Albany’s brightest musicians.

He’s had the pleasure of recording and touring the East Coast with Prog Metal band CPS. Alongside this, he has recently joined Gabe Stallmans’ experimental fusion band Ampevene. Declan is always eager to teach and share his love for drums and music with his students at Modern Day Music!