Meet the Mentors
Amsterdam’s finest young talent shaping the next generation of musicians
🎸 Philippe Nicolau
Guitar Mentor - Classical / Metal / Pop
Philippe grew up in Luxembourg and started studying guitar at the age of seven, diving into both classical and electric styles from the start. Early on, he explored playing solo, in bands, and occasionally as a session musician. In 2019, he moved to Amsterdam, where he became more active on stage and in the studio, stepping foot on stages like Paradiso with LNDE and channeling his heavier side through his progressive metal project. As a mentor, Philippe believes in playing first and understanding later. His lessons focus on exploring where you want to go musically, and figuring out, together, what the right stepping stones are to get there. Technique, musicality, and theory are always present, but only in ways that serve the student’s goals and keep the learning process motivating and enjoyable. “Progress shouldn’t feel like a leap into the unknown. It works best when you know why you’re practicing and how each step moves you forward.” Outside the Tritone studio, Philippe enjoys staying active, reading, gaming, and cooking. Fun fact: Phil’s a multidisciplinary genius with a BSc in Physics and MSc in Computational Science. Somehow, he traded equations for guitar riffs and now he quietly brings his brains and structure to your lesson. We love him for it! When booking your free trial with Phil, expect goal-oriented guidance, curiosity, and a mentor who enjoys exploring the process as much as the result. Philippe teaches in English, Dutch (A2), Portuguese, French and Luxemburgish.
🎙️ Tos van Eekeren
Vocal Mentor - Neosoul / R&B / Jazz / Pop
Tos is a queer, Amsterdam-based artist whose musical journey began at the age of five. Drawn to singing from an early age, he grew up performing in choirs, musicals, and bands, developing his voice and stage presence through years of live performance. As the frontman and songwriter for the soul and funk band ParHasard, Tos quickly became known for his powerful voice and captivating energy on stage. Today, Tos focuses on his solo career as a producer and artist, creating an experimental blend of neo-soul, R&B, hip-hop, and jazz. His music reflects a deep connection to sound as a space for self-expression, healing, and emotional honesty. As a mentor, Tos combines technical vocal training with a strong focus on personal expression. His sessions encourage students to explore their voice beyond their comfort zones, develop confidence, and discover new colors and possibilities in their voice. For Tos, learning to sing is not only about technique, but it’s about personal growth and connecting to yourself through music. “Music is an unconditional form of love. It has the power to heal, to connect us, and to help us express things we sometimes can’t put into words.” When booking a session with Tos, expect a supportive environment where technique, creativity, and self-expression go hand in hand. Tos teaches in Dutch and English.
🥁 Euan Jenkins
Drum Mentor - Jazz / Hip Hop / Funk / Dance
Euan Jenkins is a drummer from Luxembourg and Scotland with a lifelong passion for rhythm. His musical journey began at the age of three when his parents gave him a kids’ drum kit, and by age seven he had his first drum lesson. This teacher guided him all the way through his formative years up to age 17! Euan moved to Amsterdam to study Jazz drums at the Conservatorium van Amsterdam and has since been building a professional career in the music industry. He has released original albums with his bands RADIOHOP and Antares Flare and recorded drums for various established artists. His unique blend of influences allows him to adapt seamlessly to diverse musical genres while providing creative input across multiple styles. As a mentor, Euan takes a holistic, student-focused approach. He emphasizes individual creativity and enjoyment over rigid right-or-wrong methods. He wants to give full support to his student, make them feel safe and confident, and inspire a genuine love for music. He believes teaching is all about guiding, encouraging, and inspiring students, without overwhelming them. “I like to focus on each individual person's needs and try to teach by imagining the instrument/music from their point of view. " Outside of the teaching room, Euan enjoys spending time with friends and exploring new experiences in food, art, and nature. When booking a lesson with Euan, expect a tailored, supportive, and flexible approach infused with a lifelong passion for music. Euan teaches in English, German, French, Dutch, and Luxembourgish.
🎸 Joel Svedberg
Bass Mentor - Funk / R&B / Jazz / Neosoul
Joel Svedberg is a bassist, and lifelong groove addict from Stockholm. He started on drums at age five, picked up the upright bass at eight, and never really stopped chasing rhythm after that. In 2020, he settled in Amsterdam to pursue studies at the Conservatory. Since then, Joel has made his mark on the European live scene, performing with acclaimed bands like ParHasard and RADIOHOP. As a mentor, Joel is all about joy first. Technique matters, but only if it serves expression, confidence, and fun. He creates a safe, open space where students can explore their sound, build solid fundamentals, and develop a personal relationship with the bass without pressure or judgement. “Creativity is unique, personal, and honest. It’s something you have to give space to, not leave untouched. Discipline is what makes everything possible. But it doesn’t have to be a chore. It should feel like a pleasure.” Outside of the teaching room you can catch Joel making beats and writing his own music. Next to that he likes to dive into other kinds of art, global politics, stand-up comedy or throwing a frisbee around! His ultimate music collaboration would be with Prince, Dangelo or Banksy. When booking your free trial, expect groove, honesty, patience, and the occasional life lesson hidden inside a bass line. Joel teaches in English, Swedish, Norwegian, and Danish.
🎷 Miguel Valente
Saxophone Mentor - Jazz / Pop / Funk / Classical
Born in Aveiro, Portugal, Miguel was immersed in music from the very beginning. His parents are both musicians, so he was surrounded by music even before he was born. He started learning music at six and picked up the saxophone at nine. By 11, he was seriously listening to jazz, and from that point on, the saxophone became his path. Miguel moved to the Netherlands to study at the Conservatorium van Amsterdam, where he began to shape his voice as an artist. Miguel’s playing is defined not just by skill, but by presence, intuition, and authenticity. He is a distinctive presence on the European jazz scene, performing at major festivals including North Sea Jazz, Into the Great Wide Open, and Boom Festival. He is also a founding member of the award-winning indie jazz band NAUSYQA. As a mentor, Miguel blends technical guidance with creative freedom. He focuses on cultivating each student’s musical technique while ensuring lessons are engaging, inspiring, and fun. Miguel creates a space where students can explore, experiment, and develop confidence, working together towards their future goals. “Teaching allows me to be part of something bigger: helping someone learn and grow is incredibly rewarding. I care deeply about my students and the experience they have with music.” Outside of music, Miguel enjoys playing snooker, cooking, video games, and diving into anime or manga. Miguel’s dream musical collaboration would be with Immanuel Wilkins. When booking a lesson with Miguel, expect technical guidance used as a resource, and plenty of encouragement to explore your own creative path. Miguel teaches in Dutch, English, Spanish and Portuguese.
🎹 Marius Giedras
Piano Mentor - Jazz / Bebop / Pop / Improvisation
Marius Giedras is a pianist with over a decade of experience in both performing, and teaching. His musical journey has taken him through accompanying musicians live, teaching at music schools and universities, arranging and orchestrating music, and working in the studio as a producer. He is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Jazz Piano at the Conservatorium van Amsterdam. Specializing in jazz and pop-oriented music, Marius brings a deep understanding of harmony, rhythm, and musical interaction into his playing and teaching. His experience across different musical settings allows him to help students see the piano not just as an instrument, but as a powerful tool for expression, creativity, and collaboration. As a mentor, Marius focuses on meeting students where they are and helping them build the skills they need one step at a time. His lessons combine technique, improvisation, and musical understanding, always tailored to the individual student’s goals and interests. Whether someone is just starting out or looking to deepen their musical knowledge, Marius aims to make the learning process engaging, inspiring, and practical. For Marius, learning music is about developing both confidence and curiosity. By exploring harmony, rhythm, and creative ideas together, students are encouraged to discover their own voice on the piano. When booking a lesson with Marius, expect a supportive and structured approach, thoughtful, experienced guidance, and a mentor who enjoys helping students unlock their authentic musical potential. Marius teaches in Dutch and English.
🎹 Gabriele Suares
Piano & Audio Production Mentor - Classical / Blues / Pop / Electronica
When Gabriele’s parents found him trying to reproduce a song from a TV commercial with his arm in a cast after a skiing accident, they knew it was time to find him a piano teacher. Growing up in Milan, Gabriele explored many different musical worlds. As a teenager he was the screaming frontman of a metal band, producing hip-hop beats for local artists, freestyling with friends, and collaborating with DJs on electronic music. This curiosity eventually led him to Berlin, where he studied audio production, started teaching piano, and worked as a backline technician for touring artists, traveling across Europe and supporting major festivals. Since 2019 he has been based in Amsterdam, performing and recording with several projects. Alongside performing he continued teaching, and quickly discovered this was the most fulfilling and grounding path for him. Growing up, Gabriele often felt frustrated by uninspiring teaching methods. Later in his twenties he experienced the power of mentorship first-hand, which eventually inspired him to found Tritone: a place where musicians guide others through their musical journey in a personal, thoughtful, and supportive way. His teaching philosophy centers around “learning how to learn.” Rather than simply teaching songs or exercises, Gabriele helps students build a framework for approaching new ideas: staying curious, breaking things down, and building knowledge efficiently so they can continue learning independently. This is how he guides students from confusion to understanding, and eventually to mastery. “The excitement and curiosity about learning music is never linear. Sometimes the initial spark fades, and that’s when a mentor’s role becomes most important: finding ways to keep the learning process intriguing. Being a good teacher is about finding the right balance: exercises should be challenging enough to stay engaging, but not so difficult that they become overwhelming.” Outside of music, Gabriele enjoys calisthenics and cooking for friends. When booking a lesson with Gabriele, expect clear thinking, engaging challenges, and a mentor who focuses on helping you understand how music works so that you can eventually take it out of the classroom. Gabriele teaches in English, Italian and Dutch (A2, kids).
🎵 Han Litz
Flute Mentor - Jazz / Electronic / Funk / Classical
Han Litz is one of Amsterdam’s most versatile jazz flutists, known for blending jazz with influences from soul, funk, Brazilian, African, dance, and tribal music. His playing is deeply rooted in groove and connection. As he describes it: “While performing, I want to evoke that ‘house feeling’, boost the energy level, make people feel free, and create unity.” Based in Amsterdam, Han has built an international career as a performer, composer, arranger, and producer. His distinctive flute sound can be heard across a wide range of recordings and collaborations within the global jazz, soul, and dance music scenes. Alongside his work with other artists, he also leads the Han Litz Group, releasing music that has been well received by both the industry and the Dutch press. As a mentor, Han brings decades of stage and studio experience into the classroom in a calm and thoughtful way. His lessons focus not only on technique, but also on musicality, groove, and understanding the role of the flute within different musical styles. Students who are curious can also explore the background and history of the instrument, discovering how the flute can move far beyond its traditional role. The flute often gets underestimated, but it’s an instrument with enormous creative potential. Whether through improvisation, tone, rhythm, or simply learning how to make the instrument truly speak, Han helps students discover just how expressive the flute can be. When booking a lesson with Han, expect a relaxed learning environment, deep musical insight, and guidance from an artist who has spent years exploring the true potential of wind instruments. Han teaches in Dutch and English.
🎺 Dima Loginov
Trumpet Mentor - Jazz / Pop / Funk / Classical
Dima Loginov is a trumpet player and composer from Kazakhstan. He started music on piano at age five before discovering the trumpet and the freedom of jazz. By twelve he surrounded himself by fellow musicians at a new school, where music became his second home. He studied classical and jazz trumpet at the National Academy of Arts in Kazakhstan and is now completing his master’s at the Conservatorium of Amsterdam. Dima performs across Europe with symphony orchestras, jazz ensembles, and his band Gallowstreet. He is also releasing his personal debut album in April. Dima believes teaching is about more than just learning an instrument. It’s about building understanding that lasts a lifetime. Inspired by teachers who combine high musical skill with humility, openness, and passion for their students, he brings the same mindset into his own lessons. Each lesson is tailored to the student’s personality, goals, and life, creating space for growth, curiosity, and exploration. “I want students to truly understand what they are learning so the knowledge stays with them for years and supports them throughout their musical life.” Outside of music, Dima enjoys sports, cooking, dancing, watching anime and in his free time he also studies to become a professional massage therapist. Fun fact: Dima once wanted to become an actor and appeared in a TV commercial for Piko juice. His dream musical collaborations include John Coltrane, Stevie Wonder, Huun-Huur-Tu, Nate Smith, and Chris Dave. When booking your free trial, expect personalized guidance, patience, a playful and inspiring teaching approach, and a mentor who helps you grow your sound and discover your own musical voice. Dima teaches in Dutch, English and Russian.
🎸 Johnny Biner
Guitar Mentor - Jazz / Improvisation / Groove / Pop
Johnny’s musical journey started at age seven on drums, but after some years he switched to guitar and found his real match. By 14, he was performing regular concerts with his first band, fully immersing himself in the instrument and the joy of live music. Since 2009, he has been an active presence in the music scene across Germany, performing at festivals and venues nationwide. In 2019, he moved to Amsterdam to expand his focus to teaching while continuing to perform. He earned a B.A. in Jazz Guitar from the Conservatory of Amsterdam and has toured internationally and played iconic Dutch venues and festivals such as Paradiso (Super Sonic Jazz Festival), Melkweg, Het Concertgebouw, and Tivoli Vredenburg. As a mentor, Johnny meets students where they are, emphasizing curiosity, personal connection, and creative exploration over textbook approaches. With over a decade of diverse musical experience, he tailors lessons to each individual, helping students break through complexity, build confidence, and most importantly, enjoy the journey. “Music is something you share. Knowledge, inspiration, and experience pass from one person to another. I love connecting with students through music and watching them grow.” Outside the studio, Johnny enjoys exploring global cuisine, playing drums when he can, and diving into music with wide-ranging influences. When booking a lesson with Johnny, expect a supportive, personalized approach, guided by wide range of experience, and great enthusiasm for sharing the joy in music. Johnny teaches in English, German, and Dutch (A2, kids).
🪘 Manuel Vega Abad
Percussion Mentor - Latin / Fusion / Flamenco / Afro-cuban
Manuel Vega Abad is a versatile drummer and percussionist whose musical journey began in 2006 with piano before he discovered his passion for rhythm. After completing a degree in Music Education, he moved to Amsterdam in 2021 to continue developing his craft at the Conservatorium van Amsterdam, where he is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Global Groove. Manuel’s musical background spans a wide range of styles, including fusion, flamenco, and Latin music. Through performing and collaborating in different musical environments, he has developed a broad rhythmic vocabulary and a strong sense of groove that he brings into both performance and teaching. As a mentor, Manuel focuses on creating lessons that are shaped around each student’s individual goals and interests. Whether working on repertoire, refining technique, or developing musical language and rhythm, his sessions are designed to be engaging, practical, and supportive. Drawing from instruments such as drum set, flamenco cajón, and congas, Manuel introduces students to a rich palette of rhythms and sounds. His lessons encourage curiosity, musical expression, and a deeper understanding of rhythm across different musical traditions. When booking a lesson with Manuel, expect an open and motivating learning environment, guided by a mentor who enjoys helping students explore rhythm and develop their own musical voice. Manuel teaches in English and Spanish.
🥁 Max Sergeant
Drum Mentor - Jazz / Pop / Improvisation
Max Sergeant is a drummer, composer, bandleader, and educator based in Amsterdam. He studied at the Conservatorium van Amsterdam, where he developed his craft under the guidance of renowned Dutch drummers Mark Schilders, Marcel Serierse, and Lucas van Merwijk. These mentors helped shape Max into a versatile musician with a strong sense of groove, musical interaction, and storytelling. Alongside performing, Max has a deep passion for composing. His work, primarily written for his own projects, blends warm melodies and harmonies with a wide range of grooves, leaving room for improvisation and musical exploration. His debut single, November Live, marked his first release as a bandleader. Max is active across the Dutch music scene, collaborating with a variety of artists and contributing to recordings across genres from jazz to pop, most notably performing with singer Helena Casella. As an educator, Max brings his performance experience into the classroom in a practical and supportive way. He has taught drums and band classes for many years, working with students of all ages and skill levels. His lessons emphasize solid groove, musical awareness, confidence on the instrument, and the encouragement to explore one’s own creativity. Known for his energetic and encouraging approach, Max ensures that students not only build strong fundamentals but also experience the joy of making music. Max teaches in Dutch and English.
🎻 Camille Rabot
Violin Mentor - Jazz / Classical / Pop
Camille is a violinist from a small town in France. Her musical journey started with a simple childhood memory. While listening to her older brother’s violin lessons with her mother, she fell in love with the sound and immediately asked to play herself. She first started on the cello before moving to violin at age seven. At thirteen she decided to pursue music professionally, and entered the Conservatory in Lyon. She later continued her bachelor’s and master’s studies in the Netherlands, where she developed her career as both a performer and educator. As a writer and performer, she is active in projects such as Citrus Blossom and the immersive classical trio Ether, which blends classical repertoire with traditional music and storytelling. As a mentor, Camille brings curiosity, joy, and thoughtful discipline to her lessons. She believes learning music should feel like a journey of discovery. One that helps you build technique while connecting it with your ear, creativity, and sense of beauty. Her lessons adapt to each student, creating a supportive space to grow at your own pace. “My mentor Claire Bernard shaped the musician I am today through her discipline and deep search for beauty in sound. I’m now writing a book with her to continue the legacy of Dominique Hoppenot, and through teaching I hope to pass on that same love for listening, curiosity, and musical discovery.” Outside the teaching room, Camille enjoys playing music with friends, reading, exploring new ideas, and spending time with her loved ones. Her dream collaborations would be with David Oistrakh or Dhafer Youssef (though she admits there are way more on that list). When booking your free trial, expect attentive guidance, curiosity, and a mentor who will help you listen deeper, grow with confidence, and discover your own voice through music. Camille teaches in Dutch, English and French.
🎻 Flavia Escartin
Cello Mentor - Jazz / Classical / Avantgarde
TBA
🎺 Lezaam Beets
Trombone Mentor - Jazz / Big Band / Pop
Lezaam Beets is a trombonist from Cape Town, South Africa, whose musical journey began at age 16 playing in marching and carnival bands. Learning through aural tradition (where musicians would sing phrases that he had to reproduce on his instrument) shaped his ear and connection to sound. In 2021 he moved to Amsterdam to study at the Conservatorium van Amsterdam. Since then he has been active as a freelance musician, performing and recording with groups such as the New Cool Collective, the Jazz Orchestra of the Concertgebouw, and the Nederlands Jeugd Jazz Orkest. Recent highlights include performances at Super Sonic Jazz Festival in Paradiso and North Sea Jazz Festival. As a mentor, Lezaam focuses on strong fundamentals so students gain real control of their instrument while enjoying the learning process. His lessons combine discipline with curiosity, creating space to explore different sounds, styles, and ideas. Inspired by mentorship in his own journey, he encourages students to develop their own musical voice and play with intention and heart. “Learning a new skill can be frustrating sometimes, so it’s important to develop a healthy relationship with your instrument.” Outside of music you’ll often find Lezaam spending time with friends, boxing, playing pool, or going to the cinema. His dream musical collaboration would be with Herbie Hancock. When booking your free trial, expect thoughtful guidance, strong fundamentals, open musical exploration, and a mentor who believes music should always come from intention and the heart. Lazeem teaches in English.