TEACHERS

Mrs. Michelle

Michelle Shrader focused on training her voice for several years as a child before picking up the guitar at the age of sixteen. She had an aptitude for the instrument, and began writing songs within six weeks of her first lesson and recording within six months. After moving to Memphis in 2006 to study classical guitar with Lily Afshar, the world renowned guitarist at the University of Memphis, she fell in love with the city.

Michelle is now a popular fixture in the local music scene performing her own songs and classical guitar selections; and she has been featured in local media including videos by Live From Memphis and Hotel Memphis. She regularly performs locally for many private events and at venues such as the Germantown Performing Arts Center.

With her husband, trumpeter and singer Jeremy Shrader, Michelle sings jazz and bossa nova in small and large band settings. She regularly sits-in with his country band, Big Barton, singing songs by Gillian Welch (one of her favorites) and Patsy Cline. In addition, she carries a full private teaching load and particularly loves developing youthful talent. She led classes for Music for Aardvarks before the birth of her child, Annie, and is thrilled about returning.

Mr. Jeremy

To say that Jeremy Shrader loves good music would be an extreme understatement. The love comes through in the notes he plays on trumpet, his singing of classic songs, and in the many bands that he leads which include the New Memphis Hepcats, the Hot Memphis Five, and the Jeremy Shrader Octet.

Born in Clarksville, Tennessee, Jeremy attended the University Of Memphis, earning a degree in Jazz Composition and playing in the school concert band, marching band and jazz big band. His compositions cover and blend many styles, from jazz to rock to hip-hop, and everything in between. In every setting in which he appears, his spirited performances are well worth hearing.

Jeremy has been a private music teacher on both trumpet and guitar for 20 years as well as working with several middle and high school band programs. Although his role with Memphis Aardvarks is largely behind the scenes, he makes regular appearances at Michelle's classes with his trumpet. He is excited to be leading some Music for Aardvarks classes as well.