Robert Renino (Bass, Bass Guitar, Piano, Saxophone, Clarinet)
Bob Renino is a freelance bassist and music teacher who has lived and worked in the NYC metro area for the past 25 years. He studied with jazz bassist Richard Davis, and also attended and graduated the Juilliard School of Music. After playing at resorts, hotels, and clubs, he began playing Broadway shows both as a substitute and a regular player. Bob has played in nearly fifty musicals in Broadway theatres and has held the “chair” in some hits such as “Ragtime”, “The Producers”, and the latest being “Honeymoon in Vegas”. He also performs with the New York Pops Orchestra, and the Hudson Valley Philharmonic. He has done much performing and recording work in NYC with many vocalists, and has also played on popular TV shows like “Good Morning America,” “Regis and Kelly” and “David Letterman.” He is currently married to singer/actress Sally Mayes and lives and teaches in Westchester County, NY.
Nara Simonyan (Piano, Organ)
Nara Simonyan has been teaching piano for 30 years. Nara is originally from Yerevan, Armenia. She started playing the piano at the age of eight. After seven years of intense studies at one of the leading Music Schools in Armenia, she continued mastering the piano at the Music Conservatory, graduated in 1988 and became a certified piano teacher and accompanist.
Nara taught at Music Schools in Armenia and Russia preparing students for various competitions and recitals. She believes that teaching to play the piano needs to include a number of important elements if a student is to flourish. It’s equally important to teach the foundations and techniques. Nara creates an atmosphere that is friendly, supportive and encourages each student to bring their personal passion, feelings and individuality into each piece they play.