Dave Tabone is the founder and previous music director of the award-winning 250-voice B.R. Xpression Vocal Ensemble and the 40-piece B.R. Celtic Fusion Concert Band. Under his leadership, both ensembles have earned nine Gold Awards at the International Heritage Music Festival, performing in cities such as Nashville, New York, Chicago, Boston, Montreal, and Washington, D.C. A lifelong educator, Dave majored in Music Education at the University of Toronto and has been teaching music for over 40 years. During his studies, he had the unique opportunity to perform as pianist in the UWO Jazz Orchestra under the direction of legendary Canadian jazz ambassador Phil Nimmons—an experience that helped shape his artistry and leadership style. Dave’s passion and excellence in music education have earned him numerous awards, including the Distinguished Service Award, the HWCDSB Director’s Award, a Hamilton Music Award, the City of Hamilton’s Week of the Child Award, the Arts Education Award, and the International Heritage Director’s Award. He has also been nominated for both the Premier’s Award for Teaching Excellence and the Prime Minister’s Award for Teaching Excellence.

Mary Tabone is the founder and director of the Hamilton-Wentworth Catholic District School Board’s seven Junior Vocal Groups, leading both the 150-voice B.R. Junior Xpression Vocal Ensemble and the 60-voice STM Junior Knight Magic Vocal Ensemble. She also works as the Arts Support Facilitator for the HWCDSB.

Alongside Dave Tabone, Mary co-founded Hamilton’s B.R. Summer Rock Camp. Her ensembles have been featured with Boris Brott and the National Academy Orchestra of Canada. With over 35 years of live performance experience—including years with the dance bands Manhattan and Reflexion—Mary brings both stage expertise and educational passion to Tabone Academy of Music. A driving force in Hamilton’s music community, Mary has grown the HWCDSB Junior Vocal Ensembles from 70 to over 300 students in just two years. She continues to inspire confidence in young performers through her leadership, teaching, and dedication to music education.

Shannon Tabone has been the Operations Manager of Tabone Academy of Music since its founding in 2020, bringing both her organizational expertise and her love of learning to everything she does. A graduate of the University of Western Ontario with a degree in English Literature, and of the University of the Sunshine Coast in Australia with a Bachelor of Education, Shannon also holds her Ontario Teacher Certificate in Education. She applies this strong educational background daily at TAM to help create smooth, enriching experiences for both students and teachers. Before joining TAM, Shannon worked with MEI Academy, where she combined education and adventure—traveling across Europe to Switzerland, Italy, Spain, Greece, Germany, and beyond. Her global perspective continues to shape her work and her passion for connecting people through learning and the arts. In addition to her role as Operations Manager, Shannon is a musician herself. She enjoys singing and playing guitar, mostly for the joy it brings her. At TAM, she manages teacher timetables, student registrations, and academy scheduling, ensuring that every student’s journey is seamless. Friendly, approachable, and always ready to help, Shannon is the go-to person for any questions or concerns. She can be reached anytime at info@taboneacademyofmusic.com

Since the very beginning of Tabone Academy of Music in 2020, Joseph Tabone has been the driving force behind our on-site day-to-day operations. A graduate of Niagara College in Health and Wellness , Joseph brings both energy and dedication to his role as Facilities Manager, making sure everything at TAM runs seamlessly. From overseeing the café to coordinating stage performances and evening lessons, Joseph ensures that students, teachers, and guests alike enjoy a smooth and welcoming experience. As our head bartender, licensed food handler, and chef, he keeps the TAM community fuelled and cared for in more ways than one. Joseph is also a talented guitarist and a passionate mentor. Each summer, he takes the lead in running our popular Rock Camps, guiding young musicians in building confidence, skills, and unforgettable memories. Always approachable and hands-on, Joseph is the person you can count on for on-site support. He can be reached anytime at info@taboneacademyofmusic.com