Life Transformation Through Music.
Since 2017, we’ve been using music to inspire a love of learning in every area of life.
Our Mission
Life transformation through music.
Zera is in the business of shaping more than musicians — we’re building confident, curious, lifelong learners.
THE ZMC STUDENT SIGNATURE SOLUTION™
From Passive Participant to Empowered Learner and Leader
Every Zera student walks a real, proven path — not a vague promise, but a progression we’ve watched unfold again and again over nearly a decade.
DISCOVER
- Safe & Seen — From Nervous → Known
Lessons begin with connection. We help students feel safe, comfortable, and understood from day one. - Structure & Fun — From Chaos or Boredom → Balanced Motivation
We bring joy and discipline together to foster meaningful, consistent progress. - Learn the Language — From Rote → Understanding
We don’t just teach students to play what they hear — we teach them to read, interpret, and truly understand music.
DEVELOP
- Grow on Stage — From Shy → Confident
Performing at recitals builds courage and poise that carries into everyday life. - Take Ownership — From Dependent → Self-Driven
Through consistent routines, students learn to practice without being asked. - Independent Confidence — From Withdrawn → Expressive
Students gain a clarity, confidence, and boldness that reaches far beyond music.
DEEPEN
- Grow from the Core — From Shortcuts → Strength
We build habits of integrity, focus, and discipline that last a lifetime. - Love to Learn — From Temporary Interest → Lifelong Curiosity
Students reach a point of knowing they can grow and learn in every area of life. - Shape the Future — From No Path → Clear Purpose
Whether music becomes a career or not, our students see new possibilities — and thrive in whatever they pursue.
Our Teaching Philosophy
We believe great lessons are built on four values:
Clarity, Structure, Humility, and Excellence.
Practice Time
We don’t just expect practice — we teach students how to practice. Weekly assignments are written clearly, so there’s no confusion at home. Our goal: practice becomes as natural as brushing teeth.
Parent Involvement
Early on, your support is essential in guiding practice routines. Over time, your student becomes more independent — but that early involvement builds the foundation everything else stands on.
Progress Takes Time
Musical confidence isn’t instant, and we don’t chase shortcuts. We focus on deep learning: rhythm, reading, understanding, and expression.
Beyond the Lesson Book
We go beyond the standard curriculum — offering theory and performance book suggestions, flash cards, metronome practice, and a PRO MuseScore subscription with access to over a million scores that line up with music your child actually loves.
Meet The Team
What Makes Our Instructors Different
This is one of our favorite things to brag about.
Every Zera instructor is ZMC Certified — and that means something. Before an applicant ever meets your child, they go through a hiring and training process most lesson companies simply don’t have:
1. Before we ever meet an applicant, we require: An active driver’s license (they come to your home), a long history of music experience, a complete understanding of music theory, ideally at least a year teaching or working with kids, and preferably an undergraduate degree in music.
2. We’re picky. Our interviews are rigorous. We dig into why they want to teach, how they handle goals, their exact lesson structure, and even how they respond to criticism — scored against a strict rubric with a high bar to pass.
3. A comprehensive questionnaire follows. We want to see how they handle deadlines, problem-solving, and honest self-assessment.
4. Then come the safety checks. Extensive nationwide background checks and mandatory Child Abuse Awareness & Prevention Training — no exceptions.
5. Finally, thorough onboarding. Lesson prep resources, parent practice guides, and clear expectations for ongoing professional development — capped off with a required 100% score on their onboarding quiz before they ever step into your home.
The bottom line: your instructor isn’t just musically skilled. They’re vetted, trained, and continually growing alongside their students. And because we invest in our instructors’ long-term careers with us, the teacher your child bonds with today is the same one likely to be there next year, and the year after.
Our Current Instructors
Stephanie has been with us since the summer of 2019. Music is an integral part of her life and nothing makes her happier than to share her love and passion with eager students. She received her B.A. in Music Performance from Lubbock Christian University, and has been using her degree to teach privately and publicly since 1991. She is currently the Choir Director at Lake Dallas Middle School and is celebrating her 20th year teaching music with Lake Dallas ISD. She has two grown children and one beautiful granddaughter who are also musically inclined!
Caden is a talented, hardworking musician from Houston Texas that has been with us since March of 2020. He graduated from Dallas Baptist University in 2017 with a Degree in Music Business with emphasis in Songwriting and Worship Leadership. Caden started learning the guitar in 2007 and also has 10 years of piano experience. With this experience, he also hasn’t shied away from applying these skills to a plethora of other instruments. Caden is a singer/songwriter, releasing music under the name Water & Bone. He has a passion for music and people, in hopes of spreading his love and understanding of the language of music.
Kyle is a percussionist, pianist, bandleader, and dedicated instructor from Santa Barbara, California with experience in every genre from jazz to metal. He began studying drums and learning the language of music in 2008, and since then has been part of bands, drumlines, and orchestras as a percussionist. In 2010, Kyle began studying piano and developing his skills further as a musician. Currently, he is a Drum Set Performance student in his second year at the University of North Texas and has been with us at ZMC since May 2021. Outside of music he enjoys exercise and spending time with his family. He is dedicated to helping others improve their musicianship and increase their love for the art of music.
Minnesota native, Jacob has his Bachelor of Music in Piano Performance from Jackson State University and has been teaching with us since August 2022. Throughout college, Jacob was a member of the “Sonic Boom of The South” Marching Band where he was a saxophone section leader for three years and was awarded 2nd and 1st prizes in the James E. Hefner HBCU Piano Competition held at Tennessee State University in 2011 and 2012 respectively. Upon graduation, Jacob moved back home to St. Paul, MN to work as the Assistant Music Director at his home church, and was soon promoted to the Minister of Music. Throughout his time in St. Paul, Jacob had the privilege of working with the Minnesota State Baptist Convention Choir, and also collaborating with an eclectic background of artists such as Stokley, Dottie Peoples, “The Voice’s” Jesse Larson, and Kierra Sheard, to name a few.
Angie B has taught students at all skill levels and ages for over 35 years. Her musical journey started in high school when learning piano, and in 2001, she picked up an acoustic guitar and hasn’t put it down since. Angie loves serving at her church where she helps write worship songs and plays acoustic and electric guitar as well as mandolin. Music is her passion, and in her spare time, she enjoys learning as many classic rock songs as possible, and attending her grandson’s t-ball and soccer games.
FUN FACTS: Angie loves eating out at J. Macklin’s Grill, Ole’s, Tex Mex, Anamia’s and Salt Grass Steakhouse, and her favorite snacks include Sun Chips, Spicy Trail Mix, Reese’s peanut butter cups, and Paydays.
Riley is a passionate music educator from Mississippi who loves to help students achieve their personal musical goals. He and his wife Katie come to the DFW area from the Houston area where he worked as a middle school choir director in La Porte ISD. Riley earned both his Bachelor’s and Master’s in Music Education from the University of Mississippi where he gained a wealth of vocal knowledge and experience studying under multiple award-winning and nationally recognized professors and conductors. Riley is thrilled to work with aspiring musicians and help them grow in both their musical abilities and their passion for music!
Coleton Harris is a musician based in Frisco, Texas. His love for music started at an early age, beginning with piano in 2006, and eventually moving towards a variety of other instruments. Coleton has a passion for teaching and pouring into the next generation, with a focus of making things fun/engaging. He is excited to partner with Zera Music Co. and their mission to make it easy for young musicians to grow in their unique gifts and callings for music.
Justin P. is a vocalist and pianist who aspires to create camaraderie and empathy through his music. Having recently graduated from the University of Texas at Austin with a Bachelors of Arts in Music, he now sings alongside the Fort Worth Chorale. Inspired by his deep love for the arts, he performed in the Butler Opera Center and helped manage a Student Theatre Organization as President. Justin cherishes the people around him and believes that music was crucial in forging these life-long bonds. His passion for Video Game Music motivates him to learn composition and voice acting in his free time. A food lover at heart, Justin enjoys eating at buffets and Vietnamese restaurants with his family and appreciates gummy candies as his favorite snack.
Sophia is a pianist, composer, and teacher from Austin, Texas. She is currently pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree in Music Composition from the University of North Texas. She has been playing piano since 2013 and previously taught at Leander Music School in Austin. Her favorite composers are Debussy, Tchaikovsky, and Clara Schumann. In her free time, she enjoys going on hikes and spending time with her cat, and her favorite snacks include La Madeline’s and anything chocolate!
Chandler began playing music at the age of six and quickly developed a deep emotional connection to it. He studied guitar and piano early on and went on to explore a wide range of string instruments. Today, Chandler is especially drawn to bluegrass and jazz, while maintaining a strong appreciation for all musical styles. During high school, he was recognized as a TMEA All-State Jazz Guitarist and also performed as a cellist with the Stephen F. Austin State University Orchestra. With experience across multiple instruments and genres, Chandler brings both versatility and musicianship to his teaching. He loves helping students discover their passion for music and grow in confidence as musicians. Outside of music, Chandler is a big fan of Asian cuisine—especially Thai food.
Samira is currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Choral Music Education at the University of North Texas. She plays both guitar and piano and enjoys singing across a wide variety of musical genres. Samira is passionate about cultivating a love for music in her students by creating a fun, safe, and encouraging learning environment where they can grow in confidence and skill. Outside of music, her favorites include Chili’s, chocolate, jalapeño chips, and kettle corn.
Rocio has been a music educator and professional singer for over 15 years. She earned her Bachelor of Music in Voice Performance from UTEP and her Master’s Degree in Music Education from the University of Florida. She is currently pursuing a Doctorate in Music Education from Liberty University, and teaches choir and modern band classes at T.A. Howard Middle School in Mansfield ISD. Rocio’s commitment to her students is evident in their remarkable achievements. Her choirs have graced the stages of prestigious events like the TMEA and TCDA conventions. Her students consistently excel in local and national competitions, earning well-deserved recognition for their talent and dedication. Beyond the classroom, Rocio’s passion for music shines through her involvement with the Dallas Symphony Chorus and her role as a worship member at Crossroads Christian Church. She actively shares her love of music with her family, inspiring her children to pursue their musical journeys. Rocio’s dedication, expertise, and inspiring spirit make her an invaluable asset to the music education community, and she empowers her students to reach their full potential, fostering a lifelong love of music and setting them on a path of artistic excellence.
Jack has been studying music since 2002 and developed a strong foundation through years of dedicated piano study. He regularly participated in sonatina festivals, theory exams, and piano duets, and his love for music led him to become involved in both band and choir. He has taken private lessons in saxophone, voice, and piano, experiencing success in various school competitions along the way. Through his musical journey, Jack has gained not only technical skills but also valuable life lessons from his teachers that continue to shape him today. He remains actively involved in the musical community through choir participation and solo performances. Outside of music, he enjoys board games, hiking, and exploring new places through travel.
Kaleb has been immersed in music for as long as he can remember, beginning piano studies at the age of four before expanding to guitar, drums, and synthesis. With years of experience, he is well-versed in a wide range of genres—from Baroque and 20th-century classical music to jazz and electronic styles. He graduated from Full Sail University in 2024, further developing his musical and technical expertise. Kaleb is passionate about helping students develop a meaningful connection with their instrument, and he takes a thoughtful, supportive, and emotionally aware approach to teaching while maintaining clear structure and expectations that foster growth and discipline.
Want to be matched with one of our instructors?
WHAT SETS US APART:
A Heart for Generosity
A few things that reflect how we actually want to do business — not just policies, but values:
Give $100, Get $100. Refer a family to Zera, and when they enroll and complete their first month, you both receive a $100 lesson credit. No limit on how many families you refer — we’d genuinely love to welcome more families like yours.
We celebrate every year you stay. Every year a student continues lessons with Zera, they receive an anniversary gift — past years have included custom shirts, water bottles, drawstring bags, and more. It’s a small way we say thank you for trusting us with something this important.
A 4-hour cancellation policy, not 24. Most music lesson companies require 24 hours notice to avoid forfeiting a lesson. We require just 4 — because we know life happens, and we’d rather make it easy for you to stay consistent than penalize you for a busy week. Cancel with at least 4 hours notice and you’ll earn a Make-Up Credit, guaranteed.
Our instructors build careers, not just resumes. The longer an instructor stays with Zera, the more they earn. That means the teacher your child bonds with today is very likely the same one still showing up next year, and the year after.
No long-term contracts, ever. Just a simple month-to-month subscription — flexible enough to fit real life, structured enough to actually produce results.
OUR STORY
Why the Name “Zera”?
In March 2017, fresh off a weekend serving at a church youth retreat, our founder, Kyle walked through the front door to find his wife holding a black lab puppy.
“Happy birthday, Kyle!”
He was tasked with naming her — and for whatever reason, the only name that kept coming to mind was Zera.
For four months, the newlyweds poured their love, time, and admittedly a bit too much money into Zera. But reality set in: a one-bedroom, third-floor apartment wasn’t the right fit for a growing puppy. A friend in East Texas with a soft spot for black labs welcomed Zera into their home — a bittersweet goodbye, but the right one.
Our Founding
A month later, in the summer of 2017, Kyle ran into a different kind of problem — this time in the DFW music lesson world. Plenty of companies offered in-home lessons, but they all shared the same gap: instructors with little accountability and no real philosophy around the idea that we’re all lifelong learners. With a passion for teaching and a love of equipping others to succeed, Zera Music Company was born.
Since then, we’ve worked with over 100 incredible instructors, served over 400 students, and taught well over 36,000 lessons across DFW. We’re sincerely glad you’re here to be part of the story we’re still writing.
Meet Our Founder
Kyle Shafer is a Pennsylvania native who grew up surrounded by music. He moved to Texas in 2013 to pursue a degree in Music Education at the University of North Texas, and founded Zera Music Company during his final semester of college in 2017 — driven by a desire to give families an unmatched customer experience alongside an unparalleled quality of music education.
That background shapes everything about how Zera teaches. Kyle’s training wasn’t just in how to play an instrument, but in how people actually learn, grow in confidence, and develop character through structured, intentional mentorship. The Signature Solution that every Zera student walks through isn’t borrowed from a textbook — it’s the direct result of Kyle’s own experience watching students transform when they’re met with both real structure and real care.
Outside of Zera, Kyle’s faith is central to who he is — he serves in worship and youth ministry at his church and is active in his Community Group. He stays competitive through softball, volleyball, and the occasional triathlon, and is husband to Paige and father to five: Jubilee, Maisie, Calvin, Mollie, and Elodie.
Today, Kyle leads Zera with the same conviction that started it all: music is the medium, but the goal has always been building confident, lifelong learners.
