MUSIC, ART AND ACTING INSTRUCTORS

OUR TEAM

Our team is made up of a diverse group of performing and visual artists. We are actively involved in the arts and have extensive experience within the industry. Each is an independent instructor with his/her own curriculum and method of teaching. We believe every student is different with a unique set of goals. It is our unified desire to help our students reach their specific goals allowing for fun and creative input.

DWAYNE TOLER Partner . Music Director . Producer . Vocals . Writer . Keyboardist . Guitar

DWAYNE is a retired San Antonio Fire Department EMS Lieutenant with 33 years of service.

With over 45 years as a seasoned musician and vocalist, Dwayne boasts a rich resumé within the music industry. This includes more than 14 years serving as Minister of Music for a congregation exceeding 2,000 members. A remarkably self-taught pianist, keyboardist, guitarist, and songwriter, he possesses the unique ability to play by ear. His early career highlights feature co-founding and co-managing the groups “Friends” and “Master Jam,” performing as opening acts for iconic national artists such as Millie Jackson, James Brown, and Sybil, thus demonstrating significant stage presence and industry insight.

Dwayne possesses an intimate understanding of the dedication required for artistic success. In 2018 Dwayne released teh CD "Next Level" iand performed lead vocals for "When I Whisper" on the 2019 release RIZE ABOVE by local group Europa Jazz.

Beyond his personal artistic endeavors, Dwayne is a committed advocate for emerging talent, actively supporting youth musicians, community talent competitions, performances, and workshops.

SUSAN A. TOLER Managing Partner . Visual Artist

SUSAN is a visual artist and an award winning graphic artist and creative director. She began her career early having completed training in Commercial Art at San Antonio’s Texas Vocational School at the age of 19. She migrated to the Art Institute of Houston where she earned her associates degree and went on to earn her bachelors degree from the University of Arlington where she focused her studies in the major areas of communications and business.

Her graphic work has appeared locally in the form of the Convention & Visitors Bureau, SAWS and San Antonio Water Authority marketing materials, as well as in national print publications such as Cooks Magazine, Essence Magazine, Ebony Magazine and Vibe Magazine. Susan’s AWARDS AND ACCOLADES include: APEX Award 1999 for Sensitivity in Advertising & Marketing in domestic destination print advertising; PRIMA Award1999 for Excellence in Marketing by the American Society of Association Executives; PRAME Award in 1998 and '99; Silver ADDY Award in 1997; 40 Under 40 Award in 1997 awarded by the San Antonio Business Journal; Voices Along the River San Antonio Poetry Fair 2002 Anthology Honorable Mention. She has served on a number of boards and committees during her career.

CHRISTIAN TOLER Vocalist . Pianist . Writer . Visual Artist . Theatre

Christian is a multi-talented artist, videographer, editor, and a dedicated lifetime musician and vocalist. Her extensive artistic journey began early with classical piano and vocal training at the Vivace Music Academy of San Antonio under Vida Scott. As an adult, Christian continued to hone her classical and contemporary piano and vocal skills through private instruction, studying vocals with renowned coaches Dwayne Toler, Anthony Modeste, Alisa Claridy, and Sonya Folrie, and guitar with Wayne Gray at BlackBox Music & Arts.

In 2018, Christian released two singles, "Toy Soldier" and "Story of My Life," and wrote and performed "The King" on Dwayne Toler's "The Next Level" EP. Her diverse talents extend to the performing arts, having taken courses in art and acting during high school and college, and performing in various stage plays for church, school, and Sea World's Howl-O-Scream. Her aptitude was recognized with multiple scholarships which fully funded her college education.

Committed to intellectual growth, Christian pursued a Bachelor of Arts in Communications with a minor in English from Texas A&M San Antonio, graduating Cum Laude. Currently, Christian leverages her comprehensive skill set by instructing at BlackBox, continuing to write music, working as a freelance writer, and pursuing her Master's Degree in Music Production from Berklee College of Music.

ADRIAN TOLER Artist . Art instructor

Adrian's artistic journey began early as a lifetime student of his mother, BlackBox lead artist, Susan A. Toler. His natural talents were evident from childhood; he attended adult-level art classes alongside his mother, frequently outperforming his adult counterparts. Throughout his school years, Adrian earned numerous awards and recognitions for his artistic prowess.

Beyond his formal acknowledgments, Adrian operates as a successful freelance artist, specializing in commissions for paintings, character development, and logos. Committed to continuous growth, he actively pursues his educational journey through alternative means, showcasing a keen enthusiasm for acquiring new skills and sharing his experiences.

As an independent thinker and a creative spirit, Adrian consciously chooses to learn without traditional university constraints, finding his primary outlet in art. His ultimate goal as an instructor is to empower his students, guiding them to overcome creative inhibitions and pursue their artistic interests through personalized, effective means to achieve their objectives.

Cassandra Licenzi . Acting coach . Drama Instructor . Violin instructor

Cassie Licenzi stands out as a passionate educator and a truly multidisciplinary artist whose background blends the worlds of theater and music. Holding a Bachelor's degree in Theatre with a focus on directing, Cassie possesses a profound understanding of storytelling and performance, a skill set she expertly applies to her various roles. Beyond the classroom, Cassie's practical experience is extensive, encompassing a wide range of roles including stage management, design, and performances in live shows and events. Her work at major entertainment venues such as Six Flags Fiesta Texas and SeaWorld Parks Entertainment showcases her ability to bring dynamic energy to large-scale productions, often leveraging her production and dramatic talents. Cassie's dedication to education is particularly evident in her years of experience working with children through various camps, classrooms, and arts programs. With establishments like La Petite Academy, the Magik Theatre, and Tutor Time Learning Center, she has honed her ability to inspire young minds, particularly in the creative disciplines of acting and music, making her a truly versatile and impactful educator and artist.

As an accomplished violinist, Cassie's musical journey began with a strong foundation in school orchestras and private lessons, a passion she continues to cultivate recreationally. Her personal experience provides a unique understanding of the dedication required to return to an instrument after time away, making her an exceptionally encouraging guide for beginners and individuals seeking to rebuild their musical confidence.

At BlackBox, Cassie is enthusiastic about empowering students to unlock their potential. She is dedicated to fostering creativity, self-expression, and joy through the transformative experiences of both acting and music.

PAUL PFAFF guitar . bass . ukulele . piano
Paul Pfaff is a classical/finger-style guitarist from Long Island, New York. In high school Paul began playing in rock and metal bands while studying electric guitar with Jeff Denny. Paul studied classical guitar with Michael Belajonas and earned his associates degree in Music from Suffolk County community College. Paul then moved to Las Vegas to attend UNLV and obtain his BA in Music composition, studying with Virko Bailey and Ricardo Cobo. Paul has been teaching piano, guitar, and music theory for over 12 years as well as continuing to perform at various venues.

He has also worked for Ipiano Lab for over 10 years and has been awarded the "Teacher of the Semester" award for positive feedback from students and parents three times.

Paul has also received a certificate of achievement in music business and technology from the College of Southern Nevada and has given masterclasses for the Long Island Classical Guitar Society at Long Island University . Besides teaching, composing and performing Paul also enjoys reading and playing hockey.

MICHAEL MADISON Drummer . Percussionist instructor

Michael Madison is a life long musician. Drumming is his passion. He played and taught djembe for the Drum Café in San Antonio for over 24 years. He also played and performed in Tokyo, Japan in corporate, educational, and private party settings. Michael earned a Masters of Science in the Management of Technology from the University of Texas at San Antonio.

RENE FORD Saxophone . Composer . Ensemble Coordinator

RENE's work as a Composer and Performance Artist seeks the common truth that dwells in each of us through collaborative improvisation.

As Collaborating Artist: Holy Ghost Dance, 1995 Walker Arts Gallery 8; Punic Wars, 1995 Walker Arts Center Auditorium; Monday Morning Body Count, 1996 Hennepin Center for the Arts; Porch Swing, 1997 Southern Theater; Theology, 1998 Southern Theater; Father, Sons and Brothers, 1999 African Heritage Cultural Arts Center, Miami FL; An Isolated Incident, 1999 Southeastern Center for Contemporary Art, Winston-Salem, NC; An Isolated Incident, 1999 Lorraine Hansberry Theater, San Francisco CA; Memory Dances, 2000, Southern Theater; O Black and Unknown Bards, 2000, Buetow Music Auditorium; Stigmatism, 2001, Intermedia Arts; 2704, 2004 Capri Theater, Mpls. MN; Cactus in the Desert, 2005 Pillsbury Theater, Mpls. MN; Pork Chop Wars, 2006 Oscar Brockett Theatre, Austin Texas; Draptomania, 2007; As Producer: Reunion 2001 Artist Quarter; The American Dream, 2002 Intermedia Arts; As a Composer: Unsentimental Released by the American Composers Forum on the Innova Label 2004

Photo of Embroidery teacher Lauren McAlister

LAUREN MCALISTER Textile Artist . Embroidery Instructor

Lauren McAlister's journey into the world of textiles began at just six years old, guided by her grandmother and step-grandmother. This early immersion in embroidery and hand-sewing, focused on mending and revitalizing fabrics, instilled a deep appreciation for craftsmanship and sustainability. Over the years, her practical skills evolved into a profound passion for textile history and the rich narratives woven into every thread. Today, Lauren expertly applies these lifelong abilities to identify, recreate, and celebrate exceptional garments, historical textiles, and intricate thread-based artistry, one meticulous stitch at a time.

instructor Susana Espinosa holding violin

SUSANA ESPINOSA Violin . Viola . Cello . Double Bass
Certified Strings Instructor (Currently TDY)

SUSANA is a Certified music teacher EC-12 and a variety of string instruments. She has taught 5 years privately for the Youth Orchestras of San Antonio and 7 years in public education.

Susana is a motivated and dedicated Orchestra educator. In her twelve years of teaching she has raised the standard in her program to emphasize music literacy and performance excellence in private and public education. She is a graduate of the University of Texas at San Antonio and during her time there she held the Associate Directors position for the String Project Program. She received a Master's in Educational Leadership from the University of North Texas. Her experiences range from piloting an orchestra program for underprivileged students ages 4-13 in partnership with the Youth Orchestras of San Antonio, to teaching middle and high school Mariachi and Orchestra in public schools across TX, most recently including NISD.

Susana has a love for sharing her knowledge and passion for music with others, allowing them to unveil their musical potential.

ABOUT

Founded in 2015, Family owned and operated by retired
San Antonio Fire Department EMS LT. Dwayne Toler, and his wife, visual artist Susan A. Toler. BlackBox Music & Arts is a creative space where performing and visual artists gather to learn, collaborate, celebrate and contemplate; are encouraged to reach their full potential; and are challenged to a higher standard.

CONTACT US

EMAIL: admin@blackboxmusicarts.com
PHONE: 210.748.5599
1401 Dezarae #6
San Antonio TX 78253

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