About Us

Kathleen is the founder of The Music Makers, Inc. and Creative Learning House. She started playing guitar and singing when she was a teenager.  As a young adult, she received vocal training, traveled with a band, served on the foreign mission field, worked as a worship leader and in children's ministry in the States. 

 

Kathleen has been teaching music and art in schools, studios, camps and other centers for the past 30 years. 

 

She also learned about alternative teaching methods while working in preschool classrooms and as a homeschool parent.

 

In 2017 she was trained by Lynn Kleiner, founder of Music Rhapsody, and is currently a Licensed Music Rhapsody teacher.

​

Writing and teaching music and art are Kathleen's passions.  Her most recent accomplishments include cowriting and implementing a complete ukulele program, opening an arts-enriched morning school called Creative Learning House, making original art with up-cycled materials, and leading drum circles.

 

Kathleen turned the business over to Justin several years ago and has a full-time teaching position offering enrichment to elementary aged children. 

Justin is the owner of The Music Makers NC, LLC and the son of founder Kathleen Bellavia. His love of music began early. As a homeschooled student through middle and high school, he was given the freedom to explore and develop his gifts on guitar, banjo, and ukulele.

​

While assisting with summer camps and volunteering at church during his early years, Justin discovered a second calling: working with children. That love continued to grow during his time at the YMCA childcare program, where he began in 2015 and was later promoted to lead teacher.

​

In 2017, Justin trained directly under Lynn Kleiner, founder of Music Rhapsody, and became a licensed Music Rhapsody teacher. He also helped design a complete ukulele program and played a central role in shaping Creative Learning House into the vibrant and imaginative space it became.

​

Justin’s musical approach is deeply influenced by the spirit of folk traditions and community music-making, inspired by artists like Pete Seeger, who believed that music belongs to everyone. He draws from a wide variety of musical styles and cultures, bringing songs, rhythms, and instruments from around the world into his classes. This love for diversity helps children experience music as a shared human language that connects us all.

​

Known for his calming presence and gentle way with children, Justin brings warmth, playfulness, and connection to every classroom. His teaching is rooted in the Orff philosophy, blending singing, movement, instruments, and imaginative play so that every child can experience the joy of making music.

​

Today, Justin leads The Music Makers full-time, teaching in preschools, daycares, and community spaces across Charlotte, NC and the surrounding areas. He continues to share his heart-led approach with students, believing that everyone, at their core, is a music maker.