our staff

your bam fam
Tyler Tossounian

Tyler Tossounian

Academy Owner

Meet Tyler—owner, educator, and the driving force behind our Music Academy since 2017.

Tyler isn’t just the founder of the Academy—he’s its heart and soul. A dedicated musician and teacher, Tyler opened the Academy with a clear mission: to create a welcoming, inspiring space where students of all ages and skill levels could grow, thrive, and fall in love with music. Since then, he’s worked tirelessly to turn that vision into a vibrant community of passionate learners, talented instructors, and supportive families.

Tyler graduated from York University with a degree in Music and Music Education, where he developed a strong foundation in theory, composition, and pedagogy. He brings a well-rounded, academic approach to his teaching, but always keeps his lessons fun, approachable, and tailored to each individual student. His versatility as a musician allows him to teach bass guitar, drums, and guitar, making him one of the Academy’s most adaptable and in-demand instructors.

What truly sets Tyler apart is how deeply he cares. As both an owner and a teacher, he is committed to creating a space where students feel valued, supported, and inspired—whether they’re just starting out or working toward professional goals. He’s equally invested in the well-being of his staff, always fostering a positive, collaborative environment where teachers feel empowered to grow and succeed.

Outside of music, Tyler is a huge fan of video games, animation, and sports—especially hockey! His diverse interests help him connect with students on a personal level, making lessons not only educational but engaging and fun. Whether he’s talking riffs, rhythm, or retro games, Tyler brings energy, humor, and heart to everything he does.

Under his leadership, the Academy has become more than just a music school—it’s a community. And for Tyler, that’s the greatest success of all.

Haig Tossounian

Haig Tossounian

Manager & Custom Framing Specialist

Haig brings a unique blend of artistry, experience, and enthusiasm to the Bradford Academy of Music. As the founder of Bradford Art & Framing and the father of our store owner, Haig now serves as our Custom Framing Specialist and Manager, offering expert guidance on all framing needs—from diplomas to cherished music memorabilia. A lifelong supporter of the arts, Haig is also a dedicated student drummer, proving it’s never too late to follow your passion. His craftsmanship, leadership, and community spirit make him an invaluable part of the Academy family.

Arianna Botas

Arianna Botas

Manager & Social Media Specialist

Arianna is the heart behind the scenes at the Bradford Academy of Music. A gifted multi-instrumentalist, she plays five instruments—most notably voice and guitar—and brings a deep well of musical knowledge and creativity to everything she does. Arianna first joined the team during the COVID-19 pandemic and quickly became an integral part of the academy’s growth and success.

Now serving as both Manager and Social Media Director, Arianna oversees the day-to-day operations of the academy, ensuring everything runs smoothly and efficiently. From scheduling and student coordination to maintaining the welcoming atmosphere that families have come to know and love, she is the go-to person who keeps everything on track. As Social Media Director, she also curates and manages the academy’s online presence, utilising her eye for design and deep understanding of the community to create engaging and informative content that showcases the school’s heart.

In addition, Arianna is the Head Teacher and creator of the academy’s Summer Music Camp, where she brings energy, organization, and a passion for music education. Her natural ability to connect with young musicians and foster a fun, inclusive learning environment makes her a beloved mentor among both students and staff.

Currently pursuing a career in teaching, Arianna is driven by a love of music and a desire to inspire the next generation. Her dedication, leadership, and vibrant personality help make the Bradford Academy of Music not just a place to learn, but a place to belong.

Kiara Botas

Kiara Botas

Manager & Kinder Notes Instructor

As our Front Desk Worker, Kiara exudes a friendly demeanor and genuine enthusiasm, creating a welcoming atmosphere for students, parents, and musicians alike. Whether she is assisting with instrument rentals, scheduling lessons, answering inquiries, or providing guidance, Kiara ensures that every interaction is handled with professionalism and care.

Maya Cavaco

Maya Cavaco

Sales Associate & Instrument Technician

Maya is a multi-talented musician and an integral part of the sales team at the Bradford Academy of Music. With a strong background in guitar, piano, and voice, she brings both knowledge and passion to helping customers find the right instruments and gear. In addition to her work in sales, Maya also assists with basic instrument repairs, offering hands-on support and technical skill. Her musical expertise, friendly approach, and attention to detail make her a go-to team member for both students and shoppers alike.

Joseph Marquez

Joseph Marquez

Receptionist

Joseph is a friendly and dedicated member of our front desk team at the Bradford Academy of Music. A former guitar student at the Academy, Joseph returned in a new role to help support our staff, students, and families with day-to-day operations. Currently a high school student with aspirations of becoming a pilot, Joseph brings a strong work ethic, a calm presence, and a passion for learning to everything he does. His connection to the Academy as both a student and team member makes him a valued part of our community.