Derek Deakins – Violin, Fiddling, Ensemble

Derek Deakins is a fiddler and violinist who began Suzuki violin lessons at age five and has since performed across the United States and internationally. He holds a Bachelor of Music degree in Instrumental Music Education from Belmont University, a Master of Music degree in Orchestral Conducting from East Carolina University, and a Doctorate in Music Education. 

Derek has recorded and produced multiple albums, worked as Director of Orchestras, and is also a teaching artist at Walt Disney World in Orlando. He brings his diverse performance and teaching experience to the Florida Music Institute, helping students build technique, repertoire, and a passion for ensemble playing.

Lisa Deakins is a Suzuki violin teacher and professional fiddler with extensive experience teaching students of all ages. She holds a Bachelor of Music in Commercial Music Performance and a Master of Music in Music Education with Suzuki pedagogy. 

She blends classical and fiddle styles in her teaching and has performed nationally at venues including the Grand Ole Opry. Lisa is also the creator of Deakins Suzuki Strings and the Fiddlin’ Favorites series, bringing passion, versatility, and inspiration to her students at the Florida Music Institute.

Christopher Fiore began studying cello at age four and later added double bass to his musical training. He earned degrees in cello performance from the Cleveland Institute of Music and DePaul School of Music, studying with members of the Chicago Symphony. 

With extensive experience teaching students of all ages, Christopher has performed and instructed nationally and internationally. At the Florida Music Institute, he combines his performance expertise with a strong teaching background to help students develop technique, musicality, and a lifelong love of the cello.

James Hutchins is a seasoned Suzuki violin teacher and registered teacher trainer with experience teaching students of all ages. He earned his Bachelor of Music and Master of Music degrees in violin performance and pedagogy. 

James has taught internationally at workshops and institutes and brings a wealth of experience in Suzuki pedagogy and ensemble playing. At the Florida Music Institute, he inspires students to develop strong technique, musicality, and a lifelong love of the violin.

Charles Regauer is a Suzuki viola teacher and registered teacher trainer with extensive experience in pedagogy and ensemble instruction. He holds a Bachelor of Music degree from the Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul in Brazil and a Master of Music degree from the University of New Mexico with concentrations in viola performance and violin pedagogy. 

Charles has taught at Suzuki workshops and institutes in the U.S., Brazil, and Mexico, and serves as an instructor and administrator at the Centenary Suzuki School in Shreveport, Louisiana. At the Florida Music Institute, he brings his expertise and passion to help students develop technique, musicality, and a lifelong love of the viola.

Adam Whiting is a collaborative pianist with extensive experience performing and accompanying students of all ages. He holds a Bachelor of Music and a Master of Music in piano performance and accompanying. Adam has served as staff accompanist for the Cleveland Music School Settlement, the Oregon Suzuki Institute, and other Suzuki programs across the U.S.

At the Florida Music Institute, he works closely with students and faculty, supporting ensemble and recital performances while helping students build confidence and musical expression.