Ihor Dovhodko is a drums and percussion teacher at the Montessori Center. He has strong professional training and extensive practical experience in both performing and teaching. During his military service, he played in a brass band and an ensemble within the military unit, and after completing his service he pursued formal music education.
He graduated with honors from the R. M. Glière Kyiv Institute of Music (Pop/Jazz Department, Percussion Class). At the same time, he worked as a percussion teacher at a state music school. He was a member of the institute’s pop orchestra and has performed with musicians in Ukraine and abroad.
A key focus of his work is preparing applicants for music programs: he has successfully coached students for admission to the R. M. Glière music institute, helping them build a strong technical foundation, musical thinking, and stage confidence.
In his teaching, he combines various methods and practice-proven approaches, drawing on the schools of leading American drummers — particularly Steve Gadd and Dave Weckl — as well as his own original materials. Lessons focus on hand technique, rhythm and timing, coordination, playing with a metronome, reading rhythmic notation, and developing a “live,” expressive sound — both for beginners and for students aiming for an advanced level.
Maryna Maiboroda is a piano teacher at the Montessori Center. She graduated from the P. I. Tchaikovsky National Music Academy of Ukraine and holds professional qualifications as a chamber ensemble artist, accompanist (collaborative pianist), and piano instructor.
Maryna has over 20 years of experience working as a collaborative pianist in a professional ensemble, so she knows how to turn a “regular lesson” into real musical practice—developing a beautiful tone, stylistic awareness, and confidence at the instrument.
Her key teaching principle is an individualized approach. Each program is tailored to the student’s age, personality, current level, and goals: some students need a solid foundation from scratch, others are returning to piano after a break, and some focus on developing technique, musicality, and repertoire. Maryna believes learning should be enjoyable, and that it is possible to begin a musical journey at any age.
Piano lessons include not only hands-on playing, but also essential theoretical components: elements of music theory, solfège/ear training, and basic harmony. This helps students understand the music more deeply, read notation with confidence, develop hearing and rhythm, and—most importantly—play thoughtfully and with enjoyment.
Angelina Kovalenko is a choreography teacher at Montessori Center. Angelina has over 10 years of experience training in a creative ensemble and has worked in a variety of styles. She is currently studying at Borys Grinchenko Kyiv University and continues to improve her professional skills and technique every day.
Over the years of training, Angelina has received multiple awards for solo performances, including first-place prizes and Grand Prix. She studied ballet for four years and trained en pointe. After winning a festival in Bulgaria, she was invited as a guest to a radio program and to a live broadcast on Kryvyi Rih’s First City TV channel.
Angelina easily connects with students and quickly builds a trusting rapport. In working with children, she uses an individual approach, adapting the format and pace of training to each student’s needs and personality.
Her main professional goal is to share practical stage experience with students and help them develop their abilities and talents.
Maria Chugaieva — Sewing teacher at the Montessori Center.
Maria graduated from the Kyiv Vocational Pedagogical College named after A. Makarenko with qualifications as a tailor, pattern maker, and master of industrial (vocational) training.
Maria combines hands-on tailor/pattern-maker expertise with pedagogical experience in vocational training. She teaches courses for beginners and for those looking to upskill—from operating sewing equipment to creating custom garments to individual measurements.
Course curriculum includes: taking measurements; drafting and adjusting basic blocks; cutting, sewing technology, and fittings; garment fit, defect correction, and alterations; working with sewing machines and overlockers, machine setup; construction details (pockets, zippers, collars, waistbands, linings); fabric science, material & notions selection; clothing repair and restyling.
Typical projects: skirt, dress, shirt/blouse, trousers; optionally — jacket, coat, children’s garments, or stage costumes.
Teaching approach: practice from the first lesson, clear tech sheets for each project, individual support during fittings. Emphasis on accuracy, technological sequence, and clean internal finishes.
Outcome for students: you will gain a solid construction & technology foundation, learn to use equipment confidently, and be able to sew well-fitting garments independently—for yourself, your family, or as commissions.
Sofiya Pysarenko is a vocal and piano teacher at the Montessori Center. She graduated from the Poltava College of Arts named after Mykola Lysenko and is continuing her studies at the National Music Academy of Ukraine named after P. I. Tchaikovsky. Sofiya actively participates in concerts, performances, and international competitions, has extensive stage experience, and sincerely shares her love of music with her students.In her lessons, Sofiya applies modern and effective teaching methods that help children learn proper breathing and voice control, gradually expand their vocal range, and sing freely and confidently. Special attention is given to developing inner freedom and overcoming stage fright. Sofiya believes that every child has immense potential. The teacher’s mission is to notice it carefully, nurture it, and help each student find their own path in the world of music. After all, music is not only about technique but also about emotions, inner depth, and the ability to express oneself. It often reveals aspects of personality that remain hidden in everyday life.By inviting children into the world of music, Sofiya helps each of them feel the joy of singing and playing the piano, discover their talent, and take a step toward a creative future.
Vadym Kohut is an experienced and passionate drum teacher at the Montessori Center. He graduated from the Sumy College of Arts and Culture named after D.S.Bortniansky, specializing in “Musical Arts” with a focus on orchestral wind and percussion instruments.
Vadym has excellent performance training and strong teaching skills. He inspires both beginners and advanced students, helping them develop rhythm, technique, and musicality. His lessons are always held in a positive atmosphere with a personalized approach to each student.
Vadym enjoys working with both children and adults, guiding them from their first steps in drumming to a more advanced level of musical practice.
Amina Dmytrenko is a vocal teacher at Montessori Center. She is currently studying at the Kyiv Municipal Academy of Music named after R. M. Glière, specializing in Pop and Folk Singing, while also obtaining a pedagogical education.
At present, Amina works at a music school and has experience teaching in various vocal studios. Her goal is to help students unlock their vocal potential, master performance techniques, gain stage confidence, and discover their unique singing style.
In her teaching, she applies modern methodologies, focusing on breath support, range expansion, and expressive performance. Amina is committed to an individualized approach for each student and fosters a love for music, as every voice is unique and deserves to be heard!
Anastasiia Mahazynshchykova is a professional and empathetic administrator at our school. She graduated from Borys Grinchenko Kyiv University with a degree in “Preschool Education Organization, Primary School Teacher.”
Anastasiia approaches her work with dedication, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere in the school. She is always ready to listen, assist, and find solutions to any issues related to the organization of the educational process. Her attention to detail, responsibility, and genuine desire to make learning comfortable for every child and parent set her apart from her colleagues.
Anastasiia is the true center of communication at our school. Thanks to her professionalism and organizational skills, all processes in the school run smoothly and efficiently. Parents can always count on prompt feedback, while teachers and students receive the support and assistance they need.
Her kindness, attentiveness, and love for children make her not only an indispensable staff member but also an essential part of our team.
Igor Yaremenko is a guitar teacher at the Montessori Center. He graduated with honors from the Odessa National Music Academy named after A.V. Nezhdanova, specializing in Musical Arts. Igor teaches all types of guitars: classical guitar, electric guitar, bass guitar, and ukulele.
In his lessons, he focuses on developing playing technique, musical ear, and a sense of rhythm. Igor helps his students master basic skills and then guides them toward studying pieces in various styles and genres, from classical music to rock compositions.
His individual approach to each student, use of modern teaching methods, and friendly atmosphere create comfortable conditions for learning. Igor’s students enjoy mastering the guitar, participating in concerts and competitions, and achieving outstanding results.
Olha Shovkoplias is a vocal and piano teacher at the Montessori Center. Olha graduated from the Poltava Professional College of Arts named after N.V. Lysenko. She is currently continuing her studies at the National Music Academy of Ukraine named after P.I. Tchaikovsky, allowing her to constantly refine her knowledge and professional skills.
Olha has experience working with students of various ages, from preschool children to adults. In her lessons, she focuses on developing vocal abilities and mastering piano techniques. Her classes include breath control, developing musical ear, proper sound production, and performing pieces from various genres.
An individualized approach to each student, the use of modern teaching methods, and a commitment to uncovering each student’s creative potential make Olha’s lessons both effective and inspiring. Her students regularly participate in concerts and competitions, demonstrating excellent results that highlight Olga’s high level of professionalism.
Yekaterina Fedorovskaya is a teacher of contemporary dance and ballet at the Montessori Center. She is an experienced choreographer who has dedicated many years of her career to the art of dance. Yekaterina has successfully collaborated with educational and cultural institutions and performed as a musical theater dancer at the Odessa Regional Philharmonic.
From 2006 to 2016, Yekaterina trained at the Odessa City Center for Choreographic Arts, where she gained extensive knowledge and practical skills in choreography. This background allows her to teach various dance styles, including ballet, at a professional level. In her classes, Yekaterina applies modern teaching methods and creative approaches, making lessons both effective and engaging for her students.
Her kindness, discipline, and persistence create a supportive and productive atmosphere in her classes, fostering the success of every student. Yekaterina strives to inspire her students by cultivating their love for dance and promoting a healthy lifestyle. She actively incorporates stretching and other exercises in her work to improve flexibility, coordination, and overall physical development for both children and adults.
Iryna Trubchanina is a Pre-K and school preparation teacher at Montessori Center. She graduated from the National Pedagogical University named after M.P. Dragomanov with a degree in “Primary Education”. Iryna holds a certificate in advanced training courses on distance and blended learning and has received awards and commendations for her contribution to the development of primary education.
Iryna has extensive experience working with preschool-aged children and skillfully prepares them for school life. In her lessons, she focuses not only on teaching reading, writing, and arithmetic but also on developing logical thinking, memory, attention, and communication skills.
Her teaching approach is based on tailoring lessons to the individual needs of each child, considering their unique characteristics, interests, and learning pace. Irina’s lessons are conducted in a playful manner, making the learning process engaging and enjoyable for children. Her students confidently embark on their school journey, equipped with foundational knowledge and self-assurance.
