Taking lessons and studying music in Cincinnati puts you in the company of some legends.

The Queen City has been the birthplace of many world-renowned musicians. Here are just a few.

Doris Day – after her first hit recording, 1945’s “Sentimental Journey,” Day recorded more than 600 songs over a two-decade period, in the process becoming of the most beloved pop singers of the last century

Bryan Devendorf – the drummer from the National has achieved worldwide acclaim for his motorik-inspired beats and propulsive percussive style

Chuck Cleaver – the chief songwriter for Wussy is regarded as one of the most talented lyricist working in rock music today, with fans including legendary rock critic Robert Christgau

Ernie Isley – the guitarist for the Isley Brothers revolutionized the sound of the electric guitar, and was a spiritual sibling to Jimi Hendrix, who lived in the Isley home and played guitar with the Isley Brothers from 1963-1965

Ronald Isley – honored with a “Legend Award” at the Soul Train Music Awards, he was the lead singer on such mammoth Isley Brothers singles as “Shout,” “Twist and Shout,” and “It’s Your Thing”

Erich Kunzel – he led the Cincinnati Pops Orchestra for 32 years, and the Chicago Tribune called him the “Prince of Pops”

Itaal Shur – the songwriter and composer has produced records for the Kronos Quartet, and has written songs for Maxwell and Jewel. He co-wrote “Smooth,” performed by Santana and Rob Thomas

John Von Ohlen – the drummer for the Blue Wisp Big Band had led that ensemble since 1980, and has toured with Woody Herman and Stan Kenton

Andy Williams – the American crooner, best known for singing “Moon River,” sold more than 100 million records worldwide

Nicholas Anglich – one of the top classical pianists in the world. His father Bora taught violin here at Toedtman School of Music for year. He also studied with our very own John K. Toedtman (the school’s founder) for a while. https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nicholas_Angelich

Eli Maimen – from Walk The Moon! Eli is from Madeira and took bass lessons from our very own bass teacher John C. Toedtman.

Maurice Ellis – also a former student of John C. Toedtman’s – he’s played with Megan Trainer, CeeLo green, and Brian Culbertson!

This just scratches the surface! Taking music lessons in Cincinnati prepares you for a life of musical enjoyment and knowledge!