"Where words fail, music speaks" - Hans Christian Anderson
MEET OUR STALEY TEAM
JOSEPH GELLER
Head Director
Joseph Geller has been the Orchestra Director at Staley Middle School since 2018. He graduated from Wakeland High School in 2013 and pursued a degree in Music Education at the University of North Texas. During his time at the university, he was actively involved in various musical activities. He taught private students, was a member of Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia music fraternity, and contributed to UNT's elementary strings program. He has performed in various recitals, demonstrating proficiency with instruments such as the viola, violin, ukulele, and vocals.
Joseph's musical journey included performances with distinguished ensembles, including the UNT Concert Orchestra, San Angelo Symphony, Monroe Symphony, and the UNT Chinese Ensemble. He is also an alumnus of Frisco ISD, having progressed through Rogers Elementary, Staley Middle School, and graduating from Wakeland High School.
Outside of his musical and teaching endeavors, Joseph finds enjoyment in cooking alongside his wife, playing video games, and comic books.
HALEY HODSON
Harp Instructor
Haley Hodson is a harpist and educator based in Frisco, Texas. She has performed at the American Harp Society Conference in New Orleans, the World Harp Congress in Hong Kong, the Lyon and Healy Summer Concert Series in Chicago, and presented her research at the World Harp Traditions International Conference in Ireland. Outside of teaching full-time for Frisco ISD, she also teaches a full private lesson studio. In addition to her work in education, Haley also serves on the board of the American Harp Society in Dallas as the 2nd Vice President. Haley enjoys arranging and recording anything from classical to video game music and has over 25 pieces published. She received her Master’s degree from the University of Texas at Austin and her Bachelor’s degree from the University of North Texas.
ALEX MORENO
Violin/Viola Private Teacher
Alex Moreno is a Dallas-based multi-instrumentalist with a passion for music education and performance. For the past five years, he has been dedicated to shaping young musical minds as a private strings instructor at Staley Middle School. Alex holds a Bachelor of Arts in Music as well as a Master of Music in Jazz Performance from the University of North Texas.
His artistic journey extends beyond the classroom, as he actively contributes to the vibrant music scene in the DFW metroplex. Alex's musical pursuits encompass teaching, performing, composing, and recording. Beyond his proficiency as a violist, he plays an essential role in the Huo Feng Trio, a specialized ensemble focused on Chinese Music. He also plays both the guitar and violin.
With a rich and diverse musical background, Alex brings a unique perspective to his teaching, providing students with a well-rounded and enriching educational experience.