OUR TEAM

At Poppy Vocal Studio, our compassionate and open-minded coaches strive to create an inviting, friendly, and safe environment.

Our team brings a wealth of experience in assisting our diverse clients navigate through a variety of challenges. At Poppy Vocal Studio, each coach emphasizes communication, affirmation, and comfort, ensuring to guide you effectively on your individual vocal journey.

  • Founder & Lead Coach - Elise Mattox

    Elise Mattox (Tanyag)

    FOUNDER & LEAD VOCAL COACH

  • Ashley Dawson, Lead Vocal Coach

    Ashley Dawson

    LEAD VOCAL COACH

  • Janina Simone

    ASSOCIATE VOCAL COACH

  • Kailey Zapata

    APPRENTICE VOCAL COACH/ SOCIAL MEDIA GRAPHIC DESIGNER

  • Dominic Etsuo

    TECHNICAL SUPPORT ENGINEER

Our Story


2021-2022: The Beginning

After relocating from San Francisco to Richmond, VA, Elise Tanyag founded her private vocal studio from her apartment in 2021. Driven by a deep passion for teaching and a commitment to helping others find their voice, Elise quickly attracted a growing number of students. By 2022, the demand for lessons had skyrocketed, leading Elise to expand her team and bring on additional vocal coaches to meet the needs of her flourishing studio.

2023 - 2024: Major Milestones

In 2023, Elise celebrated a significant achievement by moving the studio into its first brick-and-mortar space in Richmond, VA, transforming her home-based operation into a dedicated hub for vocal training. This exciting development was followed by another major milestone in 2024 when Elise rebranded her business as Poppy Vocal Studio, reflecting its growth, the expanded team, and a renewed commitment to nurturing each student’s unique musical journey.

Today: A Thriving Community

Today, Poppy Vocal Studio continues to grow as a vibrant community for singers of all levels. Whether online or in-person, we remain dedicated to empowering our students, helping them discover their true voice, and fostering a love for music that lasts a lifetime.