Tyler Barbier - Donaldsonville Manager, DOS

 Founder and CEO

Dr. Michael Berthelot, founder and president of Rockin Mozart Music School, established Rockin’ Mozart Academy, formerly Westside Music Academy, in 2005, first in Brusly on East Main Street.  He is passionate about music and has a rich background in the field.  Dr. Berthelot is on a mission to bring rich music culture to all that he encounters.  Dr. Berthelot has developed a model Music School, where all orchestral instruments and rock ' n' Roll instruments can be learned. On the Classical side of the school, all students can learn from top-qualified instructors on almost any instrument and compete or play for fun.  The Rock School branch exposes students of all ages to the world of Rock n' Roll.  These students can join rock bands and study rock music in their private lessons.  The student-led rock bands perform regularly throughout the year at various community and local events.  With an unmatched curriculum and unique systems where Music meets Science, Rockin' Mozart has many talented students all over Louisiana performing and educating others.  Dr. Berthelot currently owns 4 locations in Louisiana.  (Zachary, Donaldsonville, Port Allen, and Plaquemine)

In addition to his advanced skills in Entrepreneurship, Dr. Berthelot’s endeavors include his successful music program at MSA West Academy.  Since the school's opening in 2008, the program has won gold trophies at prestigious music competitions across the country.  His role as a leadership figure for generations of students is unsurpassed.  Many of them continue to pursue music degrees or minor in music.

Through his portfolio of skills, he is working to create and expand music culture across as many communities as possible.  This goal has already benefited many generations of musicians and will continue to do so for many years to come.  He is constantly evolving his education through music.

Dr. Berthelot holds a master's degree from Louisiana State University and a PhD in Music Composition (2008).  He completed an alternative teacher education program at Southeastern University in 2011 and currently holds a Level 3 teaching certificate.

Senior Piano and Winds Instructor

Marketing Manager

Jalia Payne is a passionate music educator, composer, and performer dedicated to helping students discover their unique voice through music. Originally from Ruston, Louisiana, she holds a Bachelor of Arts in Music Industries Studies from Louisiana Tech University and a Master of Music in Composition from Louisiana State University.

Jalia serves as the Marketing Director at Rockin Mozart Music School, where she leads creative initiatives, develops engaging content, and helps share the school’s mission of changing lives through music with the community. Through her work, she combines her background in music and media to connect with students and families across all locations.

In addition to her role in marketing, Jalia teaches students of all ages in piano, voice, flute, and songwriting. Her teaching style focuses on building strong musical foundations while encouraging creativity, confidence, and self-expression. She believes that every student can succeed in music when given the right tools and support.

As a composer, Jalia creates music that explores themes of nature, storytelling, and emotional expression. Her works have been performed in academic and community settings, reflecting her commitment to meaningful and expressive artistry.

At Rockin Mozart Music School, Jalia is proud to be part of a team dedicated to creating a positive, engaging learning environment where students not only grow as musicians but also develop discipline, creativity, and a lifelong love for the arts.