Meet the Artists

Ned Ellis, Band Director at PS 46, has taught in the New York City schools for over 30 years. He graduated with music degrees from Arkansas State University and the University of Iowa. Mr. Ellis studied trumpet with Raymond Crisara in New York for several years, and attended New York University.

Merrill Poliak has been a teacher at PS 131 Q for the past 21 years. She also has the distinction of being the only teacher who was also a student there! Mrs. Poliak has been the performing arts teacher for the past five years. In addition to teaching her classes, she runs the school’s glee club, which boasts over 100 members. Mrs. Poliak has thoroughly enjoyed her work with The Academy, and treasures her teaching relationship and friendship with Elizabeth Roe.

Susan Shumway received a bachelor’s degree in music from the University of Kansas and a master’s degree in music from the Manhattan School of Music, and is currently completing a master’s degree in teaching at Lehman College. She is a member of the Orchestra of St. Luke’s and has also performed with the Bronx Arts Ensemble, The Little Orchestra Society, the City Center Encores Orchestra, and in many Broadway shows. She has been a teacher at Riverdale Country School and for the Rivertowns Arts Council music lesson program. Susan is pleased to have joined the teaching staff at PS 157 this year.