Our History

Bill Stokley is an accomplished vocalist & the founder of A Touch of Music Performing Arts Studio. He has been involved with the performing arts for over 30 years and his professional work stretches back almost 20 years.

How it Began
“For as long as I can remember, my love for music and performing has been a driving force in my life…”
~William G. Stokley~

As Bill began studying classical piano, he found it difficult to find a teacher that could help him use and appreciate his ear for music. His search was over when he met Russ Faith. Already an accomplished Pianist, Guitarist, Composer, Arranger, Conductor, and Vocal Instructor, Mr. Faith took young Bill under his wing.

Although Bill has studied with various vocal and music instructors, Russ Faith made the largest impact in Bill’s educational experience. Under Russ’s expert guidance, Bill studied vocal technique, classical- jazz-improvisational piano, keyboard harmony, songwriting, guitar, music arranging.

“Studying “Mother Music” with Russ Faith impacted my life in a great and positive way. He helped me to understand, appreciate, and use my talents, while teaching excellent vocal and instrumental skills, giving me a much better vehicle of expression. Russ was not only a great teacher, but became a mentor and friend…”
~William G. Stokley~

For More Information about Russ Faith click here »

Living the Dream
Bill’s professional performing career began when he was just 18 years old, as he performed at many bars, private parties, and weddings, accompanying himself on the piano and guitar. At this time he also formed a Contemporary Christian Band. They called themselves, “Persuasion,” and Bill wrote most of the original material that the band performed. Since then Bill has enjoyed sharing his talents in many forms of the performing arts.

Here are some examples:

• Recording Studio Musician.
• Piano, guitar, lead and background vocals in successful bands, appearing at many
  Nightclubs, Corporate Parties, Weddings and Atlantic City Casinos.
• Piano, guitar, lead and background vocals in many Church Worship bands.

Bill's Theatre experience is extensive as well. He has stared in many productions playing various lead and supporting roles. Bill has also enjoyed working behind the scenes as a vocal director, music director, & production director.

Until recently, Bill was a member of the Board of Directors for the Road Company Community Theatre Group [6 years]. In November, 2006, he resigned his position as Vice-President of Artistic Direction, allowing him to devote more time in developing and expanding the services offered at the new studio location in Sicklerville, NJ.


Sharing the Dream
“Mostly all of us were born with a vocal instrument. For this reason, just about anyone can become better singers and realize their full vocal potential…”
~William G. Stokley~

In 1987, Bill began teaching and a year later formed “A Touch of Music Performing Arts Studio.” In May of 2006, Bill moved his vocal studio to a larger facility, giving him the opportunity to add exciting performing arts instruction into the mix. Over the years, his students have enjoyed much success:

• Appearances on local and national TV.
• Miss America Pageant
• Miss New Jersey Pageant
• Star Search Talent Competition
• International Broadway Tours
• March of Dimes Telethon
• MDA Telethon

Bill Also has directed many Vocal & Theatre seminars and workshops for children & adults.

“Nothing is more rewarding to me then helping others
reach their full potential, especially those who thought
they had no potential at all…”
~William G. Stokley~