My Philosophy and Personal Experience
Each student has his or her own individual strengths and goals. In a structured learning environment, students develop the skills to:
- read music – so the student can pick up any piece and play,
- play with proper technique – to reduce the risk of injury and create more beautiful sounds, and
- play with artistry – because boring music is, well, boring.
My goal is to see each student grow in self-confidence as they grow in musical fluency. In lessons, I incorporate games and student-centered literature so that each individual student works at his or her own pace. Also, students choose pieces of music that interest them as part of their study.
My teaching career began while I was in high school and continues as I teach private piano and music theory lessons. Currently I teach from my private studio in Central Knoxville (Western Ave), online, and as an Adjunct Professor of Piano at Pellissippi State Community College. I am a nationally certified teacher of piano (NCTM) as well as a member of the Music Teachers’ National Association and the National Federation of Music Clubs.
When I’m not teaching, you may find me practicing, snuggling with my cats, Gabby and Little Bit, and reading a good book or out in the garden.
To learn more about the lessons that I offer, click on Lesson Information.
About Laura’s Education
National Certification in Piano Teaching (NCTM)
- Certified by the Music Teachers National Association (www.mtna.org)
Master of Music in Music Theory, the University of Tennessee
- Graduated Summa Cum Laude
- Graduate Teaching Assistant, Music Theory
- Piano Student of Dr. David Northington and Mrs. Fay Adams
Bachelor of Science in Music Education, Instrumental and Vocal, Clearwater Christian College
- Graduated Cum Laude
- Commencement Contest Winner, Piano, 2009
- Assistant to the Director of Instrumental Music
- Piano Student of Dr. Eugene Flemm and Mrs. Teresa Compos-Falk