Elementary

I am a vocalist, pianist and choral director. I hold an M.A in choral conducting from California State University, Los Angeles, a B.A. in Music from California State University San Jose, and an Orff Certificate from UC Santa Cruz. Previously, I directed the elementary music program at Windrush School in El Cerrito, where I taught piano, in addition to arranging and conducting the music for two elementary choruses, and a middle school jazz choir. I have worked professionally as a jazz singer, studied classical vocal repertoire, and perform when the opportunity arises.

Please see www.MADDIVA.me Thank you!

My early training was in piano, and I studied voice and composition in college. I came to vocal music teaching through musical theater, where I was a performer. Because my piano skills often had me playing in the rehearsal hall, I frequently found myself giving advice or encouragement to my fellow singers. In 1993, when my children were still young, I hung out a shingle for my studio, and have since become a well-respected vocal coach/accompanist in my own right.

Dedicated to my private students ranging in age from 8 to 85 years old, they include flute students aspiring to be professional performers and adult or young players enthusiastically loving every new song they learn. I equally enjoy working with reed players honking out their first notes, piano players discovering new patterns, and elementary students excited to practice pieces for their school band.

Please visit http://katrinawreede.com for more complete bio info.

See website for biographical information: http://teresamccollough.com/

You can read about me and my work at www.raeeka.com

I have been teaching all my life because that is what I love to do. These are some highlights from my career.
Heidi Castelman Award for Excellence in teaching chamber music 1993
Vasta teacher of the year 1989
Chamber ensembles invited to perform for MENC 1996, 1994
Orchestras invited to perform for MENC 1992, 1993, 2000
Ensembles invited to Fischoff National Chamber Music Competition 1991-1999, 2001
Sigma Quartet from TJHSST win third prize, Fischoff 1993

My website is www.phyllisplotkinpiano.com if you really want an in-depth look at my philosophy about my teaching, methods and goals for my students.
But, I'll say here, that each student is very different in how they learn, and I try to adapt what I do according to their age, interest and needs.

If the student is young, I like the parents to be part of what's going on, so they can help their child at home.