My Teaching Philosophy
Roanoke Piano Lessons are learner-centered. When you sign up, we’ll start with a free 30 minute consultation—to discuss your goals and mutually brainstorm a lesson plan to help you achieve them.
Want to play Chopin? I’ve got you.
Want to learn Taylor Swift? Let’s go!
Want to learn music theory, improvisation, composition, technique? Classical, jazz, pop?
Whatever your heart desires, I’ll help you get there.
About Me
Studied with Suzuki, Jazz, and Classical instructors
From ages 7 to 12, I studied in the Suzuki method, which prioritizes learning to play by ear rather than reading music. From ages 12 to 18, I trained exclusively in jazz. Then, in college, I finally took classical lessons!
Mentored by Award-Winning Jazz Pianist Lee Shaw
Lee Shaw, one of the groundbreaking female pianists in jazz, was my mentor and instructor for six years. She studied with the great Oscar Peterson. A documentary film about Lee’s life was produced in the early 2010s.
Two-time New York State All-State Jazz Piano Finalist
I played jazz piano professionally during high school and received statewide recognition.
Received Bachelor of Arts Degree in Music with a Specialization in Ethnomusicology
I attended jazz summer camps at Skidmore College and UMass Amherst; then attended one year at the California Institute of the Arts studying composition and world music; then completed my college degree at Bates College where I specialized in ethnomusicology. (I wrote my senior thesis on a topic in Chinese musicology!)
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Piano Lessons Also Make a Great Gift!
Have you thought of giving your loved one the gift of piano lessons? It’s easy!
What FOLKS are saying:
“I’ve already learned so much and had so much fun!”
I’m a beginner and have been taking lessons with Samantha for a couple weeks and have already learned so much and have had so much fun! Samantha is so welcoming (as is the space she teaches in). Can’t recommend her enough!
Maddie T.
Current Student
“I’ve made more progress than I could have imagined”
Samantha is an incredible teacher and a great human. After years off from practice and classical lessons, I was nervous to jump back in and try jazz forms. Samantha has been so patient. She teaches in ways that connect with my brain. I’ve made more progress in two lessons than I could have imagined.
Alex C.
Current Student
“Smiling and laughing the whole way through my lessons.”
Samantha is a wonderful piano instructor. She is so supportive and talented at working adult learners through the sticky spots, and does a great job finding fun and fitting material to your specific interests and goals. I’m so glad to have found Roanoke Piano Lessons to help me learn a new skill and keep me smiling and laughing the whole way through my lessons.
Meredith B.
Current Student
“Never too late to learn!”
Samantha has so much to offer students with her knowledge, creativity, and learner-centered lessons! She’s the jazz piano instructor I wish I had as a high schooler. (Never too late to learn tho!!)
Mali B.
Supporter
Roanoke Piano Lessons 