Piano Instructor Bio

Elaine is a full-time piano instructor and the owner of Joyful Piano Studio.

Elaine's experience includes over ten years of teaching individual piano lessons (also referred to as “private lessons”) specializing in ages 5 - 15. She has also completed training on how to most effectively teach this age group.

In addition to her piano teaching experience, Elaine has other related experience working with children and youth which includes childcare, being a sewing teacher assistant, and performing songs, skits, and puppet shows.

Elaine has performed at recitals, churches, and quarterly juries at Shoreline Community College.

A piano player since the age of eight, Elaine understands the importance of having positive lesson experiences early on. This influenced her decision to take the professional path and earn a degree where the primary focus was learning to become an excellent piano teacher.

Highlighted coursework from Elaine's music degree includes:

  • 2 + years piano study with Dr. Jensina Oliver, Senior Associate Faculty

  • Instructional Methods: K - 3rd Grade

  • Child Development

  • Piano Pedagogy

  • Composition & Songwriting

  • Teaching Beginner Piano Students

  • Music Technology

  • Acoustics of Music

  • Music Appreciation & Jazz History

  • Music Theory

In addition to her music degree, Elaine has also completed many hours of continuing education study with Dr. Jensina Oliver.

Elaine actively seeks to stay current and further her professional development as an instructor by regularly attending music teaching events and webinars, collaborating with other instructors, reading books, following music teaching blogs, and much more.

On a personal note, Elaine enjoys spending time with her husband, outdoor activities, and cooking.