About Me:

My name is Maria, I am the second oldest of four, and I live in Washington State!! My friends describe me as creative, sweet, talented, and ambitious. My family would agree, but they might also say I can be very funny, a thinker and someone who loves a good conversations. I love challenging myself to learn new things, so I picked up the Violin and have enjoyed mastering each new piece sent my way. I’m passionate about JESUS, my piano and teaching, photography, flip flops, writing, Chai Lattes, and of course, my family. Most weekends you’ll find me at my piano playing around with a new tune, photographing almost anything or editing photos, and snuggling up with ice cream and my family.

Musical History:

Maria has studied music for the last 12 years. Her incredible teachers and mentors have left a deep and encouraging impact on her life. Maria dedicated four years to her advanced studies with Chris Rogers, at Rogers Piano Studio, based in Gig Harbor, WA. Her studies included: Pedagogy, classical music, sacred/improv, composition, accompaniment, theory, music history, and Maria completed the Teacher/Mentorship Program through Chris. Through online lessons, Maria is currently studying pedagogy & classical repertoire with Joan Parker, based in South Carolina, and hymn-improvisation with Neil Craig, based in Spokane, WA. She has participated in competitions, festivals, adjudications, masterclasses, and workshops. She participated as a church pianist for 6 years. Maria loves bringing music to the local retirement centers, playing for weddings, graduations, and accompanies the group, Joyful Sound, on occasion. Maria is a member of the MTNA (Music Teacher National Association), WSMTA (Washington State Music Teacher Association), and LCMTA (Lewis County Music Teacher Association). She served as Vice President to the LCMTA from 2020 - 2021 and served as President from May 2021 - June 2023.

My Inspiration:

Music is an inspiring language, created by God, that can be used to effectively connect, bless, and serve others. I am dedicated to help my students see how extremely gratifying it is when they study music, put forth great effort in playing, and take advantage of the unique opportunities to delight the listener. My goal for these aspiring pianists is to help them grow in the many aspects of music, enhance their technical skills, and nurture their maturity as a person. I delight in the moments when my students grasp what they are learning, embrace being challenged, and thrive during lessons. ”Next to the Word of God, the noble art of music is the greatest treasure in the world.” ~Martin Luther