Teaching Philosophy

Every developing musician’s artistic voice is inherently unique and valuable. I seek to foster open, collaborative lessons that help musicians express themselves clearly and authentically. My hope is for my students to leave each lesson feeling confident in their own potential and excited to continue their musical growth. Music is ultimately a form of artistic communication, and I support my students in effectively conveying musical ideas across a variety of genres and musical styles.

Instruments

  • Performance and recording experience: Collegiate orchestra, pre-professional symphony, and session experience (flute, piccolo, and alto flute)

    Specialties: Improvisational jazz and rock flute, classical repertoire, audition, jury, and performance preparation

    Favorite performers: Ian Anderson (Jethro Tull), Nelson Rangell, Hubert Laws, Sam Most, Herbie Mann, Bobbi Humphrey, and Greg Ham (Men at Work)

  • Performance and recording experience: Rock and jazz performance experience, analog and electronic synthesis

    Specialties: Blues rock, psych rock, and jazz

    Favorite performers: Ray Manzarek, Tom Scholz, Wendy Carlos, Brian Eno, and Jean-Michel Blais

  • Performance and recording experience: Electric and acoustic guitar, soprano and tenor ukulele, and fretless electric bass gigging and recording experience

    Specialties: Blues rock, psych rock, and jazz

    Favorite performers: Dominic Miller, The Edge (U2), Andy Summers (The Police), John Mayer, Stevie Ray Vaughan

  • Performance and recording experience: Indie rock gigging experience, hybrid acoustic and electric drums recording experience, drum circle facilitation experience

    Specialties: Indie rock, post-punk, and jazz fusion

    Favorite performers: Larry Mullen Jr. (U2), Stewart Copeland (The Police), Elaine Bradley (Neon Trees), Elise Trouw, Phil Collins

Teaching Background

Steph earned her Master of Arts in Interdisciplinary Music Studies from Berklee College of Music in 2024, concentrating on music production and film scoring. She received her Bachelor of Arts from George Washington University in 2021. Steph has been teaching multi-instrumental music lessons since 2020, and she joined Cumberland Valley School of Music as an instructor in 2022.

Steph draws on her collaborative work background as a producer, mix engineer, and film composer to tailor lessons to the interests and goals of each individual student. She also enjoys introducing students to fundamental composition and songwriting techniques, helping to facilitate self-expression and creativity throughout the learning process. Steph enjoys teaching students of all ages and skill levels, seeking to support students’ curiosity and confidence throughout their musical growth.

Lessons Testimonials

  • "Stephanie is an exceptional instructor! My daughter looks forward to each and every lesson and has gained so much confidence from these interactions."

    ~ Lessons Parent

  • "Steph is a wonderful teacher who's managed to develop a program for me to reach my specific music goals. I'm grateful for the extra effort and, maybe for the first time, really pleased with the progress I'm making."

    ~ Lessons Student

  • "Steph has been the best teacher (and we have tried many). She is the perfect balance of fun and education."

    ~ Lessons Parent

  • "I cannot express enough the talents of Steph. She has transformed my life with her teaching skills. I never imagined I would be playing this quickly."

    ~ Lessons Student