Gretchen Hazen Brown

I've always had a love for music and when I was five years old, my parents discovered I had a gift. I began my lessons and cultivated my passion for the piano throughout all high school. When I attended the Oberlin College Conservatory of Music, I received my bachelor's degree in piano performance upon graduation.

Immediately following graduation, I did post-graduate work at the Talent Education Institute in Matsumoto, Japan as a teacher-trainee of the Suzuki Method. There, I observed the teachings and philosophy of the founder, Dr. Suzuki. I was astounded when I saw the results in students' technical ability and lovely tone. Even from a young age, they played advanced repertoire--not just with technical precision, but from their heart. I fell most in love with the mindset that all students can learn to play beautifully, at all levels, if nurtured by love. 
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I had the privilege of being one of the first Americans taught by Dr. Kataoka, the co-founder of the Suzuki Piano method. I was a pioneer in bringing the Japanese Suzuki Piano method back to the States (and parts of Canada), instructing students, and training other teachers in the method.

Though, nothing compares to the challenge of being a musical parent teaching your own child! In all seriousness, I've gained an invaluable perspective from my years taking my oldest son to violin lessons and supervising as a parent with home practice. Additionally, I played the part of the teacher as well as the parent for my wigglier younger son on piano, whose greatest challenge was sitting still!​

The Suzuki method tells us that it's up to the teacher to inspire. I've learned that education is more than instruction--it is to nurture, love, inspire the individual and guide the parent too. (Specifically on how to supervise a younger child's practice). I truly enjoy watching my students as they grow up and we develop a precious bond. I cherish the time I spend with each student, each a special and unique person. I desire to impart to my students not only a deep love for music but to give them the tools to express themselves beautifully. I aim to teach students how to break difficult things into smaller, more manageable task--as well as concentration, perseverance, and confidence. I wish for my pupils to learn to celebrate and encourage others in the same way. Being alongside them as they grow musically and personally is one of my greatest privileges as a teacher.  

My Musical Education Background

Bachelor of Music degree in piano performance from Oberlin Conservatory of Music in Oberlin, Ohio

Studied the Suzuki Piano method of teaching at the Talent Education Institute in Matsumoto, Japan with the founders of the method, Dr. Shinichi Suzuki and Dr. Haruko Kataoka

Genres and Subjects Taught

I teach how to play the piano beautifully through classical music, folk songs, church music both traditional and contemporary, almost any genre except jazz. I offer a free informational session in the very beginning to inform you about different options and to find out what your preferences may be.

Lesson Rates

$136/month which includes 30 minute individual lesson plus observation of my teaching another student before or after your lesson. The observation helps to reinforce the same basic principles and motivates them to learn other repertoire, The monthly fee also includes bi-monthly group lessons which consist of a student performance and positive peer-feedback. Futhermore, these master classes, wittily titled lessons, are an oppertunity for the teacher to point out aspects to improve upon and demonstate knowledge on the piece. It is followed by refreshments and social time to get to know other students, and encourage each other. I create a relaxed atomosphere and a feeling that we are all learning together, rather than competition. The group lesson replaces the individual lesson for that week. It helps students to get relaxed about performing in a smaller group.  We have one formal annual recital for the whole studio. Memorization and performance are encouraged but never required.

Ages / Skill Levels Taught

I teach all ages and all levels. I've had over 35 years experience teaching students from adolescence through adulthood. They include starting from the very beginning, transfer students of any level or background, and up through advanced students who may wish to go to college as a music major. I teach adult women of any age and students younger than 6 on a case-by-case basis

My Certifications and Awards

Registered Teacher Trainer with the Suzuki Association of the Americas

See website for more: (contact me)

My Musical Influences

I have accompanied opera singers, played in chamber music, been a church music director including playing the piano and directing the choir, been a Suzuki method mom supervising my son's violin practice and accompanying him in performances and contests, and I was a mom/teacher with my son who was studying piano with me.

I also studied  and played trio chamber music  (violinist, cellist, and pianist) coached by the1st cellist in the Pittsburgh Symphony.

Service Area

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