Education and Background

Rachel began playing the flute in 2001, and started taking private lessons in 2003. She developed an early love for music and took a serious attitude towards her lessons and musical studies; so much so that she began teaching beginner flute lessons as a high school sophomore. In 2009, Rachel was accepted to the University of Akron as a Music Education major studying with George Pope, principal flutist of the Akron Symphony Orchestra. During her undergraduate career, Rachel learned to play and teach all woodwind, brass, percussion, and string instruments, with a special emphasis in woodwind instruments. She served as the President of the Northeastern Ohio Flute Association, Secretary of the Ohio Collegiate Music Education Association Akron chapter and Vice President of Membership Education for Kappa Kappa Psi National Honorary Band Fraternity. Rachel graduated cum laude from the University of Akron, and since then has attended the Midwest Band Conference, and the Ohio Music Education Association professional development conference. She has taught beginning, middle, and high school band for 7 years including jazz band, marching band, and concert band. 

Teaching Philosophy

Rachel is passionate about teaching students at any ability level, from learning how to correctly open the case through preparing for college auditions. She firmly believes all students can learn to play an instrument. Rachel blends thoroughly planned lessons with flexibility as needed to meet the needs of all of her students. She believes it is valuable to involve parents in the lesson and practice experience in order to help the child have the greatest chance for long-term success. The music-making experience helps children find means of self-expression at a time when they may struggle to do so. Although her lessons are well-structured, Rachel enjoys creating a fun learning atmosphere for her students to feel comfortable making mistakes and trying new skills on their instruments.