OUR INSTRUCTORS

Holly Casteel has over a decade of experience as a pianist and student in musical studies such as music theory, composition, performance, piano ensemble, & choral arts. Her musical journey began at age 6 where she was enrolled in private piano lessons under the banner of what would many years later become East Valley School of Music where she studied with both Tabitha Czapla and Mike Kaminski. Under their instruction, she discovered a passion to be a teacher herself, received direct training in high school, pursued music arts and education in college and has now been teaching at EVSM since 2015. Holly completed her Associates in Music Arts Degree, and Elementary Pedagogy certification in 2022, having studied with esteemed musical professors: Radmila Stojanovic, Ruth Yandell, JaeEun Lee, Nicholas Manson and Dr. Craig Peterson.

 

Holly adores teaching children and sharing the gift of music with them and their families. For young beginner students, Holly‘s use of incorporated musical games refocuses attention through hands on engagement while also reinforcing key concepts. Holly has invented several musical games that have become a hit in the classroom and a valuable part of their training. For the elementary or intermediate level student, Holly focuses solely upon the excellence of their playing through technique training, music theory, repertoire and performance opportunities.

 

In order that each of Holly’s students obtain a firm foundation in their knowledge of the piano, she covers each of the following elements through private instruction:

• Note recognition
• Rhythm comprehension and counting
• Technique elements and exercises
• Theory
• Ear training
• Sight Reading
• Practice strategies
• Performance etiquette
• Memorization

 

Holly’s goal as a teacher is to instill a love of music and a joy of learning new things in every young musician she trains. In the classroom, Holly creates a positive atmosphere that enforces structure, builds confidence and sets goals. She strives to equip her students with the best tools for each of them to succeed and further their musical learning for as long as they wish. Her hope is that each child she encounters through teaching will carry the joy of music with them their whole life long.

Holly Headshot (2)

Schedule Lessons

Set up a trial lesson with one of our instructors today! Just fill out our Private Lesson Inquiry Form and our front office will contact you to schedule your lessons.

If you have any questions regarding our school, please feel free to contact us with the contact information below.