MARISSA'S MUSIC STUDIO
Providing personalized piano and music theory lessons in the South Loop (Chicago) and online to students across the United States
Lessons with Marissa
Marissa's music studio offers personalized lesson experiences to meet the needs of all students. Whether you are the parent of a young child interested in exploring music for the first time, a teenager looking for a fresh perspective, or an adult coming back to piano after a long hiatus, Marissa will work with you to develop a curriculum that helps you to meet your musical goals. With flexible scheduling options to fit your busy schedule, contact Marissa to learn more!
For details about pricing and scheduling, click here to download the studio policy document. Enrollment in lessons indicates acceptance of all studio policies.
Marissa the Pedagogue
Marissa has been teaching music in a variety of settings since 2013 when she took her first pedagogy course at Interlochen Arts Camp. Since that time, she has worked with countless students of all ages and abilities in both individual and group capacities at the pre-college and collegiate level. Marissa prides herself on meeting students where they are and giving them the tools be successful in their musical pursuits whether those be a professional music career, a fun hobby, or something in-between. In addition to her private teaching, Marissa teaches piano, music theory, and music history courses at Wilbur Wright College, one of the City Colleges of Chicago
Having completed her academic coursework in pedagogy, Marissa continues to grow as a teacher through professional development opportunities. An active member of Music Teachers National Association (MTNA), Marissa has presented at numerous conferences including the National Conference on Keyboard Pedagogy, Ohio Music Teachers Association State Conference, and the MTNA Collegiate Pedagogy Symposium. She served on the Symposium planning committee from 2020–2022 and served as chair for the 2022 Virtual Symposium.
Marissa holds Bachelor and Master of Music Degrees in Piano Performance from the College-Conservatory of Music at the University of Cincinnati (CCM). Her primary teachers were Michael Chertock and James Tocco with additional studies in piano pedagogy with Dr. Michelle Conda and Dr. Andy Villemez. Other pedagogical influences include Marvin Blickenstaff, Kirsten Olsen, and Dr. Erin Bennett. Marissa also completed a second Master of Music Degree in Music Theory at CCM. Her primary research interests include rhythm and meter in popular music and 20th century approaches to tonality
Sharon
"As an adult piano student, finding a good teacher can be very difficult. I tried several over the years. So, I was fortunate to find Marissa. She used her education and experience to challenge me to improve and advance while enjoying the piano again. I highly recommend her for all student ages. I’m glad to have had this opportunity to know and learn from Marissa. I wish her much future success."
Rebecca
"My daughter (now 15) took piano lessons with Marissa for 3 years (and only stopped because Marissa moved). We *absolutely adore* Marissa: she is an exceptional teacher and person. She consistently inspired my daughter and positively impacted her, both musically and personally. Marissa is a consummate professional and also incredibly approachable, responsive, and understanding ~ a true gem!"
Dixie
"She has helped me try different genres of music, appreciating the different styles. She is a wealth of information, not only
teaching technique and theory but adds life to my playing and teaching how to perform the pieces. Always kind and always
positive. I am excited to see what new pieces, she will think of next."