Laura's story: My Musical Adventure!
Playing songs by ear on a mini electric keyboard, my mom suspected her little girl probably had some talent and would enjoy taking piano lessons (thanks Mom!!) My formal lessons began at 7, one month shy of 8. I appreciate how dedicated my parents were to seeing me succeed at piano by investing their encouragement, time and finances into 14 years of lessons!!! In fact, my mom sat with me almost every day those first couple of years to oversee my practicing, help me, and give encouragement. What an incredible difference that made in my consistent progress and continued motivation to practice.
I was also greatly inspired by my piano teachers Dr. Irene Weiss Peery-Fox and Dr. Dianne Hardy. My cello professor, Dr. James McWhorter, encouraged me immensely during my college years. Many thanks to them for helping shape me into the musician and teacher I am today.
Along with piano study, came cello lessons at 10 until age 22. Playing in orchestra through my childhood, during my university years, and now in the Utah Philharmonic Orchestra as principal celiist ,is another great love of mine! At 18, I began teaching piano and knew this was what I wanted to do for the rest of my life! The last chapter of my formal musical studies brought me to Utah State University where I received a Bachelor of Music cum laude in Piano Pedagogy.
My musical adventure continues to this day as I begin my 33rd year of teaching this September 2023!
My Life Adventure!
As a native of this amazing state of Utah, I was born, raised ,educated, married, and had my first two children in Cache Valley and since 2002 have made my home in Sandy. I have a strong Christian faith that is the center of my family's life. I have been married to my wonderful husband, Mark, for 33 years and we have 4 beautiful blessings; 2 boys and 2 girls ages 17-28 yrs old.
If I'm not homemaking or teaching lessons, you might find me out enjoying nature with my family, listening to music, reading, trying a new recipe, or sipping a mocha!