Teaching
Private Studio
Michelle maintains a small, private studio in Ottawa, Canada open to a limited number of students (age 6 through adult), via in-person and online sessions.
Under her guidance, students receive focused and supportive training with an emphasis on:
healthy technique and efficient practice strategies
aural and rhythmic skills
basic improvisation and creativity
helpful applications of music theory
musical artistry and stage presence
for advanced students, training may include solo and orchestral repertoire, chamber music, competition and audition preparation, extended techniques, contemporary repertoire, and more!
Teaching Philosophy
Everyone is creative!
Musical study of any instrument, at any age, is profoundly enhanced by tapping into your inner power
Healthy technique lays the foundation for your expressive voice
Creativity is an important part of every lesson
Exposure to diverse repertoire expands the imagination and makes us more flexible musicians
Competitions and exams can be useful tools for learning how to structure your goals, but they do not define you as a creative person
Smart practice strategies can be life-changing
Consistency, compassion, and curiosity are key elements of creative progress!
Background & Student Achievements
As a teacher, Michelle has over 25 years of experience working with students of all levels and ages through the University of Arizona, University of Ottawa, Ottawa Youth Orchestra Academy (age 6 through high school), private teaching, coaching, and mentorship programs. Student achievements include top prizes in many competitions based in Canada and the United States, including:
1st Place and Marion Dempsey Memorial Trophy Winner for “Best Musicianship in Harp”- 2025 Kiwanis Music Festival
Gold Medal - 2025 Provincials of the Ontario Music Festival Association
1st Place - Midwest Harp Festival Competition
Platinum Standing - VAYA International Music Festival (multiple years)
1st Place - Phoenix Harp Competition (multiple years)
1st Place - Young Artists Harp Seminar Competition
Finalist - American Harp Society National Competition
Finalist - National Arts Centre Orchestra’s Bursary Competition
Several of her advanced students have pursued music degrees at the New England Conservatory of Music, the Royal Conservatory of Music, University of North Texas, the University of Arizona, Frost School of Music at the University of Miami, the Conservatory of Music at the University of Cincinnati, among others, and are now working as professional harpists across Canada, the United States, and China.
Lesson Options
Private Lesson (In-person)
Available for all ages and levels!
Lessons take place at my home studio located near the Experimental Farm, off Merivale. Prices are in CAD. If you are located in the U.S., please inquire about rates.
Beginner: 30 minutes ($50)
Intermediate: 45 minutes ($75)
Advanced: 60 minutes ($100)
Private Lesson (Virtual)
Available through Zoom or Google Meet, virtual harp lessons are a great solution for anyone located beyond the greater Ottawa area, or for students who prefer virtual education. Virtual lessons generally work best for students age 10 and above.
Discovery Lesson (In-person)
For beginning students, I offer a complimentary, 30-minute discovery lesson! This provides an opportunity for you to try the harp without commitment and see if my teaching style is a good fit for you. Available for in-person students of all ages within the greater Ottawa area.
