Leslie Kahler, Woodwind Specialist
About
Leslie is a Denver based musician—clarinetist and teacher—who performs in solo and collaborative projects across the state while maintaining an active teaching studio. Leslie is in high demand as both a performer and teacher. Recent performances include solo performances is Denver and Stapleton, several chamber performances with her wind trio Enigma and the Lamont Clarinet Choir, and appearances with the Lone Tree Symphony, the San Juan Symphony, Lakewood Symphony, the Denver Pops Orchestra, the Littleton Symphony, the Lamont Symphony Orchestra, and extensive time playing Eb clarinet with the Lamont Wind Ensemble.
After she began playing clarinet with her hands switched, and consequently as the worst clarinetist in her band, Leslie began studying privately and soon discovered a drive for teaching and helping her own students improve the way her teachers helped her. Leslie is a passionate educator who has spent time on faculty at Mt. Holyoke College and the Eaglebrook School. She currently maintains a private studio in Denver and is an active guest clinician across Colorado.
Leslie studied clarinet at Adams State, the University of Massachusetts Amherst, and recently completed a Performance Certificate at the University of Denver. Influential teachers include Dr. Tracy Doyle, Claudia Weir, Michael Sussman, and Dr. Jeremy Reynolds. Leslie loves the color green, otters, Beethoven Symphony Number 7, Mozart operas, Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp, the smell of rosemary, and her rather aggressive, toothless cat.
I enjoy watching my students succeed, whether it's doing well on an audition for school, making All State, or just enjoying their insturment. Music isn't just for people who want to be professionals. It's for everyone. My goal is to make music lessons a fun and enjoyable part of your week.
Highlights
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
When working with new students, I like to first assess where they are on a musical level and what their goals are. I have experience preparing students for all state and honor band auditions, college auditions, and even just generally improving on their instument.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
Experience:
Freelance Clarinetist
Aug 2008 - Present Self
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
30 min: $30; 45 min: $40; 60 min: $50; 90 min: $75
How did you get started teaching?
After I began playing clarinet with my hands switched, and consequently as the worst clarinetist in my band, I began studying privately and soon discovered a passion for teaching and helping my own students improve the way my teachers helped me. I am a passionate educator who has spent time on faculty at Mt. Holyoke College and the Eaglebrook School. I currently maintain a private studio in Denver and am an active guest clinician across Colorado.
What types of students have you worked with?
I have experience working with students ages 10 to 84.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
A private teacher is a very personal experience. You need to find a teacher who understand what your goals and aspirations are and has the knowledge to help you achieve them. Look for a teacher who makes you feel comfortable and you feel is invested in you and your success.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
Think about what your long-term and shot-term goals are. Do they have availability that meets your needs? Are they accessible? How do you learn best? Does this teacher support your learning style? Do you feel comforatble with them?