About
Hi! I'm Teresa A. Pash, of Pash Performance-"Where the Music Flows". I am a piano teacher and performer for 30+ years, currently residing in Nashville, Michigan. I was classically trained with 10 years of private study under Freddy Kruko-Kietzmann (Hastings, MI) and received my Bachelors Degree from the University of Puget Sound (Tacoma, WA) in 1986 with studies in performance (4 years) as well as pedagogy. I became a certified Kindermusik® Instructor in 2004 and later studied jazz performance under Arlene McDaniel with MSU’s Community Music School.
I believe in a multimedia approach to teaching. On my Pash Performance YouTube channel I have created training videos on piano technique as well as an animated Children's video ("The Adventures of Clef & Note: Intro. to Manuscript") to teach students Manuscript reading/writing. I have also directed/coached many bands and performed in various ensemble groups, including the Thornapple Jazz Orchestra. I've released three CDs. CDBaby and other online stores carry my product line digitally. I yearly perform for Davenport University & Baker College Commencements at VanAndel arena with crowds up to 15,00 people. I've performed on EightWest PBS TV and on the WGVU Morning Show with Shelley Irwin. Currently I perform at the English Inn in Eaton Rapids, the Nashville Baptist church, and the United Methodist church in Nashville, MI. Several of my students have become musical directors, piano teachers, and active musicians in their churches and community, as well.
I love what I do, as it is my passion as well as my career. I love to inspire students to do their very best and to bring out that spark of creativity within each one. I regularly host school-age student recitals, adult student soirées, and other activities for each to get to know one another and also to feel comfortable sharing their music with others. I want to foster a lifelong learner and I definitely see the benefits in all areas of their lives.
As a performer, I can't think of anything easier for me to do than to play the piano. My specialty is the 20s to 30s vintage music although I play and record for all genres.
Photos and videos
Reviews
Shari C.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
First we do a 'meet and greet'. If the student is a minor, the parent will need to be there to fill out the registration forms. At this time I will also evaluate how they are musically by testing their ear training, musical ability, etc. I will also ask about their various interests so I get to know the student and how they learn. From there we usually assign books and answer more questions. The actual lessons will start the following week.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I started lessons at the age of seven and continued for 10 years in classical piano training. I then studied four more years in college and graduated from the University of Puget Sound in Tacoma, Washington with four years of piano performance and studies in piano pedagogy. Later I became Kindermusik certified, which greatly help me to work with young children. I also continued with training in jazz piano performance at MSU's community music school.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
$18/half hour, $27/45 minutes, and $36/hour
How did you get started teaching?
When I went to college I had a friend that wanted to take piano lessons, so she was actually my first student. From there it just kept building and I have taught for over 30 years.
What types of students have you worked with?
All ages, with the oldest student at 85 years and the youngest at four. I have also worked with a wheelchair-bound child as well as an autistic student.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
I was awarded "Teacher of the Year" in 2017 by the Battle Creek Area Music Teachers Association where I have been a long-term member and current president. It was quite the honor.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Make sure they have some experience. Also, make sure they belong to a professional organization. I think collaboration with fellow instructors makes for a higher quality teacher, in general.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
They should be realistic about their goals and have them well-defined. The more the student knows what they want going into a learning setting, then the more they can measure if the goals have been reached. Communication is incredibly vital.