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Pangloss Music Studio
About
Music enriches life at every stage — it stimulates the brain, deepens focus, strengthens memory, and brings joy. Whether you are 3 or 83, my goal is to help you play beautiful music beautifully, in whatever style inspires you.
I teach both piano and violin, blending traditional and Suzuki methods with individualized strategies. Each student’s plan is tailored to their goals, age, and learning style. Alongside technique, we explore music theory, history, ear training, and performance skills. Lessons are patient, structured, and motivating, and I emphasize effective practice so progress feels steady and rewarding.
Lessons take place in my studio on a Yamaha G2 grand piano, surrounded by multiple bookcases filled with hundreds of scores, books, and teaching resources. The space is warm, inspiring, and filled with colorful props, oversized teaching aids, and music games — as if you’re tucked into a corner of a music library.
Monthly Tuition (including NM GRT)
Private Lessons:
15 min – $117 | 30 min – $209 | 45 min – $276 | 60 min – $316
Buddy Lessons (two students):
45 min – $286 shared ($143 ea.) | 90 min – $326 shared ($163 ea.)
Rates are averaged across the year for consistent monthly billing. Detailed explanation available in the “Rates” section of my profile.
BILLING
I bill monthly only, approximately one week before the last day of each month. Payment is due before (not on or after) the first day of the following month. Late fees (15%) apply thereafter.
Highlights
Hired 29 times
1 employee
28 years in business
Serves Albuquerque, NM
Offers online services
Payment methods
Cash, Check, Venmo, Paypal, Apple Pay, Zelle
Specialties
Do you own a violin?
Student who has an instrument, Student who is planning to purchase an instrument and would like advice
Years experience
No formal training, No formal training; some self-taught experience, 0 – 2 years experience, 2 – 4 years experience, 4+ years of experience
Able to read music
Student can read music, Student cannot read music
Lesson length
30 minutes, 45 minutes, 60 minutes
Student's age
Under 5 years old, 5 – 10 years old, 11 – 13 years old, 14 – 18 years old, 19 – 25 years old, 26 – 45 years old, 46 – 65 years old, Over 65 years old
Instrument interested in
Violin
Photos and videos
Reviews
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Your trust means everything to us. Learn about our reviews policy.
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rebecca D.
We travel over thirty minutes for lessons with Ms. Patti because she’s such an exceptional teacher. Her patience with my son, who has ADHD, is endless, and she uses creative methods, like creating music notes from pool noodles, to engage and keep his attention. Thanks to her unique approach, he’s made great progress in his lessons!
August 05, 2025
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Yvette S.
Pati gives individualized lessons based on your goals and what styles of music you want to learn. I am an adult student who has been taking lessons with Pati for 3 years. I previously took lessons as a teen and can tell you that Pati is by far the best piano teacher I have ever had.
July 28, 2025
AS
Alena S.
Music lessons with Patti are always enjoyable and amazing! She’s very approachable and always given useful tips on my violin lessons!
October 11, 2024
CP
cynthia P.
She is responsive to my interests as an older student. She is teaching me the nuances of playing. She is easy to get along with. Has such a wealth of knowledge.
February 20, 2024
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gretchen S.
Patti is an accomplished professional who is approachable and encouraging. She is able to meet a student at their own level, and maintains a positive atmosphere and a good sense of humor. Patti is able to supply/suggest interesting pieces of music that a beginner can play.
February 20, 2024
BL
brianna L.
Shes very kind and knows whats shes doing. She has a lot of experience and knows how to mix things up and make them better.
November 07, 2023
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
I start with a friendly interview to learn your goals, experience, and learning style. At the first lesson, I assess listening and technique, then build a personalized plan with clear steps. We focus on how to practice effectively, so progress comes quickly and frustration is minimized.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I hold a Master of Arts in Violin Performance from Northern Arizona University, with extensive Suzuki teacher training. I’ve also studied piano for over 20 years with distinguished professors and teachers, and performed with orchestras in New Mexico, Arizona, Florida, Texas, Kansas, and abroad.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
Yes. Tuition is based on 47 teaching weeks per year, averaged into equal monthly payments. This method builds in about a 9–10% discount compared to paying lesson-by-lesson.
Private Lesson Rates (including NM Gross Receipts Tax):
• 15 min – $117/mo
• 30 min – $209/mo
• 45 min – $276/mo
• 60 min – $316/mo
Buddy Lessons* (including NM Gross Receipts Tax):
• 45 min [15/15/15] – $286/mo shared ($143 ea.) Materials Fee Incl.
• 90 min [30/30/30] – $326/mo shared ($163 ea.) Materials Fee Incl.
*two students, shared format with private + joint time
How did you get started teaching?
I grew up in a teaching family. My mother was a brilliant humanities teacher, and my sister and I grew up together playing and taking lessons. She became a professional symphony violinist with the New Orleans Symphony, as well as a master Bluegrass player. Inspired by them, I began teaching piano in Austin when I studied piano and music literature there, and again before and during graduate school, where I worked with Suzuki students as young as three. I’ve been teaching ever since and love it more every year.
What types of students have you worked with?
I’ve taught students ages 3 to 80+, beginners to advanced. Many were and are adults returning to music, while others are children starting fresh. I also adapt lessons for students with ADD, ADHD, autism spectrum, or learning differences, tailoring lessons to their unique strengths.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
One of the most powerful experiences of my teaching career was at Camp Sierra Blanca, a residential program for at-risk youth. I introduced a class of 15 teenagers — most of whom had never heard live music, or classical music, or violin music — to Bach, and in just weeks they were clamoring for their turn to play “Twinkle” on loaned violins from Robertson’s. When I explained the Baroque Doctrine of Affections, they told me rap music gave them a way to experience emotions like anger and grief without acting them out in real life. That moment — when they connected Tupac to Bach and saw music as a lifeline — was unforgettable. For me, it proved that music doesn’t just teach notes and rhythms; it gives us tools for understanding, expression, and healing. Those boys taught me as much as I taught them.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
When choosing a teacher, don’t just look at years of experience or a polished website. Look for someone who will meet you where you are, inspire you to reach further, and teach you how to practice effectively. Music lessons aren’t just another “activity” to fill the week or a checklist for getting into better schools — they are a lifelong pursuit that shape your brain, your habits, and even your outlook on life. The right teacher will help you stay motivated, push you just enough, and give you the tools to make steady progress. They should also be someone you enjoy spending time with — someone you can trust with your insecurities and goals, and who will guide you with patience, honesty, and humor. Above all, hire a teacher who shows you that music is not a checkbox or a hobby, but a life-enriching practice that can bring joy and resilience at any age.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
Before starting lessons, it helps to ask yourself some key questions:
• What are my short- and long-term goals? (Play for personal enjoyment, join an ensemble, prepare for college auditions?)
• How much focused practice time can I realistically commit each week?
• What music excites me most — classical, pop, film scores, jazz, traditional, show tunes, or something else?
• Am I willing to invest in a quality instrument and keep it in good condition?
• Do I want a teacher who provides structure and accountability, or one who gives me more freedom to explore?
Parents should also consider:
• Is my child genuinely interested in learning, or just trying it out because of peers?
• Can I support their practice by providing a quiet space, encouragement, and consistency?
Adults should ask themselves:
• When in my day am I most alert for focused learning?
• How do I best learn — visually, aurally, by doing?
• Am I looking for lessons as a personal challenge, creative outlet, or long-term study?
These questions help you (and me) design a program that fits your goals and lifestyle. Thoughtful preparation makes for a smoother start and a better match between student and teacher.
Services offered
Piano
Violin
Music Theory