
Margaret offers lessons in classical guitar, electric guitar, guitar, piano, and ukulele for students aged 4 to adults. With a Bachelor of Music degree from the University of Calgary, she also provides composition, counterpoint, harmony, music history, and advanced music theory lessons. Margaret's lessons are available online and at her studio in Calgary.
Everything starts with a goal. We can shift course if changes occur or if you want to switch paths. But it all starts with initiating the first step. Success and achievements are earned through the accumulation of many small steps forward. It is incredibly fulfilling and exciting to watch how your daily efforts, though small at first, turn into exponential growth. Music is no different. After assessing your needs and creating a plan to see them through, we will begin to introduce music into your life. It is incredibly rewarding to start playing your favourite songs —and even create some of your own!
My interest in the arts was present ever since I was a little girl. My music journey began at a private studio where I studied for 10 years. I was lucky to have had a university graduate as my teacher as she fully introduced me to the music scene. This allowed me to be immersed in a vast, demanding, but fulfilling world. Eager to explore further, I applied to and graduated from U of C with a bachelor of music. My education was pivotal in honing my craft, but also providing me with the opportunity to study abroad in Manhattan, NYC, as well as perform in multiple countries around the world, including Europe. Alongside performing I have also composed numerous suites for the stage. Each was well received and provided further opportunity for inspiration and growth. Through this accumulated knowledge and experience, I look forward to introducing you to your music adventure!
Competed in and achieved numerous Kiwanis Music Festival awards as part of an ensemble. Competed in and achieved awards as a solo performer in the Music Festival hosted by the Classical Guitar Society and MRU.
I began music by learning short folk tunes. My favourite rock songs were still out of reach, but after I jumped on the RCM route I made leaps and bounds forward. It allowed me to foster a greater appreciation and understanding of music. The commitment to artistry and high level of understanding eventually allowed me to play anything I wanted. It also introduced the role of history in music. My awareness grew as I saw the importance history has on a piece and how time periods affect the portrayal of it. The attack, articulation, and overall effect are all different depending on whether you play in the baroque period vs romantic vs neo-classical, etc. My aim henceforth has been to always stay true to the representation of someone’s work. In many ways it is like reading a written piece and evoking the right mood, style, and form. This is why technique is so important: it achieves clean lines, smooth movements, full range of expression, but above all it avoids injury. It is just as important to enjoy a piece and display it well as it is to do so pain-free. I was lucky to have studied under various masters of my instruments including Berta Rojas, Will Kanengeiser, Lana Henchell, Ana Vidovic, and many more established and talented musicians. This training, alongside my education, helped me achieve my goals. I am thankful to have carried their knowledge and expertise forward.
Margaret is a Beethoven at Home Associate Teacher
Home visit fee: $15 minimum fee. Teachers may negotiate a higher travel fee if the travel distance is longer than they are comfortable with. Most arrangements use the minimum fee.
One-Time Family Registration: $25. This covers your entire family for life - once you're in, everyone can take lessons!
Getting Started Together
We don't offer free trials, but we do something better - a relaxed 2-lesson getting-to-know-you period. You can pause anytime with just 24 hours notice. After your third lesson, we ask for a friendly 2-lesson heads up if you need to stop.
Life Happens - We Get It
Give us 24 hours notice for any cancellation or reschedule and you'll receive full credit. Planning a family vacation or summer break? Perfect - just let us know a day ahead and we'll pause your lessons.
When You're Under the Weather
If illness strikes with short notice (less than 24 hours), you'll still be charged since your teacher has reserved that time. However, most teachers are happy to offer makeup lessons when possible - they have the final say, especially if last-minute cancellations become a pattern.
Stopping Lessons
Need to take a break? We just ask for a 2-lesson notice:
Weekly lessons = 2 weeks notice
Every other week = 3 weeks notice
Twice weekly = 1 week notice
Summer breaks are different - no notice period needed when you return in the fall!
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