
Shirley is an experienced flute and piano instructor offering lessons to a diverse range of students, including beginners and advanced musicians, both online and at her studio in Ottawa. She holds an M.Mus in Performance/Pedagogy from Memorial University of Newfoundland and a B.Mus with distinction from Queen’s University, showcasing her deep commitment to musical education. Additionally, Shirley has achieved RCM Level 10 certification in piano. Fluent in English, her teaching style integrates physical, mental, and spiritual aspects of music, aiming to foster a holistic musical environment. Shirley's accolades include the prestigious Medal of Music, a further testament to her expertise and dedication. Book an interview with Shirley for a comprehensive musical learning experience in flute and piano.
Music is a multifaceted activity that combines the physical, mental, and spiritual. It is my belief that a good musician is therefore one who receives a well rounded musical education that encompasses all these areas. The Body: I encourage warm-ups, exercises that reinforce technical ease, and overall exploration of healthy movement. Over time, the ear is also attuned to better hear nuances in tone and pitch. The Mind: Musical theory and history are our most powerful tools for musical analysis. Wherever needed, I help students break down musical pieces for better understanding and to reach true musical expression. The Spirit: Music is at once a joyous yet strict activity. For each student, I help them find the best ways to "gamify" their learning- to strive for excellence while enjoying the process. While I broke down these concepts, they are fundamentally one and the same. Boiled to a sentence, it is my hope to help my students to find all the joy there is to be found in music, and to find all the music there is to be found in their lives.
My degrees are: - Memorial University of Newfoundland - M.Mus in Performance/Pedagogy (studied under Dr Michelle Cheremy). Graduated as Fellow of the School of Graduates for continued academic excellence. - Queen's Univerisity - B.Mus with distinction (studied under Donelda Gartshore). Upon graduation, was awarded Medal of Music. - Queen's University - B.Ed University. - Royal Conservatory of Music - Piano Level 10 Certificate.
Medal of Music
Shirley 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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