- Title Piano Instructor
Heather Gillis is an esteemed educator with a Master of Music degree in Piano Performance and Pedagogy from the University of Northern Iowa. She is a seasoned chamber musician, church organist, camp programmer, Pi Kappa Lambda scholar, and a national conference presenter for the Music Teachers National Association (MTNA). With over a decade of piano teaching experience, Heather has cultivated a dynamic teaching philosophy that integrates classical training, motivational psychology, early childhood development, and approaches tailored to neurodivergent students.
In her studio, Heather welcomes students of all ages, from pre-Kindergarten beginners to adults looking to rekindle their passion for music. Her group classes feature a movement-oriented approach to music-making, designed to be adaptable across skill levels. Heather is nationally noted for her innovative topic, “Diversifying Piano Repertoire with Anime Music.” She encourages her students to explore a diverse repertoire, including popular genres like anime, film, and video game music, along with her original arrangements she composed for them.
As a longstanding member of the MTNA, Heather advocates for continued education and entrepreneurship for musicians and educators. Her commitment to excellence and innovation in music education makes her studio an inviting place for learners seeking a comprehensive and engaging musical journey.
