Find the ideal teacher for you
Kaminski, Mike
Pianist, Educator, and Innovator Early Beginnings and Musical Roots Mike Kaminski’s journey into the world of music began at the age of 10, when he first started playing the piano. By the time he was 13, Mike had already found a stage in his local church, performing regularly and nurturing his love for music in a supportive community environment. Throughout his teenage years and into early adulthood, Mike’s musical path expanded as he played keyboards in the rock band Rezound. With Rezound, he gained invaluable experience touring both nationally and internationally, further broadening his exposure and skills as a performer. A Versatile Musical Foundation Though Mike’s performance style is centered around improvisation and jazz, he possesses a strong foundation in reading and performing traditional classical music. This versatility is the result of many years of dedicated practice and a genuine passion for exploring diverse musical genres. Academic Pursuits and Professional Growth Mike chose to further his musical education during his first year in college, studying both classical and jazz music at Arizona State University in Tempe, AZ. His academic journey eventually led to a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, which he earned in 2006. This combination of musical and business skills became the cornerstone for his next big venture—founding the East Valley School of Music in 2006. Dedication to Teaching and Student Development With over 20 years of experience teaching piano, Mike is deeply committed to helping students grow both musically and personally. He strives to inspire creativity and expression in every student, while also fostering essential life skills such as self-discipline, self-confidence, and adaptability. Mike believes that music lessons are a powerful tool for enriching child development, and he takes pride in guiding students on their journey to becoming accomplished pianists. As Mike puts it, “I want to empower and inspire students to discover their musical abilities and talents while having fun learning how to play piano.” His teaching philosophy centers on making music both accessible and enjoyable, with a focus on nurturing each student’s unique potential. Innovations in Music Education Mike’s passion for education led him to author a new piano curriculum, Piano Power Quest. This engaging curriculum sets learning within the imaginative world of Middle C Earth, inspiring students through storytelling and gamification. By awarding stars for accuracy and effort, and incorporating vivid illustrations and maps, Piano Power Quest transforms piano lessons into an interactive adventure, empowering students to strive for excellence while enjoying the process. Professional Leadership and Community Involvement Mike joined the Music Teachers National Association in 2006, and his dedication to the profession extended to serving as a board member—and later president (2012-2013)—of the East Valley Music Teachers Association. Through these roles, he has contributed to the advancement of music education and fostered a collaborative community for fellow educators. Ongoing Musical Contributions In addition to his teaching and curriculum development, Mike continues to share his musical gifts as the musician’s director at Covenant Life Church in Chandler, AZ, where he plays piano weekly. Through his varied roles, Mike Kaminski exemplifies a lifelong dedication to music, education, and the enrichment of others’ lives through creative expression.
- City Gilbert
- Cross streets Val Vista & Williams Field
- Teaching level Beginner advanced
Casteel, Holly
Hi, I’m Holly! I have been teaching all ages of children & adults the art of the piano for over a decade now. I bring a wealth of knowledge and passion to my teaching. Regardless of a student’s age, I tailor each lesson to their individual learning styles, interests, and goals. My focus is on helping students enjoy the process of learning while achieving success through consistent practice, motivation, and discipline. As an experienced teacher, I’ve developed a balanced approach that combines fun with focused effort, ensuring each student grows and thrives in their musical journey.
- City Gilbert
- Cross streets Gilbert & Guadalupe Rd
- Teaching level Beginner intermediate
Wai, Louise
Ms. Louise has been learning to play the piano since 5 but she can also play by ears (playing music without reading music notes). She earned her Bachelor's degree in Music Performance and has been teaching for 20 years. Besides teaching, she composes music arrangements for local schools and her church. She was appointed the conductor of ACC choir. Ms. Louise believes that every student is unique; hence, she approaches each student differently by using different methods to help them understand, appreciate and enjoy music. Ms. Louise is FUN, patience, creative, knowledgeable, and full of experienced in teaching all ages from 3-99. Areas of teaching: techniques, music theory, note reading, ear training, composition, gospel, classical, pop, animation, and all kinds of music... She is currently participating Arizona Study Program.
- City Gilbert
- Cross streets 1402 E Lark St. Gilbert, AZ 85297
- Teaching level Beginner advanced
Jordan, Kim
My favorite thing about teaching is connecting with each student to discover how their individual brain receives, processes and applies information. I began teaching private viola lessons over 30 years ago while still in high school. I went on to major in music ed for 2.5 years before changing my course of study and earning a BAE in Elementary Education with a fine arts emphasis. Over the years, I taught in many different settings, different ages and different levels. I currently offer private piano lessons primarily online with an option to come in-person periodically when needed. Most of my students are from the homeschool community and most of my lessons are scheduled between the hours of 10-2. I have been involved with homeschooling since 1991 when I started homeschooling as a High School Sophomore. I then helped school my 10 siblings. My 2 daughters have been exclusively schooled at home. One daughter is graduated and the other is finishing high school and pursuing a career in music performance. We are a neurodiverse family with both ADHD and ASD diagnoses. I am very familiar with neurodiversity and enjoy working with students, diagnosed or not, with ASD and ADHD symptoms. I know from experience that parents are the most valuable source of information for a teacher. My focus is always to support the goals of the parents while adjusting to the needs of the students. If it sounds like we might be a good fit, text me and we can set up a time to chat!
- City GIlbert
- Cross streets Online/ Higley and Germann
- Teaching level Beginner intermediate
Vance, Sharon
I've loved playing the piano from an early age. I took private lessons for 13 years and my last teacher was German Tchernoivanov, who was a professor at the Moscow Conservatory. When I was 16 I started teaching neighbor children and have enjoyed teaching children, especially the very beginners. My husband also plays the piano and we enjoy playing duets together. Throughout my life I've gotten a lot of satisfaction from sitting at the piano with students and teaching them how to play. At the end of the lesson, I like to include a 5 min musical game that's reviewing music concepts in a fun way.
- City Gilbert
- Cross streets Warner & Recker
- Teaching level Beginner intermediate
Blasi Lo, Lisa
I’m a New York Native who moved to the Valley of the Sun to study Music at Arizona State University. I completed my Undergraduate and Graduate degrees in Music Education with a vocal pedagogy and piano emphasis. I’ve had the privilege of working with highly trained piano and vocal instructors throughout the years. They’ve taught me so much, and it would be an honor to share my knowledge with you. Music has been a life-long companion of mine, and it can be for you as well. Let me be the one to take you on the musical journey you’ve always dreamed of. Sign up for lessons in-person (all ages) or on-line (ages 10 and up).
- City Gilbert
- Cross streets Higley and Ray
- Teaching level Beginner intermediate
Myers, Blair
I have lived in Arizona nearly all my life and have been teaching piano for over 17 years. I am married with 4 boys who are all involved in music.
- City Gilbert
- Cross streets Greenfield and Guadalupe
- Teaching level Beginner advanced
Yang, Tina
Graduated from SUNY at Buffalo with two master's degrees in music: piano solo performance, and chamber music and piano accompaniment. More than 30 years of piano teaching experiences. Mesa Community College adjunct faculty for seven years. Own a private piano studio, and a composer for children's Bible songs.
- City Gilbert
- Cross streets Lindsay & Ray
- Teaching level Beginner advanced
Allen, Allison
A piano teacher in Gilbert, Arizona, I have over 20 years of teaching experience. I specialize in beginner to late-intermediate levels, with individual weekly 30 minute lessons. I teach during school hours to homeschooled students, allowing me to spend afternoons with my own 3 children. I am an ESA vendor. I began taking piano lessons at the age of 5, continuing through my freshman year of college. I participated in the National Piano Playing Auditions for 13 years, as well as many festivals, and earned the High School Diploma Award from the National Guild of Piano Teachers my senior year of high school. I graduated from Arizona State University with a degree in Secondary Education: Biology, but I have discovered that teaching music is my true passion. I enjoy not only helping my students learn to read music and develop technique, but to gain a lifelong love of music. Please see my website for more information.
- City GILBERT
- Cross streets Lindsay and Ray
- Teaching level Beginner intermediate
Range, Lacy
Ms. Lacy currently runs an online piano studio. She started playing the piano when she was 6 years old. After becoming too accomplished for her first teacher she moved on to more advanced classes and joined a piano team. She performed and competed at Northern Arizona University at the age of 17. As a professional Ms. Lacy actively participates in DVMTA (Dessert Valley Music Teachers Association) which is a local professional chapter dedicated to excellence in teaching music.
- City Gilbert
- Cross streets Gilbert and Houston
- Teaching level Beginner intermediate
PORTER, CHRISTY
Christy Porter is excited to be part of your child's music training! Miss Porter grew up in Arizona and attended college at ASU where she graduated with a degree in Music Education. She also received a Master's Degree from NAU. Miss Porter taught music for Mesa Public Schools from 1994-2007, during which time she served on the music curriculum development committee and as the organizer for the Mesa Young People's Orchestra and the Junior High Festival Orchestra. Miss Porter is currently a music teacher at Eagleridge Enrichment Center in Mesa. She performed with the Mesa Symphony for 10 years and has played with many orchestras around the valley. Miss Porter has been teaching privately for many years and enjoys sharing her love of music with her students.
- City Gilbert
- Cross streets 1305 E HORSESHOE AVE
- Teaching level Beginner advanced
Havlovic, Marcia
Marcia Havlovic received her Bachelors Degree in Education with a major in Music from Calvin College, Grand Rapids, MI and began working on her Masters in Music Education from ASU. Mrs. Havlovic has been teaching piano lessons for over 25 years, as well as being a music educator for over 15 years. She was the choral, instrumental and general music teacher at Phoenix Christian School K-8 for 5 years, a middle school Band director in Ponte Vedra Beach, FL for 4 years and has continued to teach piano privately as well. Now, a full-time piano instructor with a studio in the Marbella Vineyards, Mrs. Havlovic loves being involved in many of the events of the East Valley Music Teachers Association with her students. Mrs. Havlovic is also very proficient in all woodwind, brass, and percussion instruments and offers private lesson on those instruments for beginning/intermediate band students.
- City Gilbert
- Cross streets Higley/Ocotillo
- Teaching level Beginner advanced





