About the Teacher


Joann presenting a workshop for the Washington State Music Teachers Association at Whitman College, Walla, Walla, WA.
Joann presenting a workshop for the Washington State Music Teachers Association at Whitman College, Walla, Walla, WA.

Joann S. Richardson is a highly regarded music teacher, pianist, and organist. From her studio in Silverdale, Washington, Joann provides piano and organ lessons tailored to the needs of the individual student in a warm, caring environment with an emphasis on the development of healthy technique that allows for a lifetime of joy through artistic expression.

 

Joann has more than thirty years of experience teaching adults and children, music degrees from highly-regarded university music programs, and experience as a performer.  Joann loves to teach and believes that anyone who is diligent about practice can learn to play with confidence and artistic expression.

 

In addition to teaching piano and organ lessons,  Joann frequently collaborates with other musicians as as a pianist, organist, and choir director.


Educational Background

Joann taking a lesson from pianist Paul Roberts.
Joann taking a lesson from pianist Paul Roberts.
  • Post-graduate piano study with Paul Roberts of the Guildhall School of Music of London, England
  • Post-graduate organ study with David Dahl, professor emeritus of Pacific Lutheran University
  • Master of Arts in Music, Pacific Lutheran University
  • Bachelor of Music Education with high distinction, Indiana University  School of Music

Certifications

  • Nationally Certified Teacher of Music (NCTM) in Piano, Permanent Professional Certification 
  • Nationally Certified Teacher of Music (NCTM) in Organ, Permanent Professional Certification
    • In order to be entitled to use NCTM following her name, Joann passed comprehensive written examinations in piano and organ instruction and was evaluated by the Music Teachers National Association on her professional preparation, teaching practices, business management, professionalism and partnerships, and professional and personal renewal.
  • State of Washington Professional Education Certificate: Grades K-12 Music

Teaching Experience

Joann with a graduating senior who just received a music award.
Joann with a graduating senior who just received a music award.

Teaching has been a central part of Joann's life for over thirty years.  She considers it a privilege to have worked as a(n):

  • Independent Piano Instructor
  • Independent Organ Instructor
  • Choir Director
  • Band Director
  • Classroom Music Teacher
  • Music Theory Instructor
  • Music Camp Teacher/Counselor/Advisor
  • Mentor teacher to other music teachers
  • Workshop presenter
  • Instructor who trains church organists and pianists

Performing Experience

Joann giving an impromptu concert while touring the Pittock Mansion in Portland, Oregon.
Joann giving an impromptu concert while touring the Pittock Mansion in Portland, Oregon.

Joann’s multifaceted performing experience includes work as a(n):

  • Collaborative musician who works with instrumentalists, vocalists, and choirs
  • Soloist, appearing on programs throughout the Kitsap and Olympic Peninsula
  • Church musician (organist, pianist, choir director)
  • Ensemble pianist and organist with the Bremerton Symphony Orchestra

Professional Affiliations

  • Music Teachers National Association (MTNA)
    • Nationally Certified Teacher of Music (NCTM)
  • Washington State Music Teachers Association (WSMTA)
    • Selected in 2020 to be a member of the WSMTA Hall of Fame for service, musicianship, and leadership in the field of music.
    • State Chair for Organ
    • Workshop presenter at state and district conferences; workshop presenter for chapter meetings
  • Kitsap Music Teachers Association (KMTA)
    • Certification Chair
    • Workshop presenter
  • American Guild of Organists (AGO), Olympic Peninsula Chapter 
    • Chapter Past Dean
    • Workshop presenter
    • Recitalist

Member of the Washington State Music Teachers Association Hall of Fame