Joanne Dunbar

 
Years Teaching: 10+

 
STARTING JANUARY 1st, 2025 - Registration Open

Education
Studied music education for 3 years at Toccoa Falls College and Kennesaw State University, graduated in 2014 with a BS in Middle Grades Education from Kennesaw State University

Experience
The piano has been a huge part of Joanne’s life ever since she started playing by ear at the age of 5. She took lessons for many years which eventually turned into playing at weddings, events, and church. Joanne spent her first 3 years of college studying piano before changing her major to Middle School Education. During her time as a music major, Joanne gained experience in a variety of settings, including the jazz band, church, wind ensemble, and serving as an accompanist for various musicians and choirs. After graduating with her undergrad degree in education, Joanne became a full-time classroom teacher which she has done for nearly 10 years alongside teaching piano and voice lessons and continuing to be involved in performing. In 2020, Joanne completed her Masters degree in Reading Education and now works as a literacy tutor in addition to teaching music lessons. Of all the different places she has performed and accompanied, Joanne feels most rewarded when she is sitting next to the piano, teaching her students to love music as much as she does.

Objective
I’m a pianist, of course, but first and foremost, I’m a teacher at heart. Just as I would have never gotten to where I am today without the piano teachers who molded and shaped me as a musician (and my mom who made sure I practiced), I desire to have that same influence on the students who I work with. Music is a very special avenue through which students can blossom and express themselves. As a fellow musician, I consider myself a mere facilitator of the world of discovery, emotion, and creativity that can open up for a student who has connected with his/her music. The most important aspect of teaching for me is that I cultivate within my students the love of music and a desire to improve and reach new goals. If I can help light that fire of excitement to learn and grow, there is no limit to what they will achieve. I just get to sit back and watch it happen.