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Olivia Adams
MA, B.Mus
Olivia Adams is a pianist, teacher, researcher, and author. She is the Director of Education at the Lotus Centre for Special Music Education, a music school that serves the neurodivergent and disability communities. She is currently a Ph.D. Candidate at the University of Ottawa. Her research lies at the intersection of Music Education and Critical Disability Studies. Olivia holds a MA in Music and Feminist Studies from the University of Ottawa, and an Honours B.Mus. in Piano Performance from Western University. She has been awarded numerous research grants, including a SSHRC Doctoral Award. Olivia has over a decade of teaching experience in piano and choral classrooms and is part of multiple research teams at the intersection of music education and health.
Olivia speaks, adjudicates, examines, and performs across Canada. She has spoken at conferences in Canada, the United States, Portugal, and Finland presenting on inclusivity and diversity in the piano studio. Olivia is the author of Loud and Clear: A Guide to Levelled Piano Music by Women Composers in the 20th and 21st Centuries, which is used in music studios and classrooms. When she is not working, Olivia enjoys reading, baking, hiking, crocheting and hanging out with her spouse, Nick, and spunky puppy, Nori.
Olivia Adams is a pianist, teacher, researcher, and author. She is the Director of Education at the Lotus Centre for Special Music Education, a music school that serves the neurodivergent and disability communities. She is currently a Ph.D. Candidate at the University of Ottawa. Her research lies at the intersection of Music Education and Critical Disability Studies. Olivia holds a MA in Music and Feminist Studies from the University of Ottawa, and an Honours B.Mus. in Piano Performance from Western University. She has been awarded numerous research grants, including a SSHRC Doctoral Award. Olivia has over a decade of teaching experience in piano and choral classrooms and is part of multiple research teams at the intersection of music education and health.
Olivia speaks, adjudicates, examines, and performs across Canada. She has spoken at conferences in Canada, the United States, Portugal, and Finland presenting on inclusivity and diversity in the piano studio. Olivia is the author of Loud and Clear: A Guide to Levelled Piano Music by Women Composers in the 20th and 21st Centuries, which is used in music studios and classrooms. When she is not working, Olivia enjoys reading, baking, hiking, crocheting and hanging out with her spouse, Nick, and spunky puppy, Nori.
Kathy Anderson
Lic. CNCM, P/E Ped CNCM, R.M.T.
Kathy has taught piano lessons in her hometown of Keswick, Ontario for thirty years. She entertains seniors at a local retirement/nursing home and is Music Director at Ravenshoe United Church where she plays for weekly services and directs a church/concert choir of twenty-five enthusiastic adults. The concert choir performs two to three times per year, raising funds for church expenses and outreach in the community. She has played at the same little country church for over forty years.
Kathy has completed the Primary/Elementary and Licentiate diplomas in Piano Pedagogy through the Northern Lights Canadian National Conservatory of Music studying with Debra Wanless. She is the recipient of the Ontario Registered Music Teachers Association 2015 Pedagogy Award and is a member of the organization. Kathy has an active studio and loves providing a venue for Composer and Kids sessions, CNCM examinations and teacher workshops.
Kathy has taught piano lessons in her hometown of Keswick, Ontario for thirty years. She entertains seniors at a local retirement/nursing home and is Music Director at Ravenshoe United Church where she plays for weekly services and directs a church/concert choir of twenty-five enthusiastic adults. The concert choir performs two to three times per year, raising funds for church expenses and outreach in the community. She has played at the same little country church for over forty years.
Kathy has completed the Primary/Elementary and Licentiate diplomas in Piano Pedagogy through the Northern Lights Canadian National Conservatory of Music studying with Debra Wanless. She is the recipient of the Ontario Registered Music Teachers Association 2015 Pedagogy Award and is a member of the organization. Kathy has an active studio and loves providing a venue for Composer and Kids sessions, CNCM examinations and teacher workshops.
Norine Broomhead
Lic. Trinity College of Music
London, England
Orff Certification Levels I & II Wilfred Laurier University
Norine is active as a piano and theory teacher, Music for Young Children teacher, festival adjudicator and accompanist, examiner with CNCM, pianist and accompanist at First Baptist Church Mount Forest, classroom music and recorder teacher at Arbor Glen Private School, accompanist with the Concertare Musical in Owen Sound, former president of Hanover-Walkerton ORMTA and the Georgetown Trinity Teacher's Association, and a former theory teacher with the Guelph Children's Singers.
She has continued studies with numerous pedagogues and was the recipient of The Georgetown Trinity Teacher's Award for highest achievements in theory and pianoforte, as well as the Cora B. Ahrens Award for excellence in Teacher's piano pedagogy.
Norine co-founded the Mount Forest and District Arts Council as well as The Mount Forest Festival of the Arts, and is musically active in her community.
London, England
Orff Certification Levels I & II Wilfred Laurier University
Norine is active as a piano and theory teacher, Music for Young Children teacher, festival adjudicator and accompanist, examiner with CNCM, pianist and accompanist at First Baptist Church Mount Forest, classroom music and recorder teacher at Arbor Glen Private School, accompanist with the Concertare Musical in Owen Sound, former president of Hanover-Walkerton ORMTA and the Georgetown Trinity Teacher's Association, and a former theory teacher with the Guelph Children's Singers.
She has continued studies with numerous pedagogues and was the recipient of The Georgetown Trinity Teacher's Award for highest achievements in theory and pianoforte, as well as the Cora B. Ahrens Award for excellence in Teacher's piano pedagogy.
Norine co-founded the Mount Forest and District Arts Council as well as The Mount Forest Festival of the Arts, and is musically active in her community.
Tenley Dyck
Lic. CNCM, ARCT, R.M.T.
Tenley Dyck is a prominent piano and pedagogy teacher in southwestern Manitoba. Her students have earned numerous scholarships and awards at local and provincial levels, as well as Silver Medals for obtaining the highest standing in CNCM and Royal Conservatory piano examinations. She is active as a piano examiner, adjudicator, accompanist and workshop clinician. Tenley holds a Licentiate in Piano Pedagogy with Canadian National Conservatory of Music and a Piano Teachers’ Associate diploma with Royal Conservatory of Music. Presently, Tenley is a member of the Examining Board for Canadian National Conservatory of Music, as well as the Academic Development committee.
She is the provincial representative for CNCM in Manitoba, and is a member of the Manitoba Registered Music Teachers' Association. She serves on Festival committees at local and provincial levels. As Project Manager and Editor of CNCM’s publications, the Northern Lights – An Exploration of Canadian Piano Music and Making Tracks – An Expedition in Canadian Piano Music series, Tenley works with composers from across Canada for the promotion of educational Canadian piano music.
Tenley Dyck is a prominent piano and pedagogy teacher in southwestern Manitoba. Her students have earned numerous scholarships and awards at local and provincial levels, as well as Silver Medals for obtaining the highest standing in CNCM and Royal Conservatory piano examinations. She is active as a piano examiner, adjudicator, accompanist and workshop clinician. Tenley holds a Licentiate in Piano Pedagogy with Canadian National Conservatory of Music and a Piano Teachers’ Associate diploma with Royal Conservatory of Music. Presently, Tenley is a member of the Examining Board for Canadian National Conservatory of Music, as well as the Academic Development committee.
She is the provincial representative for CNCM in Manitoba, and is a member of the Manitoba Registered Music Teachers' Association. She serves on Festival committees at local and provincial levels. As Project Manager and Editor of CNCM’s publications, the Northern Lights – An Exploration of Canadian Piano Music and Making Tracks – An Expedition in Canadian Piano Music series, Tenley works with composers from across Canada for the promotion of educational Canadian piano music.
Edward J. Ellis
FTCL, LTCL, A. Mus., ARCT, RMT
Edward (Ted) Ellis is an active music teacher in Welland Ontario. He owns and operates Ellis Music Studios where he has devised innovative teaching techniques and methods which have proven successful, including a musical thesaurus, a sight-reading system using speed-reading techniques and powerpoint presentations. Having been in a teaching capacity for 49 years, he draws upon his eclectic experiences, education and life skills (art, motorcycle teaching, science and others) to help students of all ages discover how to unlock their creativity through the piano and enrich their lives learning and performing various styles of compositions.
Ted has been a member of the Ontario Registered Music Teachers Association since 1976 and served as the president of the Welland - Port Colborne branch for 5 years. Interested in the different styles of learning and right-left brain integrated techniques, “Mr. Ted” is always interested in enhancing students' level of creativity and enjoyment in music.
Edward (Ted) Ellis is an active music teacher in Welland Ontario. He owns and operates Ellis Music Studios where he has devised innovative teaching techniques and methods which have proven successful, including a musical thesaurus, a sight-reading system using speed-reading techniques and powerpoint presentations. Having been in a teaching capacity for 49 years, he draws upon his eclectic experiences, education and life skills (art, motorcycle teaching, science and others) to help students of all ages discover how to unlock their creativity through the piano and enrich their lives learning and performing various styles of compositions.
Ted has been a member of the Ontario Registered Music Teachers Association since 1976 and served as the president of the Welland - Port Colborne branch for 5 years. Interested in the different styles of learning and right-left brain integrated techniques, “Mr. Ted” is always interested in enhancing students' level of creativity and enjoyment in music.
Wes Froese
B.Mus (Piano Performance)
Wes Froese is a performer, composer, and music educator based in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan. He studied at the University of Regina with Bill Moore, and at the University of Saskatchewan with Robin Harrison. He also spent a year studying at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem in Israel. Wes is the former director of music at Horizon College and Seminary (PAOC); co-founder and original artistic director of Eclipse Chorus, a Saskatoon community choir; and developer of the educational series Starting With Blues.
Wes Froese performs solo pop and jazz shows regularly in and around Saskatoon, including Piano Fridays at the Bassment (Saskatoon Jazz Club). He also works in long-term care as a recreation coordinator, providing music for long term care residents. As a recording artist, Mr. Froese recorded a solo album in 2000 (pop Christian) and has also collaborated with other artists, recording and producing pop and country CDs, most recently in November 2019.
Wes is a prolific composer in a wide variety of styles. Contemporary harmonies, driving rhythms and reflective melodies permeate his music. A thorough knowledge of the blues/jazz genres coupled with appreciation of what students like to play, make his music very popular with students of all ages. His piano compositions can be found in Northern Lights Canadian National Conservatory of Music Northern Lights collections, in seven volumes of Pianozzazz (published by Debra Wanless), and in both volumes of Saskatchewan Registered Music Teachers’ From Prairie to Pine. Wes’ music is also used as the theme music for the CNCM YouTube channel.
At present, Wes operates a private piano studio in Saskatoon, specializing in training musicians to play by ear, read charts, improvise and compose. He teaches both virtually online, and traditionally, in person. He adjudicates for music festivals in western Canada and is an examiner for the Northern Lights Canadian National Conservatory of Music. Wes is known to many of the CNCM teachers and students through his work leading several ‘Summer Sizzle’ sessions.
Wes Froese is a performer, composer, and music educator based in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan. He studied at the University of Regina with Bill Moore, and at the University of Saskatchewan with Robin Harrison. He also spent a year studying at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem in Israel. Wes is the former director of music at Horizon College and Seminary (PAOC); co-founder and original artistic director of Eclipse Chorus, a Saskatoon community choir; and developer of the educational series Starting With Blues.
Wes Froese performs solo pop and jazz shows regularly in and around Saskatoon, including Piano Fridays at the Bassment (Saskatoon Jazz Club). He also works in long-term care as a recreation coordinator, providing music for long term care residents. As a recording artist, Mr. Froese recorded a solo album in 2000 (pop Christian) and has also collaborated with other artists, recording and producing pop and country CDs, most recently in November 2019.
Wes is a prolific composer in a wide variety of styles. Contemporary harmonies, driving rhythms and reflective melodies permeate his music. A thorough knowledge of the blues/jazz genres coupled with appreciation of what students like to play, make his music very popular with students of all ages. His piano compositions can be found in Northern Lights Canadian National Conservatory of Music Northern Lights collections, in seven volumes of Pianozzazz (published by Debra Wanless), and in both volumes of Saskatchewan Registered Music Teachers’ From Prairie to Pine. Wes’ music is also used as the theme music for the CNCM YouTube channel.
At present, Wes operates a private piano studio in Saskatoon, specializing in training musicians to play by ear, read charts, improvise and compose. He teaches both virtually online, and traditionally, in person. He adjudicates for music festivals in western Canada and is an examiner for the Northern Lights Canadian National Conservatory of Music. Wes is known to many of the CNCM teachers and students through his work leading several ‘Summer Sizzle’ sessions.
Laura Gray
Laura Gray is a piano teacher from Harriston, ON. As a child she studied with Debra Wanless, and after completing the Grade 10 piano practical and written requirements, Laura attended Brock University. In 1998 Laura graduated with an Honours Bachelor of Music degree in piano performance with piano pedagogy and literature courses. In 1998 she began teaching piano full time at her studio in Harriston.
At a young age, Laura knew she wanted to be a piano teacher. Through many years of music studies, Laura's teaching philosophy developed to "never stop learning". In 2009 she completed an Associate Diploma in Piano Pedagogy with Canadian National Conservatory of Music (CNCM). Also in 2009, Laura ventured into the Music for Young ChildrenTM program, and added a new aspect to her music studio with class lessons. In 2010 Laura was appointed to the CNCM Board of Examiners for Piano. Most recently Laura has updated her education by completing the credits for the Primary-Elementary Pedagogy Diploma with CNCM.
Laura Gray lives on a farm outside of Harriston with her husband,and their son and daughter. She works as a church organist and volunteers as a Sunday school music director. She has also volunteered with music projects in her community at the school of dance, the Grey-Wellington Theatre Guild, and Minto-Clifford Public School. Laura has also worked with several ballet schools as an accompanist for Royal Academy of Dance examinations.
At a young age, Laura knew she wanted to be a piano teacher. Through many years of music studies, Laura's teaching philosophy developed to "never stop learning". In 2009 she completed an Associate Diploma in Piano Pedagogy with Canadian National Conservatory of Music (CNCM). Also in 2009, Laura ventured into the Music for Young ChildrenTM program, and added a new aspect to her music studio with class lessons. In 2010 Laura was appointed to the CNCM Board of Examiners for Piano. Most recently Laura has updated her education by completing the credits for the Primary-Elementary Pedagogy Diploma with CNCM.
Laura Gray lives on a farm outside of Harriston with her husband,and their son and daughter. She works as a church organist and volunteers as a Sunday school music director. She has also volunteered with music projects in her community at the school of dance, the Grey-Wellington Theatre Guild, and Minto-Clifford Public School. Laura has also worked with several ballet schools as an accompanist for Royal Academy of Dance examinations.
Beth Hamilton
Beth Hamilton is a music educator, music therapist, and singer-songwriter. Raised in a musical family, her studies began at the early age of five as her mother’s first piano student. Beth sang in choirs, played in bands, and studied piano throughout her school years, completing her Grade 10 Piano with the Royal Conservatory of Music. She continued her piano studies at Wilfrid Laurier University with Leslie Wyber and master class teacher Jamie Parker, graduating with an Honours Bachelor of Music Therapy in 2001.
Beth’s love for music and making a difference in people’s lives led to a career in both music therapy and music education. As an Accredited Music Therapist, Beth’s practice centers in gerontology and palliative care, working in hospitals and long term care centres. She served as Public Relations Chair for several years on the Board of Directors for the Canadian Association for Music Therapy.
Beth has taught music for over 20 years including Kindermusik, workshops for school children, and private piano lessons. She has a thriving piano studio in Owen Sound, Ontario where she is Vice-President of the ORMTA Owen Sound Branch.
Beth is a singer-songwriter in the duo Beckon with her friend Connie Rossitter. In June 2012, Beckon released their debut full-length album “Beautiful Life”. With Juno nominated producer Rick Hutt at the helm, this FACTOR supported album garnered commercial radio play and airplay on CBC. Beckon has toured venues and festivals across Ontario. Their song “Beautiful Life” has been utilized in promotional videos for the City of Owen Sound and The Roxy Theatre. The song has made its way into classrooms across Ontario, utilised by teachers to teach music, movement, and to explore themes of community, gratitude, and aspirations. Beckon is an intriguing blend of fresh pop sound and graceful style, rapidly gaining recognition for their captivating original music and stunning trademark harmonies. Beth and Connie continue to meet weekly to create, compose, rehearse, and record original music.
Beth’s love for music and making a difference in people’s lives led to a career in both music therapy and music education. As an Accredited Music Therapist, Beth’s practice centers in gerontology and palliative care, working in hospitals and long term care centres. She served as Public Relations Chair for several years on the Board of Directors for the Canadian Association for Music Therapy.
Beth has taught music for over 20 years including Kindermusik, workshops for school children, and private piano lessons. She has a thriving piano studio in Owen Sound, Ontario where she is Vice-President of the ORMTA Owen Sound Branch.
Beth is a singer-songwriter in the duo Beckon with her friend Connie Rossitter. In June 2012, Beckon released their debut full-length album “Beautiful Life”. With Juno nominated producer Rick Hutt at the helm, this FACTOR supported album garnered commercial radio play and airplay on CBC. Beckon has toured venues and festivals across Ontario. Their song “Beautiful Life” has been utilized in promotional videos for the City of Owen Sound and The Roxy Theatre. The song has made its way into classrooms across Ontario, utilised by teachers to teach music, movement, and to explore themes of community, gratitude, and aspirations. Beckon is an intriguing blend of fresh pop sound and graceful style, rapidly gaining recognition for their captivating original music and stunning trademark harmonies. Beth and Connie continue to meet weekly to create, compose, rehearse, and record original music.
Laureen Kells
Laureen currently resides in East Central Saskatchewan where she teachers private lessons and Music for Young Children. Active in her community,
Laureen is on the committee of the local music festival association, and her local registered music teachers association. As well Laureen sits on the board of the Saskatchewan Registered Music Teachers Association. Having recently completed her Licentiate in Piano Pedagogy with CNCM, she is now currently working on her Junior Fellowship in Piano Pedagogy. She isalso honored to have been asked to join the Board of Examiners of CNCM.
During the summer, Laureen and her husband Hank Ukrainetz keep themselves busy helping to run the Tuffnell Fiddle and Guitar Camp.
Laureen is on the committee of the local music festival association, and her local registered music teachers association. As well Laureen sits on the board of the Saskatchewan Registered Music Teachers Association. Having recently completed her Licentiate in Piano Pedagogy with CNCM, she is now currently working on her Junior Fellowship in Piano Pedagogy. She isalso honored to have been asked to join the Board of Examiners of CNCM.
During the summer, Laureen and her husband Hank Ukrainetz keep themselves busy helping to run the Tuffnell Fiddle and Guitar Camp.
Peggy L' Hoir
ATCL, RMT
Peggy L’Hoir is an experienced and innovative teacher, clinician, adjudicator, examiner, collaborative artist and composer. Peggy has been sharing her enthusiasm for music with her expansive music community for over four decades. Her network reaches far and wide, allowing her to generously share mentorship, friendship and encouragement with many.
While at home in Biggar, Saskatchewan, Peggy guides a diverse class of students through piano, theory, accompanying and composition, from beginner to Associate level. Her goals as a teacher and mentor are to enthuse, educate and empower - enriching lives of students, families and communities, with and through music. Peggy’s present musical activities include volunteering with the Heart of the City program in her area, composing music for students and friends, presenting workshops for colleagues and as well as embracing every opportunity to investigate and try out new learning ideas.
Peggy is a Past President of the Saskatchewan Registered Music Teachers’ Association (SRMTA), and the Canadian Federation of Music Teachers’ Association (CFMTA), having had the opportunity to serve on many committees within these associations. As well, she was an integral catalyst in the SRMTA’s Centennial Publication, “From Prairie to Pine - Piano Solos by Saskatchewan Composers” (2005) and “From Prairie to Pine – Piano Solos by Saskatchewan Composers – Volume 2” (2011). Peggy has served on the Saskatchewan Arts Board, the Alliance for Canadian New Music Projects as well as many other local boards. In the Fall of 2019, she was honoured and humbled to be a recipient of the Saskatchewan Music Festival’s Outstanding Adjudicator Award, and in 2023 received CFMTA’s Distinguished Teacher Award.
Collaborative music making has seen Peggy in the Jazz Duo – Strawberry Jam, in an easy listening ensemble – The Group, Musical Director of local musicals – from Fiddler on the Roof (2001) to Mamma Mia (2019), accompanying local choirs and soloists, and playing duets with students and friends.
Peggy L’Hoir is an experienced and innovative teacher, clinician, adjudicator, examiner, collaborative artist and composer. Peggy has been sharing her enthusiasm for music with her expansive music community for over four decades. Her network reaches far and wide, allowing her to generously share mentorship, friendship and encouragement with many.
While at home in Biggar, Saskatchewan, Peggy guides a diverse class of students through piano, theory, accompanying and composition, from beginner to Associate level. Her goals as a teacher and mentor are to enthuse, educate and empower - enriching lives of students, families and communities, with and through music. Peggy’s present musical activities include volunteering with the Heart of the City program in her area, composing music for students and friends, presenting workshops for colleagues and as well as embracing every opportunity to investigate and try out new learning ideas.
Peggy is a Past President of the Saskatchewan Registered Music Teachers’ Association (SRMTA), and the Canadian Federation of Music Teachers’ Association (CFMTA), having had the opportunity to serve on many committees within these associations. As well, she was an integral catalyst in the SRMTA’s Centennial Publication, “From Prairie to Pine - Piano Solos by Saskatchewan Composers” (2005) and “From Prairie to Pine – Piano Solos by Saskatchewan Composers – Volume 2” (2011). Peggy has served on the Saskatchewan Arts Board, the Alliance for Canadian New Music Projects as well as many other local boards. In the Fall of 2019, she was honoured and humbled to be a recipient of the Saskatchewan Music Festival’s Outstanding Adjudicator Award, and in 2023 received CFMTA’s Distinguished Teacher Award.
Collaborative music making has seen Peggy in the Jazz Duo – Strawberry Jam, in an easy listening ensemble – The Group, Musical Director of local musicals – from Fiddler on the Roof (2001) to Mamma Mia (2019), accompanying local choirs and soloists, and playing duets with students and friends.
Lara Mason
Lara Mason is a pianist and teacher from Souris, Manitoba. She graduated from Brandon University with a Bachelor of Music degree and has been teaching piano and theory for 30 years. Playing for musicals, singers, instrumentalists and choirs keeps her at the piano all week. On the weekend it's time to slow down and play for church, much to the delight of her dog who prefers hymns over musicals!
The month of July is spent learning and performing a new piano quartet, concerto or duo with other pianists who love performing and want to challenge themselves over the summer break. Lara is married with two children whom also love music. Both have been members of the musical pit bands directed by their mother, and Nicole was this year's piano duo partner for a performance of "Danse Macabre" by Saint-Saens.
The month of July is spent learning and performing a new piano quartet, concerto or duo with other pianists who love performing and want to challenge themselves over the summer break. Lara is married with two children whom also love music. Both have been members of the musical pit bands directed by their mother, and Nicole was this year's piano duo partner for a performance of "Danse Macabre" by Saint-Saens.
Sandra Mogensen
ARCT, LTCL, ArtDip, MMus
Sandra Mogensen has extensive pedagogical experience, both as a piano teacher and a coach for singers. Having taught piano internationally via Skype since 2012, she was well-positioned to continue her online teaching when the pandemic situation arose. A former senior member of the Royal Conservatory of Music Board of Examiners, Sandra is currently examining for Northern Lights Canadian National Conservatory of Music and Conservatory Canada. She enjoys adjudicating students of all ages and levels, as a way to support and encourage personal and musical development, while sharing her love for music.
As a performer, pianist Sandra Mogensen is equally at home in two worlds: performing as a solo pianist and co-performing with singers in recital. She has played in concert in both capacities in Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, Denmark, Latvia, Iceland, Norway, Sweden, the Netherlands, and Austria.
In early 2019, Ms. Mogensen’s focus turned to the music of female composers. Her first recording in the series of six albums entitled en pleine lumière was released in December 2019, spotlighting composers born in mid-1800. Volume two (composers born 1870-1900) recording sessions have been postponed due to the pandemic. This series of six recordings is
of solo piano music by undeservedly overlooked women who composed, from the romantic era up to present day.
She has also co-founded a project called ‘Piano Music She Wrote’, in which all piano music on
International Music Score Library Project (imslp.org) composed by women has been catalogued in an online directory to thousands of pieces. The ‘Piano Music She Wrote’ YouTube channel features Sandra’s and her co-founder Erica Sipes’ performances of some of this music, with a repertoire that continues to expand weekly. Sandra has also recently released two elementary level Piano Music She Wrote anthologies for piano students, published by Debra Wanless. In addition, Sandra has created two directories for those interested in vocal repertoire composed by women: ‘Lieder She Wrote’ and ‘Mélodies She Wrote’.
Sandra’s first solo recording, Piano Music of Edvard Grieg, recorded in December 2006, was warmly received and praised. Since then, Sandra has become known as a specialist in Grieg’s music, having released four recordings of the great Norwegian composer’s music so far.
Sandra Mogensen has extensive pedagogical experience, both as a piano teacher and a coach for singers. Having taught piano internationally via Skype since 2012, she was well-positioned to continue her online teaching when the pandemic situation arose. A former senior member of the Royal Conservatory of Music Board of Examiners, Sandra is currently examining for Northern Lights Canadian National Conservatory of Music and Conservatory Canada. She enjoys adjudicating students of all ages and levels, as a way to support and encourage personal and musical development, while sharing her love for music.
As a performer, pianist Sandra Mogensen is equally at home in two worlds: performing as a solo pianist and co-performing with singers in recital. She has played in concert in both capacities in Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, Denmark, Latvia, Iceland, Norway, Sweden, the Netherlands, and Austria.
In early 2019, Ms. Mogensen’s focus turned to the music of female composers. Her first recording in the series of six albums entitled en pleine lumière was released in December 2019, spotlighting composers born in mid-1800. Volume two (composers born 1870-1900) recording sessions have been postponed due to the pandemic. This series of six recordings is
of solo piano music by undeservedly overlooked women who composed, from the romantic era up to present day.
She has also co-founded a project called ‘Piano Music She Wrote’, in which all piano music on
International Music Score Library Project (imslp.org) composed by women has been catalogued in an online directory to thousands of pieces. The ‘Piano Music She Wrote’ YouTube channel features Sandra’s and her co-founder Erica Sipes’ performances of some of this music, with a repertoire that continues to expand weekly. Sandra has also recently released two elementary level Piano Music She Wrote anthologies for piano students, published by Debra Wanless. In addition, Sandra has created two directories for those interested in vocal repertoire composed by women: ‘Lieder She Wrote’ and ‘Mélodies She Wrote’.
Sandra’s first solo recording, Piano Music of Edvard Grieg, recorded in December 2006, was warmly received and praised. Since then, Sandra has become known as a specialist in Grieg’s music, having released four recordings of the great Norwegian composer’s music so far.
Aury Murray
Aury received her Associate Piano and Associate Voice Teacher's Diploma from Western Ontario Conservatory of Music, and holds an Honours Bachelor of Arts - Music Major from Lakehead University. She taught for the Music Department of Lakehead University and has served on the ORMTA Provincial Council as the Metro Toronto Zone Representative.
She conducted the Choristers of the Etobicoke Canadian Federation of University Women and was a member of Arts Etobicoke. Aury is Organist and Choir Director of Erindale Presbyterian Church in Mississauga, as well as adjudicator of piano and voice for ORMTA, Kiwanis Music Festivals and other regional music festivals.
She conducted the Choristers of the Etobicoke Canadian Federation of University Women and was a member of Arts Etobicoke. Aury is Organist and Choir Director of Erindale Presbyterian Church in Mississauga, as well as adjudicator of piano and voice for ORMTA, Kiwanis Music Festivals and other regional music festivals.
Janna Olson
Janna Olson teaches at The King’s University College in Edmonton, Alberta. She incorporates Music Learning Theory in her teaching and is certified in Piano and Early Childhood Music with the Gordon Institute for Music Learning.
Originally from Three Hills, Alberta, Janna Olson holds degrees in Church Music and Piano Performance and a Master's degree in Piano Performance and Pedagogy from the University of Alberta where she studied with Janet Scott Hoyt. She is also certified in Piano and Early Childhood Music with the Gordon Institute for Music Learning.
Performing, adjudicating, and giving workshops have provided diverse opportunities for her to share her music in Canada, the United States and Europe. Janna currently resides in Edmonton, teaching privately and is a sessional instructor at The King’s University College. She enjoys playing chamber music and in her “off hours” spends time outdoors hiking, skiing and running.
Originally from Three Hills, Alberta, Janna Olson holds degrees in Church Music and Piano Performance and a Master's degree in Piano Performance and Pedagogy from the University of Alberta where she studied with Janet Scott Hoyt. She is also certified in Piano and Early Childhood Music with the Gordon Institute for Music Learning.
Performing, adjudicating, and giving workshops have provided diverse opportunities for her to share her music in Canada, the United States and Europe. Janna currently resides in Edmonton, teaching privately and is a sessional instructor at The King’s University College. She enjoys playing chamber music and in her “off hours” spends time outdoors hiking, skiing and running.
Andrew Sims
Andrew completed the Bachelor of Music degree (2008) from Baylor University in piano performance (cum laude) and the Master of Music degree (2010) in applied music (piano) from the University of Alberta. His principle teachers have included Jane Abbott-Kirk and Jacques Després. Masterclass participations have included Krassimira Jordan, Stéphane Lemelin, Peter Longworth, Marvin Blickenstaff, Jane Margath, Alan Chow, Nelita True, Michel Fournier, Bruce Vogt, and Peter Mack. Early in his musical career, Andrew became interested in healthy piano technique, performance anxiety and injury prevention, and overall musical wellness through the practices and teachings of Dorothy Taubman and the Alexander Technique. His academic research in these fields has led to international conference paper presentations as well as local music association workshop presentations.
Andrew enjoys teaching students of all ages and levels. He emphasizes creative and positive teaching in lessons so that his students learn to love all aspects of music. Andrew is a member of the Alberta Registered Music Teachers' Association (ARMTA) and the Boris Roubakine Piano Club. He continues to perform and enjoys solo and collaborative work. In August 2014, Andrew attended the Classical Music Festival in Eisenstadt, Austria with solo performance and masterclass opportunities (Dr. Jane Magrath, University of Oklahoma and Dr. Alan Chow, Northwestern University) in Haydn Hall of the Esterhazy Palace.
Andrew enjoys teaching students of all ages and levels. He emphasizes creative and positive teaching in lessons so that his students learn to love all aspects of music. Andrew is a member of the Alberta Registered Music Teachers' Association (ARMTA) and the Boris Roubakine Piano Club. He continues to perform and enjoys solo and collaborative work. In August 2014, Andrew attended the Classical Music Festival in Eisenstadt, Austria with solo performance and masterclass opportunities (Dr. Jane Magrath, University of Oklahoma and Dr. Alan Chow, Northwestern University) in Haydn Hall of the Esterhazy Palace.
Cameron Streicher
Cameron obtained his B.Mus from Wilfrid Laurier University, graduating with a double degree in Music Education and Music Theory. Cam has received many awards including the Evelyn Mae McLaughlin Award for Music Education, the WLU President’s Award, and the Laurier Alumni Gold Medal Award for the Faculty of Music. Cam is a member of the Ontario Registered Music Teachers Association (ORMTA) and teaches at The Beckett School at Wilfrid Laurier University and Renaissance School of the Arts. He also works for Northern Lights Canadian National Conservatory of Music as a piano examiner.
Cam has strong interests in vocal performance, in particular sacred, a cappella, choral music. He is the founder and director of Village Voices Community Choir (Milverton, ON), and is the current director of the Trinity Youth Choir. Cam regularly leads choral conducting workshops, and teaches at the A Cappella Choir Camp in Jamaica as well as Shenandoah Christian Music Camp: Ontario. He has sung with Da Capo Chamber Choir (Kitchener, ON) and Oasis Chorale (Virginia, USA). Cam has a strong interest in the healthcare field and is currently studying to become a registered respiratory therapist.
Cam has strong interests in vocal performance, in particular sacred, a cappella, choral music. He is the founder and director of Village Voices Community Choir (Milverton, ON), and is the current director of the Trinity Youth Choir. Cam regularly leads choral conducting workshops, and teaches at the A Cappella Choir Camp in Jamaica as well as Shenandoah Christian Music Camp: Ontario. He has sung with Da Capo Chamber Choir (Kitchener, ON) and Oasis Chorale (Virginia, USA). Cam has a strong interest in the healthcare field and is currently studying to become a registered respiratory therapist.
Laurel Teichroeb
Laurel Teichroeb grew up in Springside, Sask. where she began lessons at age 7, studying piano with the late Jean Laube. Coming from a musically rich community, her earliest influences were church music and singing at school. Through the encouragement of her church organist, she began to play and accompany at a young age and began teaching at age 15. It has been her passion ever since with a desire to help students find the joy of music at whatever skill level they are at.
She received her Associateship, Teachers diploma, with the Royal Conservatory of Music and continued further musical studies in electronic and pipe organ. Laurel also received certification in Kindermusik, a program for children ages newborn through six, at the University of Calgary. It was a study which she thoroughly enjoyed and uses in every aspect of her teaching. Most recently she completed a Licentiate diploma in Piano Pedagogy with Canadian National Conservatory of Music.
Laurel is past president of the Yorkton Registered Music Teachers where she has served in every capacity on the executive. She is an active examiner for CNCM and adjudicates for festivals around the province and Manitoba. She is active in her community as a teacher, accompanist for ballet, and pianist for weddings, funerals and many events. Her favorite pastimes are travelling, cooking and spending time with her husband and two boys.
She received her Associateship, Teachers diploma, with the Royal Conservatory of Music and continued further musical studies in electronic and pipe organ. Laurel also received certification in Kindermusik, a program for children ages newborn through six, at the University of Calgary. It was a study which she thoroughly enjoyed and uses in every aspect of her teaching. Most recently she completed a Licentiate diploma in Piano Pedagogy with Canadian National Conservatory of Music.
Laurel is past president of the Yorkton Registered Music Teachers where she has served in every capacity on the executive. She is an active examiner for CNCM and adjudicates for festivals around the province and Manitoba. She is active in her community as a teacher, accompanist for ballet, and pianist for weddings, funerals and many events. Her favorite pastimes are travelling, cooking and spending time with her husband and two boys.
Debra Wanless
Junior Fellowship CNCM; Lic. CNCM; A.Mus.; R.M.T.
Debra Wanless is an active piano adjudicator, studio teacher, editor, examiner, music publisher, and composer. She has travelled across Canada and the United States as a pedagogy clinician. Debra holds a Junior Fellowship and Licentiate in piano pedagogy with Northern Lights Canadian National Conservatory of Music; an Associate of Music in piano pedagogy with Western Ontario Conservatory of Music [Conservatory Canada]; and post graduate studies in piano performance, theory and piano ensemble.
Debra is a pedagogy specialist whose students have earned the Cora B. Arhens Award for pedagogy excellence. She is principal and founding member of Northern Lights Canadian National Conservatory of Music and the three-day Piano Pedagogy workshop, Summer Sizzle. Debra has served at the local and provincial levels of the ORMTA, is the founder of the North Wellington Camerata Canada Music Week Festival and worked for many years as music secretary to the Midwestern Ontario Rotary Music Festival.
Her piano solos and ensembles have been selected for performance at festivals across Canada; for inclusion in the New Millennium, Contemporary Idioms, Northern Lights and Making Tracks Series; the Piano Now Syllabus; and reviewed in Clavier Magazine. Debra has edited, revised and written new material for the Leila Fletcher piano course (Mayfair/Montgomery Music), the James Lawless Theory Course (Waterloo Music) and arranges pop music for the ProMusic Company in California. Her books/materials include two Rhythm Workbooks, Elementary Harmony and Melody Writing, Let’s Begin, 101 Children’s Pieces, A Jazzy Day, Midnight Jazz , and many more. She is the recipient of the ORMTA Special Teacher Award, the Commemorative Medal for the 125th Anniversary of the Confederation of Canada and finalist for the 2011 Louis Applebaum Award for Music for Young People.
Debra Wanless is an active piano adjudicator, studio teacher, editor, examiner, music publisher, and composer. She has travelled across Canada and the United States as a pedagogy clinician. Debra holds a Junior Fellowship and Licentiate in piano pedagogy with Northern Lights Canadian National Conservatory of Music; an Associate of Music in piano pedagogy with Western Ontario Conservatory of Music [Conservatory Canada]; and post graduate studies in piano performance, theory and piano ensemble.
Debra is a pedagogy specialist whose students have earned the Cora B. Arhens Award for pedagogy excellence. She is principal and founding member of Northern Lights Canadian National Conservatory of Music and the three-day Piano Pedagogy workshop, Summer Sizzle. Debra has served at the local and provincial levels of the ORMTA, is the founder of the North Wellington Camerata Canada Music Week Festival and worked for many years as music secretary to the Midwestern Ontario Rotary Music Festival.
Her piano solos and ensembles have been selected for performance at festivals across Canada; for inclusion in the New Millennium, Contemporary Idioms, Northern Lights and Making Tracks Series; the Piano Now Syllabus; and reviewed in Clavier Magazine. Debra has edited, revised and written new material for the Leila Fletcher piano course (Mayfair/Montgomery Music), the James Lawless Theory Course (Waterloo Music) and arranges pop music for the ProMusic Company in California. Her books/materials include two Rhythm Workbooks, Elementary Harmony and Melody Writing, Let’s Begin, 101 Children’s Pieces, A Jazzy Day, Midnight Jazz , and many more. She is the recipient of the ORMTA Special Teacher Award, the Commemorative Medal for the 125th Anniversary of the Confederation of Canada and finalist for the 2011 Louis Applebaum Award for Music for Young People.
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