Learn Piano Today
Looking for an experienced piano teacher? Lisa can help students of any age, whether you’re just starting out or you’ve been playing for a while.
meet Lisa Harkness
Thank you for visiting! I’ve been playing the piano since the age of three and hold a Bachelor of Music from Butler University, a Master of Arts from the University of Michigan and have taught college courses in group piano, music composition and music history at the University of Michigan and Middle Tennessee State University.
My private piano teaching lesson experience spans over 18 years in Nashville, Tenn., Indianapolis, Ind. and Ann Arbor, Mich. I’ve recently returned to the Williamson County area and currently have openings for students of all ages and experience.
I will always remember the day my mother told me I would begin learning piano even though I was very young. I remember galloping around the living room and excitedly telling my baby brother I was going to learn piano! My pre-college studies were guided by Mary Craig Powell, internationally renowned Suzuki piano teacher and teacher trainer from ages 3-18. While at Butler University I studied with Artist-in-Residence Panayis Lyras, Silver Medalist of the 1981 Van Cliburn International Piano Competition. At the University of Michigan, I had the pleasure of working with Phillip Bush who in addition to performing internationally was a long-term member of the Phillip Glass Ensemble and Steve Reich and Musicians. Along the way, I participated in masterclasses with Gloria Cheng, Vladimir Feltsman, Seymour Fink, Miyoko Lotto, Michi Hirata North, Nehama Patkin, Jonathan Shames, Audrey Andrist and Catherine McMichael.
In addition to teaching and studying piano and piano performance extensively, I also have a wide range of expertise in music production, composition, songwriting, vocal performance, and recording. I have performed and produced styles including indie rock, folk, hip-hop, pop, jazz, cabaret, musical theater, EDM, short films and commercial musical scores – and am currently part of the group Raga Sutra as a producer-vocalist-keyboardist.
teaching philosophy
Each person is attracted to a unique collection of genres and styles. Within the eclectic musical reality that exists today, my wide range of musical experience allows me to collaboratively design an individual course of study for each and every student’s interests and abilities. This can range from a basic understanding and exposure to music to the preparation necessary to become a professional musician. Whether preparing a student for classical piano college auditions or teaching someone to play and sing their favorite song by ear, I am passionate about helping students achieve their personal best as well as learning to express themselves through music.
flexible teaching
I will work with you to fit your needs. Whether you want to produce music or learn a song, I can adapt to your style and goal. From learning songs on the radio to playing Beethoven, I can help you learn in a fun way adapted to meet your learning style.
pricing
30 Minutes
Beginner- Best for beginner students and younger children just starting out
45 Minutes
Intermediate- Best for intermediate students with some prior experience or knowledge
60 Minutes
Advanced- Best for advanced students who want to go further or those studying songwriting
Lessons are billed monthly with payment due by the first lesson of the month. I can accept personal checks, cash, credit cards and PayPal. A fee may apply to any returned payment.
cancellation policy
If you need to cancel a lesson, please let me know as soon as you can. Lessons must be canceled at least 24 hours in advance to be eligible for a makeup lesson. Lessons canceled less than 24 hours in advance will not be refunded or made up. If I need to cancel the lesson it will either be made up or credited to you at my discretion.
Ready to Start Learning Today?
Call, text (615-887-1719) or fill out the form below and I’ll get in touch to answer any questions
common questions
What are lessons like?
What length lesson should I have?
concentrating for more than 30 minutes. Beginning students should take at least 30 minute lessons. Intermediate students should take at least 45 minutes. Advanced students should take at least 1 hour lessons. Songwriting students should take at least one hour to fully delve into the
creative process.
What age is appropriate to begin lessons?
Do I need a piano?
How long should I practice?
How do I get started?
need more?
If you have additional questions or you’re not quite ready to sign up just yet, feel free to reach out with the contact form above. I will be happy to talk through my lesson plans and let you know about my piano program.