Testimonials
As featured in the Baltimore Sun: What a difference a gentle teacher makes, July 8, 2001
I had searched to find a gentle teacher who would offer unpressured enjoyment of music along with knowledge enough to eventually execute Bach. Friends who had children happily playing piano and composing music had recommended someone. Besides instilling a love of music, the teacher and Emma at the end of two months played "Ode to Joy," which made me weep.
Ann is uniquely able to connect with students of all ages, introducing concepts, engaging interest and encouraging mastery. Specifically, I like the structure of Ann's studio with expectations clearly outlined and articulated to both students and parents. Ann's experience as a teacher makes her assessment of students spot on, and her involvement in the music community teaches children that music extends far beyond her studio.
Ann's community involvement affords students opportunities to demonstrate their abilities in the Peabody Repertory and Theory level tests and performing in local venues and studio recitals. One of the most special parts of Ann's studio is that she makes learning piano fun for the students. She is able to find pieces they find engaging, age and level-appropriate allowing students play music that is meaningful to them! And you can't forget the piano parties--a chance for her students to gather informally to play music, games and enjoy delicious seasonal treat.
We are lucky to have found a teacher as caring, committed and capable as Ann.
Rachel Seba
I have had a life-long love of classical music. Growing up in New York City I had plenty of exposure but unfortunately no opportunity to take music lessons. Now, in my retirement after almost 50 years of teaching young children, I finally have the time (and energy) for something I have always wanted:piano lessons. Unlike most other mature students, however, who come back to the piano in later years with a foundation of childhood instruction, I've had to start from scratch.
Ann McCandliss was recommended by a longtime member of the Peabody piano faculty. I've worked with her now for about a year- and- a- half. It has been hard, let me tell you, but I continue to be inspired by her enthusiasm, knowledge and patient recognition of my particular learning aptitudes and needs as an adult beginner. I am gratified by the progress Ann has enabled. I love music more than ever. Having lessons with her has been one of my best decisions.
Hillary Barry
Ann has been our sons' piano teacher for 9 years. She is attuned to the needs of children as students with sensitivity to their energy level and attention span. Ann runs a beautifully balanced piano education program emphasizing technique, theory and musicality at each stage of the student's development. She is a gifted teacher whom I have recommended to many friends. Ann is very patient and encouraging and knows how to help students achieve their best! Helen Anderson