reviews

"My name is Kyle, and I’m currently pursuing my Master of Music in Flute at Northwestern University. Previously I have obtained a Bachelor of Music in Flute from Wilfrid Laurier University, and an Artist Diploma from The Glenn Gould School of the Royal Conservatory of Music. I first began taking piano lessons with Olivia in the winter of 2003 when I decided that I wanted to pursue music as my profession. The requirements for piano proficiency at Wilfrid Laurier University required me to play at a Grade 6 Royal Conservatory Level. As a result of Olivia’s wonderful teaching, I progressed from the absolute beginnings of piano to RCM Grade 6 in two years. After reaching my goal of playing at a RCM Grade 6 level, Olivia was wonderful in allowing me to pursue other musical interests like collaborating with vocalists in student recitals at the Guelph Youth Music Centre. Olivia greatly cultivated my interest in music, and I can say without reservation that I would not be the musician I was today without her. Olivia has a solid pedagogy rooted in the technical development of her students. With each student receiving a curriculum unique for their particular learning style, Olivia is able to help each student reach their potential. As a result of Olivia’s teaching I passed my piano proficiency exam at Wilfrid Laurier University, and was not required to take remedial piano.

Olivia is a wonderful teacher, whose warm and kind demeanour create a welcoming environment, where students can feel safe to take chances and make mistakes. Whether or not students plan to be a professional performer, Olivia is able cultivate and inspire a life-long relationship between my music and her students. I recommend Olivia Anderson without reservation."

Graduate Assistant to the Flute Studio, Northwestern University

When I moved to Canada at age 8, I was enrolled in Piano lessons with Olivia the first week of living here. I spent the next 10 years as a student of hers before heading off to college, throughout which she has always been kind, understanding, and worked at my pace, with gentle pressure here and there. Whether it was Royal Conservatory or my favourite pop songs, Olivia taught me a key lesson in my life: hard work and practice are rewarded with success. I couldn’t have asked for a better piano teacher.

My daughters have been taking lessons with Olivia for over eight years. They both initially started with piano lessons and have also started violin lessons. Being able to teach both instruments has been a bonus as it makes it easier for scheduling. Through her mentoring, both girls have progressed their technical and sight-reading skills. Olivia makes teaching fun by interspersing popular pieces with their required pieces. This will often give them a diversion, particularly when they are taking exams.  Both have taken RCM exams and have performed extremely well.

We are looking forward to many more successful years.