Annette Demsey
Piano Studio
"We have two daughters, aged 14 and 10, who have studied piano with Annette for the past four years. We have worked with a few different piano teachers and Annette stands apart from the others for her ability to communicate with students, her patience and her commitment to each student's growth. Annette is gentle in her approach but she encourages her students to take challenges and she prepares them to meet their challenges. Annette has taught our children solid skills while encouraging their creativity and exploration of music. Annette also takes the time to present music in a larger cultural and historical context."
- Melina & Trinh (parents)
Testimonials
"I have been taking lessons from Annette since I was about 8 years old. I appreciate Annette as a piano teacher because she lets me play the music I want to play. If I need extra time to work on a piece she allows for that. When I do get stuck on a section, she provides ideas on how to help me get through it. Annette is a great teacher and I would recommend her."
- Kirsten (16-year-old student)
"Our daughter has been taking piano lessons from Annette for about 8 years. Annette worked with her as a brand new piano player when she was in the fourth grade. We have seen Annette adjust her expectations and teaching style to accommodate our daughter. They have many more years left together. Though obviously fond of classical music, Annette has also encouraged our daughter to broaden her tastes throughout the years. Currently, they are working on improvisational pieces, which she thoroughly enjoys. Although she has always shied away from public performances, our daughter has always been gently encouraged by Annette to challenge herself in these ways too. We are happy to have found Annette."
- Mark & Sue (parents)
"It has been a wonderful experience for all 3 of my children to have Annette as their music teacher. They all love their lessons and time spent with Annette. It has given them the ability to enjoy and appreciate music so much. I am grateful that this is something that they will now have for the rest of their lives. Thanks so much!"
- Annette (parent)
"My best friend and I both take piano lessons from dear lovely and sweet Annette, and are now working on a duet --- which has kept our friendship in tune!"
- Mercedes (adult student)
"Annette is the most wonderful teacher, for any age student. I have studied with her for several years and am always impressed with 1) her patience and grace 2) her ambition toward her students and 3) her passion for music.
She's a Portland gem."
- Jennifer (adult student)
"Usually, you can give her a piece of music and she can just play it really well. Annette teaches piano really well. Annette helps you out when you are struggling on a piece."
-Duncan (7-year-old student)
"You may have reached that age when you think you know what you can and cannot do. Maybe you think it’s “too late” to learn to play the piano. At age 42, Annette helped me to discover talents that I didn’t know I had. Annette has faith that I can learn, and guess what? I do. I’ll never be a Chopin. But I can play well enough to entertain my family and myself. Because of Annette’s gentle enthusiasm, respectful insistence, and monumental patience, I look forward to seeing what I can do when I’m 52.
-Lance (adult student)