Our son began taking lessons with Gretchen starting the summer of 2016. She was his first flute instructor and we are glad he started out with her. In addition to her just being a great teacher, the opportunities she offers really increase the value of her as an instructor. The idea of learning to critique and be critiqued, performing in front of live audiences through GIFT, and having classes with other known instructors allow the students to improve general musicianship as well as flute playing.

I am a lifelong musician (sax) who wanted to learn to play the flute and began by taking lessons from Gretchen. She is a terrific, experienced teacher and performer. She is an incredible musician and has a wide range of students ranging from young children to senior citizens (me as well as others) with a wide span of ability, skills and knowledge …beginners (me again) to very accomplished, experienced musicians. Gretchen is very adaptable and can effectively teach at all levels. She connects with her students and establishes excellent relationships with all. She is relaxed but focused, very positive and complimentary but can be gently critical when necessary. She’s cheerful, patient, optimistic and enthusiastic. Her lessons never get boring but are fun and fresh as she varies the focus of them, teaching basics, technical aspects and musical interpretation. She is great at managing any frustrations a student might experience and always celebrates their accomplishments and successes. And one of my favorite things is that somehow she always makes me feel good about my playing as we finish our lessons wether they be on-line or in person. Never boring…always encouraging…Gretchen is a great teacher. I’m lucky I found her.