Leanna O'Brien

New to Lessonface
Piano, Classical Piano, Piano Composition, Violin, Strings, Ukulele, Flute, Clarinet, Saxophone, Trumpet, Drum Rudiments, Snare Drum, Percussion, Singing, Voice, Musical Theatre, R&B Voice, Jazz Voice, Classical Voice, Opera, Country Voice, Rock Voice, Pop Voice, Voice Diction, Piano for Singers, Folk Voice, Noteflight
Lesson Fees
$30.00 / 30 Minutes

About

Hi! I’m a passionate music educator with over 8 years of teaching experience—5 years in public schools and 3 years teaching private lessons. In 2021, I was honored as Teacher of the Year at my public school in Rhode Island.

I teach voice, piano, ukulele, and drums, and I’m trained to teach the basics of all band and orchestra instruments. I focus on helping students become musically literate so they can read music, play confidently, and even start composing on their own.

 

I also run a business that provides K-8 music curriculum to schools across the country. Teaching music is truly my passion, and I love helping students of all ages grow in their musical journey!

Teaching Style

My lessons are fun, structured, and tailored to each student. I’ve worked with students of all ages—from infants as young as 1 month in “Mommy and Me” classes to adults in their 70s who are learning or returning to music.

Because I customize every lesson, I can meet each student’s unique needs, no matter their age or experience level.

For younger students, I use movement, singing games, and playful activities to help them stay engaged and learn through fun, hands-on experiences.

For older students and adults, I provide a clear structure and set high expectations to help them grow. We set personal goals and work toward building skills in music reading, instrument technique, and even songwriting or composing.

No matter the age or stage, my goal is to help each student feel supported, motivated, and excited to learn music.

Curriculum

I use a student-centered approach that blends music literacy, creativity, and movement-based learning. My teaching draws from trusted music education methods like Kodály, Orff, and Dalcroze-inspired movement, with lessons tailored to the student's age, interests, and goals. I believe students learn best when they’re both challenged and engaged, so I balance structure with fun, hands-on learning.

For younger students, I incorporate movement, games, and story-based activities that make music come alive. 

Recommended Texts:

  • Piano Adventures by Faber & Faber – great for piano beginners

  • Essential Elements – excellent for band/orchestra basics

  • Sing at First Sight – perfect for vocal training and sight-singing

  • Ukulele in the Classroom by James Hill – structured and engaging

  • A Moving Child is a Learning Child-science of why kids need to move

  • Custom lesson materials from my K–8 curriculum to fit each student

I supplement all resources with music the student loves, so every lesson feels relevant and rewarding.

Credentials & Affiliations

I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Music Education (K–8) from Western Connecticut State University, where I graduated with a 3.8 GPA. I bring over 8 years of teaching experience to my students, including 5 years at Hope Academy in Providence, Rhode Island. During my time there, I was honored as Teacher of the Year in 2021.

In addition to classroom teaching, I led “Mommy and Me” classes through the internationally respected Music Together® program, working with children as young as 1 month old to build early musical engagement through movement, singing, and play.

For the past 3 years, I’ve taught private lessons to students of all ages and levels. My specialties include voice, piano, ukulele, drums, saxophone, and even acting and performance coaching. Whether you're just starting out or looking to advance your skills, I bring a well-rounded, joyful, and goal-driven approach to every lesson.