Sara Pietila

Hi there, I'm Sara and I can't wait to meet you! Learning a new skill like playing the piano or singing can be challenging which is why our lessons will be full of fun while we make music together. I believe creating joy and making room for imperfect progress in the learning process is where the magic happens! 

I've been teaching private music lessons for 15 years now. I graduated in 2009 with a degree in Vocal Performance from Western Oregon University. After graduation I was fortunate enough to do a little bit of back up singing on small tours with a few different artists: country legend Lynn Anderson, Sonny Turner of The Platters, as well as the current vocal sensation Lizz Wright.

In 2010 I created my private lesson business Whimsical Music Studio. I taught in-person for 10 years and then became an online teacher in 2020.

In 2021 I moved from the Pacific Northwest to Los Angeles and I love living here in the sun with my husband & sweet senior kitty MoMo who is 18! I also love teaching online because now I get to work with students who live all over the country!

I especially love working with beginning students because I have the opportunity to help them create a solid musical foundation and build their confidence on their instrument!

If you're looking for a supportive, thoughtful, energetic, and skilled piano, voice, or songwriting teacher I would be honored to work with you! Schedule your free 15 minute trial lesson and I'll see you there!

Many students I’ve had throughout the years have come to me after giving up on their instrument while working with another teacher. As a kid, and even as an adult, we are much more likely to look forward to doing things that feel joyful. I believe having fun while learning is what keeps students feel excited about continuing to learn their instrument.

I also believe in a strong musical foundation; learning music is like learning a new language. In our lessons, we’ll discuss music theory, musicianship, and the music we love and why we love it. With these discussions, we can dive more deeply into understanding music.