“Music is a tight knit community and I hope that my students will enjoy the many benefits of making their own music as I have.”
Studied piano under Dr. Michael Philipson - Indian Hills Community College Professor and Composer
Graduate of Iowa State University
B.S in Hotel and Restaurant Management
Studied piano in the music department
I grew up listening to my dad play trumpet. He played his jazz LPs of Louis Armstrong, Count Basie and countless other jazz classics . These distinctive tones inspired my love for music.
My music adventure began with piano in the third grade and continued in many aspects of my life and work as I learned saxophone and developed my music education in college.
I found my schedule being filled with music camps, festivals, recitals and competitions which strengthened my love for jazz, Broadway, hymns and spirituals, and above all classical music.
I have been teaching piano for 13 years now and have loved every minute of it. I love teaching one-on-one and tailoring lessons to each learner. We all have the goal of making music, but each of us have our own way of getting there.
Musical Affiliations and Achievements
National Federation of Music Clubs
Missouri State Music competition
Provides special music for worship services
Local high school pit orchestra for musicals
Accompanist for band student competitions
Students routinely receive highest marks in NFMC competition earning Gold Cup
Member of the Vibrant Music Teaching membership
References
“Ever since I began my piano lessons I would always look forward to them because of Miss Mika’s kindness and helpfulness. She has helped me grow not only as a musician but also as a person.”
— Blake R.
By learning from Mika, I had an enriched learning experience in music history and basic piano techniques that I carried into college.
–– Mikayla (former student who went on to earn a B.A. in Music)
“Mika is so patient and made my son’s lessons fun and relaxed. She worked on building a relationship to best know how to meet his needs, likes and budding style while building technical skills. My kiddo wows everyone with his talent, and I attribute his love for playing to Mika!”
— Jen (parent)
Miss Mika graciously and beautifully accompanies my elementary choir with love and concern for technical artistry. She is our choir’s super star as demonstrated by the exuberant cries of”Mrs. Mulford!!!” when she enters our practice space. I cannot express adequately enough my thankfulness to her!
–– Annette G, elementary music teacher
Mika’s upbeat attitude and easy smile make her a natural match for working with students. She is full of creative ideas for keeping young students engaged. I am always impressed when I see how organized she is, and how well she plans ahead for her students. Her knowledge of music and use of teaching materials that are available has her well prepared for success. I would happily recommend her to any student wishing to begin piano study.
–– Chris V. piano teacher
Everyone Starts Somewhere
Mika at her first recital.
