Piano Instructors at the Community Music School
Learn more about private music lessons here! Please note the instructor's level (Apprentice, Master, or Professional) to determine the rates for the lessons.
Apprentice
Harry Albritton, piano and guitar
Harry Albritton is a current Music Education major at Appalachian State. He is a classically trained pianist with over 6 years of experience teaching private piano lessons. In addition to teaching private lessons, Harry also works with the “Let’s Play Piano!” group piano classes.
Teaching Philosophy: While Harry loves performing, his true passion is teaching and he values the student’s experience over all else. He enjoys helping students grow their skills in technique, musicality, understanding of music theory, and performance.
Master
Emma Pullium, piano and organ
Emma Pullium, a recent graduate from the Hayes School of Music, obtained her Master of Music degree in Organ Performance where she studied under Dr. Joby Bell. During her time at Appalachian State, Emma worked as a graduate teaching assistant where she taught private organ lessons, co-taught Class Piano classes, and was the collaborative pianist for the Appalachian Glee Club, Appalachian Chamber Singers, Appalachian Wind Ensemble, Appalachian Symphony Band, and Appalachian Symphony Orchestra as well as for numerous vocalists and instrumentalists. Emma currently serves as the organist for Mountainside Lutheran Church in Linville, N.C. where she directs the children’s choir and teaches private piano lessons. Her post-graduate plans include staying in the beautiful area of Boone where she will begin teaching Class Piano classes as adjunct faculty at Appalachian State and as a piano and organ instructor in the Community Music School!
Teaching Philosophy
I believe that music is for everyone, but not a one-size-fits-all. Each student comes to the piano/organ bench with unique needs, goals, and ways of learning and it is my responsibility to allow each student to learn and engage with the music in the way that best serves their specific needs. My goal as a teacher is to cultivate an environment where each student is given the tools they need to gain and grow confidence in their music journey which will enable them to enjoy not only the outcome, but also the process.
Lydia Rudd, piano
Lydia Murray enjoys several different roles within the Watauga community, including private piano instructor, board certified music therapist, and adjunct faculty member in the music therapy program at the Hayes School of Music. Lydia received classical training from elementary age through high school, and then went on to earn her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in music therapy, a piano performance certificate, and certificate in expressive arts therapy. She has performed as a solo pianist, accompanist, church pianist, and uses piano improvisation and contemporary music in her current roles.
Teaching Philosophy
Lydia endeavors to teach with a focus on cultivating joy and personal creativity through the learning process within lessons. She teaches foundational techniques with the aim of students applying them to music and projects that they are passionate about.