Getting to Know Staff Instructor Joannah Ball
Joannah Ball has been singing and playing piano since she was a young girl. “Music-making has always been a joyful part of my life. I sang constantly around the house and joined a youth chorus in elementary school. Piano was also another love of mine, and there were many happy hours learning from my mother who still has a thriving piano studio today. The family story is that I used to watch opera with my grandma and subsequently run through the house singing at the top of my lungs, ‘I want to sing in the operaaaa!’”
Joannah’s mother began teaching her piano when she was only four years old and continued to teach her all throughout high school. “My mom was a very influential person on my musical journey. We did lots of singing at home, and music was truly woven into the fabric of our daily lives. She’s the person who taught me how to love music and work hard at it. My mom and dad are an incredible positive light in my life, and I certainly wouldn’t be where I am today without their unfailing support.” |
As a performer. Joannah is attracted to opera because she enjoys diving into the characters and appreciates the complexity of the music. “Most of my performance experience has been in the classical and musical theater genres, but I love all kinds of music. I sang in a rock opera once, and have enjoyed incorporating improvisation into performances with Boston’s Opera on Tap. I’ve also had students with a wide variety of interests that range from classical and musical theater to jazz, pop music, folk songs and blue grass. It’s all fair game!”
When asked about her experience teaching students of varying ages, Joannah enthuses, “I enjoy working with students of all ages. No matter how young or old, I strive to teach in a well-balanced, age-appropriate way that nurtures the whole person. One of the best instruments for young children to start on is piano, and I have taught piano lessons to kids as young as five. If the child is ready and excited to learn, I think starting music early in life is a wonderful advantage for them. That being said, I firmly believe music lessons are a rewarding experience at any stage of life. My goal is to make it fun and motivating so that students continue learning music for a lifetime!”
While Joannah believes each student is unique, her teaching philosophy is simple. “I love helping students develop the skills and confidence to reach their goals in music. Creating a positive, encouraging environment is central, because to grow, we need to feel safe enough to take risks. Breakthrough moments are so much fun – after exploring a concept or technical skill, when it clicks – wow!! Whether a student is learning how to match pitch or taking risks on the high G, when they have an ‘aha moment,’ the joy on their face is why I love teaching!”
Joannah truly embodies the Resound NW philosophy. She happily asserts, “Everyone can sing! Music is a life-long path, and curiosity, courage and passion are fuel for the journey. Sing from your heart with the knowledge that your authentic expression is truly a gift to others.” Well said, Joannah! We are proud to have you join our staff.
(For Joannah's biography, please click here.)
When asked about her experience teaching students of varying ages, Joannah enthuses, “I enjoy working with students of all ages. No matter how young or old, I strive to teach in a well-balanced, age-appropriate way that nurtures the whole person. One of the best instruments for young children to start on is piano, and I have taught piano lessons to kids as young as five. If the child is ready and excited to learn, I think starting music early in life is a wonderful advantage for them. That being said, I firmly believe music lessons are a rewarding experience at any stage of life. My goal is to make it fun and motivating so that students continue learning music for a lifetime!”
While Joannah believes each student is unique, her teaching philosophy is simple. “I love helping students develop the skills and confidence to reach their goals in music. Creating a positive, encouraging environment is central, because to grow, we need to feel safe enough to take risks. Breakthrough moments are so much fun – after exploring a concept or technical skill, when it clicks – wow!! Whether a student is learning how to match pitch or taking risks on the high G, when they have an ‘aha moment,’ the joy on their face is why I love teaching!”
Joannah truly embodies the Resound NW philosophy. She happily asserts, “Everyone can sing! Music is a life-long path, and curiosity, courage and passion are fuel for the journey. Sing from your heart with the knowledge that your authentic expression is truly a gift to others.” Well said, Joannah! We are proud to have you join our staff.
(For Joannah's biography, please click here.)