"I am a retired middle school teacher. I have wanted to go back
to piano lessons for a while, but teaching totally engulfed my
life. When I retired I wanted to be sure to keep myself busy,
including using my brain. Piano lessons were the answer. I
knew a bit about music and piano, but I wanted to
learn for the fun of playing and listening to the music, just for
me. Natalie has been a great piano teacher for me for a year and a
half. She pushes me, just enough, listens without telling me I’m
playing a wrong note and encourages me to continue to
practice as I am. My lessons are a fun learning
experience every time. Natalie is the perfect match for anyone
wanting to learn to play the piano." - Holly H., Jan. 2021
"As a former piano student during childhood, JMU Music Academy offered a perfect fit to resume playing piano as an adult. After two semesters, including both in-person and virtual instruction, I was able to build immensely on my beginner foundation in sight reading, music theory, and technique. The instructor, Natalie Doughty, provided engaging lessons that were attainable yet challenging enough to keep me motivated to continue learning and playing. The group format also created a fun, welcoming environment to learn with and from peers. I highly recommend Music Academy as a solid foundation to jump right into the rewards of playing piano!" - April T., Fall 2020
"I have been having so much fun playing! I am so thankful for your virtual lessons. It has been very empowering. It's so nice to feel like I can play again! Thanks for all you've invested in teaching us!" - Cedar J., Fall 2020
"After I retired, I decided to give piano another try, having a note-very-fulfilling or productive experience in my youth. When I met Natalie, what impressed me was how interested she was in trying to figure out what my special abilities and interests were. Natalie has the unique gift of being able to inspire and motivate; her feedback always constructive and yet gentle. A whole new world has opened up to me, thanks to her." - Anne H., Retired JMU Professor Emeritus
"I am looking forward to starting my 4th adult piano class with Natalie and the JMU Music Academy in a couple of weeks. While I miss the interactions of the group sessions, the online lessons have provided much-needed flexibility to accommodate my chaotic schedule. Natalie carefully designs her virtual lessons to provide a mix of musical genres and demonstrate progression of skills to play the pieces. More importantly, she makes me feel empowered and excited to learn to play the piano again!" - Susan P., Spring 2021
