Meet Tamara!
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Tamara Saunders is a dedicated and highly experienced piano teacher with over 30 years of teaching students of all ages, from young beginners to advanced concert-level pianists. Her deep passion for music and education has shaped the journeys of countless students, many of whom have gone on to achieve success in competitions, scholarships, and professional careers.
Her early years in music were enriched through her involvement with the San Francisco Music Conservatory and the Music Teachers’ Association of California, where she gained extensive experience in classical training and performance. Well-versed in the classical music competition circuit, she has guided numerous students through prestigious, scholarship-granting competitions. Though her teaching emphasizes classical piano, she is proficient in all genres, tailoring her lessons to each student’s interests and goals.
Beyond her professional career, Tamara is also a devoted mother of six, all of whom she homeschooled. One of her children has followed in her musical footsteps as a professional jazz pianist. For the past 10 years, she has lived in Murphys, where she continues to inspire musicians through both in-person and remote lessons. Now, with the opening of her private music studio to the local community, she remains committed to fostering a love for music in students of all ages and skill levels.
Teaching Approach
Tamara Saunders believes that a strong musical foundation is built on both excellence and enjoyment. Rooted in the traditional classical Russian technique, her teaching emphasizes proper form, technical precision, and a deep understanding of music theory. She instills in her students the discipline and skills necessary to master the piano at any level, from beginner to concert performer.
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However, she firmly believes that learning piano should be both enriching and enjoyable. To foster a lifelong love of music, she interweaves a variety of genres—including spiritual, pop, jazz, and composition—into her lessons. By incorporating engaging and inspiring pieces alongside rigorous training, she ensures that students develop not only technical skill but also personal expression and creativity.
For Tamara, there is no need to choose between proper instruction and fun. She creates an environment where students are challenged yet excited to learn, blending structure with artistic freedom. Her goal is to equip each student with the tools they need to excel while nurturing their passion for music that will last a lifetime.