About Bonnie

My formal education in piano began as a child of 7 with Dr. Norman Wright in Santa Barbara, CA.

I majored in Music at the University of California Santa Barbara and Humboldt State University in Arcata, CA. I was fortunate to study under the tutelage of both Dr. Frank Marks and Dr. Deborah Clasquin.

In 1990, I received my Bachelor of Music degree in Piano Performance. I continued to study with Deborah Clasquin until her passing in 2009. I currently continue to further my own studies in piano with Dr Daniela Mineva at Humboldt State University. I also was trained in the Suzuki Method at Holy Names College between 1990 and 1995.

In terms of vocal training,  I have studied formally with teachers at both UCSB and Humboldt State University in addition to many hours of private study with Dr Norman Wright and Shiela Marks. Singing has always been a integral part of my life and I enjoy sharing that passion. 

I was motivated to learn to play the guitar mostly because I wanted a portable instrument  and one that I could use to accompany my voice.  I began taking private guitar lessons in Santa Barbara at the age of 15 and continued my studies at both UCSB and HSU.  I originally learned guitar pieces by reading.  For decades now though, with the influence of my husband, who plays guitar by ear, I have learned to figure out songs by ear as well.  I absolutely enjoy the challenge and have so much fun learning my favorite songs this way! This process opened up my world to music tremendously!  Thanks Steve!

My teaching experience includes 30 years of teaching at my home studio and 5 years of instructing group and private piano lessons at Humboldt Music Academy at Humboldt State University.

It is truly my pleasure to teach a variety of ages of students an appreciation and love for music along with fostering their ability to play the piano or guitar or to sing.

Since as long as I can remember, music has been a large part of my life.  I love how it is a whole other language which requires no words.  How freeing it is to express ourselves and communicate this way!

I offer piano lessons as well as guitar and voice lessons.  In addition, for children, I offer group piano and vocal lessons at my studio in Arcata. We share our music and play music theory games that are both educational and fun!,