About the teacher:

Mariah is a passionate educator and performer who strives to instill a sense of humanity within her students and audiences, as well as coach and mentor the student's musicianship and personhood. She holds a Master of Music Performance degree from Bowling Green State University where she served as the teaching assistant for the bassoon studio as well as a Bachelor of Music Education degree from Kansas State University. She is also an active performer, playing regularly with the KC Civic orchestra. She is also the founder and director of the Fountain City Bassoon Ensemble, a community ensemble created in 2024 to bring all bassoonists of the KC area together. 

She currently lives and teaches in Overland Park, KS with her husband Gabe and their cat Raven. When she’s not teaching or practicing, Mariah loves to run, ride her bike and sew her own clothes.

Mariah's students are very actively involved in and out of their school band programs. She has had students find success in:

Taking a wholistic approach to private lessons, Mariah not only focuses on outside praise, but makes sure each student finds success within their own daily practicing. She not only encourages students to pursue high level opportunities, but to also perform for studio recitals, their family and community and in community ensembles, such as the Fountain City Bassoon Ensemble. 

My Commitment:

I know first hand how lonely playing the bassoon can be. I was the only bassoonist in my band program for many years and did not have private instruction until college, which is why I am committed to providing excellence in lessons and a safe and welcoming community in which students and their families can enjoy bassoon without limitations. I am also passionate about bridging the gap between the greater public and the bassoon community, and welcome all into our circle of bassoon fun.