Member Spotlight Madeline Miller

1. At what age did you start piano lessons?

I started piano when I was 8, in the third grade. I was raised in a very rural farm area. Very few children studied piano. My first piano teacher was the principal of our elementary school. He came to my home every week for lessons for 5 years. He was the most wonderful teacher ever and the reason I became a teacher. He moved from my little farm town of Weedpatch, California, to Newhall, California. When I graduated college with my teaching credential, he gave me my first teaching job with the Newhall School District. 

2. Was there a moment or experience that influenced your decision to become a piano teacher? 

I always loved playing teacher! I would pretend to teach the piano or also be a classroom teacher. The love of my teachers and their love of teaching, I know contributed to my decision to be a piano teacher. I started teaching piano in high school as soon as I could drive. I went to a neighbor’s home. I was paid $1 a half hour lesson, but the mother also always had homemade cookies and lemonade for me.

3. What is your favorite music genre or music history period to teach? 

 I love the Romantic Period. To Play? Definitely the Romantic Period.

4. What do you feel is the most important benefit that your NFMC club provides to your community?

 I love that through NFMC we are encouraging young people and their families to expand their love of music. Also, we are expanding the knowledge of our own American music. 

5. What led you to become involved in leadership with NFMC, and what leadership experiences did you have before that? 

I really like helping other teachers to help their own students. Organizing and helping with community outreach and also our Festival opportunities is very rewarding. I have been very active in Music Teachers’ Association of California. I served on the State Board of Directors for 10 years and 2 of those years as the State President.

6. What is your favorite part about being the CA membership secretary?

 I love getting to know other teachers and music lovers through the state.

7. Did any of your children play musical instruments when they were young? If so, did you teach them?

 No! I wish they did, but they went in different directions. I do admire every teacher who is able to teach their own children.