Piano Lessons, Voice Lessons & Music Theory
TESTIMONIALS, ESSAYS & LETTERS
(Below the testimonials you will find a small sampling of Christina's mementos - student essays and writings, audience letters, photos, etc.)
(Below the testimonials you will find a small sampling of Christina's mementos - student essays and writings, audience letters, photos, etc.)
Client Testimonials |
Student Testimonials |
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From adult clients - parents of students and/or students themselves:
"My relationship with Ms. Morrill extends over a twelve year period when my youngest child began lessons. Over the years, Christina worked with all three of my children, exploring their different musical interests and providing priceless guidance. As a teacher, she encouraged their curiosity and creativity while also demanding commitment and providing structure. She is truly an exceptional teacher.
When Christina hosts student recitals, she makes sure to see that they are prepared but also creates an artistic environment. She is organized, with attention to details. These recitals were enjoyed by all with beautiful music, elegant flowers and amazing food. Christina is an intelligent, caring and compassionate woman who worries about others and who goes out of her way to help those in need. In more than one occasion, she has rallied collecting funds for an individual, clothing for a charity, providing extra educational materials to a child, etc. She performs these tasks selflessly. These are important traits in any educator, as our children model themselves after what they observe. When considering Ms. Morrill...... please know that she would be an asset to any organization and I recommend her highly." ~ Maria M., M.D., North Yarmouth parent of three students "Christina was my daughter’s piano teacher and tutor over the course of many years and demonstrated compassion, professionalism, humor, creativity, determination, and an ability to meet each student in a way that supported their success. She brought energy and enthusiasm to each lesson as well as extensive preparation and thoughtful collaboration with families. In whatever she participates, Christina brings dedication, commitment , and responsibility." ~ Ricki A., L.C.S.W., Freeport adult student and parent of student "I have known Christina for more than 10 years. My daughter Anna, now 18 studied piano with Christina from age 6 to age 17. I myself studied with Christina for over 2 years. During that time I found Christina to be reliable, thoughtful, energetic and undeniably enthusiastic about her profession. She was a positive role model for my daughter as she grew up. She was able to coach and motivate her to a high level of piano performance. It is without hesitation that I recommend Christina..... She would be a positive asset to any organization looking for a talented professional." ~ Rebecca M., A.N.P., Falmouth adult student and parent of student "I have known Christina Morrill for many years. She was my daughter's piano teacher from middle school through high school. Christina is organized, efficient, extremely competent, and has an excellent rapport with people of all ages her communication skills, both written and verbal, are excellent. Christina's ability to connect with her music students and her talent at teaching music are both truly superior. I was honored to have Christina as my daughter's piano teacher. I watched my daughter's confidence and passion for music grow over the years. Christina demonstrated all of these qualities in every music lesson and every recital. She always poured her heart and soul into each student to make sure they were successful. I highly recommend Christina....." ~ Suzanne A., Falmouth/Yarmouth parent of student "I studied piano as an adult with Christina for four years and had a very positive and enriching experience because of her. Christina approached her teaching with dedication and enthusiasm. She prepared for each class with an individualized lesson plan. Christina understood the specific challenges that I was experiencing learning a new instrument as an adult and she used a variety of approaches and methods to ensure my success. She was very clear when communicating her expectations and positive when suggesting how I could improve. It was a pleasure working with her professionally and personally," ~ Lauren L., Cumberland, Falmouth adult student "Christina, Your love, support, patience and guidance are unsurpassed! Thank you!" ~ Julie M., Falmouth teacher and parent of student "Dear Christina, I have been meaning to write you ever since the wonderful piano recital. I was completely enchanted by the whole production. The kids were each so adorable in unique ways; they played with a joy that filled my heart. I smiled at them all like a proud grandmother! I'm not sure that every recital is as entertaining as the ones you produce. Your love of music, of teaching it with professionalism and joy, create a special atmosphere. I felt blessed to be in that church with you, your family, and all those families who shared your love of music." ~ Bonnie F., South Freeport regular concert attendee "I have known Christina Morrill for approximately 15 years, both professionally and personally. We originally met when my son and I took piano lessons from her. I feel confident in giving her the highest recommendation possible..... a well-organized individual with interpersonal skills, an ability to communicate with others and who is a quick learner. During the time I was her piano student, I saw how organized she was as a teacher and how well she worked with the children as well as the adults. I participated in several recitals and was aware of how much work it took to prepare for them, but she seemed to do it easily and they were classy events. At Christmastime, she would have a party for all her students at her home and we would each play a Christmas carol for the others. Her billing was itemized and clear. One summer I took a music theory class from her and could see that she spent a lot of time preparing the lessons and made learning the theory fun. Christina presents herself very well. She is well-groomed and dresses very tastefully. She speaks well (i.e. good grammar) and writes well and thoughtfully. Christina is a perfectionist. I’ve seen how meticulous she is with house projects as well as her work. Aside from our professional relationship, we have developed a friendship. I have gotten to know many of her friends who have known her for years. Christina and I have gone on many bike rides together as well as gotten together for movies or dinner. I consider her a very loyal friend." ~ Jeanne M., D.O., Falmouth student and parent of student QUOTES FROM PARENTS OF TRANSFER STUDENTS: "Thank you for an excellent first lesson. After leaving [student] remarked exuberantly, "This was the best lesson of my entire life! [student] is beyond thrilled at how great a time she had and practiced like a mad woman this afternoon." ~ Kim L. Falmouth parent "Not sure what you two did @ the lesson today but [student] has been on the piano off and on ever since she got home from lessons. She is so enthusiastic about this piece! Thanks for encouraging her." ~ Anne C., parent of student who went on to study eight more years with Christina "I would never have known [piano] would be her favorite thing until she studied with you." ~ Carol S., Falmouth parent |
From youths and young adults:
"I had the pleasure of receiving weekly piano lessons and mentoring from Ms. Morrill for over 10 years, as well as several tutoring sessions.
It is easy to see that Ms. Morrill thrives in an environment where she can generously share her mastery of many subjects with those who are eager to learn. Both an accomplished musician and teacher, Ms. Morrill maintained over twenty private voice and piano students, as well as being a private tutor. She showed an ability to interact with all types of students, from her preschool-aged pianists, to college-level tutoring students. She is truly a well-rounded, knowledgeable person who is skilled at guiding others; very dedicated to her students, rarely taking a personal day, and leading by example with her discipline and intelligence. Ms. Morrill is a passionate and talented professional, who is both inspiring and motivating as a teacher. She is organized, clear, and kind, while holding her students to a high standard. Her knowledge of musical theory gave me the necessary fundamentals at an early age, and her devotion to my musical education and appreciation gave me the confidence to continue to learn through years of trial and error that are present while studying any subject. Although I was one of many students she kept track of on a weekly basis, I always felt as though she gave me all the personal attention that I needed. Lastly, Ms. Morrill has unparalleled heart and character. Although she was my teacher for years, the word teacher does not fully capture it. Her support and friendship is something that I cherish, and she has been there for me as I have matured into an adult, always urging me in the right direction. She is a generous, faithful individual with a strong work ethic. I can recommend Ms. Morrill without reservation. Her experience and personal knowledge of music, academics, and professionalism make her an ideal candidate for any educational position." ~ Sabina G., Falmouth student "Christina, you are my favorite teacher, not just in music but in general." ~ Sarah L., Falmouth student "I have known Christina for thirteen years. She was my piano teacher from ages twelve to eighteen years old. Christina was not only the best piano teacher I have ever had, she was an amazing mentor to me growing up. The adolescent years are known by many to be challenging, to say the least. Christina was a guiding light during my time as her student; providing me an emotional outlet, fostering my self-confidence, and inspiring me not only in creative pursuits but to be the best person I can be. In my nineteen years of schooling, pursuing undergraduate and graduate degrees, I have been a student to many teachers. One of the most important qualities of a teacher is to inspire and engage students in the learning process. Christina has this remarkable ability to engage and inspire all types of students with all types of learning styles. She has a fun, unique, whimsical way about her that makes learning easy and enjoyable. Christina has a way of developing both a caring and professional relationship with her students and many of Christina’s former students, including myself continue to keep in touch years later. I can not say the same is true for any other teacher I have studied under. Christina is truly a rare and special type of person and any school district would be lucky to have her as a teacher. It was through Christina’s quality of instruction and skill in adapting her teaching style to the needs of her students in the moment, as well as her ability to motivate and inspire, that I was able to attain a fairly high level of skill. As with many of Christina’s students, I was able to conquer some fairly complex pieces by such great masters as Mozart, Bach, and Debussy to name a few. I not only achieved skills in playing the piano, I learned time management, organizational skills, perseverance through practicing; self-esteem and self-efficacy when I finally mastered that tricky part and played the entire piece from memory at the recitals. I also learned how to really listen and appreciate music and its healing power. I learned many skills that I would need for my future achievements and career ventures. Christina’s years of experience teaching many types of students of all different ages, her excellent communication skills and ability to develop professional rapport with students and their families, as well as her superior attention to detail and organizational skills in her years of organizing recitals and running her own business make Christina undoubtedly the most qualified candidate for this position. Christina’s intellect, flexibility, compassion, and creativity are some of the qualities that will help her students learn, grow, and achieve. I can genuinely say that had I not taken piano lessons with Christina as an adolescent, I am not sure if I would be where I am at today." ~ Sarah A., M.H.R.T., Falmouth/Yarmouth student "I can not thank you enough for all your wonderful years of teaching me and helping me. Not only has it been fun and enjoyable taking lessons from you, I have gained an unbelievable amount of information and I can not be more grateful. Finding another piano teacher [in Ontario, Canada] will be impossible, nobody will ever come close to you! Thank you so much, I will miss you!" ~ Abigail C., Falmouth student "In all my twenty-six years of testing incoming students, I have never had a student better prepared in literacy." ~ Yarmouth Elementary School Teacher statement as relayed proudly by Janet B., parent of tutored student ".... Most of all, I would like to thank you for all that you have done for me as a teacher. Playing the piano has been a wonderful experience for me all through school and I am glad that I continued even when I had many other activities taking up my time. Many of my friends were pleasantly surprised that I have taken piano for so long, and I think that it has made me a more well rounded person. I feel that I have a much better appreciation for music and for what musicians are able to accomplish. Music is like skiing and running for me, as it is obvious that the time spent preparing relates directly to the results..... You have guided me through countless hours of lessons and pushed me to advance my level of playing. I appreciate all the effort that you have put into me as a pianist and for being interested in my personal development as well as my musical development....." ~ Will W., Yarmouth "I'm not sure if I wrote you a thank you note already, but I just want to say how grateful I am for everything you've done for me. Not only have I been so blessed as to have you as a piano teacher, but I feel like we're family, and I grew up with you in my life. You've always been so supportive of me in everything I do, musical or not. I hope we always stay in touch. Thank you again for everything. Love always," ~ Sabina G., Falmouth student "Dear Christina, Thank you for being such a wonderful and understanding teacher and friend. I will miss you a great deal. You were by far my favorite . You showed me so many things and you always had a smile. Thanks again. Love, ~ Mariana S., Falmouth "Dear Ms. Morrill, I can't take my hands off the keys! I love working with you. You are absolutely positively GREAT!" ~ Abby S., Falmouth "Dear Christina, You don't know how much I've improved this year! You taught me so much. You are a great piano instructor! You tell and show things from different points of view so people understand it better; don't change that. Most of all, you believe in your students! Thank you so much for teaching me piano! I have learned so much about piano from you, especially music theory. I am now able to sight read so much easier than before I met you, thank you so much! Sigh reading music has helped me so much in chorus as well! I feel like I've grown a lot in piano! Thanks, and have a great summer! Love," ~ Jessica H., Cumberland |
HIGH SCHOOL SENIOR'S COLLEGE APPLICATION ESSAY
Falmouth High School is not a big place. I’m involved in a variety of activities and thus, people know a lot about me. Yet, if you were to ask, most would not know about my passion for the piano. It’s not that I’m embarrassed; it’s just the piano has always been purely for me. My parents never pushed me to take lessons; I play on account of personal motivation. I’ve been studying, playing and performing the piano for eleven years. Not only do I love being capable of creating beautiful music but I also cherish the piano as an outlet. Whether it’s for a minute or an hour, playing relieves my stress when schoolwork and the chaos of life cloud my mind. I also love the challenges piano presents. Mastering a piece requires hours of practice but once it’s completed it’s mine forever. I’ve played a variety of pieces ranging from jazz to pop to classical. I’ve learned and mastered the distinct styles of some of history’s greatest composers including Mozart, Chopin and my personal favorite, Debussy. Between school, sports and clubs, I relish in having a passion simply for me.
~ Mckenzie M., Falmouth
Falmouth High School is not a big place. I’m involved in a variety of activities and thus, people know a lot about me. Yet, if you were to ask, most would not know about my passion for the piano. It’s not that I’m embarrassed; it’s just the piano has always been purely for me. My parents never pushed me to take lessons; I play on account of personal motivation. I’ve been studying, playing and performing the piano for eleven years. Not only do I love being capable of creating beautiful music but I also cherish the piano as an outlet. Whether it’s for a minute or an hour, playing relieves my stress when schoolwork and the chaos of life cloud my mind. I also love the challenges piano presents. Mastering a piece requires hours of practice but once it’s completed it’s mine forever. I’ve played a variety of pieces ranging from jazz to pop to classical. I’ve learned and mastered the distinct styles of some of history’s greatest composers including Mozart, Chopin and my personal favorite, Debussy. Between school, sports and clubs, I relish in having a passion simply for me.
~ Mckenzie M., Falmouth
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LETTER FROM AN AUDIENCE MEMBER
Dear Christina,
Thank you for the wonderful recital today. I mean it sincerely when I say it was the best recital I have ever seen. First, I want you to know how delightful was appearance on such a gloomy, gray day. In your long white skirt and springy, pastel pink top, you set a lovely tone of grace and professionalism that carried through the whole afternoon.
I enjoyed how each student seemed to listen to the piece of music he or she was playing, at whatever skill level they happened to be. To watch the student's interest in the music brought such pleasure as I listened, and made me think that this is the mark of a good teacher.
I also enjoyed the wide range of music. I didn't pick up a program, so I could only judge by my ears that we were traveling a long distance in time and style among your students. This was a pleasure, too, and testimony to the teacher's vast range of knowledge upon which to draw.
I thought the duos were very special, too. There was a special, fun energy in their playing.
Your performance of the two pieces was breathtakingly beautiful, and inspirational, I am sure, to the students, as well as to us, your audience. I think this added a wonderful dimension to the program - a teacher who leads and guides by example.
And finally, I must rave about beautiful Sarah who played what seemed to me mighty difficult and challenging pieces with intense focus and finesse.
I thoroughly enjoyed my afternoon of entertainment. I can't think of a lovelier way to brighten this dark day than to hear the joy of music that you helped create.
Thank you,
Bonnie F.
Dear Christina,
Thank you for the wonderful recital today. I mean it sincerely when I say it was the best recital I have ever seen. First, I want you to know how delightful was appearance on such a gloomy, gray day. In your long white skirt and springy, pastel pink top, you set a lovely tone of grace and professionalism that carried through the whole afternoon.
I enjoyed how each student seemed to listen to the piece of music he or she was playing, at whatever skill level they happened to be. To watch the student's interest in the music brought such pleasure as I listened, and made me think that this is the mark of a good teacher.
I also enjoyed the wide range of music. I didn't pick up a program, so I could only judge by my ears that we were traveling a long distance in time and style among your students. This was a pleasure, too, and testimony to the teacher's vast range of knowledge upon which to draw.
I thought the duos were very special, too. There was a special, fun energy in their playing.
Your performance of the two pieces was breathtakingly beautiful, and inspirational, I am sure, to the students, as well as to us, your audience. I think this added a wonderful dimension to the program - a teacher who leads and guides by example.
And finally, I must rave about beautiful Sarah who played what seemed to me mighty difficult and challenging pieces with intense focus and finesse.
I thoroughly enjoyed my afternoon of entertainment. I can't think of a lovelier way to brighten this dark day than to hear the joy of music that you helped create.
Thank you,
Bonnie F.
THOUGHTS OF A 6-YEAR-OLD BEGINNING PIANIST
Yay piano!!!!!! I Love piano! My faiverit thing is piano. My faiverit soning's are bunnana split and deck the hall. I tacke piano lesins. My piano teacher is named Christina. She is vary niyse and prity too. She gives me song's thet are good for me. When a song get's esy for me she gives me a song thet is a littel bit hareder after a wiyel the song gets a littel bit esyer for me. Maby you will do piano some time. ~ Emily G.
Yay piano!!!!!! I Love piano! My faiverit thing is piano. My faiverit soning's are bunnana split and deck the hall. I tacke piano lesins. My piano teacher is named Christina. She is vary niyse and prity too. She gives me song's thet are good for me. When a song get's esy for me she gives me a song thet is a littel bit hareder after a wiyel the song gets a littel bit esyer for me. Maby you will do piano some time. ~ Emily G.
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