About Karen

Karen Monroe, owner of Musical Note Studio, brings over 40 years of experience to her work as a music teacher, performing artist, and therapeutic musician. With degrees in music and counseling, along with the MTNA certification and certification as a Therapeutic Musician (CMP), she offers the educational credentials and performance background supporting a rigorous and enriching piano studio. She received her BA in Music at Pacific Lutheran University, which included extensive research work in the area of students and practicing patterns. She studied with Dr. Jill Timmons at Linfield College and again later to further her skills.

Karen connects students to the enduring world of music. She enjoys working with students of all ages and abilities. Whether you are professionally bound or a recreational player you will find a richly hued curriculum that includes exciting and age-appropriate instruction. Her instruction includes the traditional favorites from Western European Art Music but also explores other world cultures, improvisation, music of our time, a rigorous theory program, up-to-date technology, and a lot of fun music making.

Karen’s work as a performing artist continues to inform her work. She has presented concerts on 3 continents and works with underserved communities and students. Karen has worked in the private sector, for government agencies, as a school solo/ensemble accompanist, therapeutic musician, and professional church musician. Karen brings this experience to her students in the local area. Her students have performed in assisted living facilities, local area churches, civic events, celebrations, WSMTA auditions, college/university settings, and musical theater productions. Her students have achieved recognition for their outstanding work, going on to some of the US’s leading college and university music programs.

Karen is committed to continuing her education by working with leading artists and educators in the region. Whether it is a national conference, a master class, or her own private study, Karen brings a wealth of educational and performance experience to her studio and performances.