Teaching
“She teaches in a way that engages many different kinds of learners.”
With her skill at engaging the audience and deeply informed background, Dr. Bouska is in demand as a private teacher and for workshops on special topics.
She draws on not just her love of music and varied background, but her intensive experience teaching at the Curtis Institute of Music and Temple University in Philadelphia.
Recent lecture topics include:
Women in Music, Czech immigrants in America, Censorship in Music, Baroque Performance Practice in the French Court, The Phrase: how folk music impacts classical composers, Writing For The Piano: a crash course for young composers, Dvořák in America…
What others have to say:
“Dr. Katelyn Bouska graced our music students at Merion Mercy Academy with a masterclass in which she showed her pedagogical expertise and empowered our young pianists. Her knowledge of all styles from Scarlatti and Schubert to Fats Waller and Beethoven, deep awareness of history and performance practice, and sensitivity to the musical and technical needs of each individual student resulted in a successful learning experience. Dr. Bouska is a true educator who does so with equal parts intelligence, clarity, and patience and thus, students were able to make quick adjustments on the spot and left with more confidence and direction in their playing.”
-Irene M., Assistant Music Director
“Dr. Bouska was extremely sensitive to my disability and supportive of me. This couldnt have been more appreciated, and made the class a safe space. I felt that I could be myself and be upfront about my limitations without fear of judgement or penalization. I will never forget her kindness.”
“I had piano instruction as a child and enjoyed playing the piano but a career and family kept me busy and I set it aside. Now I am retired and needed help to re-enter this world of music.
Unfortunately, I live in a small rural area with not much choice for teachers. After two unsuccessful attempts at private piano instruction, I was frustrated and discouraged. I decided to look online for a teacher.
Katelyn was different - she listened and knew what I needed to grow in musical skills and enjoy playing the piano again. Katelyn was able to plan and implement a comprehensive program so I am enjoying music and learning the skills that I need to enjoy music as an adult.
I have no words to express the joy I now experience each time I play.” -Elaine B.
When I was in college, a much respected pianist filled in for my usual professor, a Tchaikovsky medalist filled with a great deal of pianistic fire and very little knowledge about pedagogy. At the end of our first lesson he said, “Oh, you’re the one who asks ‘why’. Your teacher warned me.” I asked “But isn’t that a good thing?” and he said “That wasn’t my impression.” Katelyn on the other hand, is the perfect teacher for people who want to know not only what to do, but why (including detailed explanations for the instruments and teaching practices of any given era or composer) and how (providing specific exercises to actually accomplish it). Our discussions of learning processes haven’t just improved my approach to practicing but has also carried over somewhat into my own teaching as a writing instruction. The lessons have always given me something to look forward to. - Ted F.
“Dr. Bouska has such great qualities as a human and for an instructor. She is very caring for all of her students and has a clear passion for the studies and for teaching/mentoring/guiding. She always offered help readily, and this mentorship was embedded into the syllabus as we were encouraged to work on our projects, so we can take the skills she mentors us in, and thrive in all other areas including tackling studies courses & coursework like this. Very sharp & alert, sensitive to students' unique way of learning & what each student offers. Very skilled in navigating this. Has high expectations of us, but nudges us in this in a way that never shames us, caringly does it in a way that helps us to realize our own potential and capability. Speaks with encouragement. Extremely knowledgeable.”
“Dr Bouska’s passion for teaching piano is evident in every class. I believe that this attitude and approachability allowed everyone to advance more than they would with a different teacher. She gets people excited about it, and has reignited my love of piano.”
