Explore the endless colors of classical organ through world music with a French-trained conservatory grad

Laura tutored my child in piano, and now she’s tutoring me. We’ve taken weekly lessons with her since the beginning of 2021, both online and in person.
Laura is an excellent teacher for learners big and small. Here is why:
- She has studied music: she knows music theory, music history, and music itself
- She has taught piano for many years, and she’s taught children, teens, and grown-ups
- She’s able to break down ideas into smaller pieces and explain exactly what needs to be explained at a given time; she understands the process of learning music - and it's not the same as learning other things
- She keeps lessons interesting and engaging and moving along; she is focused on the process and growth, i.e. there isn’t an end to the journey of learning and there isn’t a “perfect” state
- She attends to the needs of the student, their learning style, their level, their interests
- With her, lessons aren’t just about learning the mechanics of piano; they are about the human connection and about the human expression, especially in the context of music and music-making
- She’s adept at both in person and online tutoring, and the possibilities and nuances of each
- She communicates clearly, and is organized, and makes the administrative side of tutoring very smooth for students
- She’s very responsive, even when we aren’t engaged in a lesson
- She’s intelligent, substantive, and inspiring; she's professional, caring, and warm
I highly, highly recommend her.

I have been taking voice lessons with Laura for 4 years. She is one of the best teachers I've ever had. She is kind and patient but also challenges me musically. I was new to singing and very nervous when I started lessons with her, and she took the time to help me become less anxious. She allowed me to work at a pace that I felt comfortable with. I've learned so much in the last 4 years; she is an expert, a professional, and a compassionate teacher, which is why I continue to take lessons with her, and also why I highly recommend her.

My son Ethan has been learning from Laura for nearly a decade. Laura is a thoughtful and patient teacher. I very much value the strong relationship they have formed over the years and how Laura keeps my teenager engaged by letting him help select the music they work on together.

Ms. Portratz is an excellent music teacher. She connects well with students. Her schedule is consistent and her available hours have always worked with my schedule. Her music theory, keyboard and organ knowledge and teaching has been Invaluable. I highly recommend working with Ms Laura.