Member Spotlight: Emily Bentley

This month, we’re excited to feature Emily Bentley, a dedicated and creative piano teacher from the OhioMTA Southwest District. Emily’s love for music, teaching, and connection shines through every part of her studio and her approach to learning.

Where do you teach and what does your studio look like?

"I have a private studio located in Kenwood at Willis Music. A majority of my students are young beginners, but I have a wide overall range of ages and skill levels within my studio."

When did you decide to become a teacher?

"Teacher, in general, was among the long list of 'things I wanted to do when I grow up' and piano teaching kind of just happened to be the one that stuck. I've always loved working with kids and getting to know people in a one-on-one setting. People's different ways of thinking and learning have always fascinated me, so I love the opportunity to work with so many different learners and figure out how to best teach each individual. Having my own business also allows for me to dabble in other areas of interest, such as graphic design, advertising, accounting, etc. So I guess I don't know when exactly I decided to be a teacher, but I'm glad I did!"

If you weren’t a music teacher, what would you be?

"I'm not quite sure, but it would probably also involve running my own small business."

What kind of music do you enjoy listening to in your free time?

"I listen to a wide variety of music, but a few of my favorite artists are Sara Bareilles, Aurora, and Hailaker."

What do you love to do on a day off?

"Cuddle my three kitties (Rosie, Oscar, and Lily), watch Hallmark movies, and do some arts & crafts."

Why did you join MTNA?

"My college professor strongly encouraged all of us to be in MTNA and it worked! I was president of our collegiate chapter and just continued my membership after graduation. Being an independent piano teacher can be lonely, so I really appreciate the community that comes with being involved in MTNA."

What advice would you give to new music teachers?

"Always make time for 'fun music.' It's tricky turning a hobby into a job, so try to regularly do something to remind you of your love for music. For me, that's singing in a community choir, playing the occasional community theater show, and learning Disney arrangements to play just for myself."

What was your first job?

"Dairy Queen."

What’s something we might find in your refrigerator?

"Spoiled produce and pink moscato."

What’s something people might be surprised to learn about you?

"I was president of a math fraternity in high school and loved spending my after school hours and weekends at math competitions."

What is the simplest thing you never learned to do?

"Properly dice an onion."

Emily’s humor and story is a wonderful reminder that teaching is as much about creativity and curiosity as it is about music. From her three studio cats to her math competition past, her personality and passion bring warmth and individuality to everything she does.