Kellyann Chester-Ouellette - BIO

Growing up, Kellyann attended the Pittsfield Community Music School studying with Lauren Weiss, and attended the New England Conservatory Preparatory School studying with Nina Barwell. She attended Ithaca College studying flute with Georgetta Maiolo and then to Central CT State University graduating with a B.S. ED in Music Education Degree where she studied with Sharon Davis, as well as with Jonathan Baumgarten. She participated in numerous ensembles throughout her schooling. Over the course of over 30 years of teaching, many students participated in and even held principal positions on flute, piccolo, clarinet, oboe & alto and bari sax in competitive auditioned ensembles including All-States, NCCC Music Festival in CT, MICCA Music Festival in Eastern Hampden Country, MA, and the CT State Youth Honors Band. Her students all received Gold Ratings in the Greater Boston Flute Association’s Solo and Ensemble Festival. In total, Kellyann has taught over 400 students throughout her teaching career, with many students studying 6-9 years along with their siblings and parents. Kellyann is also very passionate about utilizing music as therapy with Alzheimer’s Related Dementia patients.

In my teaching, I place great stress on technique and rhythm and teach students
how to practice through techniques and tricks that allow for successs

My Approach to Teaching

I believe in teaching in a positive, nurturing environment to encourage students to ask questions and allow them to grow as musicians. In my teaching, I place great stress on technique and rhythm and teach students how to practice through techniques and tricks that allow for success and efficient practice. I design personal lesson plans and exercises for each student and encourage my students to participate in the many performing opportunities I offer. I offer Practice Challenges, Performance Parties and Contests throughout the year and an End-of-the-Year Awards Ceremony to keep students engaged and motivated. In addition to working on Method, Etude & Solo Books & Repertoire, I also prepare students for State Regional/District/All-State and All-New England Auditions, as well as College Auditions, and aid learning for school band, including Smart Music assignments.