About Tracey

I am Tracey Phillips, and I’ve been playing piano since age 3.

I was classically trained by Lucina Moxley, my grandmother. She was an advanced pedagogist trained by the masters. In college, I majored in Music Production and Engineering at Berklee College of Music in Boston.  After college I owned and operated a recording studio in Boulder Colorado.

For many years, I took time off my musical career to raise my children. I have a boy and a girl, both in their twenties now.  My son was an A class drum soloist at age 15. He continues to play piano and compose. I hope to have given them both a lifelong love of music.

I incorporate many styles of music into the lessons. I love to give a variety, from classical to modern pop. I want students experience it all. For each recital, I choose a theme like Jazz and Blues, Romantic period, and sometimes anything goes. But mostly, I want students to enjoy what they play.

Having heard many stories of mean piano teachers with little or no patience for peoples’ schedules and lack of practice time, I have come up with my own personal style to create a more relaxed environment. I believe learning an instrument takes time and in today’s world, people’s time is precious. Therefore,  when children have tournaments, or are home sick or are so swamped with homework that practicing has taken a back seat, I understand. Learning to play an instrument well can take years. My fundamental belief is that the process should be fun, not stressful.

I  have been teaching piano on the west side of Madison and in Middleton for 20 years. Giving the gift of music is my life’s joy