Our teachers

Chris Tuohy was a music major at the Cornish School of Allied Arts and did a study abroad program in France, where he continued his piano studies. He pursued voice in New York City, working with Aldo Ditulio and Joe Williams, and studied speech-level singing with Seth Riggs. Chris was in the jazz program at UNLV in Las Vegas and had his own ensemble. On the East Coast, he taught piano and played in several big bands, including a smooth jazz group named "Point of View."

Chris attended the music graduate program at the University of Maryland, then moved back to Camano Island in 2010, where he built Forte Music Dance Art, which opened in October 2011. Many of his students have received scholarships to universities. In addition to piano, Chris has played sax, clarinet, and flute while managing and directing several bands.

Chris takes into account each student's learning style and interests. He motivates through positive affirmation and encourages them to pursue their musical interests and goals, such as songwriting and music performance.

Teaching Locations:

Chris is quite flexible when it comes to teaching arrangements. He has one studio on Camano Island and another in Burlington. If a family prefers in-home lessons, Chris is willing to travel to nearby cities in Washington State, such as Everett, Marysville, Arlington, Camano Island, Burlington, and Mountain Vernon.

Tuition Rates: 

Rates vary by lesson length and location, starting at $150/month for weekly 30 minute lessons.

Free 30 Minute Trial Lesson:

Click here to set up a 30 minute free trial lesson with Chris.

Rachel’s forte is in helping students to fall in love with playing piano. She specializes in starting students off in a way that instills a love of learning that hopefully last a lifetime. She wants to give each student a solid foundation so that they will be able to develop into self-learners and explorers. Once a student knows that they can explore and make music independently, the fun really begins. It is a great joy when a student realizes they can compose their own music and play by ear. Rachel believes that composing and playing by ear are gifts that we can all learn and enjoy. It is her delight to help students open these gifts and encourage them develop their own musical voice.

Rachel lives in Arlington and has been fortunate to have been able to homeschool her two daughters for the last 15 years. Her family has a rich history with music that has brought many lasting memories and blessings. In her free time, she enjoys playing piano, writing music, singing, and spending time with family and friends.

Teaching Location: Rachel teaches out of her studio in Arlington, Washington

Tuition Rates: 

Starting at $130/month for weekly 30 minute lessons.

Free 30 Minute Trial Lesson:

Click here to set up a 30 minute free trial lesson with Rachel.

Dennis is a retired substitute teacher (K-12). He's been a sales representative in various industries, as well as a junior high school language arts teacher and track coach. Having played the acoustic and electric guitar for over 55 years, Dennis has had the privilege of playing in both secular and Christian worship bands.

Dennis and his wife live on Camano Island. They've been blessed with three children and ten grandchildren. He's looking forward to serving students who want to learn how to play the guitar.

Teaching Location:

Dennis travels to student homes on Camano Island.

Tuition Rates: 

Starting at $130/month for weekly 30 minute lessons.

Free 30 Minute Trial Lesson:

Click here to set up a 30 minute free trial lesson with Dennis.

John Hart, the owner and director of Hart Music School, has had many years of experience as a music teacher and administrator. Graduating magna cum laude, John received a Bachelor of Arts in Music Education and Music Theory & Literature from Seattle Pacific University. He also earned a K-12 Washington State Teacher's Certificate.

Throughout his career in education,  John has directed music groups, composed scores, recorded and published his music, and performed in public at a variety of venues, including church.  After 31 years of classroom teaching and administration, John taught both in-home and online private lessons for over 8 years.

In addition to classical music instruction on the piano,  John loves to teach students how to improvise and compose their own music. He is known for making lessons fun and being flexible with student interests and family schedules.

John lives on Camano Island with his wife, Meg. They've been married for over forty years, with five children and twelve grandchildren.

John teaches out of his studio on Camano Island. 

Tuition Rates: 

Starting at $150/month for weekly 30 minute lessons.

Free 30 Minute Trial Lesson:

Click here to set up a 30 minute free trial lesson with John.