Sandpiper Studio

An open space for creativity

Throughout my years working in music, I've collected so many experiences and skills as a performer, as a writer, and as an independent artist. Sandpiper Studio is the space I've created to share these through teaching and collaborative projects. At the moment, I offer music lessons and am open to collaborative projects in co-writing and demo recording. As time goes by, we'll see where else this project may go.

If you are interested in taking lessons and/or collaborating on a project, let me know some information about yourself and what you'd like to work on together. 

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My teaching practice

Lessons in piano, voice & singer-songwriter studies

With a unique and varied skillset that draws equally from her education and practical experience, Marianne is a musician, singer-songwriter, and educator from Ottawa, Ontario. Her teaching practice began during her studies in music at Carleton University. As her experience as a professional musician has grown, she has taken on more professional students, including working singer-songwriters, who want to build their skills in the areas of vocal technique, self-accompaniment, arranging, and DIY recording.

As a teacher, her goal is to help students grow holistically, expanding their musical skills and knowledge while fostering growth in areas such as confidence, creativity, body awareness, communication, and more. She tailors lessons to each student’s interests and needs, and has extensive experience teaching students who are neurodivergent and/or have a disability. She teaches online, at her studio in downtown Ottawa, and co-leads workshops in voice and yoga through Vox Asana.

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Testimonials

“Marianne has the most approachable and patient teaching style with my daughter that I’ve experienced. She makes her feel confident and comfortable and has helped her to experience the enjoyment that music can bring to a child. She is also a talented musician who is a positive role model for any beginner music student. I am thankful to have found Marianne and strongly recommend her as a teacher for students of all types and skill levels.”

— Megan's dad

“Marianne is an exceptional music teacher. She brings out the very best in her students. She keeps her students engaged in the lesson and is flexible with her programming. My daughter attends voice lessons with her. She has so much fun learning music. She has blossomed under Marianne's supervision. She sings with much more confidence. I highly recommend Marianne as a music teacher. She's the very best!”

— Alyssa's mum

“Marianne is an incredible musician and teacher. She has a wonderful ability to connect with my son Ben (who never took music lessons before and is autistic) and meet him where he’s at. They are creating beautiful music together. He is truly learning and growing from these lessons with Marianne…it is wonderful to witness.”

— Ben's mum

“I saw Marianne on stage a few years ago and was in awe of her strong vocal presence and confidence in singing. Marianne was excited when I asked questions regarding her technique and inquired about voice lessons. Two years later, I’m happy to say that I now have the ability and understanding to hit notes that I never thought I could and to control both pre- and onstage nerves using breathwork. Marianne really listens not only to my concerns but to how my voice sounds, and pays close attention to what my body is doing. All of this is done in a way that feels casual and comfortable. Both myself and audience members have noticed a drastic change in my voice since working with Marianne and I look forward to evolving alongside her wealth of knowledge and guidance.”

— Tiffany

“Marianne really connects with Hazel and has done a masterful job teaching guitar, piano and vocals. Hazel made incredible strides within only a few lessons and that growth only continues. Music lessons are a weekly highlight and we can thank Marianne for her gentle and thoughtful guidance, and encouraging spirit. I highly recommend Marianne as a music teacher!”

— Hazel's dad