Ellen Perkins is an active performer and educator in the Pittsburgh area. Ellen graduated summa cum laude from Duquesne University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Music Education. While at Duquesne, she studied voice and choral methods, performed violin with the Symphony Orchestra, clarinet with the Symphony Band, and piano with the Red Masquers Theatre Organization. Ellen is currently teaching high school music with the Commonwealth Charter Academy.
Ellen began playing music when she was five years old. Her first instrument was the violin, for which she studied the Suzuki Method. She then expanded her musical interests to include voice, clarinet, guitar, and piano. Ellen passionately believes in being a life-long learner and is continuing her studies in private piano lessons, focusing on jazz, blues, and improvisation. Ellen has experience teaching all grade levels, as well as adults, in classroom and private lesson settings.
In addition to teaching, Ellen enjoys being an active performer and member of the music community. Ellen has worked as a music director, vocal coach, and pianist on musical productions at the high school, collegiate, and professional levels. She is a vocalist with the Bachelor Boys wedding band, as well as a frequent performer on guitar, vocals, piano, and violin with various local musicians. Outside of music, Ellen loves taking care of her many plants, hiking, reading, and finding new coffee shops.