Meet The Teachers
Heather Ball
Heather Ball has studied piano since the age of eight and continued that journey by earning her Bachelor of Arts in Music from The University of Alberta's Augustana Campus in 1997. Heather, inspired by her own children's experience with the Suzuki method, has earned her Suzuki Teacher Training Levels 1-3 and continues to study and improve her pedagogy. She obtained her Grade 10 Royal Conservatory in 2019 and is currently working towards her ARCT certification.
As a church musician, Heather has studied organ and piano. When not teaching, Heather keeps busy conducting her church choir and composing for liturgical use.
Studio Located: North Edmonton
Email: heather.d.ball@gmail.com
Interview with Heather
What is your first memory of playing the piano?
I remember sitting at the piano with my grandfather and trying to figure out Go tell Aunt Rhody. After that I started asking my parents for lessons.
What inspired you to teach the Suzuki Method?
I watched a group of very young Suzuki string players perform and was amazed by how beautifully and confidently they played. After learning more about the Suzuki method I was excited to train and teach it myself.
What do you expect from your students?
I hope they will come to lessons excited to learn and work hard while having fun.
What advice do you have for parents to help their child succeed in music?
It takes a lot of small steps to be successful. These don’t happen quickly or without a lot of work. Be patient and enjoy the process of working toward a goal.
Describe the culture at Edmonton Suzuki Piano School.
The teachers at ESPS work together and support each other even though we each have individual studios. We have a focus on continuing to learn and train and find new ways to improve our teaching and playing. There are always new things to learn!
What is your favourite piece of music played on the piano?
Bach’s Goldberg Variations
What is the most fun piece of music to teach?
The Twinkles, of course!
What is the best part of the Edmonton Suzuki Piano School community?
The focus on continuing education for the teachers and the creation of a supportive community of students, teachers and parents.