Elise's students say...

When I was six years old I told my mom that I wanted to play the flute and I didn’t stop bugging her until she got me one… and my first lesson. Elise was my first flute teacher. I took lessons with her for about eight years and enjoyed every minute of it. I looked forward to every lesson that I had with her. She encouraged me to work hard and practice in a style that was right for me. I learned to play a large variety of music styles and techniques: everything from classical to jazz.

I grew up with Elise and she not only taught me to be a great flautist, she also helped me to grow into the adult that I am today. She was not only my flute teacher, she was a great mentor. I was so inspired by what I learned with Elise that I proceeded on to college where I am pursuing a degree in music education. I hope that one day I can teach a young girl learn to love to play like Elise taught me."

Lauren, University of New Hampshire Music Education major

Elise was my teacher and advisor for four years. As a student of the music department at High Mowing School, I was given the opportunity to play for both small chamber groups as well as a larger Sinfonietta ensemble. Elise constantly pushed my musical limits by giving me difficult pieces to perform and making me get through them by teaching me new styles and techniques for playing. As a result, I quickly became very comfortable and confident in my flute-playing abilities, and I was always excited to come to Elise’s class.

Elise once said to me, “You don’t really know what you are doing until you can explain it to an 8-year-old”. I quickly found that to be true when Elise gave me the opportunity to teach flute lessons to elementary school students. I found myself learning quite a bit; perhaps even learning as much as I was teaching. Though I wasn’t surprised, because Elise always tried to give me new opportunities and broaden my horizons through new experiences."

Lydia, University of Vermont student

In school, my musical abilities remained quite hidden. I was shy, reserved, perceived as one more kid who took a weekly piano lesson, practiced at home, and performed in the occasional recital.

In high school, however, all of this changed. I met the person who would guide, support, and motivate me in my musical endeavors. Suddenly, there were opportunities abound for me to share my passion and develop my skill.

In the first jazz class I had with Elise in freshman year, she could see that I was not there just to get credit. I was excited to be in an ensemble, and eager to play as much as I could. I soon became the school’s “resident” pianist and found myself playing at chapel services, coffee houses, assemblies, theatre productions, and accompanying other students in their performances as well.

Again and again, Elise pushed me out of my comfort zone, exposed me to new environments, and expected me to rise to the challenge. She has not taught me how to play piano, but has instead taught me, by her own example, how to be a musician. In addition, our relationship has deepened from that of student and teacher to musical colleagues and close friends. We have spent many hours sharing favorite songs from our iPods, discussing their intricacies, and taking turns sitting at the keyboard working out the chord progressions. My love for and interest in all kinds of music has thrived from this time, and the high standard she set has prepared me for the more challenging music curriculum that awaits in college. I know she will continue to encourage and guide me, wherever my musical journey may lead. Someday, I hope to repay this gift by opening a door or two for a young musician who may not yet realize his or her own capabilities."

Henry, St. Olaf College music major

During my years at High Mowing School with Elise, I shared laughs and jam sessions, happiness and tears. I began playing bass, under her instruction, in the High Mowing Jazz Band. I've gone on to learn to play several other instruments, including guitar, mandolin, and lap steel. Were it not for Elise's guidance and expertise, I would not have discovered my own passion for music. She is a motivating and meticulous teacher and a brilliant musician. Elise is a good friend, a caring individual, and a musical mentor."

Alex, Cal State San Marcos student