Note-worthy Experiences Music Studio
F E A T U R E
Interview with Heather Milberger
F E A T U R E
Interview with Heather Milberger
When did you first get interested in music?
Something I am grateful for is growing up in a musical family. My dad is an amazing singer/composer, and always taught privately and at universities. He worked as the music director at a local church as well. As soon as I was old enough, he signed me up for the children’s chorus. This is where my love for singing and making music with others began! From there I looked for every opportunity to further my musicianship and started to pick up other instruments including guitar and piano. Along with my dad, my mom and brother are also great musicians in their own ways. Our house was always filled with music and I try to bring that positive experience with me when I teach!
What do you like most about teaching?
I love helping others achieve a goal. That magical moment where hard work and practice come together is inspiring! It keeps me motivated and passionate in my own practice to see a student grow at such a personal level.
Who/what are some of your musical influences?
Along with growing up in a musical family, growing up in a small town in Virginia influenced my music a lot. The Appalachian mountains are filled with rich history and styles of music that helped guide my explorative path. The access I had to pure sounds of nature that surrounded us is something I hope to make present in my songwriting as well. As far as musicians, I am deeply in love with the music of Etta Baker, Sarah Vaughan, Adrianne Lenker, Jean Ritchie, the list truly goes on but I always come back to these classics. Graduating from New England Conservatory left me with many lasting friendships with some of the most inspiring musicians.
Many of my friends are huge influences on me. I love learning from other musicians about what drives their passion!
What do you do to get out of a practice funk?
It is perfectly normal to be in a practice funk! It happens to the best of us. I believe it is important to keep your relationship with music positive. When you’re not feeling your routine, try learning a song you absolutely love! Or, relish in something that you’ve already gotten under your belt. It is ok to bask in your achievements from time to time. I always find when I am bogged down by a challenge, doing something fun or giving myself a pat on the back for what I’ve accomplished helps!
Remember: you got there through practice!
When you’re not performing or teaching, what other hobbies or interests do you have?
I love doing anything outside. I would spend most days trekking through the mountains or swimming in a river if I could. I also love to garden and take care of my plants, of which I have too many. Other than that I am always looking for new hobbies. I am hoping to try my hand at making pottery soon!
Learn more about Heather on her Teacher Page.
Something I am grateful for is growing up in a musical family. My dad is an amazing singer/composer, and always taught privately and at universities. He worked as the music director at a local church as well. As soon as I was old enough, he signed me up for the children’s chorus. This is where my love for singing and making music with others began! From there I looked for every opportunity to further my musicianship and started to pick up other instruments including guitar and piano. Along with my dad, my mom and brother are also great musicians in their own ways. Our house was always filled with music and I try to bring that positive experience with me when I teach!
What do you like most about teaching?
I love helping others achieve a goal. That magical moment where hard work and practice come together is inspiring! It keeps me motivated and passionate in my own practice to see a student grow at such a personal level.
Who/what are some of your musical influences?
Along with growing up in a musical family, growing up in a small town in Virginia influenced my music a lot. The Appalachian mountains are filled with rich history and styles of music that helped guide my explorative path. The access I had to pure sounds of nature that surrounded us is something I hope to make present in my songwriting as well. As far as musicians, I am deeply in love with the music of Etta Baker, Sarah Vaughan, Adrianne Lenker, Jean Ritchie, the list truly goes on but I always come back to these classics. Graduating from New England Conservatory left me with many lasting friendships with some of the most inspiring musicians.
Many of my friends are huge influences on me. I love learning from other musicians about what drives their passion!
What do you do to get out of a practice funk?
It is perfectly normal to be in a practice funk! It happens to the best of us. I believe it is important to keep your relationship with music positive. When you’re not feeling your routine, try learning a song you absolutely love! Or, relish in something that you’ve already gotten under your belt. It is ok to bask in your achievements from time to time. I always find when I am bogged down by a challenge, doing something fun or giving myself a pat on the back for what I’ve accomplished helps!
Remember: you got there through practice!
When you’re not performing or teaching, what other hobbies or interests do you have?
I love doing anything outside. I would spend most days trekking through the mountains or swimming in a river if I could. I also love to garden and take care of my plants, of which I have too many. Other than that I am always looking for new hobbies. I am hoping to try my hand at making pottery soon!
Learn more about Heather on her Teacher Page.