Elizabeth Setzer
About
I'm a performer, songwriter, composer, director, and general lover of music. Guiding you on your next level of musical discovery brings me joy. Growing up, I studied classical and jazz piano, and in my teen years started writing original songs, singing and playing guitar. After graduating from Mills College with a BA in Music Performance, I explored folk singing in Bulgaria as a Fulbright scholar. I sang professionally with Kitka Women's Vocal Ensemble (Oakland, CA) and directed the group, composing and arranging music. For the past five years I've performed on Carnival Cruises as a piano bar entertainer, playing and singing rock, pop, soul, country, and musical theater tunes on request. Currently, I'm interested in the intersection of music, activism, and education.
Let's begin with what excites you about music. What do you love to listen to? What inspires you to develop your skills? What do you want to do with music? The best music is made with clear intention. Music theory, ear training, technical skills on an instrument or your voice - those are the things we can develop together toward your goal. I have a wealth of skill and experience to share with you.
Improve your skills no matter what level you're starting from, no matter what age. I'll meet you where you're at and help you grow. It's never too late (or too early) to start learning music. Whatever reasons may cause you to hesitate, there are stronger reasons to Go For It. Contact me, and let's talk!
I'm committed to holding a safe space for LGBTQ+ and People of Color.
BA in Music Performance, Mills College (Oakland, CA); Fulbright Scholar - Bulgarian folk singing (Plovdiv, Bulgaria;
Berklee Summer Performance Program in Jazz Piano
About my teaching style, one student says: "Elizabeth is serious and attentive, listening closely to her students. She accepts us wherever we are on our own path, first affirming that and then taking us further, with incisive and genuinely helpful observations and suggestions."