johanna fleischman
About
Hey there! My name is Jojo, and I teach accordion and piano. I'm originally from Anchorage, Alaska, and I now live in Mexico City where I work as a professional musician performing cumbia, salsa, vallenato, and Cuban son. I grew up immersed in music from a very early age. I started classical piano lessons around age 5 and picked up the accordion around age 10, going on to play a wide range of styles including jazz, Irish, cajun, klezmer, and polka. I even busked in New Orleans playing cajun accordion as a kid! Over the years I've taught myself Latin styles by diving headfirst into the music scene here in Mexico City.
Teaching Style
I believe in fostering a supportive and engaging learning environment tailored to each student's individual needs. My teaching style balances structured lessons with creativity, helping students build strong technical foundations while encouraging self-expression through music. I'm flexible in adapting to different learning styles, whether you prefer to focus on theory, improvisation, or specific pieces. My goal is to make music learning fun and inspiring while helping students progress at their own pace.
Curriculum
My teaching approach is hands-on and music-first. We learn by playing real songs from day one. I teach by ear as well as by reading music, and I adapt to whatever works best for each student, whether that's focusing on technique, theory, or just diving into a specific song or style. I teach in both English and Spanish.
Credentials & Affiliations
I have 18 years of experience on the accordion and over 20 years on piano, with a strong foundation from private lessons in both instruments. Professionally, I perform regularly throughout Mexico City. I perform at festivals including La Feria del Mole and La Feria del Dulce in Xochimilco, government cultural events for the Alcaldías of Iztacalco and Azcapotzalco including Día de Muertos and 15 de Septiembre celebrations, and at cultural venues including La Burra Blanca and El Pixcuhuil in the historic center. My favorite event was an event for the 8th of March, International Women's Day, where I organized a trio of women to perform in La Burra Blanca. I performed as the singer and accordionist. In terms of teaching experience, I have worked as a substitute teacher for approximately 3 years, taught at multiple summer camps, and worked as a wilderness therapy guide. All roles have shaped my patient, adaptable, and student-centered approach to teaching.