Suzanne holds a Bachelor of Arts in Piano Performance, Cello Performance and Music Education as well as a California teaching credential for K-12 Music from Humboldt State University in Northern California.  Suzanne has also studied abroad in Quebec City and has participated in numerous choirs, orchestras and string ensembles over the course of her life beginning in middle school and forward into her professional music career.  She has performed regionally and internationally as a pianist, cellist, and vocalist and has garnered numerous awards and scholarships for her talents including the MTNA Star Award. She is also an active member of the Music Teachers National Association (MTNA) chapter in her area.

​

During her college years, Suzanne was sought out by peers and faculty due to her skill as a piano accompanist.  She toured in Europe with the Redwood Coast Children’s Chorus and performed at many senior recitals for fellow music majors and ensembles.  As principal cellist in the Humboldt Symphony, Suzanne led her section and often provided the research for the concert program notations for the Symphony.  She currently plays and performs in the Cello section with the Central Oregon Symphony.  Singing is another passion and Suzanne is currently singing and performing as a guest artist on the piano with the Master Singers of Central Oregon.  She has also previously worked for several church congregations as a worship musician and liturgy director of music over the years.

​

Suzanne was recently selected to be a Tholen Fellow in the 2020-2021 Portland Piano International fellowship and studied with Master Pianist and Teacher Tatiana Ioudenitch. 

​

Suzanne has been trained in music pedagogy (the science of how to teach music) and has been a music educator for over 25+ years.  She has taught privately and has had numerous talented and successful students who have received honors.  Several former students were selected to perform in a regional concerto competition in Northern California where Suzanne previously resided. 

​

Suzanne currently resides in Bend, OR and when she’s not at the keyboard, singing, or behind a cello, Suzanne is a wife and mother of 2 teenage daughters and one purebred poodle who keep her on her toes!​

 

Contact Suzanne for more information at 541.639.2892 or by

e-mail at gaineysocial@gmail.com