Emily Bubnis

B. M. in Piano Pedagogy

Emily Bubnis is a devoted Suzuki piano teacher whose lifelong love of music began at Milford Square Music Studio, where she started Kindermusik at age one and classical piano lessons at age five. During her thirteen years as a student at MSMS, she was an active participant in every facet of the studio’s musical life—performing in annual recitals, studio competitions, and participating in the Junior and Senior MTNA competitions. She also took part each year in the AAA Auditions and the Dorothy Sutton Piano Performance Festival through both LVMTA and PMTA.

Under the guidance of her long-time teacher, Gloriana Sewell, she explored repertoire from every period of music history and developed a strong technical and musical foundation. Her education at MSMS extended far beyond weekly lessons; the studio’s group classes immersed her in Eurhythmics, Improvisation, Rhythm Skills, Musical Dictation, Composition, and more. These diverse experiences cultivated a well-rounded musicianship that prepared her for advanced study and a future career in teaching.

When auditioning for Cedarville University, Emily presented an extensive and balanced repertoire list, earning a music scholarship even higher than the typical maximum awarded. She graduated in 2023 with a Bachelor of Music in Piano Pedagogy, distinguishing herself through her leadership and dedication. At Cedarville, she served as president of the student-led chapter of the Ohio Music Teachers Association (OMTA), deepening her involvement in the professional teaching community. She also served as lead instrumental librarian for the Symphonic Band.

Her mentorship with Piano Pedagogy professor Connie Anderson was a cornerstone of her college experience. Through one-on-one coaching, she refined her understanding of childhood psychology, piano technique, and individualized instruction—learning how to adapt her teaching to meet the unique needs of every student who enters her studio. She also worked closely with Cedarville’s Symphonic Band director, Dr Chet Jenkins, performing in the percussion section from her sophomore through senior year and earning opportunities to study every percussion instrument. She further expanded her musical skills by taking all available conducting courses under his direction as well.

A strong musician at heart, Emily has a particular love for the Romantic period, as well as a deep appreciation for Contemporary music—with its unconventional rhythms, harmonies, and colors. Aural Skills was among her strongest academic subjects, a natural connection to her Suzuki background and her gift for ear training. Today, she incorporates these strengths into her teaching by emphasizing solfège, theory, listening and musical understanding in every lesson.

Since beginning her private teaching career in 2020, Emily has been committed to fostering excellence, artistry, and confidence in young pianists. Now teaching at Milford Square Music Studio—the same studio where her musical journey began—she finds profound joy in encouraging and shaping the next generation of musicians. She is a certified Teacher of Music through MTNA and remains actively involved in both LVMTA and PMTA.

With a deep passion for the Suzuki method and a heart for each child she teaches, Emily strives to nurture not only skilled pianists, but thoughtful, expressive musicians with a lifelong love for learning.Emily lives in Harleysville with her husband, Max.