Rachel Goodwin is a Boston-based concert pianist, artistic director, and innovative educator who teaches all ages and levels.
Educator, Performer, Artistic Director
I am a Pianist and Artistic Director of Convergence Ensemble whose core group includes a violinist of the Boston Symphony Orchestra and a violist who is chair of Boston University's String Department. Artist/Humanist Fellow for City of Boston. My current & recent teaching positions include: College of Holy Cross, New England Conservatory School of Continuing Education. MM (honors)-New England Conservatory; Diploma in Piano Performance-Mannes College of Music. I am a Guest lecturer in piano pedagogy at Longy School of Music, Chamber music coaching at New England Conservatory Prep & Longy School of Music. New England Piano Teachers Association. My Boston studio has 2 concert quality grand pianos.
I offer an integrated experiential approach to teaching piano that includes theory (understanding the structure of music and what makes it beautiful), ear-training and piano technique to all students, including young beginners, adult beginners, intermediate players in need of a new challenge, and, on a different level, with advanced students. I also offer music theory instruction and chamber music coaching. The underlying mission is to be able to play and enjoy music, one of mankind’s great gifts. I am now accepting new students at my Ashmont, Newton, and Cambridge studio locations.
Student Videos
Rachel performing a duet with a student at a recital.
Student Testimonials
Adult Advanced “I started taking piano lessons with Rachel in 2017. I had taken a 3 year hiatus from the piano after having studied from age 9 through the end of college and was looking for someone who could teach an advanced adult amateur student. I've had a wonderful experience with Rachel. She teaches technique, theory, and repertoire, and she has really helped me develop my ability to listen for the nuances in my own playing--legato sound, voicing, tone, etc. Rachel tailors her instruction to each individual student, and I have grown a lot, musically, as a result. As a student of Rachel's I have participated in the New England Piano Teachers' Association's adult recital as well as the Boston Amateur Piano Competition. I am so glad that I found Rachel, and I highly recommend her to anyone looking for a piano teacher!” — Ari S., Boston
Children “It gives me great pleasure to share my experience in working with Rachel. Rachel gave my daughter piano lessons and was the first instructor who allowed her to have a life long love for music, particularly piano. Rachel is knowledgeable and an expert as a musician, and very attentive to the growth and needs of the children she work with.
Our daughter started the classes very young. Rachel gave her clear and consistent instruction, offered her structure and firm guidance yet was was very supportive.This allowed our daughter to build confidence in herself and flourish in ways amazed us. The foundation, knowledge and skill she was able to develop and attain under Rachel''s instruction has allowed her to broaden her interest in music beyond playing the piano, and she has become a fine dancer and performer. Her role in this was significant.
Rachel is highly professional. As a music educator, she is knowledgeable and very attentive to the needs of children and families. She understands the commitment and hard work required of learning an instrument, has very high expectations of her students, and works very closely and effective with the children and families. Rachel uses her knowledge and skill, and apply it to her teachings effectively. She also builds a trusting relationship with families and is respected by all. She is an efficient, motivated, and caring individual, and an inspirational music teacher.” — Hanna Telahun Gebretensae
Adult Beginner “Rachel is fantastic instructor for adult beginners! I have always wanted to learn piano and Rachel has introduced not only to technique / getting me going with enjoyable songs to play but also introducing me to theory in the process. She always has great recommendations for learning resources as well!” — Leah H., West Roxbury