“I work hard to make sure that my students understand music, rather than being content for them to simply play by role. I enjoy performing, and conducting, but my heart is that of teacher.”
In high school Maura knew that she wanted to become a music teacher. She loved being part of music groups, especially chorus. Her choral director was inspiring and pushed her with just the right amount of motivation and zest. She loved performing, and working together with others for a coming goal of making beautiful music.
Maura began teaching her first private students during high school, teaching piano and guitar. She began college as a music major, and graduated with a Bachelor in Music Education. During college, her primary instrument was piano, with a minor in voice. She also learned to play brass, woodwinds, and stringed instruments during those four years. One of the most exciting things to happen for her during college was being offered a membership in the honorary music fraternity, Sigma Alpha Iota
After teaching elementary music for two years in southwest Virginia, she was ready to return to Richmond and was offered a position as a music teacher in Hanover County. She taught in Hanover, both elementary music and then as the choral director, at a junior high school. She also began working at Virginia Commonwealth University in pursuit of a Master in Music Education, which she received in 1982. Maura has also taken graduate level classes working with special education students, concentrating on those with a mental illness, but also working with students having learning disabilities. After teaching in the public schools for thirteen years, she “retired” to teach private lessons, and mostly to be at home for her children. During this time, she was active in church music, both as a participant, and music director.
She has been so lucky that the passion she had for music as a child has only grown. Maura loves teaching, and especially loves working with beginners. She loves the excitement of watching children and adults learn to play, and knows that her enthusiasm is helping them in their journey. She is always positive and encouraging, and knows that her impact on her students’ lives is profound. This can be a wonderfully enriching experience for both student and teacher, and she feels great responsibility for making it rewarding and joyful. She works hard to make sure that her students understand music, rather than being content for them to simply play by rote. She enjoys performing, and conducting, but her heart is that of teacher.
Thumbtack reviews:
About this pro
How does your service stand out?
My work stands out from other teachers because I believe that everyone who takes lessons from me should be treated with the utmost respect. I am enthusiastic, and always kind and encouraging. I strongly believe that we learn best through positive encouragement. I want each of my students to love to come to a lesson.
What do you enjoy about the work you do?
I am as thrilled as my students as the joy of learning to play piano becomes a reality. We can all benefit from creativity, and learning an instrument is a long held dream of many adults. I am proud to be part of the process.
Location
Henrico, VA 23229
Website
maurabooher.com
Years in business
36
Number of employees
1
Times hired on Thumbtack
47
Reviews
28 Reviews
Subha C. Jun 23, 2017
Piano Lessons
Verified Review
Very professional and very dedicated to her students. My 11 yr. old daughter loves her and really responds to her method of teaching. I would highly recommend her.
Jessica L. May 22, 2017
Piano Lessons (for children or teenagers)
Verified Review
Maura is very patient and firm. She is excellent with active young kids that is just starting to learn piano. My 7 year old loves his weekly lessons with her. Would not hesitate to recommend her to my family and friends.
Mary B. May 9, 2017
Piano Lessons (for children or teenagers)
Verified Review
My daughter enjoys her piano lessons with Ms. Booher. I think she is a wonderful and patient teacher!
Christian R. Feb 4, 2017
Piano Lessons (for adults)
Verified Review
Definite A+
Maura is an excellent piano teacher. She has not only taught me the basics, but she let me bring my own pieces of interest once I got some experience under my belt. Not only do I enjoy our lessons but I feel as though I am making real progress. Maura even went above and beyond the call of duty by helping me select a new piano when I needed one.
Cam N. Feb 3, 2017
Piano Lessons
Verified Review
Awesome Teacher
My children enjoy taking lessons with Ms. Booher. She is one of best music teachers in the area. Way to go Ms. Booher!
Justin J. Feb 3, 2017
Piano Lessons
Verified Review
Maura is a wonderful, patient teacher who I would recommend to any age group. Her years of experience make her the perfect choice for any beginner, or intermediate.
Emily M. Sep 7, 2016
Piano Lessons (for adults)
Verified Review
Take Lessons From Maura!!
I’ve only had one lesson with Maura so far but she’s a patient teacher that doesn’t make you feel rushed or insufficient. She’s very professional and a doll to learn from.
Patty H. Aug 30, 2016
Piano Lessons (for adults)
Verified Review
I haven’t started my piano lessons by her yet, but my contact with her has been informative, prompt and cordial. I look forward to being her student!
Lee H. Aug 14, 2016
Piano Lessons (for children or teenagers)
Verified Review
Wonderful teacher! My son has learned so much, and stays motivated.
Naomi M. Aug 13, 2016
Piano Lessons
Verified Review
Davi I. Apr 6, 2016
Piano Lessons (for children or teenagers)
Verified Review
Ms Booher is wonderful! So kind and helpful. My daughter is really enjoying her lessons.
Deepak S. Jul 8, 2015
Piano Lessons
Verified Review
My son is taking Piano lessons since last six months. She makes piano playing techniques very easy for my son to understand. My son recently participated in the recital class and it was so motivating for him. I would definitely recommend all Mrs. Booher for Piano lessons.
Jessica C. Aug 18, 2014
Piano Lessons
Verified Review
Maura is a wonderful, patient interesting teacher, she keeps it fun and interesting – Thanks Maura!
Ivana M. Jul 11, 2014
Piano Lessons
Verified Review
If you want a learning experience nothing short of inspiring and compassionate, I can only recommend Maura! She genuinely cares about how much you’re learning and your comfort level while you’re learning it; she will slow the pace down or speed it up completely depending on whether or not that’s how you feel/what you want. Sweetest person ever! Love her!!
Jeanie M. Jun 20, 2014
Piano Lessons
Verified Review
As an adult student, I cannot praise Maura enough. She has been incredible at finding music and exercises that are entertaining and challenging. She pushes me, but unfailing in letting me know what I am doing wrong. I had other teachers who were far less forthcoming. Maura is great.
Maribel B. Apr 22, 2014
Maura Booher has been teaching my 2 children for almost 2 years. They started taking lessons when they were 7 years old. Both of them have enjoyed learning from her and are developing a love for piano and music. She is patient and kind with them and instills an enthusiasm for learning. Would highly recommend her!
Tanisha D. Apr 16, 2014
Piano Lessons
Verified Review
Maura is extremely wonderful! She is caring, patient, and so very helpful. She moves at the pace that works for you and is always enthusiastic. I cannot think of anyone else that I would want to get my lessons from. Maura is simply amazing!
Leslie H. Apr 15, 2014
Ms Booher is an outstanding, devoted teacher. She is a caring package of experience, guidance, and zest for life that few people today seem to have. She draws out the best in every student. I wish everyone could have the opportunity to take lessons with her!
Josee B. Apr 14, 2014
Mrs. Booher has a strong pedagogy, a contagious love for music and a compassionate heart. That makes her a wonderful piano teacher for my two sons.
Sarah C. Apr 9, 2014
Maura Booher is a truly excellent teacher. My son has learned so much in such a short period of time, it’s truly amazing. She is wonderful with children and makes learning fun while at the same time focusing on the fundamentals that makes one a great pianist. She truly has the gift for music and teaching!
Amy S. Dec 23, 2012
Verified Review
Maura is a fantastic, patient, music teacher! Highly recommend her.
Edna M. Dec 22, 2012
Piano Lessons
Verified Review
It has been and continues to be a wonderful experience with Maura as my piano guru. She has done something that no other piano teacher has accomplished for me: the ability to read music. I have been encouraged through her tutelage to make major strides in my musical development!
Dylan D. Dec 22, 2012
Verified Review
I really look forward to lessons and making more progress with my musical development. My son takes lessons as well she is both patient and encouraging. She is knowledgeable as she instructs you in music theory and not just learning songs. She weaves music theory in as you go so it’s not boring but adding more layers into your musical development. You can’t go wrong with Ms Booher as your music teacher.
Revathy S. Dec 19, 2012
Piano Lessons
Verified Review
Mrs. Booher is an Awesome teacher. She is always supportive, helping and patient. I love learning from Mrs.Booher.
Badeha H. Sep 13, 2012
Mrs. Booher is an amazing teacher. She is encouraging and supportive as well as motivating and patient. I couldn’t ask for a more wonderful teacher.
Evelyn C. Sep 13, 2012
I’ve known Maura for 20 plus years and am always impressed by her love for, and commitment to teaching piano to students of all ages. She is a true professional.
Leann H. Sep 12, 2012
Maura is sensitive and skillful! She made me feel totally at ease at the piano and my progress vastly exceeded what I had hoped for. I really think it’s because she treats everyone as precious individuals and allows for exploration and creativity. I wouldn’t be able to learn the things I learned as an adult without her!
Marion B. Jan 11, 2012
Piano Lessons
Verified Review
Very professional and eager to help me meet my goals.