Karla Wakeen / Premier Music Teacher in La Crosse, Wisconsin

Purple Keys Piano Studio is in the Lynne Tower building in downtown La Crosse.
Karla earned a Bachelor's degree in music education from Viterbo University in 1985 and a Master’s degree in piano pedagogy from Western Illinois University in 1993. She has attended and received professional training at the Suzuki Institute in Stevens Point. Karla has held positions such as Assistant Professor of Music at Viterbo University, Jazz Piano Camp Instructor and Preparatory School piano instructor at Western Illinois University. Most recently, Karla has taught music at Hamilton/SOTA 1 Elementary School since 2011, retiring in 2023.

In an administrative capacity, Karla has been the coordinator of the Viterbo University Preparatory School of Arts, coordinator of the Jazz Piano Camp for piano teachers at Viterbo, Chairperson for WMTA Auditions, and Head Counselor for WIU Art and WIU Math Camps for the Gifted and Talented. Over the years, she has directed musicals, choirs and “Beat 4 Peace”, World Drumming Ensemble. Karla has attended numerous music, technology and education conferences. Additionally, she is a member of Music Teachers National Association, Wisconsin Music Teachers Association, La Crosse Area Music Teachers Association and Wisconsin School Music Association.
The instructor has a MA in piano pedagogy, a BS in music education, and 30 years of teaching experience.

This studio puts an emphasis on music theory as well as studying music from a variety of eras and genre. Studying with Karla will instill a love of many kinds of music, ensure the ability to play expressively and accurately, and provide many opportunities to develop the dedication and perseverance needed in learning a musical instrument. Plus, we have fun!!

Specialties

Accompanying Adults Beginning Piano Classical Piano Pedagogy Piano Piano Pedagogy Piano-Pedagogy Private Piano Lessons Suzuki Ukulele