Dr. Miller's Teaching Philosophy

I have been fortunate to study at length with several of the foremost musicians and pedagogues in the field, such as John Ferrillo, John Mack, and Eric Ohlsson.  Through my own studies I developed a deep knowledge, passion and dedication to music. I am committed to sharing this knowledge with the next generation of students.  My teaching incorporates a wide range of topics and techniques ranging from oboe fundamentals, such as tone- production, vibrato, embouchure, breathing and reed making, to larger musical concepts, such as phrasing, articulation, and exploration of historical and theoretical context.  My goal as a teacher is to help each student develop a thorough understanding of reed making, the oboe, and music so that playing and performing is as effortless as possible. I have over sixteen years of experience teaching students ages 8-54.  I customize my lessons and teaching style to meet each student’s learning style.

I am currently accepting new applicants to the University of Iowa oboe studio. Apply HERE. Please contact me to arrange a sample lesson or to ask any questions!  If I can be of any assistance to you, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me. I look forward to meeting you and hearing you play!                        

Sincerely,

Dr. Courtney Miller

Courtney-miller@uiowa.edu

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At the University of Iowa you will receive lessons, coachings, and instruction by our internationally recognized faculty in our new world-class Voxman Music Building.  With a 9:1 student to faculty ratio we are proud to carry on the commitment to excellence established by Himie Voxman. The small student to faculty ratio allows for students to work with me multiple times every week in private lessons, oboe studio class, two reed classes, chamber music, and orchestral excerpt class.  The oboe studio at University of Iowa is comprised of students who have a variety of majors including performance, music education, double-majors, and music therapy. The oboe studio provides a supportive and immersive environment for students to pursue their interests inside and outside of music. Oboe students at the University of Iowa have the opportunity to perform in large ensembles, such as the University of Iowa Orchestras and University of Iowa Bands, small ensembles, such as a woodwind quintets or trios as well as our renowned Center for New Music.

Off Campus Opportunities
As an undergraduate or graduate student, you will find opportunities for professional performance experiences off campus in Iowa City and the surrounding areas. Current University of Iowa students and recent alumni have the opportunity to perform with orchestras such as the Quad City Symphony, Orchestra Iowa, Des Moines Symphony, Waterloo/Cedar Falls Symphony, Dubuque Symphony, Etc.  Many of my students also teach oboe privately in the community.

A variety of financial aid options are available in the form of scholarships, fellowships, and assistantships.

Apply to the University of Iowa School of Music here. 

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Undergraduate and graduate oboe audition information 

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Contact me at courtney-miller@uiowa.edu with questions or to schedule a lesson.

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Follow us @uiowaoboes on Instagram or www.facebook.com/uiowaoboes.