Woman playing keyboard outdoors in a forested area, smiling at the camera.

I'm Rachel Hug

Hello!

My mission is in my name: I am here as a space of embrace of YOU as an artist at the piano. Whatever age or skill level you bring, I’m excited to meet you there.

About Embrace Your Music in Seattle, WA

Piano Instruction Guided by Performance and Pedagogy in Seattle

You deserve a piano teacher who understands both the practice room and the stage. At Embrace Your Music, you'll meet over 18 years of teaching experience combined with real-world performance knowledge that shapes every lesson. Piano instruction here isn't just about learning notes—it's about creating a space where you feel supported in expanding your self-expression, no matter where you're starting from.

I founded this practice with a clear mission reflected in the name itself: to create a space of embrace for each student at the piano. Whether you're in Seattle, Vashon Island, Bellevue, Kirkland, Port Orchard, Tacoma, the surrounding region – or if I have the pleasure of working with you in a video lesson – you'll experience lessons built on professionalism, warmth, and a commitment to your growth as a musician.

My commitment is to meet you with honesty, encouragement, and a teaching philosophy that values individuality and creative expression alongside technical skill.

Discover how personalized piano lessons in Seattle can help you connect with music in a whole new way.

Where Real Performance Experience Meets Piano Teaching in Seattle

My background includes performance studies with Richard Farner at Pacific Lutheran University and pedagogy studies with Kim Davenport at University of Washington. I’ve toured internationally and performed with local bands. As a keyboard teaching artist with Rain City Rock Camp, I support youth musicians in collaborative settings, helping students learn how to play with others and build confidence on stage.

Seattle's vibrant music scene—from DIY venues to festivals—inspires the way I structure lessons. You'll learn piano within a context that celebrates creativity, and my instruction reflects that energy and diversity.

I am a proud member of the Washington State Music Teachers Association and the Seattle Music Teachers Association, staying connected to a community of educators committed to excellence and ongoing professional development.

Experience piano lessons shaped by both formal training and real-world performance.

Piano Lessons Built for Students of Any Age or Skill Level Across Seattle

Whether you've never touched a piano or you're returning after years away, I offer a welcoming environment tailored to your goals. I offer one-on-one instruction, group coaching, and self-guided support. Each of us need a learning program that is sensitive to our particular needs and goals, which is something I’ve learned through:

  • Over 18 years of teaching experience across diverse settings and student needs

  • Community work as a keyboard teaching artist with Rain City Rock Camp, supporting collaborative youth musicianship

  • Formal studies in performance and pedagogy from Pacific Lutheran University and University of Washington

  • International touring and local band performances that inform practical, real-world instruction

  • Active membership in Washington State Music Teachers Association and Seattle Music Teachers Association

  • Lessons available throughout Seattle, Vashon Island, Bellevue, Kirkland, Port Orchard, Tacoma, and wherever you are online. 

Whether you're just starting out or looking to refine your skills, piano lessons with Embrace Your Music offer the support and expertise you need. Reach out today to schedule your first lesson and begin your musical journey.

How do you embrace your music? 

Tell me - I'd love to hear.
Tell me - I'd love to hear.

TESTIMONIALS

  • I had always wanted to learn piano and I wanted to have something that my kids and I could learn together. I needed someone who was going to be good with both adults and kids and Rachel fit that perfectly.

    ~ Diana Milligan

  • Rachel made learning sheet music, time signatures, and other musical concepts accessible and fun. My daughter particularly enjoyed how Rachel was always encouraging, positive, and patient. Her experience with Rachel resulted in an increased enthusiasm for learning about and enjoying music.

    ~ Tyler Dewar

  • Rachel plays beautifully, is excited to teach people of all skill levels, is extraordinarily patient and encouraging to children and adults alike, and frankly, she is just a pleasure to be around.

    ~ Leslie Robertson

  • Rachel is a joy to learn from. Her insight and years of experience really shines through during lessons. She's also willing to work around your schedule and life, and is always ready to change things up and try new things if you feel like you could learn better in a different way.

    ~ Alec Minchington

  • Rachel has a very fun approach to teaching that is all about exploring the joy of music. I was a new adult learner and I felt so supported by her as I learned the basics and jumped right in to basic chording for my favorite songs. I would highly recommend that anyone looking to learn piano or improve on existing skills go to Rachel.

    ~ Natasha Riveron

Have questions or just want to chat?

Get in Touch
Get in Touch