Mr. Clarke

Mr. Clarke

Richard is a composer, musician, and teacher based in Colorado. He is originally from the United Kingdom, where he studied music at the University of Huddersfield and the Royal Northern College of Music, and music education at the University of Bristol. After specializing in saxophone performance at college, working as a gigging jazz saxophonist, and teaching in public schools in the UK and the USA, he returned to his first love of composing music.

While working as a performer and teacher, Richard became an experienced arranger of music for various ensembles, spanning both classical and jazz disciplines. He plays saxophones, piano, and guitar, sings, composes instrumental music and songs, arranges a wide range of music, and uses Sibelius and Ableton Live applications regularly. His real passion is teaching real-world music skills to students, informed by fifteen years of classroom teaching experience, as well as working with professional musicians and integrating music technology into his teaching practice.

Richard is a keen supporter of music education programs that foster collaboration, problem-solving, and real creativity skills in their students. Alongside designing his music curriculum based on the music fundamentals that all jazz musicians learn, he recently wrote a stage musical to teach jazz concepts and conventions to a younger audience.

Currently, Richard is pursuing a Doctor of Arts in Jazz Studies at the University of Northern Colorado, with a focus on jazz composition, jazz piano, and music pedagogy.

Location: Loveland, CO, North Studio

Currently accepting new students, weekday afternoon/evening lessons

Piano, Guitar, Voice, Music Theory

Ms. Marshall

Ms. Marshall (Mars)

Ms. Marshall (Mars) brings both versatility and enthusiasm to the Music Mayhem team. Currently studying Music Education at Colorado State University, Mars has a strong foundation in piano instruction alongside primary studies in French horn and bass, with additional experience on trumpet. With a background in both performance and teaching across multiple instruments, Mars is passionate about helping students build confident piano skills while discovering their unique connection to music.

Originally from Pueblo, Colorado, Mars began playing piano in elementary school and quickly developed a love for music that continued through middle and high school band programs. During that time, Mars also began teaching French horn and piano to younger students in the community. A 2025 graduate of Pueblo West High School, Mars has experience performing in jazz, rock, orchestral pit, and classical settings.

At Music Mayhem Piano Studio, Mars believes that music lessons should be both meaningful and motivating. Lessons are thoughtfully tailored to each student’s interests and goals — whether that means building strong technical skills, preparing for advanced performance opportunities, or simply playing music that brings joy. Mars is dedicated to helping students grow in confidence, musicianship, and creativity in a supportive and encouraging environment.

Outside of lessons, Mars enjoys performing, collaborating with other musicians, and continuing to explore new musical styles.

Location: Loveland, CO, North Studio

Currently accepting new students, afternoon lessons

Piano, Bass, French Horn, Group Piano

 

Mr. Casey

Mr. Casey

Casey is a passionate and experienced music educator with a background in both classical and contemporary styles. With a degree in music education and over a decade of teaching experience, Casey brings energy, patience, and creativity to every lesson.

As a public school music teacher and private instructor, Casey believes that every student deserves a safe, supportive space to grow as a musician—regardless of age, background, or learning style. His teaching approach is rooted in flexibility, encouragement, and mutual respect. Casey specializes in working with children and beginners, and has extensive experience adapting lessons to support neurodiverse learners in a way that builds confidence, curiosity, and joy.

Casey offers instruction in piano, guitar/ukulele, and beginner woodwinds, with a focus on building strong foundations, musical expression, and a lifelong love of music.

Whether you’re just picking up an instrument for the first time or looking to deepen your skills, Casey is committed to helping you find your voice and have fun along the way.

Location: Loveland, CO, North and South Studios

Currently accepting new students, weekday evening lessons

Piano, Guitar, Ukulele, Beginning Woodwind, Group Piano

Mrs. Kara

Mrs. Kara

Kara's extensive experience and passion for teaching piano make her an exceptional music educator. With over 15 years working with children in diverse settings and more than 30 years of playing the piano, Kara has honed her ability to craft engaging, age-appropriate music classes and private lessons for students of all ages.

Starting her piano journey at the age of nine, Kara’s commitment to music is evident in her approach. She has completed the Francis Clark Center Foundational Piano Pedagogy program and has a bachelor’s degree from St. Cloud State University in Minnesota focusing on music theory, performance and business. As the President of the Fort Collins Music Teachers Association and the owner of Music Mayhem Piano Studio in Loveland, Colorado, Kara’s dedication to music education extends beyond her studio.

At Music Mayhem Piano Studio, Kara emphasizes that learning piano should be both challenging and enjoyable. Her teaching philosophy revolves around understanding each student's unique needs and personality and crafting personalized lesson plans to help every student reach their full potential. Outside the studio, she enjoys attending concerts, exploring the mountains, and having dance parties with her kids.

Email: kara@musicmayhempianostudio.com

Location: Loveland, CO, north and south

Currently accepting new students, weekday morning, afternoon lessons

Piano, Group Piano, Music Theory, Preschool music