My Teaching Philosophy
Flute lessons should be a space where students feel both challenged and supported. I aim to create an encouraging, judgment-free environment where students can take risks, explore their musicality, and build confidence in their playing.
FAQs
Where do flute lessons take place?
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I teach flute lessons at 3 schools in Austin ISD: Lamar Middle School, McCallum High School, and Austin High School. We can also coordinate lessons outside of school if you/your child does not attend one of those schools.
What can students expect in lessons?
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I work with students of all levels and meet each student where they are. My teaching is hands-on and individualized, using musical examples and explaining concepts in different ways to support understanding.
Lessons are tailored to each student’s goals: building fundamentals, learning repertoire, preparing for auditions, etc. In lessons, my students work on tone/technique fundamentals, etudes/method book exercises, solos, and other repertoire.
How do I get started with lessons?
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If you are interested in flute lessons, please contact me via my contact page or email: rileymbender@gmail.com.
Student Reviews
“Riley is very nice, definitely knows how to talk to kids. She knows how to challenge her students so they get better.”
— Middle School Student, 2025“Riley Bender is an exceptional flute teacher. Her lessons have helped me improve my tone quality as well as hone fundamentals such as rhythm, accuracy, and dynamics.”
— Middle School Student, 2025“Riley's lessons with our daughter were fantastic. She really enjoyed attending them and I know they boosted her confidence tremendously. Riley is a great communicator and facilitator! She also helped guide us to finding the right purchase for our student's next instrument.”
— High School Student's Parent, 2025Some of my most recent teaching experiences include:
Fall 2024—Present: Private flute teacher at Lamar MS, McCallum HS, & Austin HS (Austin ISD)
Summer 2025: Floot Fire Austin Intern
Spring 2024: Student Teacher at Shelbyville High School (Shelbyville, IN)
2022—2024: Bloomington High School South marching band visual tech & woodwind sectional teacher (Bloomington, IN)
2022—2024: Private flute teacher in Bloomington, IN and Franklin Central Middle School in Indianapolis, IN
Spring 2023: IU Jacobs Young Winds middle School band director & flute sectional teacher