Teacher Profile: Cherise Coutinho
About Cherise Coutinho
Cherise (Reese) Coutinho is a Washington, D.C. Area based Voice and Piano teacher who has been actively working with students since 2008. Reese's own musical journey is an inspiring story, as she represents four generations of musical talent. With her family's vast musical background, it is no surprise that she has also found her passion in working with music students.
Since childhood, Reese has been immersed in music study. She started on Piano at age 3, but quickly found her passion in Voice study and had the opportunity to study both areas from a young age. She was very active through middle and high school with Choir, including District ensembles and rare opportunities to back New Kids on the Block and John Mayer! Stand out performances include her work in musical theater with roles in "Cats!", "Pajama Game", and "Rent", as well as earning the spot of Lead Vocalist of her Jazz Ensemble. Reese also had an opportunity to perform with her father in his band for over 5 years as a Vocalist. Reese is versed in all genres of Voice and enjoys helping her students discover their sound and develop their poise and stage presence.
With Piano, Reese places a lot of emphasis on building strong foundations and musical literacy from the start. Her father owns a music school in Edison, New Jersey called "Academy of Indian Music", and it is there that she developed her primary methodology and approach with her own students. The Trinity Exams from the UK are a big part of his curriculum basis, and though she incorporates different literature, the core concepts that are emphasized are universal.
Through lessons, Reese hope to leave her students with a sense of both creative fulfillment and pride in the mastery experience that comes from learning an instrument. She has a deep love and appreciation for Music as a performer and educator, and her favorite part of working with students is witnessing the joy and sense of accomplishment that comes from ongoing study. It's this heartfelt connection with her students that drives her and makes her teaching journey rewarding year after year.