Teacher Profile: Peter Olschner
About Peter Olschner
Peter Olschner is a performing guitarist/vocalist and music teacher based in Denver, Colorado. After playing the cello and singing in choirs throughout his early education, he bought his first acoustic guitar at the age of sixteen and never looked back!
He continued his exploration of all things music at Pacific Lutheran University in Tacoma, Washington where he had the privilege of participating in several vocal, jazz, and guitar ensembles. Music Theory classes, Ear Training classes, improv seminars, participation in ensembles, and private lessons all contributed to Peter’s growth and appreciation for what it takes to be a working musician in a competitive industry. He enjoyed mentorship from several distinguished faculty members of the university including Dr. Cassio Vianna for Improvisation Seminar and Jazz Ensemble, Dr. Greg Youtz for composition lessons, and Dr. Steve Howland for jazz guitar lessons.
While in college, Peter had the honor of serving as PLUtonic Acapella Vice President and he helped the group earn a Quarter-Finals advancement in the 2015 ICCA Competition, being invited to perform at Pomona College in Southern California for Semifinals. PLUtonic Acapella enjoyed a local reputation for their stunning performances and Peter met life-long friends from his involvement with this special group of young men.
After his college studies, Peter returned to Denver and began a career as a performer. He found a special opportunity to stage public street performances for the many pedestrians of downtown Denver, using these public street performances to refine his technique, widen his repertoire, and build a small (but dedicated) local network of friends and fans. In addition to his public performances, Peter is regularly hired for parties and farmer’s markets as a solo performer or as the lead vocalist/guitarist of his rock trio called Mall People.
Music is the language that Peter lives and breathes every day. Each day Peter is hard at work in his home studio transcribing new songs for guitar, analyzing harmony from traditional jazz standards, or learning Christmas tunes on piano. He is passionate about all different genres of music and had a firm upbringing in the classical tradition as a pianist, vocalist, and string player. Peter knows that developing competency on an instrument is a long-term aspiration that requires patient guidance and clear goal-setting. As a private lessons teacher, Peter is particularly gifted at bringing an encouraging, fun energy to every lesson and leaving students feeling inspired and excited.
Outside of music, Peter is passionate about fitness, reading a good book, and playing games with friends and family.