Welcome to your musical journey! Whether you are new to piano or getting back into the action, I’m here to guide you with personalized instruction and nurture your love for music every step of the way.
Welcome to Your Musical Journey
Welcome to Your Musical Journey
Jayne Ruddiman O’Hara, M.Ed.
The story goes, at the age of 3 I was pushing my older sister off the piano bench. While she didn’t choose the piano, I certainly did. I’ve been playing my whole life. I performed as a church musician starting at the age of 12. I played my first wedding ceremony at 14, and was winning state-level competitions in high school.
I accompanied Allentown High School’s Choir for 2 years, was the lead in Will Roger’s Folly, as “Ziggy’s Favorite”. And last but not least, I marched with the Allentown Redbirds for two years on trombone and wireless keyboard with the drumline.
I studied piano with three different instructors over 13 years, including Westminster Choir College in central New Jersey. I minored in music from The George Washington University, while earning my degree in Psychology and then continued my studies to earn a Masters of Education from the Graduate School of Education and Human Development at GWU. I am licensed and certified to teach in West Virgnia and Virginia.
I taught at Guitar Center in Hagerstown, MD and then I opened my Shepherdstown studio in 2021.
I earned 2nd place in Hagerstown’s Got Talent competition in 2022, and recently was invited to the final round for the 2025 Charlston International Music Competition. I’m proud of my 4th place finish, out of 194 competitors from around the world. What an experience!
For over three years, I’ve been performing live music every Friday night at the Rathskeller in the Bavarian Inn, Shepherdstown. Our local paper, The Observer, has a nice write-up about my performances: 22-05-Observer.pdf (page 20).
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$40/30 minute personalized lesson
$150/2 hours and $50/hour for additional hours
Negotiable
WV Hope Scholarship Participant
WV Hope Scholarship Participant
WV Hope Scholarship Participant WV Hope Scholarship Participant
Testimonials
I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to learn piano under the guidance of Ms. Jayne O'Hara. Her passion for music and dedication to teaching is truly inspiring. As an older beginner, I was apprehensive to take on something often seen as targeted for children, but from the very first lesson, Jayne created a warm and encouraging environment that made learning enjoyable. I am continually amazed at the complexity of notations involved in sight-reading piano music, and I have developed an intense appreciation for the art, thanks to Jayne. Her ability to tailor lessons to my individual needs and interests has not only improved my skills but also deepened my love for music.
Jayne is patient, knowledgeable, and always goes the extra mile to ensure that I understand the concepts being taught. Her constructive feedback and positive reinforcement have motivated me to push my boundaries and achieve goals I never thought possible. There was a time when I couldn't imagine playing with both hands while singing, but I have finally broken through that barrier. I highly recommend Jayne to anyone looking to learn piano, whether you're a beginner or looking to refine your skills. Jayne's expertise and passion for teaching make every lesson a rewarding experience!
~Yvonne
My son (4th grade) has been taking piano lessons from Jayne for a little over two years and we adore her. She is not just a highly skilled, knowledgeable, and passionate pianist, but also an experienced, state-certified teacher. She understands the complexities of educational instruction and the nuances of working with different types of learners.
Jayne is warm and patient, full of encouragement; and each time my son goes to her, her inspirational teaching style leaves him with his "bucket" filled.
Whenever he has mentioned an interest in a specific musical artist, Jayne has gone out of her way to find sheet music for him from that artist and others in the same vein. He came to her as a beginner and has grown so much in his playing since then - in no small part because he simply loves his weekly sessions with her!
~Amanda
Explore what I offer
Embark on a unique musical adventure with one-on-one lessons crafted to suit your unique goals and pace. Discover the joy of reading music, creating your own music, performing duets, and always getting to choose a song that you are passionate about… with expert guidance tailored just for you.
With three pianos to choose from: a 1920’s Knabe baby grand, a 1950’s Story and Clark upright, or a digital Yamaha Clavinova with weighted keys, you can rotate instruments.
Enjoy a Koi fish aquarium in the waiting room; also stocked with toys for children of parents who are taking lessons. (Or siblings!)
Enjoy my live and interactive performances every Friday night at the Bavarian Inn, Resort and Brewing Company in Shepherdstown, WV. (Ask for the Rathskeller….) Fridays 6:30 pm - 9:30 pm.
Book your next Karaoke party, New Year’s Eve, birthday, wine and cheese tasting, or memorial commemoration. Each set to its own playlist of your chosen selections.
Reach out if you need a substitute for your weekly church service. I have experience with piano and organ.
I’ve played weddings for over 3 decades. My empathic personality will benefit any gathering, but especially for the sensitivity to a funeral or commemorative service.
I also am available as a Sign Language interpreter in ASL and English Sign Language.
Schedule a demo lesson…
Looking to hit the right notes with your music skills? Book a free demo lesson to experience the studio and teaching style, as well as what goals I can help you or your little musician reach. I work with all age groups (Pre-K - adult).
With multiple instruments, it’s possible for one student to play the Clavinova (in a separate room with headphones), while the other student enjoys the pianos. Perfect for siblings, or parent/child lesson combos.
Students also enjoy exploring my drum set, guitars, recorders, and percussive instruments. I can teach trombone, too, but my heart lies with the piano.
It’s never too late to start your musical journey! I’ve seen progress as fast as a 2nd grader learning to read two hands in 4 months and an adult learner being able to read two hands and sing at the same time, in under a year.
Follow me on social media
Jaynerohara - Instagram
Jayne Ruddiman O’Hara - Facebook
jayne.i.ohara@gmail.com
