Wisconsin native Marilla brings 18 years of piano experience to the San Diego. Her passion for music began early and has only flourished through the years of her classical piano and theater study. She holds a degree in Piano Pedagogy from the University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire.

She had the opportunity to study and work with professors on piano literature, technique, jazz history and analysis, music theory and history, and accompany musical works within the theater department. Equipped to work with all ages from years spent serving in camp ministry, she has a strong passion for helping students connect with their musicality on a deep level while simultaneously sharing in the joy of learning music. She's accompanied various high school and college musical productions throughout her career, one of which earned her a Jerry Award nomination. She also has a passion for accompanying a variety of competitive music festivals, providing music for weddings or other occasions, and watching students’ passion for music unfold as they grow in their knowledge and skill. She's excited to teach full-time and continue learning just as much as the student in every lesson!