Piano

Meet Our Piano Instructors

Madeline Cain Silverstar

As a child, I studied classical piano with Karl Balinski, a concert pianist in Amsterdam, NY. After moving to Manchester, I took lessons with Ray Cassarino, a well-known jazz teacher at the Hartford Coservatory. Soon after, I started teaching piano at my home in Manchester. For a time, I was the organist at St.Bridget Church in Manchester. During the years I taught piano, I performed locally, accompanied singers and played at weddings.

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Ruth O' Neil

In addition to a background in music I have a B.S degree in Elementary Education from Eastern CT State University and an M.S. degree in Educational Psychology from the University of Connecticut. I have studied Composition at the Hartt School of Music, is a former adjunct music instructor at Manchester Community College and continue to teach piano in the college's non- credit division.

Fred North II

Born August 1,  1994-suburban New Jersey to the Rev. Mr. William V. North and Mrs. Elizabeth F. North. Moved to New York City (the Bronx) at 2, then Guilford, CT at 8. Began piano study at 5 and Organ at 10. Attended the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, graduating in 1966 (BA). Studied at The College of Church Musicians of the Washington National Cathedral in Washington, DC 1966/67. Sang with the UNC Varsity Men's Glee club 1962-1966, including a European tour in 1966. Married  Carol Ann Peterson in 1967.  They have 2 sons, 4 grandchildren and 1 great-grandson. I have been an organist,pianist, and/or choir director of many churches, beginning at the age of 15. Carol and I moved to CT in 2002, and to Coventry in 2009. I am an Organist, Pianist, Choir Director of the First Congregational Church of Coventry.  As a teacher I enjoy working with all students of all ages, and also greatly enjoy learning new music through sight reading.