Lynette Roberts
Lynn Roberts is a dedicated, highly experienced music educator, pianist, organist, accompanist, and choral conductor who is excited to join the piano faculty at MAI. With over 40 years of teaching experience across diverse settings, Lynn brings a steadfast commitment to musical excellence and a passion for bringing out the very best in her students. She focuses on creative practicing strategies, technical mastery, and building confidence while guiding students to connect deeply with the artistic beauty, expression, and overall meaning of music.
Raised in Iowa, Lynn's musical journey began early - listening to her five siblings practice piano (early ear-training) before beginning formal lessons at age 7. Although she studied clarinet, violin, trumpet, and organ, piano and organ became her favorites. By high school, she was playing piano and organ for church services. During her junior and senior years, she qualified for the Iowa All-State Choir. This earned her a spot touring Europe with the Iowa Youth Chorale. These formative experiences solidified her decision to pursue music as a lifelong career.
Lynn earned her Bachelor of Music Education (piano emphasis; K-12 Vocal Music) from the University of Northern Iowa. While there, she was awarded the Alta Freeman Scholarship and studied piano under Dr. Joyce Gault and Concert Pianist Howard Aibel. She was featured as the piano soloist for Mendelssohn’s Concerto in G Minor with the University Orchestra and performed a solo rendition of Rhapsody in Blue. She later completed her Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) at Webster University, alongside additional graduate coursework at Baker University.
After relocating to the Kansas City area, Lynn taught piano, organ, keyboard, and the Yamaha Music Education System to students of all ages and levels at Jenkins Music Company on the Plaza and in Overland Park. She later owned and operated her own private piano studio for 16 years, teaching 40 students in private piano lessons for all ages and levels, as well as basic musicianship keyboard classes for children with parents as partners. She prepared students for recitals, festivals, church/school piano solos, and competitions - with many earning Superior ratings. Currently, Lynn serves as an accompanist for high school students during rehearsals and at Spring District and State Contests.
From 2000 to 2024, Lynn served as an Elementary Music Teacher (K-5) with the Independence School District. She instructed, engaged, and encouraged students through interactive class activities. She prepared grade-level classes for a variety of themed programs and musicals including Lewis & Clark, Jingle Bell Jukebox, Veterans’ programs, and Missouri history productions. Additionally, she conducted the 4th/5th grade choir for National Anthem performances at Mavericks hockey games, caroling on the square, and other community events. Lynn accompanied the district fourth-grade choir for many years and notably led rehearsals and conducted the mass choir of more than 800 fourth graders at the 2023 annual Mayor’s Christmas Concert.
Now retired from school teaching, Lynn is excited to return her focus to teaching private piano. She finds fulfillment and joy in helping students experience the complete learning process - from learning a new piece to delivering a finished performance. Beyond music, she values watching students make life connections as they build core skills such as patience, perseverance, and problem-solving.
“You need to play on a grand stage to own the gift of music. I hope it stays with you, comforts you, and brings you happiness for a lifetime!”
