Sarah Briney

MM, Texas A&M Commerce

BM, Dallas Baptist University

Sarah Briney is a native of Plano, Texas. In 2021, she completed her Master of Music in Piano Pedagogy at Texas A&M Commerce, studying under Dr. Luis Sanchez and Ms. Libby Vanatta. Prior to Texas A&M University Commerce, Sarah studied piano from the age of seven through high-school under Vera Balaban of Plano, Texas and participated in various festivals and state theory tests. From 2015 through 2019, she obtained her Bachelors of Science in Music from Dallas Baptist University studying under professors; Dr. Tanya Karyagina and Dr. Jill Sprenger.

At Texas A&M University Commerce, Sarah worked under Ms. Vanatta in a teaching assistantship. She taught multiple levels of undergraduate piano as well as private barrier and elective piano students of the collegiate level. For the past ten years, Sarah has also built her own private studio in Plano. Beginning in high-school, she grew from one student and now teaches about 40 students from ages five through adults of various levels.

Contrary to a typical musician’s life, Sarah is a lover of sports. She grew up taking lessons in figure skating, filling out March Madness brackets and watching baseball. She also plays Ultimate Frisbee in her spare time. She initially played casually but has since been part of multiple club teams and continues to play in tournaments with friends.

Other than spending time with family, Sarah is a member of Frisco Bible Church, enjoys ballroom dancing and of course playing piano.

Teaching Philosophy

I teach primarily beginner and intermediate students. Through my ten years of teaching experience, I have taught in multiple environments and provide a variety of opportunities for people to grow in their love and appreciation for music; young children through adults. My students participate in state theory tests as well as exams and festivals. My goal is to instill a love of music into each student and give them the gift of the ability to make music through the piano.