Rachel Rennels has been playing the piano for 25 years and has run an independent Suzuki studio since 2012.  She is a graduate of Malone University in Canton, OH, where she obtained a Bachelor of Arts in Music Ministry as well as a Certificate of Piano Pedagogy. While at Malone, she studied piano with Professor Emeritus Sandra Carnes and Dr. Michael Benson, as well as organ with Mark Thewes.  She was a member of various ensembles and also served as the accompanist for three of the University's choirs as well as numerous vocal students.  Rachel taught beginner piano students through the Malone Preparatory Program and was also recognized as the outstanding student in her major, graduating cum laude. 

Locally, Rachel has studied piano with Ann Shurtz and Gloria Whitney, as well as Suzuki violin with Angela Schlessman.  While a student of Ann Shurtz, she participated in the National Guild Auditions for 7 years and received the Sonatina and Sonata Medals when she was in middle school.  Rachel frequently accompanies local string studios, soloists, and school choirs.  She is an active member of the Suzuki Association and has completed and registered teacher training in all Suzuki Piano Books (1 through 7), Piano Practicum, and Early Childhood Education Stage 1.  Her teacher trainers have included Fay Adams, Mary Craig-Powell, Dorothy Jones, and Sharon Jones.