Artist of the Month: Lisa Page

A resident of The Mt. Hood Villages since the age of three, musician Lisa Page has been an instrumental part in the delightful sounds, education, and melodies of the community for the last 37 years. Inspired by her mother’s own piano skills, Page became a student of music at age six. “My mom always played and it just seemed like that is what you do when you grow up,” Page said. “There were artists that I loved and wanted to make music like. I like playing percussively while creating melodies and harmonies at the same time. You can’t do that with just any instrument,” Page added.

A musician in every sense of the word, Page has dabbled in a variety of different instruments. Creating music while playing the flute, piano, hand percussion, ukulele, singing, and most recently, the guitar, Page has given herself a wide range of methods for sharing her art with those lucky enough to hear her. “I love to sing," Page said. “If I could only choose one way to make music, singing would probably be my favorite because you not only make beautiful melodies, you combine them with words and I feel like I can fully express my heart,” Page added.

While many artists confine their artistic skills strictly to pen, paper, and imagination, Page decided her talents were worth sharing and expanded to become a music teacher. “I always knew that I would be a teacher from as far back as I can remember,” Page said. “I love teaching because I get to work alongside my students, earn their trust by encouraging them in the learning process, and share with them one of the biggest joys of my life,” Page added.

Although the music and sharing her passion is a large part of why Page continues to bless the community with her gifts, she also explains that the lasting relationships she builds with her students is a contributing factor to her longevity as a music teacher. “The fascinating part is that music is the access point to every facet of life,” Page said. “Through music, I get to build beautiful friendships with the students and their families that come through my door every week. It is a sacred trust I do not take lightly,” Page added.

Although Page continues to find inspiration from her students, some of her greatest moments as a musician have come from other artists and performers. An admirer of Sir Elton John, Page finds his technique and style similar to the sounds she enjoys creating. His powerful and passionate music has inspired Page in her own performances, both as a musician and a teacher. Much of her inspiration can be found simply by looking out her window. “I always feel inspired to create music no matter where I am. I can’t seem to go anywhere without taking an instrument of some sort so I can make music if the mood hits me,” Page said. “Living on the mountain does make it pretty easy to feel inspired, and it seems that any type of music I write feels right at home up here,” Page added.

For more information on lessons with Page, please visit www.lisapagemusicstudio.com