About Gifted Music School
- Eugene Watanabe, Violin
- Shenae Akagi (Anderson), Violin
- Thomas Baron, Violin
- Dr. Blanka Bednarz, Violin
- Linda Duan, Violin
- Caroline Jorden, Violin
- Rebecca Goeckeritz, Violin
- Erika Hubbard, Violin
- Rachel Bower Karr, Violin
- Deborah Moench, Violin
- Rebecca Moench, Violin
- Dr. LeeAnn Morgan, Violin
- David Price, Violin
- Rachel Taft, Violin
- Monica Yardley Thiriot, Violin
- Abby Dreher, Viola
- Dr. LeeAnn Morgan, Viola
- John T. Posadas, Viola
- Katherine Baird, Cello
- Anne Francis Bayless, Cello
- Kevin Shumway, Cello
- Katherine Baird, Double Bass
- Andrew Keller, Double Bass
- David Yavornitzky, Double Bass
Our Mission
Unparalleled Music Education for All
At Gifted Music School, we believe that excellence in music education should be accessible to every child, regardless of socio-economic background. We are committed to providing world-class instruction and mentorship that unlocks each student’s potential. For over a decade, we have guided young musicians to achieve excellence both on stage and in life, nurturing their creativity, discipline, and resilience. Our students don’t just become skilled musicians—they grow into mentors, leaders, and ambassadors who use their talents to create positive change in the world.
We provide an unparalleled musical experience that shapes the whole person. Through personalized lessons, group classes, and performance opportunities, students develop the tools to excel in every area of their lives, from academics to social engagement. At Gifted Music School, we create a foundation for success that goes far beyond music.
Our Founders

Co-Founder, Executive Director

Co-Founder
Gifted Music School was founded in 2009 by Eugene and Vera Watanabe, with the vision of making high-quality, comprehensive music education available to children in Utah. Joined by visionary board member Deborah Moench, they set out to build an institution where students could receive world-class training, regardless of financial circumstance. Thanks to generous scholarships and support from our community, that vision quickly became a reality.
Since our founding, Gifted Music School students have consistently excelled, winning top prizes in local and national competitions. Many of our graduates have gone on to attend the nation’s most prestigious music schools, including The Juilliard School, Curtis Institute of Music, Stanford University, and every major university in Utah. What began as a dream is now a thriving institution that continues to change lives through the power of music education.
Our Programs
Gifted Music School offers a range of programs that create a seamless pathway from early childhood education through high school graduation. Our integrated curriculum ensures that students grow and develop holistically, gaining the skills and knowledge they need to become tomorrow’s community leaders and engaged citizens. From our foundational preschool music classes to advanced instruction in our Conservatory, every program at Gifted Music School is designed to inspire and empower students at every stage of their musical journey.
Awards and Recognition
Our commitment to excellence in music education has been recognized at the highest levels. Gifted Music School is the proud recipient of several prestigious awards, including:
- Utah Governor’s Award presented at the Governor’s Mansion
- Salt Lake City Mayor’s Award for contributions to the arts
- Salt Lake County Commission on Youth Award for our impact on young people
These honors reflect our unwavering dedication to providing outstanding music education and creating opportunities for students to thrive.
Our Sponsors
None of this would be possible without the generous support of our donors and sponsors who make it possible for us to continue helping gifted students achieve their fullest potential by providing them with world-class music education and mentorship.











