TEACHER:
​Harmony Singing. Clawhammer Banjo. Appalachian Clogging.

As a teacher of music and dance, Leela has inspired literally thousands of school children, banjo students, percussive dancers, and singers of all ages through the classes, school assemblies, week-long camps, and lessons that she has taught across the U.S. and Canada since she was little more than a child herself. Her students have called her a "dynamic, engaging, and knowledgeable instructor" and "a skilled musician" who "has a wonderful ear, and a super way of motivating you to develop your skill." She is a kind, entertaining, experienced teacher who offers clear, understandable instruction to singers, musicians, and dancers of all levels.

In 2018, she opened her own school of music and dance in Portland, Rose City Folk School. Please head to the ROSE CITY FOLK SCHOOL SITE for current class and lesson offerings! The school is home to a variety of classes, lessons, and workshops for all ages. The focus is on making the joy of music accessible and welcoming to all, regardless of background, "talent," or experience. The school offers exceptional and community-oriented instruction in clawhammer banjo, by-ear harmony singing, Appalachian clogging, and more to anyone with a desire to learn (be you a complete beginner or an experienced musician seeking a new challenge). Classes and lessons are available in person in Portland, Oregon and remotely anywhere! She also directs two vocal ensembles, ResistSing! and Rose City Folk Chorus.