Who is Susan?

Susan Riggs is a pianist and teacher of piano, Dalcroze Eurhythmics and Body Mapping. In addition to private teaching, she conducts master classes, presents programs for the Oregon Music Teachers Association (OMTA). Susan lives and works in Portland Oregon, welcoming students of all ages.

Susan began playing the piano at age 5, continuing through college and her adult years. A kinesthetic learner from the start, Susan was delighted to discover Dalcroze Eurhythmics, a lively integration of body, mind and music. She taught early childhood music classes in the Musical Trolley program at MacPhail Center for the Arts, in Minneapolis, where she also co-developed an Introduction to Piano curriculum. Susan taught at several community music schools in the Boston area while earning her Dalcroze Certificate. She now teaches independently in Portland, Oregon.

Along the way, Susan became injured as a pianist. After struggling for many years, Susan began her journey in 1996 to reclaim her ability to play the piano. She integrated new techniques and methods designed to help students, teachers, and musicians keep playing and enjoying their music without fear of pain or re-injury.

Working with Lisa Marsh, director of the Coordinate Movement Program for Pianists at Portland State University, and Barbara Conable, founder of Andover Educators (which became the Association for Body Mapping Education in 2017),  Susan discovered a way of being, moving and teaching, with awareness and ease. Susan will tell you—refining her body map changed her life, and she is eager to share and guide you in your transformation. If you’ve become injured or experience pain, discomfort or limitation, Susan can work to help you access your true support and undo patterns of tension.

Education

• B.A. in Religion from Oberlin College (1977)
• M. Ed. in Creative Arts in Learning, from Lesley University (1985)
• Dalcroze Certificate, the Longy School of Music (1984)
• Licensed Body Mapping Educator® (2005)
• Coordinate Movement Program, Portland State University (2005)

Professional Organizations

• Oregon Music Teacher’s Association (OMTA)
• Music Teachers National Association (MTNA)
• Association for Body Mapping Education
• Dalcroze Society of America (DSA)
• Dalcroze Society of America NW Chapter
• National Association of Young Children (NAEYC)