Maren Daynes
Sparks
Summary
Concert pianist, collaborative artist, and Nationally Certified Teacher of Music (NCTM) with over 10 years of experience in piano instruction, performance, and collaborative music-making. Holds a Master of Music in Piano Performance from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, with specialized training in collaborative piano and pedagogy. Experienced in private studio teaching, chamber music, vocal collaboration, concerto performance, and music education research. Dedicated to fostering musical growth through individualized instruction, mentorship, and artistic excellence.
Overview
11
11
years of professional experience
Work History
Private Piano Instructor
Self
Various Locations
09.2015 - Current
- Designed and implemented customized piano curricula, enhancing learning experiences for students with varying levels of proficiency.
- Developed engaging curriculum that prioritizes technical skills, performance excellence, and the cultivation of a deep appreciation for music.
- Developed tailored strategies to enhance student performance in recitals, competitions, auditions, and personal musical goals.
- Applied innovative educational techniques grounded in research to promote effective student development.
Graduate Assistant
University of Nevada, Las Vegas
Las Vegas, NV
08.2024 - 05.2026
- Coordinated and executed collaborative piano sessions to support UNLV Opera vocal and choral programs effectively.
- Delivered individualized piano instruction and mentorship to support undergraduate students' musical development.
- Curated and performed a wide-ranging selection of opera, art song, chamber music, and ensemble works to showcase versatility and artistry.
Education
Master of Music - Piano Performance
University of Nevada, Las Vegas
Las Vegas, NV05-2026
Bachelor of Music - Piano Performance
Utah Valley University
Orem, UT05-2024
Certificate: Piano Pedagogy -
Utah Valley University
Orem, UT05-2024
Certificate: Collaborative Piano, Chamber Music -
Utah Valley University
Orem, UT05-2023
Skills
- Sight-reading proficiency
- Pedagogical skills
- Continuing education
- Adaptive teaching methods
- Repertoire selection
- Performance preparation
Accomplishments
Selected Performance Highlights
- Performed Brahms Piano Trio No. 3 at Carnegie Hall, New York City
- Featured concerto soloist with Utah Valley Symphony and Sinfonietta Vidin (Bulgaria)
- Performed at the International Musicians Academy (Bulgaria), Gijón International Piano Festival (Spain), and Eastern Music Festival (North Carolina)
- Collaborated with UNLV Opera Workshop, Desert Singers Las Vegas, VOX Femina Los Angeles, and regional choral organizations
Awards and Honors
- First Prize, American Protégé International Piano and Strings Competition
- First Prize, Utah Valley Symphony Concerto Competition
- First Prize, Young Collaborative Pianists Competition
- First Prize, World's Best Musicians Classical Music Competition
- First Prize, Great Composers Concerto Series
- Additional recognition from American Soloist International Music Competition and Charleston International Music Competitions
Research, Presentations, and Leadership
- Research interests: piano pedagogy, rhythm instruction, studio design, and performance preparation
- Presented research at the Utah Music Teachers Association and Utah Conference of Undergraduate Research
- President, UNLV Music Teachers Association
- President, UVU Music Teachers Association
- Vice President of Membership, Las Vegas Music Teachers Association
Certifications and Affiliations
- Nationally Certified Teacher of Music (NCTM)
- Music Teachers National Association (MTNA)
Timeline
Graduate Assistant
University of Nevada, Las Vegas
08.2024 - 05.2026
Private Piano Instructor
Self
09.2015 - Current
Master of Music - Piano Performance
University of Nevada, Las Vegas
Bachelor of Music - Piano Performance
Utah Valley University
Certificate: Piano Pedagogy -
Utah Valley University
Certificate: Collaborative Piano, Chamber Music -
Utah Valley University