Hailing from the great state of Idaho, pianist Ariel Faith Candies began her musical journey at a very young age. Raised in an artistically inclined family,Ariel was afforded the opportunity to begin formal Suzuki piano lessons when she was just four years old, studying sight-reading, music theory, and history, in addition to classical piano techniques. When she was ten years old Ariel had the honor of studying under Danny Wayne Beal, a well-known piano icon who toured the west coast for several decades. Growing up, Ariel and her talented family frequently performed together throughout Idaho, Montana, California, Oregon, and Washington, participating in Sonatina festivals, recitals, concerts, weddings, conventions, and competitions; she even recorded an album with her violinist brother entitled, “The Potter’s Hand.” Ariel began her formal academic career at Gem State Adventist Academy in Caldwell, Idaho, acting as lead accompanist for the choir program, where she also sang in an elite vocal octet that toured the west coast and Canada in 2006. After high school, Ariel continued to study music at the collegiate level enrolling as a music major at Oakwood University in Huntsville, Alabama. Wanting to return to her roots, Ariel returned to Idaho where she served as Musical Director at both Nampa Seventh Day Adventist Church and St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Caldwell.Ariel officially launched her teaching career in 2009 at St. Luke’s Elks Rehabilitation Hospital in Boise, Idaho, offering lessons to children transitioning out of therapy; a position that fostered her love for piano and while supporting her desire to serve others, especially children. Her passion for early childhood education continued to grow and the following year Ariel began teaching at both New Way Montessori and Five Mile Montessori schoolswhere she served as an instructor from 2010 to 2013. Ariel’s unique teaching style provides tailored instruction for all ages and skill levels, from beginner-to-advanced. Her collaborative approach respects the individual interests, skill-level, and goals for each student, while upholding high musicianship standards. Ariel is excited to work with the skilled piano students at Voice in the Valley Music Studio and looks forward to nurturing and empowering their musical talent!