Spokane Music Lessons for Kids, Teens, & Adults

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About Bartell Music Academy

It all started with a single accordion, one passionate teacher, and a belief that music has the power to transform lives. Founded by international champion accordionist and educator Patricia Bartell, the Academy has grown into one of Spokane’s most trusted and vibrant centers for music education, welcoming students of all ages, backgrounds, and experience levels.

Today, we offer private and group lessons in piano, voice, violin, guitar, bass, ukulele, drums, and of course, accordion.

Our incredible team of instructors is made up of dedicated, professional musicians who don’t just teach—they mentor, inspire, and bring out the best in every student.

What truly sets Bartell Music Academy apart is the heart behind the instruction

We understand that choosing music lessons isn’t just about picking an instrument. It’s about what you hope music will unlock. Maybe it’s confidence. Focus. Creativity. A sense of joy. A deeper connection to something that matters.

Whether you’re a parent watching your child light up with newfound confidence or an adult finally stepping into something you’ve always wanted to try, we’re here to help that spark catch fire.

Our mission is simple: help students connect with music—and their instrument—as quickly and naturally as possible. Through thoughtful instruction, encouragement, and a focus on real progress, we help each student feel capable, confident, and creatively alive.

It’s about more than music… it’s about the journey, the joy, and the transformation
Spokane Director and Owner,Patricia Bartell, of Bartell Music Academy

World Champion Musician • Master Teacher

Intl. Best Selling Author • 2X TEDx Speaker

Entrepreneur • Keynote Speaker

Patricia Bartell Founder & Director

Patricia is an internationally acclaimed concert artist, educator, and entrepreneur known for her innovative and accessible approach to music education. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Music Education and Accordion Performance from Whitworth University—becoming the first student in the university’s history to earn that degree.

A successful international award-winning accordion competitor, Patricia has performed across North America, South America, and Europe. She is the founder and director of Bartell Music Academy in Spokane, Washington, and president of the Bartell Music Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to expanding music education opportunities.

In addition to her teaching and mentoring work, Patricia is a certified adjudicator for the prestigious Trophée Mondial of the World Accordion Confederation and performs as part of Tango Volcado, a vibrant Argentine tango quartet. She is also the creator of Accordion Life Academy, an online music education platform, and a 2x TEDx speaker and international best-selling author.

Through her multifaceted career, Patricia continues to inspire and empower students of all ages around the world.

Meet the Instructors at Bartell Music Academy

Kind, Patient, and Highly Skilled, Our Teachers Are Committed to Every Student’s Success

Amanda Poulos

Amanda Poulos

Amanda brings 15 years of fiddle teaching and a lifelong love of music to every lesson—making learning joyful at any age.
Austin Davis

Austin Davis

Austin brings energy, skill, and pure joy to every drum lesson—helping students find their groove and love the journey!
Autumn Tucker

Autumn Tucker

Autumn brings creativity and calm to every voice lesson—helping singers grow with style, confidence, and purpose.
Bethany Kittredge

Bethany Kittredge

Bethany helps beginner and intermediate pianists grow with joy, confidence, and personalized lessons that make learning fun!
Emble Phelps

Emble Phelps

Emble brings joy, technique, and creativity to voice and violin lessons, making learning playful, personal, and confidence-building.
Jayden Salazar

Jayden Salazar

Jayden blends classical training with modern flair—helping vocalists expand their vocal technique and confidence.
Jeff Heatwole

Jeff Heatwole

Jeff keeps lessons relaxed, thoughtful, and skill-focused while helping students grow through music they enjoy playing.
Johanna Campbell

Johanna Campbell

Johanna brings fun, focus, and passion to every piano lesson—helping students find joy, confidence, and creativity through music.
Matthew Diaz

Matthew Diaz

Matthew brings energy, versatility, and a love for music to every lesson—helping drummers of all ages have fun and find their groove!
Nick Jahde

Nick Jahde

From Disney tunes to Chopin, Nick brings fun, skill, and personalization to every piano lesson—tailored to each student’s style!
Patricia Bartell

Patricia Bartell

International performer and champion, Patricia inspires accordionists of all levels to play with skill, heart, and bold confidence.
Sam Thomas

Sam Thomas

World champion accordionist Sam inspires students with passion, precision, and a love for making music fun and personal.
Suzanne Phillips

Suzanne Phillips

Suzanne blends 20+ years of experience, versatility, and a chill vibe to help students of all ages grow with confidence and skill.
Tanya Zdanevskaia

Tanya Zdanevskaia

Tanya makes piano lessons relaxed, fun, and inspiring—helping students connect, express, and celebrate every musical win!
Tommy Patton

Tommy Patton

Tommy helps students build solid skills and play real music quickly while keeping lessons fun, clear, and grounded in great technique.
Whitney Littrel

Whitney Littrel

With warmth and vocal wisdom, Whitney helps singers grow in confidence, artistry, and healthy technique—one note at a time!
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