About Tela

Tela grew up in the 80’s minding the day-to-day tasks on her family’s tree farm just outside Arlington, WA. From general farm maintenance to timber production, Tela helped implement and adapt forestry practices to meet the new environmental regulations of the time.

In 1988 she moved to Olympia to attend The Evergreen State College and pursue studies in music and poetry.

Upon graduation, she started working at a local bakery slicing and bagging bread. Armed with a solid work ethic, she soon found herself propelled into all aspects of bakery production and management.

She continued her music studies from 1993-2014 with a local instructor, dedicating countless hours to her music practice.

A local performer and fixture in Olympia’s music scene since 1988, Tela launched her career as a music instructor and educator in 1998. Throughout her career she has taught hundreds of students, inspiring joy and excellence in their music practice, performance and careers.

Tela has hosted open mics, encouraging aspiring musicians by providing a welcome and supportive environment for performers of all ages and abilities.

After 20 years of teaching at a local music store, Tela opened her own teaching studio in 2018. In March of 2020 she moved her teaching practice online and closed her studio location. In July of 2021, she began preparing to open her new location in downtown Olympia where she continues to teach.