Chrissy Anderson is the passionate leader behind Otter Music Studio, bringing two decades of piano teaching experience to the Hampton Roads community. As a proud graduate of the University of Central Florida, she earned a B.A. in Music, focusing on piano performance and pedagogy. Chrissy is dedicated to helping students of all ages find joy and confidence in music, whether they're playing their first notes or gearing up for college auditions and competitions. Her teaching style mixes effective techniques with a fun approach, ensuring lessons are both engaging and educational. Under her guidance, Otter Music Studio provides a nurturing and creative space where students can thrive, perform, and connect with others—all while sharing smiles and laughter.

A Personal Journey with Music

Chrissy believes everyone has a story to tell, and hers is particularly inspiring. Her musical journey has seen its share of ups and downs, but she knows firsthand how music can heal the soul and bring joy, laughter, and comfort during tough times.

Growing up in a small rural community in Florida, Chrissy’s family couldn't afford piano lessons. However, she fell in love with the instrument at the age of three and has cherished it ever since. Learning to play entirely by ear, she was lucky when a community member noticed her talent and helped her pursue formal piano lessons as a teenager—a dream come true. She worked tirelessly throughout high school to prepare for college auditions, eventually getting into summer camps and multiple colleges and universities, earning scholarships, and winning piano competitions.

She has performed at various venues, resorts, and as a local musician for churches and both public and private events. Chrissy also volunteers her time playing for assisted living facilities in the southeast, fully aware of music's healing and comforting power. While she enjoys an occasional solo performance, she prefers collaborative and ensemble work.

A Dedication to Teaching

Chrissy finds great joy in sharing the knowledge she has gained through her education, mentors, and professional experiences. Her teaching philosophy centers around meeting each student where they are. If a student needs confidence, that's her focus; if they need patience or encouragement, she provides it. She firmly believes that students learn best when they're interested, engaged, and confident.

Using proven teaching methods—both traditional and modern—Chrissy tailors her approach to each student's unique strengths. She aims to make learning to read music less stressful, knowing that this is why many adults gave up piano lessons as kids. Plus, she loves helping students discover music that resonates with them while making sure they develop solid technical skills.

Why the Otter?

So, why did Chrissy choose the otter as her business mascot? For one, otters are beloved creatures in Hampton Roads, cherished at the Virginia Aquarium and native to the Chesapeake Bay area and Elizabeth River watershed. The otter symbolizes the community Chrissy fell in love with when she moved from Florida a decade ago. She also sees a bit of herself in their playful personalities.

A child at heart, Chrissy believes music education should always be joyful and filled with laughter. When tears and frustrations arise, much like a mother otter comforting her young in the water, a music teacher should embody kindness, compassion, patience, and grace. Moreover, otters symbolize love, loyalty, friendship, healing, wisdom, and grace. Chrissy appreciates their playful curiosity and intelligence, as well as their ability to embrace life in the moment.

"I'm so lucky to never have to work in my life, because the thing that brings meaning and purpose to life is what I do." - Yuja Wang