Meet Susan McAllister

A Lifetime of Learning, Performing, and Sharing Music

Welcome to Bee Music Studios! Located in St. Thomas, Ontario, the studio provides piano and voice lessons for children, teens, and adults. Students learn in a warm, supportive environment where they are encouraged to grow their skills, build confidence, and discover the joy of making music.

Founded by Susan McAllister, Bee Music Studios combines years of teaching experience with decades of real-world performance experience. Susan believes that every student learns differently, and lessons are tailored to each person’s interests, goals, and learning style.

About Susan

Susan’s love of music began at an early age and has continued throughout her life. As a professional pianist and vocalist, she spent more than four decades performing throughout Southwestern Ontario. Her experience includes rock ‘n’ roll, country, Irish, and Christian music, as well as many other musical settings.

Those years on stage gave Susan a unique understanding of what it takes to become a confident musician. Music is not just about learning notes and technique; it is also about expression, connection, and enjoying the process of making music.

Along the way, Susan developed a special interest in how the voice works and how singers can develop healthy, sustainable techniques. Her experience working through the challenges of performing has shaped the way she teaches singers of all levels, from beginners discovering their voice to experienced performers looking to improve their skills.

Education and Training

Susan’s teaching is supported by extensive musical training and continued study, including:

• Piano and music theory training through the Royal Conservatory of Music
• Grade 9 Classical Voice through the Western Conservatory of Voice
• Training in contemporary vocal techniques, including Speech Level Singing (SLS), the Estill Voice Model, Somatic Voicework™ (LoVetri Method), and International Voice Teachers of Mix (IVTOM)
• Graduate of the Music Industrial Arts program at Fanshawe College, specializing in music engineering and record production
• Certified and retired educator with Music for Young Children® and Music Pups® early music education programs

Susan continues to learn and explore new approaches to music education. This helps her provide lessons that are engaging, effective, and grounded in strong musical foundations.

A Family Tradition of Music

Bee Music Studios is a family-run studio, with Susan working alongside her son, Thomas.

Thomas brings his own perspective and enthusiasm to teaching, helping students explore piano through modern approaches and styles while encouraging creativity and confidence. Together, Susan and Thomas create a welcoming studio environment where students of all ages can develop their musical abilities.

Helping Students Discover Their Own Musical Voice

Whether a student is taking their first steps at the piano, preparing for a performance, developing their singing voice, or simply enjoying music as a lifelong hobby, Susan’s goal remains the same. She wants each student to grow, feel successful, and discover the enjoyment that comes from making music.