Mikala “Mika” Howard
Voice & Piano
Mikala “Mika” Howard is a Washington, DC–based multi-disciplinary artist, violinist, vocalist, and educator offering violin, voice, and beginner piano lessons at Takoma Music School. With over 16 years of violin experience and a lifelong background in singing, Mika brings an expressive, holistic, and student-centered approach to music education that blends strong technical foundations with creativity and personal growth.
Teaching Style & Philosophy
Mika’s teaching emphasizes building strong fundamentals while nurturing each student’s individual musical interests and learning style. Lessons are carefully structured to be engaging, challenging, and digestible—helping students develop healthy technique, confidence, and a meaningful connection to music.
Her lessons incorporate:
Classical violin technique and repertoire
Voice development and musical expression
Beginner piano fundamentals
Ear training and musical listening
Technique-building exercises and warmups
Mind-body awareness and performance confidence
Mika believes music learning should feel inspiring and sustainable. Lessons often begin with a brief mindfulness or grounding exercise to help students develop awareness, focus, and connection between body and sound.
Musical Background & Education
Mika has studied under influential classical musicians including:
Tatiana Glava (Dallas Quartet)
Alessandra Cuffaro, the first woman in Italy to perform Paganini’s Caprice No. 24 from memory
These experiences deeply shaped Mika’s passion for both music and teaching.
She graduated with honors from The Catholic University of America, earning a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology with a Minor in Studio Art, while continuing advanced studies in classical violin. Mika later obtained an Art Psychotherapy Certification from Metafora and continues interdisciplinary studies connecting music, psychology, visual art, and human expression.
Performance & Creative Practice
Outside the classroom, Mika remains active in the Washington, DC music scene, performing at local jams, concerts, and collaborative events. She performs in the six-piece experimental jazz fusion band Recursion and enjoys exploring genres including:
Jazz
House
R&B
Rap
Techno
Experimental and improvisational music
Her diverse artistic background allows her to connect with students across a wide range of musical interests and styles.
Who She Teaches
Mika teaches:
Voice students
Beginner piano students
Children, teens, and adults
Creative students seeking expressive and confidence-building instruction
Her lessons are ideal for students looking for a supportive, mindful, and creatively engaging learning environment grounded in strong musicianship and technique.