What We’re All About
AWSOM was founded in 2014 by Andrew White (and that’s where we get our name - Andrew White School of Music or A.W.S.O.M.). When Andrew’s waiting list grew too long, he invited piano teacher John Hart to take some students on. From there, AWSOM continued gaining students and needed more teachers. Nathan Straub joined AWSOM as a teacher in 2016 and was then added to the staff as the Assistant Director. He was promoted to Managing Director in 2018. Nathan and his wife, Hanae, were inspired by the mission of teaching music to as many people as possible, and they acquired AWSOM from Andrew in 2018.
Their goal to spread music throughout as many homes as possible continues to fuel AWSOM today. We strive to make music lessons as accessible as possible by providing teachers that come to you - whether in your home or online. With the many educational and extracurricular opportunities kids are given, music lessons shouldn’t be an added stress. We work with your schedule and your needs, and you can take your pick of qualified teachers. The free trial process allows you to find the perfect fit!
Our Team
Nathan Straub - Owner
Nathan met his wife and co-owner Hanae at Lake Washington High School, and they both graduated from Washington State University with Bachelor and Masters degrees in Voice Performance and Music Education, respectively. They have three daughters, Isla, Piper, and Violet, and a cat, Missy.
Learning music had a profound impact on Nathan and Hanae’s lives, and they aim to make sure AWSOM teachers can have that same impact in the lives of each and every AWSOM student.
Emma Jackson - Managing Director
Emma joined AWSOM as an online teacher in the summer of 2020, and she became Managing Director in October of the same year. Emma lives in Salt Lake City, UT with her husband Nick and their baby, Russell.
Emma graduated from BYU with a degree in Media Composition, and she enjoys spreading the love of composition to her students. When she isn’t teaching or composing, Emma enjoys exploring the local food scene.
Katherine Allen - Payment Manager
Katherine became a teacher with AWSOM in April 2022 then Payment Manager in June 2024. She is a singer, pianist and guitar player originally from Pullman, Washington and completed her Bachelor's of Music degree in Vocal Performance at the University of Victoria.
Inspired by the amazing teachers that consistently shaped the trajectory of her life, Katherine prioritizes creating a welcoming, fun and judgment-free teaching space all while being an integral part of AWSOM’s administrative team!