Penn Hills chef: Teaching music for free

Michael Pattillo conducts private music lessons at a Penn Hills church at no cost to the students. The Pittsburgh native and professional chef uses his off hours to instruct young musicians in a small group setting.

Pattillo attended CAPA and studied music at Mansfield University before switching careers to the culinary arts. He now works as a caterer. He began volunteering his time to teach after recalling how local mentors provided free instruction to him during his childhood.

The lessons are free. A typical search for private music instruction shows monthly costs ranging from $250 to $600. Pattillo started this program to repay the generosity he received as a child.

He views the students as having natural skill that requires refinement. He focuses on building confidence and discipline rather than aiming for every student to join the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra. He believes these traits serve students well in other areas of life.

Pattillo cited music and his family as his main motivators. He said, "There is a lot of value in teaching music, what it can do. The discipline it will teach, and the doors it will open."

He continues to teach in the church space. He hopes the lessons help students develop the confidence to navigate future opportunities.