Glenna Switzer is a classically trained pianist, freelance keyboard player, singer/songwriter, recording artist, and teacher. Since 1983, she has taught piano, voice, organ, keyboards, and theory. During this time, she has mentored many young people in performance through organizations such as the Saskatchewan Country Music Association, Southwest Chapter (which she is the founder), monthly Youth Talent Nights held at the Lyric Theatre (which she is a founding committee member), assorted music festivals, and Telemiracle. This ongoing mentorship allowed Glenna to receive the honour of an invitation by former Premier Brad Wall to the Prince’s Luncheon with Prince Edward for her contributions to music and youth in the Southwest.
Glenna studied piano for 15 years where her education included private lessons with Myrna Fleenor while growing up in Central Butte, the University of Regina, as well as with Professor Robin Harrison at the University of Saskatchewan.
Glenna is a firm believer in students finding their own voice. Her teaching philosophy is summed up nicely by Henry van Dyke: “The woods would be very silent if no birds sang there except those that sang best.” She instills this belief in her students every day and is passionate about helping other artists achieve their dreams. Glenna has earned an excellent reputation for being a knowledgeable, empathetic, and inspiring teacher and mentor for young musicians. Her past students include Dana Rempel (Bears in Hazenmore, Megan Nash) and Colter Wall.
Currently in her third year as a music teacher at Maverick High School, Glenna takes great pride and joy in helping young musicians hone their talent and become more comfortable performing onstage. She is actively involved with the ongoing Youth Talent Night at the Swift Current Lyric Theatre and student showcase nights at Maverick High School Coffee House. Students, parents, and colleagues have given Glenna tremendous positive feedback for thinking fast on her feet (and hands) as band leader to her students, helping to bring out their best performances.
Glenna has been nominated for 11 SCMA awards. She is the proud recipient of the 2011 SCMA Country Music Person of the Year, 2012 SCMA Keyboard Player of the Year, and 2017 SCMA Roots Album of the Year for her debut album A Long Time Comin’.
Glenna and her husband Blaine own and operate Switzer Angus. They have two children, Matthew and Jillian, and a daughter-in-law, Danielle.
