about Rachel

Born and raised in St. Louis, MO, Rachel grew a passion for music at a very young age and got her start by singing at her church. She began songwriting in high school. During the summer of 2016, Rachel interned at NSAI and began recording her first album as a country artist. In May of 2017, Rachel was the first to graduate from Webster University with a BM in Songwriting.

After graduation, Rachel moved to Nashville to follow her dreams as a country singer/songwriter. A few months after moving, she felt the Lord leading her down a different path. With a lot of prayer and many meetings with mentors, she began to pursue the calling God had placed on her life as a Christian artist, a worship leader, and a songwriter for both the Country and Christian music industries.

Rachel Seiler released her debut single “Brave” in fall of 2020, as an anthem to anyone who is facing trials and needs God’s strength in their lives today and has continued to release music since.

Rachel’s Teaching Philosophy: “To create a safe space that is fun and exciting to beginners & challenging and encouraging to intermediate and advanced students.”

To create a safe space that is fun and exciting to beginners & challenging and encouraging to intermediate and advanced students.

What’s been the highlight of your professional career — like your biggest spotlight moment to date?
“Writing with some of the songwriters I have looked up to and admired. Along with releasing original music. (I have been invited to play my original music for people who work on Capitol Hill in Washington DC, this February. That will be one of my biggest highlights).”

What type of student will excel best with you as his/her mentor?
“A student who loves music and is eager to grow and learn.”

What does being a “Mentor” mean to you and why are you excited to step into this role?
“Being a mentor means I get to share the love of music with others and inspire them to be the best they can be while having fun. Music made me feel like all my worries in life went away, even if it was just for a bit. I am hopeful I can help others do that while improving their technique and craft.”

What type of music did you grow up listening to? How did it influence your artistry?
“I grew up listening to country music. It definitely influenced me to really focus on the story of the song I am writing and showing you the story instead of just telling you the story.”

Where is your favorite local spot? 
“Hiking at Percy Warner with my Goldendoodle. My favorite venue in town is The Ryman Auditorium. My favorite coffee shop currently is Onyx & Alabaster.”

When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?
“A Singer!”

Salty Treat: Chips and salsa

Sweet Treat: Cookies or cake!

Fast Food Restaurant: Chick-fil-a

Sit Down Restaurant: Pastaria

Coffee Drink: Vanilla latte, with oat milk and half sweet

Movie/Show: Suits & Friends

Place to Shop: Altar’d State, Trader Joes, Target

Candle: Fontana Candles (Brand) Scents: Lavender or Bergamont, fall scents, or Christmas scents

Musician/Band: Phil Wickham & Brandon Lake

Travel Destination: The Beach!

Gift cards I love to receive: Chick fil A, Trader Joes, Gas Station (Exxon) or Visa gift card

meet our
other music mentors
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Teaching isn't just about learning techniques. Our students are led by passionate and well-trained professionals who recognize their greater role in students' lives. To refine your search for a music mentor, select your desired instrument from the options below. 

THE ROOTS MENTOR PHILOSOPHY

Our mentors play a crucial role in shaping not just artists but well-rounded individuals equipped with a growth mindset, character, determination, confidence, and grit — skills that will serve them for a lifetime.

Our approach to music education goes beyond the traditional. While we undoubtedly focus on developing your musical talent, we understand that life's most valuable lessons extend far beyond the notes on a staff.

Our music mentors are passionate about nurturing your artistic abilities and your personal growth.

At ROOTS, we recognize that music is a powerful vehicle for character development. Our mentors instill qualities like discipline, responsibility, and respect through the art of music. Whether you're mastering the piano or perfecting your vocals, you'll also be enhancing essential life skills.

Learning an instrument or refining your singing takes patience and perseverance. Our mentors are there to guide you through the challenging moments, teaching you the importance of determination and grit – qualities that transcend music and apply to all areas of your life.

Self-confidence is a cornerstone of success. Our mentors help you build it through music by celebrating your achievements and nurturing your self-belief. As you hit those high notes or conquer a complex piece, you'll feel your confidence soar.

When you embark on a musical journey with ROOTS, you're not just gaining proficiency in your chosen instrument. You're also acquiring essential life skills that will serve you well in your academic, professional, and personal endeavors.

At ROOTS, it's not just about the music lessons. It's about the profound impact our music mentors have on your life.

At ROOTS, we are proud to have mentors who are actively engaged in the music industry. They're not just teachers; they're performers, composers, and artists who live and breathe music. This unique perspective enriches your learning experience, providing insights that go beyond the lessons.

In the heart of Music City's vibrant music scene, ROOTS Academy mentors often balance roles as musicians and educators. While their occasional commitments on the road or in the studio may lead to mentor substitutions, we're dedicated to keeping you informed about any lesson changes. In the rare event of an unmissable touring opportunity, rest assured that our team will facilitate a seamless transition to a new mentor.

Join us today to embark on an artistic and personal journey that will shape you into the best version of yourself. Experience the difference of mentorship at ROOTS Academy — where performing arts education becomes a transformative life experience.

THE ROOTS WAY

Our mission is to develop extraordinary artists and exceptional humans through transformative performing arts education. Through music, dance, and theatre, we inspire creativity, nurture character, and empower our students to positively impact their community and the world.

mindset
matters

(How we Think)

We believe mindset shapes not just who we are in the studio, but who we become in the world.

excellence
matters

(What we Do)

We believe excellence flourishes when preparation and vision align with discipline and passion.

people
matter

(How we Act)

We believe in creating spaces where everyone feels safe to create, supported to grow, and inspired to excel.

questions?

If you have any questions about our program, please don’t hesitate to call, text or email us. We’re here to help you Monday through Friday, 10am-6pm CST.

EMILY LINDSEY – Music Director
JOSH ASHLEY – Music Operations Manager
ALEXYS HALSTENSGARD – Music Operations Coordinator
LORI KAIRDOLF – Schedule & Billing Coordinator

EMILY LINDSEY
Music Director
JOSH ASHLEY
Music Operations Manager
ALEXYS HALSTENSGARD
Music Operations Coordinator
LORI KAIRDOLF
Schedule & Billing Coordinator