Denise Kotrla is a singer-songwriter and piano/voice instructor who currently lives in Austin, TX. She performs as a singer-songwriter under the name “denise the beast” because, let’s face it, who can spell Kotrla correctly?!
Ms. Kotrla completed a B.A. in Liberal Arts with a concentration in music and voice at Austin College in Sherman, TX. She also completed a Masters of Music Education with a concentration in vocal pedagogy and early childhood education at University of North Texas.
She has recorded one CD, an LP, “Heart of the Beast” which can be purchased through this website. “Heart of the Beast” contains 5 songs which were all written or co-written by Denise. Denise is also currently writing new material which she hopes to record on another album soon. She has recorded vocals on two children?s educational albums as well with Twin Sisters Productions.
Denise has also been teaching piano & voice lessons for 20+ years, since 1992, and has taught students of all ages, from 5 year olds to adults, and in the college/university environment as well. Since 2007, she has served as the Accompanist/Song Leader at United Christian Church in Austin for one of their services.
Denise writes her own music and has co-written some songs with friends & her sister, Tina Kotrla. Growing up in Texas as a minister’s daughter, she sang frequently in the church and you will often hear Southern Gospel influences as well as an Irish/Welsh lilting style, in her voice, which has been described as “soulful & spiritual”.
I teach private voice & piano lessons based on schedule availability. I have 20+ years of experience teaching students from all age groups.
Please inquire if you are interested by sending an e-mail to: denise@denisethebeast.com