About
Hello! I'm from New Zealand and moved here to the USA in 2020 with my American husband. Playing the piano was a huge part of my life growing up; with lessons, competitions, recitals, playing for church and exams - culminating with passing 2 practical Teaching diploma examinations with the Trinity College of London (ATCL and LTCL). For these diplomas, my teacher recommended I have a student myself so with guidance from her, I started teaching as a 17yo, and continued for the next 30 years.
** You can also find my flyer / advertisement in the Bentonville Public library.
** I prefer to start a beginner as a 7-year-old, or close to turning 7, as they've learned fractions: half, quarter etc. which are used in music notation.
I get real enjoyment from seeing children learn to play the piano and read music, to grow in their ability and also get enjoyment from playing an instrument. It's like learning a 2nd language that is universal world-wide! This enriches your child's growth and also gives much pleasure throughout their whole life, for themselves and others; their family, friends, church and school.
I teach how to read music (classical style) with theory of music also being very important. I really like using the American Alfred's method beginner books, but can work with others also. I like to use stickers and other rewards (eg. games) for every improvement, especially for mile-stones.
Safety during the lessons:
* Please don’t use hand sanitizer as it often leaves a sticky residue that could harm the keys of a piano.
* If your child is sick (fever, cough, sore throat, runny nose etc) lessons will be suspended until they are completely well.
Helping children learn to play the piano is a wonderful journey that enriches the child's life as they learn a new skill.
Highlights
Payment methods
Specialties
Years experience
Able to read music
Lesson length
Student's age
Student has instrument
Interested musical styles
Photos and videos
Reviews
Cassie N.
Turner
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
* Ask a few questions about them in general to get to know them: likes, hobbies, family etc.
* Make sure young children are feeling comfortable
* Go over how much they already know about the piano
* Introduce them to the next steps of instruction
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
Two practical teaching diplomas from the Trinity College of London (ATCL and LTCL)
I hold a Diploma of Children's Ministries (DipChnMin) from BTI (Bethlehem Tertiary Institute - Tauranga New Zealand)
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
How did you get started teaching?
For the two practical teaching diplomas I did, my teacher recommended I have a student myself so with guidance from her, I started teaching as a 17yo, and continued on for the next 30 years.
What types of students have you worked with?
Mostly beginners, but also have experience with some older students wanting to further their musical knowledge.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
Watched a couple of hummingbirds on a feeder for the first time in my life - we don't have them in New Zealand. They are so tiny and graceful and their wings are soooo fast they're a blur.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Passion and Practice! Two important things to really succeed with learning - anything! Have you been "tinkering" on the piano and wish you could play it better? Do you love music and would work on improving your playing? Then give piano a try! It will give you a broad base of knowledge for music in general, and instead of just tinkering you'll soon be playing tunes.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
* Do you have a quality piano or keyboard to practise on at home?
* Do you have time during the week to put in some practise on your piano playing?
I'm happy to answer any and all other questions :)