About
Over 40 years of teaching experience, however, not an old fashioned teacher. Taught in Chicago, Albuquerque New Mexico and Tucson Arizona. Students have won competitions including NMSO Concerto Contest, and numerous competitions in the Chicago land and Tucson areas.
Bachelors Degree in Piano Performance/Pedagogy. Honors work on Masters in Piano Performance/Pedagogy.
Enjoy and passionate about teaching students of all ages, from ages 2-92. Love to teach chamber music.
I enjoy the sharing of positive energy that happens when a student really wishes to learn about piano, and the interaction between student and teacher.
I enjoy sharing my passion of piano with students who wish to be studying with me.
Highlights
Specialties
Years experience
Able to read music
Lesson length
Student's age
Student has instrument
Interested musical styles
Reviews
Catherine W.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
I always do a meet and greet session at my studio before any of us makes a committment to the study of piano with me. This way I can make sure that all personalities work well with each other. During this initial meet and greet we would discuss expectations, repertoire choices, and goals. Study of piano with me is a positive experience.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have a Bachelor's of Piano Performance from DePaul University, and did honors work on my Masters in Piano Pedagogy/Performance from Northeastern Illinois University. Experienced in working with students from age 3-83.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
My lessons are $30 per 30 minute lesson
$45 per 45 minute lesson
$60 per 60 minute lesson
How did you get started teaching?
My teacher, Eloise Niwa, started my teaching career with me when I was 19 years old. She had me practice sometimes daily with some of her students that needed supervise practice time. This worked out wonderfully well, and from there she had me teach younger siblings of her students. This also worked out well, and she became my strongest advocate and referral source for when I was teaching,performing in Chicago
What types of students have you worked with?
I work with students of all ages and all levels. I have to admit that I am not trained to teach students with ADD, ADHD, however, I am trained to teach and help students with dyslexia.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
I enjoy having my students perform in the very relaxed home concerts that I hold here at my home studio. These are not required, but everyone studying piano with me, is invited and encouraged to attend. If anything, to give support, positive thoughts and positive remarks to those brave students who are performing. We always have a pot luck reception after the performances, and students enjoy these too.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Cheap does not always mean a good teacher. Make sure that your interview with the potential teacher does include everyone being really honest with the expectations of each other.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
How long has the teacher been actively teaching.
Does the teacher have degrees in piano pedagogy as well as performance.
Does the teacher listen to the student as well as talk to the student.