About
Teaching and encouraging children, teens and adults to love music through learning to play the piano. I have been teaching beginning and intermediate piano to students for 30 years. Together we explore different types of music. If wanted, we prepare to perform in front of others (2 recitals per year). I provide a welcoming learning environment where we love music and piano together.
Highlights
Reviews
Don H.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
As we arrange for lessons some questions on experience and interests are discussed. Then we meet together for our first lesson and understand the level the student is at. If they already have experience, I have them play some favorite pieces and review their books. We talk about what they would like to accomplish through learning the piano. I usually bring different books to start with and go through them with the student.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have 40 plus years of piano experience. I have played for church; choirs; musicals; and parties. I have accompanied vocalists and instruments as they have performed. I am a college instructor and have experience teaching adults. I am a Mom of 6 and have experience with teaching children.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
Lessons at my home are priced at $25.00 per half hour. I can purchase books and can reimbursed for their cost. Missed lessons without 4 hour notice are charged. Payment can be per lesson or monthly. Cash is preferred, but checks are acceptable. Any returned checks are required to pay fee plus charges in cash.
Travel lessons can be arranged and depending on distance price per half hour is increased from baseline $25.00.
How did you get started teaching?
I love music and wanted to make sure others had the opportunity to learn how to read and play the piano. I started teaching my children and then their friends. As I performed and met others they often asked if I taught lessons and I brought students in.
What types of students have you worked with?
I have worked with children, usually at age 7 is a great time to start. Some are earlier, depending on the skills of the child. I work with teens and with adults. Some of them with no experience, some with a little exposure, and some with intermediate to advance skills.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
I love teaching piano. I usually have a Spring and Winter recital that all who would like to participate can. When you see a student perform and acknowledge the skill they have achieved by reading notes, praticing and playing them for themselves and others to enjoy I get so excited. Regardless of the performance, just being willing to perform is a HUGE accomplishment that gets celebrated.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
When looking for a teacher make sure to look for a fit between your goals and the teachers. Make sure the teacher shows a love toward music and toward teaching.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
Some questions might be about:
1) Mechanics and theory and how the teacher feels about these areas of teaching. Do they drill these areas in or are they incorporated into other things
2) How does a teacher feel about moving outside the lesson books and bringing in other material