About
I am currently Director of Instrumental Music at the prestigious Marlborough School. I am also a private piano teacher, and have been teaching for over twenty years. I teach classical piano, and from the very first lesson, you will be taught to read music, and learn proper hand position and correct fingerings. I am often hired as an accompanist and have a CD of Classical Repertoire that has been featured in film and TV.
I'm very passionate about music and the piano, and I teach children and adults. My young students often continue to study with me until they leave for college. My adult students include people who are retired and also those who are still employed. I absolutely love working with my students, and they can sense my enthusiasm for music. The lessons are never dull. I challenge my students without putting extra pressure on them. The study of music enhances all aspects of life.
Highlights
Reviews
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Dave M.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
I use the Faber and Faber books for new students without any prior training. Transfer students are asked to bring the books that were used with their prior teacher to the first lesson. If transfer students have completed repertoire, I ask them to prepare a piece or two for the first lesson. I can then assess their level and choose appropriate repertoire. I also use Dozen a Day and Hanon as first technique books.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have a degree in piano and music education from the University of Connecticut. I have also done graduate work in Musicology at Boston University. I have done a great deal of accompanying in Los Angeles. As a Music Director at the Marlborough School, I perform regularly. I am a member of the professional organization MTNA, and regularly attend their conferences as part of my continuing professional development.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
I offer 30 and 45 minute lessons. I rarely raise my rates.
How did you get started teaching?
My first piano teaching began in college. As a piano major, I was asked to teach beginning piano to students who played other instruments. After moving to LA, I started teaching piano privately and was offered a job as a Music teacher at the Marlborough School.
What types of students have you worked with?
I have worked successfully with students as young as five years old. Most of my students are children, but now my piano studio includes several adults. I have worked with beginners, as well as advanced students.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
I recently complimented an eleven year old piano student on his progress. He had been coming to lessons more prepared and it was obvious that he had increased his practice throughout the week. We talked about the study of an instrument being a slow and steady process, and he said: "it is slow, but so worth it". That made my day!
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Students should ask teachers about their training. They should be suspicious of teachers who claim they can teach three or four instruments. To receive proper training, you should look for a teacher who will teach reading skills, with an emphasis on proper hand position. A teacher should be able to teach a student to eventually be able to learn music on their own.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
Students should tell a teacher what they would like to accomplish by studying piano. Are they over-extended with too many other activities, or will they have time to practice between lessons? Students are often very busy with academics and sports, so I try to assign the appropriate amount of material to provide a challenging and fulfilling musical experience.