About
During the last ten years of teaching, I have encountered many different types of students at a wide range of ages (4 to 65+ years old). Throughout my teaching experience, I have learned to adapt to my students before I make them adapt to me. That way, the students felt more comfortable and were more encouraged to learn and succeed.
At this point in my life, teaching became something natural rather than a planned process. Nevertheless, I plan my lessons according to the students’ needs. Even though I started learning music at an early age, I believe that it is never too late to learn since music is one of the most beautiful languages and anyone would be privileged to explore its beauty as much as they can and as long as they live.
I keep my lessons straight forward yet fun. I am easy going with my students, but I also make sure to maintain the student/teacher relationship. Being a strict teacher always pays off and the students will understand and appreciate that.
The best part of teaching music is learning. I continue learning about my students, new teaching methods, new concepts, and mistakes that would be avoided in the future.
In addition to that, I love making others understand and appreciate the value of music. Even though I rely on teaching as my main source of income, I get all the satisfaction out of the results I see in my students and how much of what they learn they apply in the real world.
Reviews
Talynn K.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
For students who transfer from a different teacher:
1. I evaluate their skills and learnings (usually involves playing scales and the most recent piece they learned)
2. I evaluate their music theory knowledge and ear training skills
3. I give assignments accordingly
For students who are starting out fresh:
1. I spend a major time of the first session talking to the students and let them tell me what their goal is from taking lessons with me
2. I create a specific and unique lesson plans for that student
3. Set deadlines to achieve those plans
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
• California State University, Northridge
M.M. in Music Composition, degree expected June 2018
• California State University, Northridge
B.M. in Music Writing for Commercial and Media, June 2016
1. Graduated with Honor
2. Member of the Pi Kappa Lambda (National Music Honor Society)
3. Dean’s List 2014, ’15, and ’16
4. Outstanding Student of the Media Composition Program in 2016
• Glendale Community College
A.A. in Piano Performance, June 2013
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
To keep it simple for my students and myself, my lessons last sixty (60) minutes. No more, no less. Those sixty minutes are broken down strategically into categories which allows me to keep in track of time and help my students organize their learning and planning skills.
My rate is $50/hr if the student drives to my studio and $60/hr if I drive to the student’s home (students are expected to have a piano at home). Payments are expected at the beginning of each lesson, or at the beginning of each month (4-lesson series). Payment is accepted by cash, check, or PayPal.
Students are expected to have their lesson materials with them at each lesson. Books, methods, and/or music pieces will be discussed during lessons for purchase from specific stores or to be ordered online.
How did you get started teaching?
During my study process in high school, I began tutoring my classmates in music courses and accompanied many students on the piano for their auditions. The accompaniment career led me to start coaching and help students with their technique and musical phrasings. Through word of mouth, and through parents who loved the way I taught their students, I was recommended for other students who wanted to learn music.
What types of students have you worked with?
In the beginning of my teaching career, I worked mostly with pre-school kids. In those times, I learned how to simplify complicated musical concepts into approachable, fun exercises for kids. That also taught me how to communicate with the parents and make them involved in the lessons as much as their kids. When I started college and transferred to higher education, I worked mainly with adults at many different levels. Some who had no experience in music and were interested to learn. Some others who were more advanced but needed help with theoretical and technical aspects in piano. I eventually settled on teaching for adults who had self interest in learning the piano and developing their musical careers.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
In 2015 and 2016, some of my students participated in piano competitions and received honorable mentions. I also helped some of my students transfer to college and major in piano performance and composition fields. In addition, I have participated in film music festivals and became a member of the National Music Honor Society.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
First and most importantly, do not evaluate teachers based on how much they charge and what educational degrees they have. You can use that to help your judgement, but do not completely depend on it. Instead, read through their teaching policy and investigate how well they organize their teaching methods and lessons. Remember that some of the greatest piano performers are not that great of teachers. You also need to get to know that teacher as someone that you can trust and be comfortable with. Therefore, pay attention to their communication and social skills and how well they carry themselves. That will influence your learning experience.