About
I really don't like to move on until a student gets it. Sometimes it's too hard and you have to move on and then later on it circles back and clicks in place but most often I want them to understand before we move on to the next thing. That's really important to me. I guess what i'm trying to say is I try to be very patient.
I really value working with each person at their level and progressing them in the most natural way. I do push my students but I back off if it becomes overwhelming. I really want my students to be successful in whatever they do so not only do I teach them the art of playing piano but I teach them how to learn and how to be self sufficient. For example, the majority of the time I don't give my students the answers but I try to help them discover it so they're the ones building the connections to understanding.
Music is definitely like a new language and I think it should be treated with care and with utmost patience.
I thrive on seeing my students grow and develop as they discover what they can achieve. When they get that glitter in their eye and you know you've connected with them and what they once found confusing clicks into place, there's really no other feeling like it.
Reviews
Jayanta D.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
The first thing I do with a new student is listen to them play or perform depending on their experience. I want to find out where they are with their instrument. After I have found out where they are I work around their level to make sure they have a strong foundation to build new concepts off of. I want to meet every person I work with at their level so they feel comfortable progressing. I like to think of growth as a natural experience as opposed to a jarring stressful one. After I have reviewed or taught surrounding/foundational material I construct a plan to help you achieve your goals wth your instrument.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
My qualifications include an associates in Audio engineering, a Bachelors in Psychology and Child Development and a Masters of Fine Arts in Electronic music and Recorded media
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
My standard pricing for private lessons is $70 an hour or $35 for 30 minutes.
How did you get started teaching?
I have always wanted to help people. Someone asked me how to do something and I jumped at the chance to help them learn how to do it. After a while, I applied for a teaching position at a small private school where I lived and taught music for a year. That was the beginning of my music education career.
What types of students have you worked with?
All ages
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
A premiere of the film Play/Prey at the Minessota Street Project that I wrote the score for.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Find out if they're patient enough for you and not putting themselves above your needs. I've had teachers in the past tell me to figure out things without willing to actually teach me. Not good.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
I guess first ask what are your needs? How do you learn best? Visually? Aurally? Tactilely?
Do you have a learning disability? Or hindrances that you want someone to be aware of and accomodate?
I thnik that's a good place to start. Also of course figuring out what you're goals are, etc.