About
Fun and inspiring piano lessons in your home!
When I was old enough to stand and reach the piano keys, I began to create simple melodies.. By age 5, I had taught myself to play by ear.” I began taking lessons at age 6 with a USC graduate and continued with the same teacher until I graduated from High School. At the same time, I joined my first choir at age 8 and haven’t stopped singing or playing since!
My piano teacher was a mentor who instilled confidence in me and stood behind me as a constant source of creativity, encouragement and inspiration.. Now I am walking her capable footsteps and utilizing her time tested methods combined with a new, cutting-edge methods of my own.
At USC I studied choral conducting, continued to study piano and also began pipe organ lessons. During college I began conducting a children’s choir at a private school and also directed handbell choirs. I was later hired by this private school and church as their Music Director just prior to graduation. Over the past 30 years I have taught private piano and voice students, directed church and handbell choirs, accompanied professional singers, trained novice singers and served as a church organist. I have also participated in community chorales and directed Broadway musical reviews. I formed a young adult Choir and took them on multiple tours throughout the southwest. I taught students to sing who previously struggled to match notes. Personally, I believe that anyone can learn to sing with the right training. I refuse to believe that anyone is “tone deaf”. That word is not in my vocabulary!
I am currently the Choir Director and Organist at St. John's Church in Los Angeles.
Although I am a classically trained musician I love exploring other genres. I will encourage you, as my student, to play and/or sing a variety of music. I can assist you to learn pop, new age and jazz as well as classical and sacred music.. My musical passion has taken many forms. I believe my students find it infectious. In turn, I am fueled by your enthusiasm and accomplishments.
Your success and satisfaction is my ultimate goal. Learning to be a musical performer is a journey of joy which will enhance your life in ways you cannot imagine. I am thrilled to help you discover this.... so let’s get started!
As we begin our lessons, I will sit down with you to discuss your personal goals. Then we’ll create a plan to execute together in order to reach those goals. My teaching philosophy encompasses a broad spectrum approach to inure that my students have a well-rounded musical education. Each lesson covers basic music skills, sight-reading, dexterity, dynamic interpretation, articulation, practice techniques, expression, music theory and music history as well... I firmly believe in utilizing metrics to set goals and track progress. Rewards follow in a variety of forms. The greatest reward, however, is when you, or your child, are able to perform with confidence and enjoy your own achievements.
I am a member of the Music Teacher's Association of California and I prepare my students for annual State evaluations. This process increases progress and assists students to strive for excellence.
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Rainbow Y.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
When I begin with a new student I ask them a few questions to determine their goals. Then I create a plan and explain how we'll meet the goals. Typically, I utilize several piano methods and select the method that best suits the student. All of my students are taught Technic (scales and chords) classical and contemporary repertoire, music theory, sight reading and ear training.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have a Bachelors Degree in Music from USC. I have 30 years of teaching experience and I'm a member of the Music Teacher’'s association.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
I charge $30 for a 30 minute lesson. 30 minutes is sufficient for a young beginner. When the student reaches Level 5, we increase the lesson to 45 minutes. My advanced students (Levels 8-10) are given 60 minutes.
How did you get started teaching?
I began teaching piano while I was attending USC. In addition, I directed children's choirs and later taught elementary school music.
What types of students have you worked with?
Children between the ages of 6 -17. I also teach adults.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
My last student recital was in December. Each child played 1 Christmas piece and 1classical piece. Later we enjoyed a hot cocoa and cookie reception with parents, grandparents and siblings. I hold 2 recitals per year. State evaluations and testing take place on the first weekend of March.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
The key factors in a successful relationship between student and teacher is understanding each others expectations and managing those expectations. In addition, students must make a commitment to practice.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
Am I willing to practice the piano for 20-30 minutes at least 5 days per week? Will I do my written theory lesson every week? Will I read the notes my teacher has written in my assignment book?