About
I am a piano teacher who actively engages students and helps them develop a love of music. One of the most rewarding things for me as a teacher is seeing something "click" when students get a concept.
I have been playing piano for nearly 30 years, and have played a wide variety of gigs, from recitals and concerts, to religious services, weddings, and musical theater. I currently teach high school choir and band in the Bay Area.. I use the knowledge that I have gained from my many years of public performance and tailor lessons to help students learn the piano and music theory quickly.
In my competitive days, I finished 1st place in back-to-back years at the Music Teachers Association of California Piano Competition (Solano County), and was a finalist at the Glenn Miller Instrumental Competition in Clarinda, Iowa. I graduated from Sacramento State University with a Bachelor of Music in Piano Performance.
Highlights
Reviews
Michaela L.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
For new students, we begin by exploring all avenues of music. There will be equal emphasis given to reading, rhythm, and technique.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
30 years of piano experience
25 years of performing
Performance experience includes recitals, concerts, religious services, and musical theater. Highlights include performances internationally and at Carnegie Hall.
Specialization in sight-reading
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
I charge $35 per 30-minute lesson.
Lessons occur weekly.
How did you get started teaching?
I started teaching piano lessons in high school. While a college student, I began instructional aide work at the high school level. I have been teaching high school choir and band for the last 15 years.
What types of students have you worked with?
I have worked with students of all ages
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
Performing on stage at Carnegie Hall! I don't know which part was more exciting... playing the piano or playing a percussion part on wine glasses. Curious about the wine glasses? Contact me to find out more!
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Find someone with lots of energy and lots of ppatience. Find someone who is relatable and who can inspire you. I hope I can be that teacher for you!
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
The best quote I can think of is "There's no such thing as a dumb question." Ask anything you need the answer to; it is better to know and to figure it out early than to fix a problem later.