The Piano Lab
About
I have 25 years teaching experience. A Masters degree in music composition and I teach jazz, beginning classical, gospel, and pop. In addition I offer specialized chord voicing instruction.
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
For new students that have no experience this is what I ask:
1. Sing a simple melody with them. Drop out and let them finish on their own.
2. Ask the student to match a few pitches within their singing range.
3. Show him/her the black key 2’s and 3’s. Ask them to cover the 3 group (fingers 1, 2, and 3 are fine; or 2, 3, and 4) and to copy simple patterns that you play.
4. Ask the student to clap back some short rhythms. Or, ask him/her to clap the rhythms to familiar tunes, like Row, Row, Row Your Boat.
5. Tell the student that the Musical Alphabet contains only the letters A through G. Ask the student to try reciting it backwards.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have two Bachelor of Art degrees in music and a Master of Music also in music. I have taught piano for 25 years and have played professionally for 25 years and have lead a number of Jazz clinics.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
My pricing is simply $120 per month.
How did you get started teaching?
I got started teaching after many people at my church as me if I taught. After a year of this I started teaching at Sherman and Clay.
What types of students have you worked with?
My students range from 4-5 year old children to 65-80 year old adults.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
I recently attended a concert by Earth, Wind, and Fire at the Golden 1 Center. It brought back pleasant memories from the first time I saw them.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Whom else have you taught?
How much do you charge?
How long have you been teaching and playing?
How much do you expect your students to practice?
Would you play something for me?
What repertoire do you teach?
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
1. What is your professional and educational experience in music?
2. What is your teaching experience? What age groups do you teach?
3. How do you participate in ongoing professional development?
4. Do you have a written studio policy? Will you review it with me?
5. Do you regularly evaluate student progress?
6. What instructional materials do you use?
7. What kinds of music do you teach?