Music Lessons In The Sunset
About
Mission Statement: To help music students play complete songs on the piano with both hands in the first lesson, even if they have no music experience and to have them playing their favorite songs within the first month.
I have developed methods to get you playing songs on the piano quickly without learning how to read music or practicing scales and exercises. I have a system using spreadsheets to learn piano arrangements, thereby avoiding the complication of learning to read music at the outset. You will have plenty to keep you busy including learning note names, fingering, hand positions and basic left hand chords. This method has met with great success for every student who has tried it and has the great advantage of allowing you to learn key performance skills from the very first lesson. Even though these are simple arrangements, you will be playing them using professional techniques that will make playing much more enjoyable to you and will impress your friends and family.
My experience in music covers more than fifty years of performing piano (everything from private parties to concerts and live radio), many decades of composing (including two self-produced CDs that received extensive airplay) and more recently, developing skills in guitar, ukulele, voice and harmonica. Not only am I a life-long musician, but more importantly I am still excited about playing music and teaching others how to play.
Highlights
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
We meet and discuss his or her goals, past experience, musical tastes and ability to work on each week's lesson. We discuss possibilities for moving forward whether it be a traditional method series, working from lead sheets or using my own system of learning arrangements in spreadsheet format.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have five decades of performing, arranging and composing experience, two decades of computer experience (composing software, recording software) and more than ten years of teaching experience.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
I charge $60 per hour for lessons in my studio. Students who wish to prepay four lessons in advance can save nearly 20%.
How did you get started teaching?
I started in my twenties and taught for about three years. After many years of "temping", I went back to teaching in my fifties.
What types of students have you worked with?
Children and adults of all ages. At this time, I prefer adults because the vast majority of children are being forced to learn music. I want students that are highly motivated and excited about learning.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
Every lesson with every student I currently teach. It took me many years to learn the art of teaching and the art of finding the right students. All of my current students are exciting about learning and play each day on their own without any prompting from me. I try not to use the "p" word (practice). I prefer to talk about gaining familiarity with a piece and with playing in general.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Take your time and if you don't feel comfortable with a teacher, move on. If a teacher generates unpleasant feelings within you, move on. If a teacher does not listen to you, move on. If a teacher seems bored or indifferent, move on. If a teacher wants you to suffer in order to learn to play, move on.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
Do I have to time to work on music each day? Do I have a comfortable place to play at home where others won't be disturbed? Am I willing to make a large commitment of time and money in order to reach my goals.