Lisa Fenderson Piano Studio
About
I'm devoted to opening the minds of all to the joy and power of music. Focusing on cultivating keyboard skills, musicianship and artistry, I create an environment in which the discovery and learning experience unfolds in a natural way. I'm dedicated to serving all ages and playing levels seeking growth at the piano, establishing a strong foundation and elegance in building keyboard and musicianship skills to support artistic expression.
I've been teaching piano in the San Gabriel Valley for almost 4o years. I studied piano at USC and earned my Master of Music in Conducting degree in 2009 from Cal State L.A. In 2016 I earned my Kodály Musicianship Certification from the Kodály Association of Southern California. I'm a conductor with the National Children's Chorus and teach musicianship at Cal Poly Pomona and Azusa Pacific University.
I love making music and great music literature accessible to all. Music is transformative and magical but it's not a mystery. It's built upon a very logical system that everyone can learn. My joy is helping the student to learn this wonderful language.
Specialties
Years experience
Able to read music
Lesson length
Student's age
Student has instrument
Interested musical styles
No reviews (yet)
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
If the student is new to the piano, I get to know them and assess what they understand about the piano and music. I teach them about their body at the keyboard and how to read the language of music. Transfer students play for me and I assess their level by their performance. I then assign repertoire that will help strengthen what they know and build skills that should be developed.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I've been teaching piano for 39 years, 2 degrees (BA and MM) and a certification in Kodály Musicianship Training. I teach musicianship at the university level and I've been teaching children and adults for almost 4 decades.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
My fees are $35 for 30 min., $45 for 40 min. and $65 for 1 hour.
How did you get started teaching?
I began teaching as a piano major at the University of Southern California in Los Angeles.
What types of students have you worked with?
I've worked with all ages and abilities.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
Year-end recitals are always enjoyable because the students are celebrated for their hard work and achievement.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Make sure your prospective teacher is qualified with degrees and certifications and, most importantly, is interested in how you learn. Your instruction should be tailored to your needs.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
How much am I willing to practice to achieve results?
What am I struggling with that's preventing me from moving forward easily? Some concerns may be note or symbol reading, hand or finger coordination, knowledge of how to use gravity efficiently.