About
I think my unique gift is the ability to inspire and motivate my students to go above and beyond, through my example, and through consistent encouragement. My mission statement perhaps says it best:
Mission Statement:
"To provide a learning experience for my students that is fun, and alive. My intent is to inspire and encourage my students to bring their passion, excellence, and dedication not only to the art of playing music but to the unique dreams they choose to pursue in their lives." -Miss Kristina
I enjoy so many aspects of my work, but when my students tell me that they can't wait to practice, that they're excited about our next recital, or that they don't want to go on vacation because they don't want to miss any lessons, it's the best!
Highlights
Specialties
Years experience
Able to read music
Lesson length
Student's age
Student has instrument
Interested musical styles
Photos and videos
Reviews
LeeAnn K.
Lynn G.
Jane K.
Yvette M.
Jennifer G.
Kelly B.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
Every student can be a little different, so generally, I tailor to the individual. The process begins by assessing where they are in their musical training- if they've had any - and from there, finding out what kind of music they love, and what they want to achieve. From there, I tailor a 3-6 month plan that includes fundamentals; reading, theory, technique, rhythm studies, and guide them through the pieces they need to play so that they can play more of the pieces they want to play. I like to give each student a little bit of everything along the way; Classical, Jazz & Pop, so that there is always a fun mix to look forward to.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I took 8 years of classical lessons as a kid. As a young adult, I went to the Musician's Institute Keyboard program, (with a focus on Pop & R&B), and graduated with honors. I am also a professional songwriter, so those early years of intensive study have served me technically, and creatively- in my teaching, and in the music I create. My goal is to give my students the inspired training that I've had - in hopes that they'll enjoy the art of making music for a lifetime. It's such an enriching experience.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
For students who travel me:
$35 per lesson + materials | Billed per month (for 4 or 5 weeks/lessons) @ the beginning of each month
If I travel to you:
Single Student Household: $45 per lesson + materials | Billed per month (for 4 or 5 weeks/lessons) @ the beginning of each month
Multiple Student Household: $42.50 per lesson + materials | Billed per month (for 4 or 5 weeks/lessons) @ the beginning of each month
How did you get started teaching?
I was a camp counselor during college and was asked to design an after school music program for K-6. It was very successful, and many of the kids wanted to take piano lessons from me. So, that's how I started! It really was by word of mouth, and referrals that I became a successful private teacher.
What types of students have you worked with?
I have worked with such a wide range of students! I have taught small children as young as 4 1/2 years old, and adults up to 85 years old. I teach beginning, intermediate, and advanced students. I teach everyone... children, teenagers, adults and seniors of various life walks, experience and abilities, and some with disabilities; dyslexia, ADD, ADHD, and Hearing Impaired.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
Just last week, I got a phone call from a parent of a former student who had taken a break from her piano lessons back in 2014. Her daughter was having trouble in high school, going through tough issues, and had revealed in therapy that the last time she felt happiest was when she was taking piano lessons with me. So, a few days ago, my former student who is now 17 years old... drove herself to my house, and had her "come back" lesson. We did an hour and a half, and she learned "If I Ain't Got You" by Alicia Keys in one lesson- and she played her tail off! It's obvious that she has kept up with everything she learned. She is playing better than ever, and it feels so good to see her return to something that she enjoys so much. This week, we're starting "Another Day Of Sun" from La-La Land.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
I would advise a student to carve out time in their schedule to dedicate to daily practicing before starting piano lessons. Go into this prepared to commit some solid time and energy! You won't regret it!
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
I think a student should think about the following:
1. What is your why? Why do you want to take piano lessons? What is going to keep you inspired throughout the process?
2. How much time per week do I have to commit to practicing? (This will help your teacher to assign an achievable lesson plan so that you won't become discouraged)
3. What am I looking for in a piano teacher? Have this answer defined for yourself, and you should be able to get a solid read of a piano teacher within the first 15 minutes. You can also tell a teacher what you are looking for, and by his or her answers, you will have
If you have this answer defined for yourself, you should be able to get a solid read of a piano teacher within the first 15 minutes. You can also communicate to a teacher what you are looking for, and by his or her answers, you'll know.