About
I've been playing piano since I was 7 years old and playing the piano has been a passion in my life. Piano soothes and comforts me through challenges of my life. I want to share that comfort and therapy that I still experience to this day. It is the most beautiful gift anyone can have.
I currently play piano of 40s, 60's, broadway, and classical piano for seniors with alzheimers and dementia in the East Valley and at hospitals. I feel I contribute to their well being which brings their precious memories of their youth.
I enjoy my work that I do, because watching my students learn to play piano and encouraging them to persevere because at the end, it will be all worth it! Many of my audience always tell me, they wish they continued their piano in their youth and envy my playing. In return, I tell them, it's never too late to learn to play piano and its a wonderful gift you are truly given. Take it and enjoy life with it because it's right there in front of you!!
Highlights
Payment methods
Specialties
Years experience
Able to read music
Lesson length
Student's age
Student has instrument
Interested musical styles
Photos and videos
Reviews
Trish D.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
First I get to know my students, find out what type of music they love and begin the teachings of a beautiful new journey in playing piano.
In teaching them, it may be difficult due to their hands not used to stretching new muscles but in time, they will be able to play as their dream comes true.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
My entire family played the piano, and my mother began teaching me at the age of 7. I self taught myself, until I began lessons at 13 throughout high school. I continued a few college credits. I currently play piano at nursing homes for alzheimers & dementia residents and also at hospitals. I also play piano at my church every week and other church events. I have played piano at weddings, funerals, and other events.
During my life with full time work, as a single parent raising 3 children, completing my Bachelors in IT/Business and almost my masters, (until I got sick with cancer), I never stopped playing the piano. Anytime a new musical or movie would come out, I would buy the piano sheetmusic soundtrack and play, play, play!
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
Standard pricing is $25 for 30 minute lesson. I also can negotiate those with low income families.
How did you get started teaching?
My piano teacher always told me I had the gift to play and I should teach piano. I started teaching when I started attending church back in the 1980's and was asked if I taught piano.
What types of students have you worked with?
I have worked with students as young as 5 to students as old as 90 so age doesn't make a difference in my teaching choices.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
I volunteer to play piano every week at assisted living homes. I was asked to play a special song they once loved to hear when they were a child "Memories" from the Cats. I could hear sniffling with tears while I played for her, along with my tears. This happens frequently with the seniors, when a request is made with a song that they are fond of and I am thanked so graciously each time. It just makes me want to come back for more piano!
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
First, meet and get to know your teacher. Give your teacher your dream and what your most important reason is for learning piano. Make sure you are comfortable with their teaching methods and to be open to anything that can be improved with the teacher.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
1. What type of piano lessons, technique and theory.
2. What type of piano lessons books will be used.
3. What type of music will the student want to learn.
4. How long will it take to learn certain types of music.
5. Is the teacher flexible with teaching hours.
6 Will the student need to perform in front of a live audience.
7. How much practice daily is required.