About
I love what I do! I've been a teacher ever since I was a child but decided to take my passion a step further and became a professional instructor. I have a Bachelor's degree in Music Education from West Chester University. I've been teaching piano since 1996 and voice since 2008. In that time period I've taught hundreds of students how to read, perform, compose, decrease performance anxiety, and overall be a better musician.
My teaching method is based off of my classically trained background. However, I highly believe that students should enjoy what they are doing and that passion will be the driving force for their continued efforts in the future.
Music theory and performance will be equally important in each lesson.
I typically will use a lesson and theory book for each lesson. Depending on the level of the student, we may use other supplementary materials such as warmups, scales, composition paper, other works not included in the lesson books, etc.
I expect my students to practice approximately 30 minutes/day. (More or less depending on the level and age of the student which will be determined during the lessons) The more you put into it, the more you will get out of it!
I love being able to transition a student from hating piano to LOVING piano! Having a good teacher that meshes well with the student is very important. I take my job very seriously, but I also like to have fun with it and I want my students to have fun with it as well.
I've had many experiences where a student came to me that hated their piano lessons, and decided to go to a different teacher to see if that would help. My teaching method was able to get them to transition to LOVING music! Not only did they love playing, but they learned more in a shorter amount of time with me, then they did with their previous instructor. The families couldn't stop thanking me for this gift. For me the gift is being able to see my students love music and have that passion for it like I do. It's such a blessing!
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Mel L.
Stephen S.
Mel L.
J. K.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
I typically will ask them if they have had any experience with an instrument in the past or have taken lessons in the past. I will also ask them what is their favorite music, favorite band, favorite genre. I will then suggest a lesson book for them to start with so that they have a solid foundation for learning. We can always add supplemental materials to enhance the lessons as we move forward. I will also tell them about the recital that I give once a year and ask them if they have had any experience with performing in front of people before.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I've been teaching piano since 1996 and voice since 2008
I have a Bachelors in Music Education from West Chester University
I have personal performance experience of all sorts (piano accompanist, solo performer, choir director, musical/play director, band singer/song writer, composer, music arrangement artist, and k-8 music education teacher)
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
$35/half hour
$50/45 min.
$65/ hour
$95/90 minutes
These prices are for local students only and are valid as of January 2024. If you live outside of my local radius, then the price will vary. Money is to be paid up front for the entire month. I accept cash, check, venmo, or zelle.
How did you get started teaching?
I started at a music studio in Newark, DE in 1996 at the age of 17. I started out just teaching beginner students and really enjoyed what I did. I decided from that point that I wanted to pursue a career in Music Education which is why I decided to go to West Chester University for my Bachelors Degree. West Chester University is widely known for having one of the best music and education programs in the area.
What types of students have you worked with?
I have worked with all age groups from age 4 all the way up to age 85.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Try to find the teacher that you are compatible with. Learning from someone who you connect with and who has a great positive attitude and that is going to help you to attain your goals is very important. Also, finding someone with a good background in music is very important. You may pay a little bit more for the lessons, but in the long run it will be worth it because the quality of the lesson is higher.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
What goals do I want to reach?
What music am I mostly fond of playing and listening to?
Have I set a time frame for my goals?
Do I have a particular event or events that I am planning for?
Do I have any anxiety in large groups of people?
How much time do I have every week/day to set aside to practice my instrument? Will I be able to keep doing this for the long term?