About
With 20 years' experience teaching private lessons, I bring a foundation of classical training to the modern-day student! I specialize in teaching older beginning students (middle/high school) and taking them from the basics to playing great repertoire in a short period of time. I teach the fundamentals: note-reading, rhythmic comprehension, scales, arpeggios, and Hanon finger-strengthening exercises. All of my students learn a variety of musical styles, starting with classical and moving to Broadway, movie, and popular styles. I offer 2 non-competitive performance opportunities per year as well as judged events. I am a member of the local chapter of the MTNA (Music Teachers' National Association).
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Wendi K.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
With a beginner, we start the first lesson with the basics: understanding finger numbers, hand position, note reading and identification on the keyboard, and learning a simple song, Ode to Joy. With a student with prior piano study, I ask him/her to play for me a song they had most recently learned so that I can gauge his/her skill level and build from there. I always explain to a new student the importance of practice at home and assign a practice regimen. I give all new students a lesson binder that will hold weekly lesson notes and practice materials.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I went to Lawrence Conservatory in Wisconsin for piano performance and also received a degree in international education. In addition to my musical training, I am TESOL certified as well and have experience teaching ESL/EFL both in the US and abroad.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
Standard lesson time is 30 minutes once per week, however longer/more frequent lessons are available. Please contact me directly to discuss pricing.
How did you get started teaching?
I started teaching when I was entering high school after my middle school chorus teacher asked if I would give lessons to a younger student, and it grew from there into a larger studio that I maintained while a high school and college student. Now residing in Florida, I started an in-school program for middle school beginning students 3 years ago and have found my niche with the older beginning students.
What types of students have you worked with?
I have worked with all ages and ability levels of students over the past 20 years of private teaching. I specialize in teenage students though currently teach several elementary age students as well. I have also taught adults as well as young children (ages 4-6). I have worked with students with disabilities, namely autistic children. I teach all levels, from beginner to advanced (college level).