About
I am a licensed/certified Musikgarten teacher and have enjoyed teaching piano and guitar for 18 years. My service stands out above the others not only because I love what I do but I also have the ability to work well with new beginners as well as those with more experience. My goal is to build a solid foundation of basic skills and move forward from there while having as much fun as possible! I am open to listening to what my students are interested in learning but also find using a method book of great value. I offer a free, introductory online or in studio lesson in order to ensure a good student/teacher fit. I look forward to helping you move forward with your musical journey with The Music Garden!
The creative work I do is extremely enjoyable because I get to meet with a variety of unique individuals each with their own distinct musical aspirations. Having the opportunity to guide each student through carefully thought out learning paths is of great importance to me. What works for one student may not work as well for another so the teacher you choose should be able to adjust and adapt with a flexibility that is also rooted and grounded with skill, experience, knowlege, patience and reasonable expectation of you, the student.
Highlights
Reviews
Joanne A.
Murray
Paul G.
Ellen C.
Joanne A.
Rebecca S.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
To insure that I am the right teacher for you, I offer one free 20 minute introductory lesson. At that time, I can effectively demonstrate my particular teaching style. With older students who have certain artists they like, I am open to guiding them through learning their songs, once some basic skills are mastered. After meeting with a student for the first time, a method book will be determined.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I am a licensed and certified instructor with Musikgarten, an international music education program which focuses on the listening ear as the first avenue of learning. I started The Music Garden in 2001 after working in the field alongside other musicians prior to that for 10 years. I maintained my own studio of 16 students in NY State for 18 years as well as taught for The Ridgewood Conservatory (Paramus, NJ) for 13 years. I have extensive experience with new beginners as well as those with more training.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
$30/30 minute lesson
$40/ 45 minute lesson
$50/60 minute lesson
How did you get started teaching?
After staying home with my 2 children for several years, I found a job teaching group music and movement classes which I loved so much, I decided to take several years of intensive Musikgarten training and started my own successful business (The Music Garden started in 2001), branching out into piano and guitar lessons, which I continue to teach now.
What types of students have you worked with?
I have worked extensively with students from 4 years old to 75. I absolutely love what I do and feel I do it very well. I am proficient in a "stepping stone" approach to teaching, which builds a solid foundation of skills in either piano or guitar.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
I am particularly fond of any tasteful outdoor music events. I find them to be very enjoyable!
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Make sure your teacher is compassionate and kind, holding the bar of expertise just high enough to stretch you to learn well.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
Students should know that they will need to develop regular practice habits at home. I suggest various regimens depending on the student's age and lifestyle.