About
Reviews
Stefanie J.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
It takes a few weeks to get to know a student and how he/she learns and processes. We try to individualize lessons for each student so they can have the highest quality experience possible.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have a degree in Music Therapy with a concentration in voice from Georgia College, and am also certified to teach K-12 music education from Georgia State University. I have been playing piano for 34 years and teaching for 17 years. All of the teachers that work for me also have a level of music degree in various forms and a substatial amount of teaching experience.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
We have standard pricing for 30 and 45 minute lessons. Pricing for all instruments are the same.
How did you get started teaching?
I began working as a parapro in Gwinnett County, while trying to start a music therapy program for Gwinnett County for three years. I decided to try a different path in teaching private lessons, and had a wonderful colleague of mine take a chance on me to teach for her studio. It turns out that I loved it so much, I decided to start my own business, which is how MusicWorks came into being.
What types of students have you worked with?
I have worked with students ages 3-70, with all levels of muscial knowledge and learning abilities. Due to my music therapy experience, I also have worked with children with learning disorders, physical limitations, and children with autism.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
I don't know if I can think of a recent event that I'm fond of. I just love seeing the expressions on students faces when the "light bulb" goes on and suddenly they really get a concept! Those moments are the most rewarding to me.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Find one that is able to be flexible. I've learned as a teacher (and a mother!) that what you plan is not necessarily how a lesson will flow or turn out. You have to be able to change your course of action on a dime in order for the student to feel successful, and not walk away feeling like they have failed or not lived up to your expectations.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
1. Make sure you can commit to lessons and practice. It is frustrating to teachers when students are overbooked and can't find time to practice, which then leads to disinterest by the student to continue.
2. Is your child really interested? Or are you, as a parent, wanting them to try it, or pushing them into lessons?
3. Make sure you have the right equipment before inquiring about lessons. Yes, you have to have a piano or keyboard for piano lessons; a guitar for guitar lessons, etc.