Sara’s Music Academy
About
Hi! My name is Sara. My studio began in 2000, teaching one violin student here in Bloomington. I took a break and went to college to earn my A.A. in Music and my Piano Performance Certificate from Riverside Community College in California. I graduated Great Distinction and was on the Dean's list. I received many piano and academic scholarships. While in college I started my studio in Riverside California teaching Piano to an autistic child. I taught him 3 times a week and made exceptional progress. I enjoyed it so much I started teaching full time in 2008 teaching piano, harp, violin, voice, guitar, flute and clarinet. Soon I had 50 students and created a 501 (c) (3) non-profit music school. My students and I perform for the public, including nursing homes. The performances are important for the students progress as well as the Piano Guild where students are adjudicated by judges in a non competitive environment. Moving back to my hometown I have met so many wonderful students! The move was a hard transition, but it introduced me to teaching online. I was sad to be leaving my students and I wanted to find a way to continue teaching them. It was alot more successful than I had thought it would be! My students have been successful and have been preparing for competitions and have completed many successful Piano Guild adjudications. I have traveled many times back to support them in their endeavors. Apart from my already established studio, I have met so many new students in remote areas who wouldn’t have access to a skilled music teacher if it wasn’t for online teaching. I am excited to meet more wonderful students!!
Highlights
No reviews (yet)
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
First meet and greet in a phone call or video conference to find out level of student and what books they have or which books I'll place them in.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
A.A. in Music (Graduated with Honors)
Certificate Piano Performance
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
Yes, $25 half hour lessons, but I really encourage atleast 45 min lessons and those are only $30, my 60 min rate is $40
How did you get started teaching?
Started in 2000 with one violin student, eventually started my own non profit in California. Now back in Indiana, I remain as close to those prices as I can. I understand it's hard to pay alot for beginner lessons not knowing if your child will take it to the next level. I teach all levels of Piano into Advanced repetoire. I have been a steady member of the Piano Guild since 2012 and my piano students have the opportunity to perform in front of a judge each Spring. This is truly motivating and keeps them progressing towards the next level.
What types of students have you worked with?
Worked with all abilities of students from beginning to advanced. I specialize in teaching beginners of all ages, but enjoy advanced students and abilities. Have taught students with autism and learning disabilities including but not limited to ADHD and aspergers.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
Piano Guild Auditions
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Check for recent reviews and if their students are motivated and learning proper rhythm and note reading/theory. I teach all of those things. My students become confident, independent players who now play in youth orchestras, going to college as music majors and more.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
Will this teacher be a compatible with my son or daughter? Will their tuition price fit into my budget? Do they offer any additional help such as masterclasses? I do!