About
"I used to play piano, but..."
How many times have you heard, or maybe even said, that phrase??
Knowing this outcome is a possibility for my students motivates me to help them break the mold. My students are encouraged to learn to sight-read, memorize notes, and become grounded in the basics of general musicianship. They are encouraged to enjoy making music and discover styles they are excited to learn and practice. Even if they later move on to focus on sports or another instrument, one of my goals is to give each of my students the tools they need to retain the skills they learned during our time together.
My specialty is teaching beginning students of all ages...whether you want to jump start your preschooler who sings and dances through their day or have a teenager who discovers an interest in pursuing a new hobby. I teach elementary and intermediate levels as well, working with students who are advancing into classical repertoire.
I want all my students to learn to love music and the sounds that they create at the piano. This is done mainly through weekly encouragement and interaction at the lesson, and by providing them with well-written music in styles that they enjoy playing, though tangible incentives are also offered!
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Deanna K.
Deanna K.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
First, I answer any initial questions they may have. I also direct them to my website that provides additional information. When a potential students' parent is satisfied that expectations are likely to be met and is interested in reserving a lesson time, we work together to determine if any of the openings I have available are suited to their schedule.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have over 8 years experience teaching piano lessons to students of various ages. I read pedagogical materials and attend piano workshops as available to continue my education in piano teaching. Playing the piano with the worship team at my church regularly keeps me active in performance and identifying with students' need to practice!
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
Tuition is paid monthly according to the number of lessons in each month. A 10% monthly discount is given to families with 2 or more children enrolled in the studio.
How did you get started teaching?
Always fascinated by those who could play the piano, I began taking lessons at the age of ten. For the next several years I continued to take lessons, learning with two very different but wonderful teachers. Some of my favorite pieces to play are hymn and praise song arrangements and classical works by Chopin and Grieg.
After having taught my sister for several years, I was encouraged by my teacher to establish a studio of my own. It is my joy to bring music into the lives of students who are learning to love the piano themselves.
What types of students have you worked with?
My preschool students have ranged from lively and excited to do something new to quiet but obviously interested in the details of learning to play the piano. In working with elementary school aged students I faced the challenge of keeping some engaged who had little interest but lessons continued at the request of a parent, also the exciting challenge of keeping up with a motivated student who moved at a fast pace!
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Look for a teacher whose practice and performance expectations meet the interest level of your child. If your child is unsure about learning an instrument, a teacher who holds three recitals a year and has strict practice requirements may not be a good fit. Also, be aware that you are making an investment in piano lessons for the long-term benefits. Even if your child does not take lessons very long, it is a discipline and skill that provides a foundation for other activities later in life!
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
Am I willing to make weekly piano lessons a priority?
Am I willing to help encourage my child to practice daily?
Would I be willing to purchase or find a "real" piano if required by the teacher?
What are my goals or reasons for starting my child in piano lessons?