About
As the owner and creator of the schoolhosueofmusic.com website, I have over 25 years of experience teaching. Now offering online video instruction with live video chat in the areas of: piano technique, performance technique, music theory, ear training, and improvisation. My "Jam Factory" program is not just for piano students, it teaches all students how play in all 12 keys fluently and effortlessly. As a former public school HS band director, using a theme and variation apprach to learning, I also offer group and individual lessons on all the wind instruments. These unique materials make it possible for students who, with various skill levels and instruments, can engage in serious learning while at the same time enjoy the process of learning along with others. I am permanently certified to teach public school K-12 music and have a Master's Degree in Music from the oldest and largest school of music in the US, The Crane School of Music.
I retired about a year ago, but when I saw how great the need has become nationally for quality music instruction, I just had to go back and further develop my programs. It is so gratifying to see how well 25 year old stratigies materialize to produce students who actually flourish at what they do. I especially love writing arrangements that students request. They are so engaged when they play songs that they themselves chose. With the current technology, we now have the global capability while at the same time maintaining the personal individual touch. This allows even the most disadvantaged kids to learn how to play well, something that is truly meaningful to me.
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Naomi V.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
You don't need a teaching certificate to teach one-on-one. Classroom management is a non-issue, however, groups require management and organizational skills. For personal attention, one-on-one is the best, however, if you have the skills, teaching in groups can be a great learning experience and is more economical. My job is to teach students how to most effectively learn how to practice. Acquiring the skills necessary to excell at practicing can have a life-long impact on a person's ability to perform.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
Piano lessons started at the age of 4 for me. Between Band directing and playing in clubs, performing has simply become a way of life for many years. One of my favorite gigs is playing solo Jazz grand pianos in fine dining restaurants. I hold both a Bachelor's and a Master's in Music from the Crane School of Music (SUNY Potsdam, NY). I also have all the coursework necessary for a Bachelor in Music Industry from SUNY Oneonta (final project in progress). For the last three years, I have had the opportunity to learn to play major works including: Piano Concertos, Nocturnes, Ballades, and Etudes. Although I enjoy works from the Romantic Period, Jazz piano improvisation is still one of my favorite genres.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
Lessons are currently priced at $50.00 per hour, or $25.00 per half-hour.
How did you get started teaching?
Too old to remember.
What types of students have you worked with?
I have worked with every school aged student including: gifted and talented, learning disabled, and even severly emotionally disturbed. I particularly liked working in the inner city, not necessarily because of the great achievements made, but because of how the kids responsded once they knew what kind of teacher I am.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
Learning how to better play is still ongoing. Retirement has allowed me to spend many hours practicing things I never had time to learn before. Recently, I discovered at great pianist named, Barry Harris. Barry Harris is a Bebop artist that grew up in the 1930's, and is still teaching and playing. Having personally played with greats like Charlie Parker, Bud Powell, Dizzie Gillespie, etc, his experience is truly unique and has developed his very own style. I still enjoy practicing whenever I can find time to do so. There is always something new to practice and master.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
There are techers who know the materials but don't want to be bothered sharing their knowledge. There are teachers who can't teach, they just don't know the material and couldn't impart knowledge, even if they wanted to. And there are teachers who both know the material and are also willing to impart that knowledge to their students. Get one that knows the material well and wants to share their knowledge with students.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
The longer I do this the more I am convinced that I am in the business of making students believe in themselves and their ability to learn. Don't ask merely about facts, they can be found using the internet and a search engine. Ask how I am going to make you a better player.