About
Playing the piano gives me great joy. My goal is to share this joy with others. I am returning to piano teaching after 20 years of teaching English language arts in middle school. I have a Bachelor's degree in piano performance, a Master's Degree in musicology, and many years experience as a church organist and music director, which includes 30 years as a youth choir director.
I've always enjoyed teaching. I have worked with kids all my life. It is exciting to watch my students get better at what they do, whether it's playing the piano, singing, or writing stories. I also enjoy teaching adults, who I find are often eager to learn a new skill or to improve their skills.
Details
Years experience
Able to read music
Lesson length
Student's age
Student has instrument
Interested musical styles
Reviews
Mustaf O.
Kerry
Anthony M.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
The first goal is to find out what the student can already do at the piano and what they want to learn how to do. On the basis of that, I will decide what literature to choose for them to work on. After this initial get-acquainted lesson, I will expect students to work each week on learning a piece from notes, playing something by ear, and working on scales or other technical excercises.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have a bachelor's degree in piano performance and a master's degree in musicology. I have worked as a church organist off and on for over thirty years and am currently employed at St. James Episcopal Church in Minneapolis. During my time there, I have directed the Youth Choir since my own children were small thirty years ago. I taught piano to a few students during the early years of my time at St. James before I went to work full time as an English teacher. Now I am excited to be returning to piano teaching.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
After an initial $10 get-acquanted lesson, I charge $30 for a half hour and $60 for an hour.
How did you get started teaching?
I first began teaching piano when my children were small and I was working part-time as a church musician.
What types of students have you worked with?
I have worked with beginners, both children and adults, and also students with intermediate skills.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
I drove down to Missouri with my husband to see the total solar eclipse.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Find someone you are comfortable with who will challenge you to do your best and will give you chances to perform for others.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
Students should ask themselves what kinds of music they would like to play, how much and how often they will be able to practice, and what they will do if they encounter a piece that's too hard for them.