Sykes Piano Studio LLC
1 hire on Lessons.com
1 employee
14 years in business
About this pro
I'm committed to progressive teaching. Pop songs are utilized as excellent motivators, and for improvisation and theory learning. I'm fluent in both classical and popular styles, and an active solo jazz pianist and bandleader. Technology is a great learning tool, with iPad theory and ear-training apps, backing tracks, and more.
Helping students discover and pursue the music they love; making theoretical connections that deepen their understanding and give them tools for lifelong music-making.
Read more about this pro
Credentials
Osseo, MN 55369
Email verified
Phone verified
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Cheri has been my piano teacher for almost 3 years. She is not only a competent professional, but she has an amazing gifting for teaching and connecting with her students. Everyone learns in their own way, and Cheri knows that. She tailors the lessons to the students learning style. Lessons are exciting and leave me energized. As an older learner, I’m not always the most disciplined student. Cheri is always able to challenge me, and always helps me progress towards my goal of being the best musician I can be. Highest Recommendation!!!
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I have an awesome time taking lessons from Cheri. From the beginning when I was learning lessons from different books to currently learning pieces by ear, from playing solo pieces to being part of a band, she has always been patient and fun and very knowledgeable. Being an adult student is an interesting and challenging experience and Cheri has been very supportive every step of the way. She even helped me write a song that included guitar and vocals that we performed with some fellow students at a recent recital. I've appreciated all the time she's worked with me and hope to continue taking lessons from her as long as I enjoy playing the piano.
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FAQs
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
After a phone chat or email, we arrange an introductory meeting and free lesson at my studio.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
Private studies in jazz piano with Laura Caviani, Minneapolis, MN, Sean Turner, McNally School of Music, St. Paul, and Ted Howe, Atlanta, GA. Jamey Aebersold Jazz Camp, Louisville, KY, summer 2007. Graduate studies in Elementary and Intermediate Piano Pedagogy, University of St. Thomas, St. Paul, 2008.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
Standard yearly tuition for forty 30-minute lessons is $1200, evenly divided into eleven monthly payments of $109. Standard yearly tuition for forty 45-minute lessons is $1800, divided into monthly payments of $164.
Inquire about duo lessons, for twice the fun, at $75/month!
Flex Lessons: Adults and possibly older teens, at teachers discretion, are eligible for a flexible lesson schedule. This can be a good option for busy adults. The student and instructor decide frequency and length of lessons. At the first lesson of the month, tuition is due totaling the number of lessons estimated for the month. Rates are: $33/30-minute lesson; $49/45-minute lesson; $62/60-minute lesson.
The studio runs on a September-July calendar. Summer tuition does not vary from the September-May rates. Summer tuition payments will be due June 1 and July 1. The eight required summer lessons can be flexibly scheduled according to your calendar as well as instructors. Lessons can be compressed into fewer but longer sessions.
How did you get started teaching?
I have taught intermittently since my high school days, in private and group settings. Pedagogy has changed much since I was coming up! I established my own studio in 2009, after years of working for other places. I'm energized and excited by the use of technology in learning, and the integration of popular styles as a powerful learning tool.
What types of students have you worked with?
Ages four through senior adults.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
This year, students are participating in four group learning dates. Private piano study can feel isolating at times; discovering piano peers is energizing and inspiring! The focus is on performing for each other, improvisation, ensemble playing, and theory and ear-training activities.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Visit the Minnesota Music Teachers Association "Find a Teacher" database to be better assured of quality. Also, there are many inexpensive instructors out there with rates about $20, but you get what you pay for.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
How much time daily can you commit to lessons? Progress requires a minimum of thirty minutes a day. Do you own a full 88-key piano or keyboard with fully-weighted touch? If you are a piano parent and your child is under age eleven, do you have time to sit with him/her during practice each day, at least ten minutes?
Lessons offered
Piano Lessons Christian Gospel Lessons Ear Training Lessons Music Theory Lessons