About
I have played and studied music for over 30 years, performing internationally and appearing with groups on local and national radio and television, and have had the good fortune to share the stage and even record with some very talented individuals!
As for teaching, I've taught hundreds of students over 20+ years, and over that time, I can say I've learned that what can make or break a student's success is whether or not they enjoy their teacher and the work they are doing.
I love helping my students learn to read and play, discover their own love of music, and conquer their fears of performing. I've been described by students as encouraging and fun, and my teaching style is warm, positive, and relaxed. I have worked with many students, including some with learning disabilities, physical limitations, PTSD, and just plain ol' stage fright! I work with you to play the music you enjoy and set your own goals, and I look forward to helping you reach them... It's what I love about what I do.
I continue to teach online via Skype, sometimes from my home in Lenexa, KS, and I look forward to working with you to accomplish your own musical aspirations! Visit my website, RachelGaither.com, for more info about me, and give me a call to set something up! Today is the day to start living your creative dream!
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
In our first lesson, I usually take a few minutes for us to introduce ourselves and discuss your goals--being friends makes things a lot more fun! I will then make sure you are set up for success--you will learn how to hold your instrument and posture, the workings of how to play that will set you up to avoid pitfalls, and get you started with an assignment to move you forward. We will also most likely share some laughs--that's very important. Silliness is a most valuable learning tool. Plus, life is boring without it, right?
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have a Bachelor in Music degree with the focus on violin performance. I also studied classical/operatic voice and piano while working on my studies. I am also self-taught in folk and classical guitar, using the Christopher Parkening method, and have been playing guitar for over 20 years.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
Lessons:
Monthly tuition for 30-minute lessons: $150
Monthly tuition for 60-minute lessons: $300
Individual 30-minute lesson: $38
Individual 60-minute lesson: $75
How did you get started teaching?
I began teaching coeds while I was in college--students who were interested in beginning violin or guitar would come up to me and ask. I enjoyed working with them so much, I began working with younger students as well, and the rest is history.
What types of students have you worked with?
I have worked with all ages, and all learning types. My youngest was 18 months, and my oldest has been in their 70's. I've worked with students who are recovering from stroke, surgery, who have nerve damage in their extremities, PTSD, ADHD, dyslexia, and extreme shyness/mutism. One of the things I love about teaching is connecting with the student, figuring out how they learn best, and working with them as a friend and mentor to see them fulfill their success!
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
Sometimes, as one would expect with hard work, there are tears, especially with the young ones. I am always encouraging and positive when offering feedback, but sometimes inner dialogue gets the best of them. So, in those instances, I say, "Whoa, whoa, whoa. It's getting too serious in here, I think. Do you know what we do when it gets too serious? We take a deep breath in..." *inhale deeply so they join me* "...and let it out." *Let out a giant raspberry*
Gets them every time. Again, silliness is a wonderful and indispensible learning tool. It helps us remember why we are doing this, and who we are. We are not our failures. We are here to enjoy ourselves and the people around us, and the journey!