About
As an accomplished pianist and multi-instrumentalist with six years of teaching experience, my ultimate goal is to awaken and nurture a student's interest in music, and spark a lifelong passion in them.
I specialize in piano but offer lessons on several instruments as well. I also teach classical/pop/jazz music theory, songwriting, music production, and more.
My teaching style is highly personalized depending on the student's interests and goals, and I take a positive, kind, and encouraging approach to teaching.
I have performed in 23 countries across four continents, and hold two music degrees: A Bachelor's in Composition, and a Master's in Piano Performance.
Apart from that, I am proud of the breadth of my study. I have spent time in the worlds of Classical, Jazz, Pop, Funk, Bluegrass, Country, and Worship music.
My teaching style is also highly informed by Alexander Technique, which I studied while pursuing my Master's Degree. I utilize my knowledge in the area to teach students how to get better at learning, develop great technique, and prevent performance related injuries.
Whether just starting out or prepping for a competition, I have both the drive and experience to help :)
Specialties
Musical styles
Guitar style
Has instrument
Years experience
Able to read music
Lesson length
Student's age
Photos and videos
Reviews
anna C.
erin L.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
During the first meeting I like to get to know the student, learn about their own interests and experiences, as well as their own goals. For younger students, the goals of the parents are quite important as well.
After that I begin with simple songs, and i always try to pick an easy version of a song a student likes by the 2nd or 3rd lesson. I often write arrangements for my students based on their progression. By around that time, I usually also asses if the student will benefit from studying a book method (and which), or if that is not necessary.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
Bachelor’s in Music Composition, Ohio Wesleyan University Class of 2015
Studied under Composers Clint Needham and Jennifer Jolley, Pianist Gulimina Mahamuti
Master’s in Piano Performance, West Chester University of PA Class of 2018
Studied under Pianist, Alexander Technique Instructor Robert Bedford
20 years of Piano experience
12 years of Guitar experience
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
$30/half hour lesson
$40/45 min lesson
$50/hour lesson
How did you get started teaching?
While in graduate school I began teaching to supplement my income. It gradually became my main source of income and still is.
What types of students have you worked with?
Children ages 4+. Teens. Adults through seniors. Students with special needs. Non-pianist musicians. Pianists wanting to learn guitar.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
Just today during an online lesson on Zoom, a young student asked if he could create his own version of a song we were working on. (Of course, I am always encouraging him to write music - and of course the answer was yes!)
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Be patient while you are learning. It is true that the more you put in (hard work), the more you get out (fast progress). BUT what is more important than that is perseverance, NOT QUITTING! A former teacher of mine used to say.. ”all you REALLY need to do is show up”.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
Great questions for a prospective teacher:
”What is your favorite style of teaching?”
“What would you like to know about me?”
Great things to tell your prospective teacher:
Your goals, your favorite songs/bands/singers/movies/shows ETC!