About
As a working musician, composer and private teacher for over 25 years, I bring a ton of experience and knowledge to my students. I focus on building not only the student's ability to play but also to UNDERSTAND the music.
I have students ranging from 5 to adult and enjoy working with all ages and abilities!
I have a lot of patience and will take the time to make sure a student truly 'gets it'. But at the same time, I am not a teacher who will bore the student by practicing the same piece over and over and over again. Sometimes, a piece of music just doesn't 'click'. If that's the case and I feel like they've got the general idea, we move on to new skills.
I will also adapt to what the student wants to learn. Especially as they get older. While I believe that the fundamentals are essential and I tend toward using classical music to build skills, I am perfectly comfortable exploring other styles of music that will keep the student engaged. Music needs to be fun and rewarding!
I offer Piano, Voice, Clarinet and Saxophone Lessons - also can provide tutoring in Theory and Notation Software (Finale, specifically).
I love working with students of so many skill levels. It keeps my approach fresh and I learn from each student a better way to teach.
When a student really masters a skill, it is so gratifying to watch their joy in displaying that skill.
Music is for everyone and I believe that it benefits each student - no matter the age and level!
Photos and videos
Reviews
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Rebecca B.
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Margo B.
Kimberly M.
Justin
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
It's important that the teacher and student have a good rapport - no matter the age. That will be the foundation of a good environment for learning music. Beyond that, it depends a lot on the age and experience of the student. If they are young and inexperienced, I will definitely suggest a certain path to follow. That is based on solid technique and theory. Older and/or more experienced students get a little more leeway in dictating what they'd like to learn.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
My education and training is probably a little different than most music teachers as I don't actually have a music degree. However, I come from a musical household, have played the piano since I was 6, started singing seriously since I was about 9, began playing woodwind instruments when I was 10.
I've performed with concert bands, jazz bands, orchestras, pit orchestras and choirs. Was exposed to some hard-core theory from a young age, started writing songs and composing when I was 17, worked as a church Music Director for about 15 years and have composed music for film, television and commercials.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
I currently teach only at my students' homes, so this requires travel. My rates start at $35 for a half-hour lesson and increase in $10 increments/15 minutes.
I offer a 'family' discount for more than one student in the household.
I'm happy to arrange a free 'trial' lesson before you commit to working with me.
I understand the financial burden lessons can be so if budget is a concern, please let me know and I will do my best to be flexible.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Have a piano - or at least a 61-note WEIGHTED keyboard. Unweighted keyboards are ok for very young students for about a week and a half...
Very young children - it's important that an adult is available to monitor their practicing. Even if the adult is not a musician, it's important that they stay on task
Older children - I try to monitor closely what lessons/music resonates with the student. It's ok for the student to let me know what they like and don't like (It doesn't mean I'll let things slide, but I will listen to you!)
Adults - make sure you have time to practice! It will become frustrating and lessons won't last long if you're not able to focus at least a little bit of time on it between lessons.