About
This studio is committed to the whole music education of the student. Note reading is the studio's primary focus allowing the student enjoyment of many pieces rather than just rote teaching a few pieces. Ear training, technique, theory, and composition are included.
I love working with all ages. It is wonderful to see the look of joy when a student completes a piece or book.
Specialties
Years experience
Able to read music
Lesson length
Student's age
Student has instrument
Interested musical styles
Photos and videos
Reviews
Ruth V. S.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
New students are asked for any goals and music experiences to help direct them to the best level and materials for their general goal. I frequently use the Wunderkeys materials with a strong reading focus and pop sounds and the Suzuki books (no, I do NOT teach by rote), which contain an excellent collection of level-specific folk/classic pieces.
Transfer students will be asked to demonstrate playing skills, technique, and sightreading to determine a proper level for placement. Since teaching styles and methods vary greatly, it benefits the student to address any gaps early on.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
B.A. in Music
Concentration in piano
Education focus
M.M. in Music Ministry(Education)
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
Pricing is based on the number of lessons per YEAR rather than per lesson or month.
This allows for a "budget billing" approach so all months are equal and makes the business portion of lessons speedy.
How did you get started teaching?
I have always had a love for Music and the Piano. As a child, I sought out and secured my first piano teacher. A choir teacher at church noticed this and asked me to play for a children’s choir when I was a teen. He then involved me in little teaching units and he eventually turned the class over to me.
What types of students have you worked with?
Preschool, Elementary, Midschool, High School, College, Adult, Senior, Private school, Public school, Homeschool
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
Every "light bulb" moment for every student is joyful.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Please make sure that the teacher is qualified to teach piano. Ask for degrees and training first, not price.
Due to the lack of regulations in the US, anyone can call themself a piano teacher. They believe that they can teach piano because they had piano lessons as a child or made it past a proficiency test. As a result, I see many transfer students with technical issues which can lead to injury, can only play by rote, and many other issues. Make sure you have someone trained in PIANO education.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
Do I have an acceptable practice instrument?
Have a quality keyboard or piano before contacting teachers. A toy is not an acceptable practice instrument.
Do I have the time to practice?
Quality teachers will require at least your lesson length time in practice at least five days a week. Have you budgeted for that in your schedule? Progress does not happen with lessons alone.