Emily Joy Music

Typically, the first lesson with a student I take time to really get to know you. What do you like to do? What's your favorite part about school? What don't you like to do? Etc... This helps me begin to guage how you may learn and how I can help piano be fun for you. We also talk about the basics of music, the piano (if applicable), and get a feel for what you may already know about music. By the end, I will be able to direct you to resources and materials that will be conducive to your learning. Typically, I use Alfred's Piano Course (if applicable).

I have a degree in Piano Performance from Wayne State University where I studied with Dr. Robert Conway, principal keyboardist for the Detroit Symphony Orchestra. I also studied collaborative piano for one year with Dr. Zihua Tang at Michigan State University and attended a prestigious 6-week music festival called Eastern Music Festival where I studied with world-renowned concert pianist William Wolfram. I have over 6 years of experience teaching private lessons, have worked with 4 different professional orchestras, have extensive experience with chamber music ensembles, have helped rehearse and produce countless musical productions, and am an accomplished soloist and church musician.

My lessons are $30/half hour lesson. We can discuss further options and details as needed.

I began teaching while I was in college for piano performance. It is by far my favorite aspect of my music career!

I have worked with all types of students! My students have ranged in age from 3-30+ and have been at all levels: beginner-advanced in their musical knowledge.

One of my favorite teaching stories happened within the last few months. As a teacher, my goal is to help my students learn to not need me anymore. I want them to be well-versed enough in musical literacy, technical skills, and good practice habits that they can look at a piece of music and learn it without any help from me. This takes years of lessons and practice, but it is always fun to see the progress along the way. One of my fondest teaching moments was when I had skipped a song in my student's book for a few weeks because it was a Christmas song and it was only September. Well, the week I came in and planned to assign the song, my student had surprised me by teaching it to himself! And very well I might add! Her had only been yakking lessons for about a month-6 weeks.

1) Make sure you feel a trust between yourself and your teacher.

2) Look for someone who will structure your lessons around you, not just follow the same lessons for every student.

3) Look for someone who will work with you on goals that are based on your potential and desire, not just your age.

1) Why do I want to take lessons?

2) How much time am I willing to put into lessons week to week?