Tiffani M. says, "As an adult, I knew it would be more challenging to learn piano. Growing up, I was involved in community theater, school musicals, and choir. I always regretted quitting piano at an early age because it would have been a strong base for my love of the performing arts. For Christmas 2019, I asked for a piano (mind you I am 28 years at the time) and made it my goal to learn to play piano again. Cue February 2020, I contacted Family Learning Center for Music (in Twinsburg, Ohio) inquiring about piano lessons for adults. I got paired with Mark Kmit as my instructor.
From the moment I met Mark, he was so patient and knowledgeable about the instrument. He takes the time to make sure you are perfecting and learning from your craft. I had a few weekly in-person lessons, and then Covid hit a month later. Mark told me that we could continue lessons, but it would have to be virtually. We tried Zoom, but it was not the best option. We discovered Facetime worked well. Maybe a little lag or echo, but it worked for us. Our virtual lessons continued into the summer months, but I was about to move across the country to Seattle, Washington. I told Mark the news of my move thinking that I would have a few final lessons with him then have to start over with finding a piano instructor. That’s when Mark told me, “How would you like to continue lessons virtually? I can make it work. I have a few other students who live out of state too.” I said, “Let’s try it out and see if we can do this.”
3 years later, we are still doing lessons virtually over Facetime! I am on Level 3 of my piano books. I cannot stress enough how amazing Mark is! He is an excellent piano teacher. My lessons are 30 minutes every week. Mark has been so understanding and flexible around my work schedule and other events that come up. If I get frustrated, he makes the lesson positive. He has a calming presence and really makes sure you are grasping the concept and not just “flying through” the books. There have been times where I have been on a piece for weeks before I finally start to “get it.” It is also helpful to have someone who is holding you accountable to practice your skills. I am grateful to have found a great piano teacher." Read more