About
I have 35 years of experience in teaching the piano to students from age 6 to adults, including 14 years of university teaching in North Carolina. During one of these years, I was named teacher of the year at Pfeiffer University. My degrees include a master's in Piano Pedagogy and a doctorate in Music Theory. I tailor my teaching to the needs and interests of my students. This involves my being comfortable with a broad range of music and teaching, not just the interpretation of classical music scores, but, when it's appropriate, playing by ear, improvisation, composition, and integrating music theory into piano playing.
I love music, and I love people and am fascinated by both. I view education as, ideally, a joyful journey of discovery, and I celebrate the successes of my students. I continue to learn and grow as a performer and composer, and recordings of my music can be found on iTunes, YouTube, Facebook, Reverbnation, and SoundCloud.
Reviews
angie K.
angie K.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
In my first meeting with a piano student, I spend some time getting to know him/her, finding out about their musical interests and experiences, and discussing goals. From the beginning, my goal is to find out where the student is in their knowledge of music and to find out what interests them. But then, it's time to make music! I find that everyone can play something: my goal is to help my students play new things to expand their knowledge and get them to where their own playing genuinely excites them. This invovles a certain amount of work on their part, so we'll spend some time talking about practicing.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
All of my music degress (B.S., M.M., and Ph.D.) have helped prepare me for teaching, but the master's in Piano Pedagogy very specifically trained me for piano teaching. For two years, I learned about materials and techniques, observed others and was observed myself, and worked on my own piano playing.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
Lesssons are $25 for a half-hour lesson, $50 for an hour.
How did you get started teaching?
I taught informally for years but had my first real piano student when I got out of college when I was in my early 20s.
What types of students have you worked with?
I have taught a variety of ages, from age 6 to adult and have taught in English and Spanish.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
On May 12, I enjoyed playing with my jazz group at a club in Cincinnati.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
If you are willing to practice regularly, I can help you achieve your musical goals. Unlike many piano teachers, I can play by ear, improvise, and compose and can help my students do so, if they are interested.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
Ask yourself, what excites you about music and how hard are you willing to work to play music that excites you? I tailor my teaching to help the student, if he/she is persistent, get to where they are genuinely excited about what they are playing.