About
I have a bachelor degree in piano and have been teaching for 40+ years. I am retired and don't have to work, but I teach because I enjoy it. I help my students learn what they want to learn, whether that is classical, jazz, pop or other - I don't have an agenda for my students, other than to help them meet their own goals. I also teach a complete program to produce well-rounded musicians, not just piano players. This includes theory (largely through games), playing by ear and transposition. My music studio is furnished with 3 pianos, including a Steinway Grand which I use for special occasions, advanced students and mini-recitals.
I enjoy working with students who are interested learners; that is, who want to learn and are willing to work for what they want. Those qualities are maniifested in different forms and through varying personalities, but it is always present in those who are successful in learning. I enjoy seeing students make progress at whatever pace of which they are capable, and I enjoy seeing the smiles of accomplishment on their faces. I enjoy laughing with students as they discover that learning piano can be fun!
Highlights
Reviews
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
Every student is different and must be approached differently, however some general principals will apply. The first step is exploring the interest and desires of the student. I want to appeal to the tastes, preferences and goals of each student. Step two is deciding the most likely rate of progress of the student to determine the type of teaching materials needed. This can be derived from the age, musical experience and academic abilities of the student. After these steps, the nuts and bolts process begins to take form, which is guided at the pace the individual can handle. Beyond walking through the teaching books that are chosen, I teach the student to play by ear (because music is an aural art form, not a visual one, ear-development is a priority) and I use games to teach theory. Later, I teach transposition and memorization.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
Bachelor of Piano Performance from Southern Nazarene University, after which I periodicall studied with various advanced teachers.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
$21 per half-hour lesson
$25 for 45 minutes
$30 for 60 minutes
How did you get started teaching?
I began teaching in high school because I was an advanced pianist at that age and I wanted to make money. After a hand injury ended my performance career, I went into business but continued to teach a small number of students. Recently I retired from my day-job and begin taking more students - no longer for the money but because I enjoy it.
What types of students have you worked with?
I have taught every age from 5 to 65, including students with ADHD and other mild learning disorders.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
After retiring last year, I recently had my first student recital. I received a lot of joy from watching my students muster the courage and successfully navigate a public performance. It was a very positive experience!