About
Have been teaching piano for decades and love giving lessons to students 20 years old or older (I don't take children) up to seniors, who've either had lessons as a child but stopped, and now want to resume, to have music in their lives, or start from scratch.
I'm based in Saratoga and travel to students' homes in the Greater San Jose Area. No extra charge for travel.
I teach both Classical and Jazz Improv. Many of my students like the variety. I use my own workbook, supplied gratis to students, and gear lessons to each student's particular needs and desires. Always include basic music theory, so students understand what makes music work.
Lessons last an hour and sometimes go longer, depending upon what needs to be reviewed, assigned, clarified, demonstrated, etc. There never is any additional charge for overtime. We just have fun making music.
I love watching students' eyes light up and that imaginary lightbulb going on over their heads when they suddenly get it. That's worth more than gold, and I know I've succeeded in passing useful knowledge along.
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Bonnie S.
Kim S.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
No children; don't take students younger than 20.
First, an email or phone interview, to learn what the student has in mind to accomplish.
Next, proceed with individual learning techniques. I use my own workbooks.
Gently keep pushing them to learn and absorb more.
Make sure the student continues to enjoy what they're doing.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
18 seasons with San Francisco Opera. 8 seasons with Lamplighters Music Theatre. Writing/arranging for various Grammy-winning vocal groups (see my website); directing and starring in productions with other companies (Redwood Symphony, West Bay Opera, Lyric Theatre of San Jose, Portland Light Opera company, etc); producing and directing my own shows, that have been presented in the national Fine Arts Presenters market.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
All lessons are the same fee: $50 per session, usually at least an hour long, but if we got over, there's never any additional fee.
How did you get started teaching?
Just wanted to share what I've learned and accomplished over the years with others. I thoroughly enjoy teaching.
What types of students have you worked with?
Important: I don't take anyone under the age of 20.
I enjoy working with people who'd taken lessons as a child, then stopped, and years later wished to regain and advance what musical knowledge they'd had.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
Many performances of works I've composed and arranged. Too numerous to mention. Visit my website for more details.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Dedicate time every day to studying, even if you have only 15-20 minutes to spare. The important thing is to keep at it and don't let your attention or interest flag. Moving forward and building on what you've learned is key to success.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
Am I serious about this or do I just want to waste my time and money and my teacher's time and patience? Period!