About
I have 35 years of teaching experience, working with a range of students from school age beginners through university pupils and adult learners. I also am a professional pianist, accompanist and composer, comfortable and accomnplished in a wide variety of styles. My primary goal is to make lessons fun where students learn to play and understand the music I love to teach!
Sharing the love of music, interacting with people, and seeing their excitement about learning.
Highlights
Reviews
Jeff M.
Steve E.
Sally N.
Lynn M.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
I don't have a "typical process" as each student is different. I ask a lot of questions to get to know them and to find out what piques their interest in learning how to play the piano. I give them a quick overview of the keyboard to teach them the names of the keys, incorporating a few brief comments about body and hand positions. We do some fun exercises so I can evaluate their ear.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have a Bachelor of Music in Piano Performance from California State University, Northridge which included pedagogy classes. I have played in Gyorgy Sebok's master classes at Linfield College in McMinnville, Oregon. His approach is similar to the Alexander Technique in that he teaches to best utilize the body in the most natural and efficient way as to avoid injury and stress. In addition, I have concertized as a solo pianist and accompanist in the U.S., Canada and Great Britain.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
Yes. If the student comes to my studio, lessons are once a week. The fees are as follows:
45 minutes - $50
60 minutes - $60
How did you get started teaching?
I started teaching when I was 18 and stil living at home. My mother was a piano teacher and her studio was full so I helped out teaching several beginners along with a few adults who had various musical backgrounds.
What types of students have you worked with?
I have worked with young children as beginners, teenage students, university students (including piano majors) as an adjunct at a university, along with class piano courses. I also have taught numerous adults as beginners as well as accomplished pianists.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
I organized and performed at a fundraiser for a nonprofit at a popular restaurant in downtown Portland. I also enjoy playing house concerts, either as fundraisers for charities or just for enjoyment.
Also, when my husband was undergoing knee replacement surgery I spontaneously played a short performance on the piano in the hospital lobby. It helped soothe my nerves--and was appreciated by those around me!
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Ask the teacher lots of questions, including teaching and performing backgrounds, experiences, and expectations. Most importantly, a student must feel comfortable with that teacher so both parties can benefit from a fruitful working relationship.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
All students should ask themselves WHY they are seeking to take piano lessons. If the student is more advanced and essentially self- motivated, they should ask themselves what specific things they hope to gain, what their strengths and weaknesses are, and how and if that particular teacher will help them achieve their goals.