About
As a professional musician, I teach students from the prospective of what’s going to be useful to them in the real world, while building a solid foundation of music fundamentals. We integrate a lot of technology into lessons, too.
I love seeing that “aha” moment when a student plays something amazing on the piano for the first time. That’s such an exciting moment!
Highlights
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
After we talk through the details of what kind of lessons the student is looking for, we set up a free consultation where we meet and set goals. Once we’ve come up with a strategy together for lessons, we set a regular weekly meeting and start lessons right away.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have a background in classical and jazz, but my heart has always been for modern music. I spent 15 years in private lessons with various teachers, but most of my development as a musician has come from working in the music industry full-time since I graduated. I feel that gives me a more practical, relatable teaching style than many more classical-focused teachers in the area.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
As a new studio in Nashville (although I have over 12 years experience teaching), I offer very competitive rates while giving students a fantastic teaching experience. We’re working hard to build a reputation in our new home, and our pricing reflects that. Please e-mail my wife, Sarah, at [email protected] for more details.
How did you get started teaching?
When I was 17, I was asked by a friend to teach her son. I initially turned them down, but she kept bugging me and I finally gave in. I caught the teaching bug, and never looked back! To date I’ve taught over 130 students, and it’s been one of the greatest joys of my career.
What types of students have you worked with?
I’ve taught all ages from 6 to 75, but my heart is for hyperactive younger students. I seem to really click with high-energy kids, and have a knack for helping them to focus and develop as musicians.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
I recently took on a 7 year old with ADHD. He was really struggling in school, and his parents weren’t sure he’d be able to learn piano at all. At the end of two months he was regularly playing the piano for several hours each week and so excited about the music he was creating. His father pulled me aside and told me that piano lessons were the bright spot of his son's whole week! There’s no greater joy to me than seeing students get a “win” through music, and seeing the impact it has on the rest of their life.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Look at the results. Many teachers will claim to be talented, but the proof is in how well their students play. Ask to see videos of their students performing to see if a teacher really understands how to create great musicians. (If you’d like to see some of our students performing, check out my Listening House Studios website @ www.listeninghousestudios.com)
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
In order to see results, piano lessons take strong habits. Regular lessons are key, as well as a consistent practice habit. It doesn’t take a lot of time, but I always recommend parents and students think through how they’ll implement healthy habits before jumping into lessons.