Melody Music Studios
About
I offer in-home and studio lessons. I have taught since 1985 and trained at the San Francisco Conservatory of Music with Juliard graduate, Mac MacCray. I have played piano since I was five, and have been a professional performer since 1989. I have a passion for seeing students learn and grow, and offer a fun positive environment. I teach both traditional (including classical) as well as by year, and offer most contemporary styles. I believe in tailoring the lessons to the student's interests, goals, and pace.
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
I start teaching keyboard geogrophy then the C hand position, writing out songs they can play within that hand position. I use my own books for learning how to read music, and pick out a book of songs the student is interested in.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have 4 years of college training, studying private piano, theory, ear training, ensembles, and various other music courses.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
$110/month for studio lessons (I have a beautiful designated part of my home with a grand piano) and $140/month if I travel to the student's home.
How did you get started teaching?
I taught myself how to play starting at the age of 5, then began private lessons in 7th grade. I come from a musical family, so playing piano was all I wanted to do as a child.
What types of students have you worked with?
I teach all ages (starting from 5 years' old) through adults with all different learning capabilities. I have the ability to figure out a good pace for each student that challenges them without frustration.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
I love setting up recitals for my students and watch them play the piece they've worked so hard on.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
The best thing is to find an instructor that has the proper training, but also someone that has the ability to "read" the student and adapt the curiculum to fit the way the student learns.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
It's great when a student knows why they want to take lessons on any instrument, and what they want to do with it. For some, it's just for enjoyment for themselves and their family to listen to, while others may have a specific goal of learning a song or making music a career. And the great thing is the goals can change and evolve during the course of taking lessons. You never know what learning music may open up for opportunities in the student's life!