About
I was blessed with a beautiful granddaughter, and have been so grateful that circumstances allowed me to be close and to play a significant role in her life, which included music lessons!
I do so enjoy children, to inspire and teach - to share whatever I can to encourage their growth and happiness.
I began studying piano at 7 and continued lessons into high school. By then I was accompanying school and church choirs. I sometimes played soft background music at restaurants and taught piano through my college years.
I teach students to read music and play the piano, understanding musical theory and practicing basic techniques that will guide them to know how to play their pieces as written and meant to be played. I also feel the importance of allowing and encouraging individual interpretation if one wishes to express their own musical creativity.
I specialize in working with young beginners. I am very patient and incorporate fun material that encourages the child to focus and learn best at their own pace. I send home little bits of 'homework' so the parent remains very much involved in their child's learning experience.
Highlights
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Details
Years experience
Able to read music
Lesson length
Student's age
Student has instrument
Interested musical styles
Photos and videos
Reviews
Katie W.
Katie O.
Chris M.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
I offer an initial and free 30 minute introductory lesson, which gives us an opportunity to make sure there's a synergy between us as teacher and student. We discuss which music book might be best for your particular requirement, and the pace at which you'd like to learn!
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
Many years of playing and lessons have prepared me for this particular stage in my life. I do like to teach beginners to intermediates. My youngest student right now is 4-1/2 yrs old, and what a delight! My oldest is in her 70's and enjoys her lessons which have helped to refresh her skills after many years of not playing. I take great joy in teaching the teens and adults as well.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
Recommended: 45 minutes for young children - $45
Otherwise - 1 hr lesson - $50
How did you get started teaching?
I started teaching beginners when I was a Senior in high school. THAT was quite some time ago.
What types of students have you worked with?
I like to make sure that the student is serious about wanting to learn to play the piano, and is willing to devote at least some time every day to practice. Ideally I think it takes 20- 30 minutes per day to experience gradual and noticeable improvement with focused and dedicated practice. Obviously little children may start off with a shorter amount of practice time, often combined with short music theory lessons shared between parent and child experienced with a game-like approach.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
I enjoy Broadway musicals SO very much. I learned to play mostly because I wanted to sing, which required me to accompany myself. Not that my voice was anything special, but I absolutely loved to sing. I excelled in choir and did achieve some level of success and enjoyed singing in the occasional community musical here and there. I'm very excited now to be able to attend "Hamilton" when it comes to Austin this December, and anxiously await that experience with my Granddaughter!
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Choose a teacher who you connect with, and one who will share in the joy of your growth and achievements! It's so important to have fun as you're learning the language of music!
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
Scheduling - discuss establishing a regular time each week that is convenient for both of you;
Music books - the teacher can guide you with the appropriate book to acquire for your age and skill level;
What are your goals you may have considered to achieve with your lessons? How far might you wish to go - do you aspire to be an advanced pianist or play a keyboard focusing on musical chord work? The teacher will need to know these things to guide you to reach these goals!