About
I focus on figuring out what the student wants to accomplish with piano and help them reach those goals while still working on what they need and helping them grow as a musician.
My teaching philosophy:
“Teaching is about creating the potential for growth. As teachers we are the tools for our students to use to develop the right way. It is an art form that has many layers from understanding each other to knowing what works and does not. My goal is to teach my students much more than just notes, I want them to become articulate musicians while developing as a person and learning to succeed in their journeys through anything. I like to give my students challenges and opportunities for small successes to build confidence. I make sure they are well-versed in what we are working on and I am ok with being lenient with what music we play and how much we do, while setting realistic goals and expectations. In the end, whether we are slowly getting through material or flying through it, we will be making progress.”
Specialties
Years experience
Able to read music
Lesson length
Student's age
Student has instrument
Interested musical styles
Photos and videos
Reviews
Charlotte X.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
For any good lesson there has to be a good student teacher relationship. The first thing I need to do is understand the students musical goals. Why are you in lessons? It could be many different reasons. Maybe to refine your technique to be the best virtuoso or just to spend time and play some music for each other more casually. Depending on the age will vary a lot. But I will try to get to know why we are here so we can get the most out of our lesson.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
As a piano performance major in my university (Texas A&M-Commerce) we had quite a rigorous program which included 2 pedagogy classes where we practiced teaching and were observed for a grade. Then I also taught at my university's piano program which was anyone who lived around the area and was interested. This meant all ages over 4 and skill levels.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
My standard rates are:
$40 - 30 mins
$60 - 45 mins
$80 - 60 mins
Lessons are typically once a week but we can also customize a time and length of a lesson as well.
How did you get started teaching?
I started by teaching my younger sister very early on in my own piano studies. Shortly after I had some requests for lessons after a recital I played at my college. After that I got referred to a private music school by my professor and I have been teaching since then in 2011
What types of students have you worked with?
Throughout the 10 plus years I've taught there have been many types of students. From ages as young as 3 and up to 80, all skill levels as well as a lot of beginners.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Look for a teacher who you can communicate well with and get along. Being able to learn from someone is about having a good connection and understanding each other.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
The main one is: what is my goal with the piano and what do I want to accomplish by learning this skill?
It does not have to be practical. It can just be: I want to be able to play a certain kind of music or even just a specific piece. But that goal is part of what will keep you motivated to succeed.