Piano Lessons For Kids & Adults
About
I have studied music since I was 6 years old. I earned my BA in music education and have many years of experience playing professionally, classroom teaching, and private teaching. I continued studying piano and organ after college (and am still at it!) My piano teaching style is traditional, helping the student learn how to read notes immediately along with developing proper technique. I add discussions about composers, music history, and the theory of music. To me, it is vital the student understands WHAT he is playing.
Yearly recitals are a part of my studio. I prepare students for the opportunity to play in front of an audience. I like to celebrate the growth accomplished during their study.
I am from the Midwest and recently moved to north Texas. I earned my Texas state teaching license in 2015.
In HS band I was presented the "New Musician Award." One of my greatest performing experiences was piano soloist performing "Rhapsody in Blue" by George Gershwin with a WI community band. (A video is on YouTube.) I belong to the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators. I am currently working on a picture book about composers and have a goal to become published.
I care very much about my students and want to develop a great rapport with them. Music is in my blood and have such a passion for it. By teaching, my goal is to have students develop an appreciation for it and have their lives become more enjoyable.
I love teaching about my passion. I love the rapport that is developed from a one-on-one relationship. Helping people develop and improve skills is very satisfying. And to see my enthusiasm about music rub off on other people.
Highlights
No reviews (yet)
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
I find out their background and age. From there I decide what materials I'm going to use for them. The first lesson is very informative discussing hand position, posture, and distance from the keys. I then get them playing right away. I assign at least 2 pieces to work on for the next lesson.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
BA in music education.
Private piano and organ study (I'm still at it.)
Student teaching K-8
9 graduate credits from U of WI in music and education
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
Student pays for 4 lessons per month at the very first lesson of the month.
1 Make-up lesson per "semester."
1-hour lessons $50.00
If traveling to your home, $55.00
First introductory lesson discount.
How did you get started teaching?
I saw how some people were not taught properly. I decided to help change that. I have such a love for playing music and want to pass that on.
What types of students have you worked with?
Adults
Kids from ages 5 to 18
Down's Syndrome
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Get someone who knows what they are doing - someone who has a background in performance, teaching, and education. And someone who deals with that one instrument. Studying just 1 instrument thoroughly is enough. I feel it's really hard to study 3 or 4 at the same time, unless they are related to each other. You don't want a trumpet teacher to teach piano just because he has had a little background of it.
But I don't know EVERYTHING. If I come across something I don't know, I'll find out for you.