About
Hello! My name is Jessica and I am a piano teacher in Simi Valley, CA. I received my Bachelor of Piano Performance from California Baptist University in 2012 and since then, I have spent time playing piano in church, accompanying elementary and high school choirs, and teaching private lessons.
I am looking for students that are passionate about music, willing to work hard, and have fun! I teach both classical and contemporary music, striving to teach my students how to read music proficiently. I also teach theory and some improvisation. Whether you are just starting out, or have taken lessons before, all skill levels are welcome in my studio. My recommended age for starting lessons is six years old. Adults are welcome to take lessons as well. Please message me if you would like to set up your first lesson. Hope to hear from you soon!
When I was younger, I thought the only thing I would enjoy about playing piano would be performing and accompaning other instrumentalists. It wasn't until I started passing on my knowledge to others that I realized that teaching is my number one passion. Teaching piano is so uniquely rewarding! I love seeing my students each and every week and learning about their unique personalites and learning styles. Whether a student is shy or outgoing, a quick learner or someone who likes to take his time, each student is a welcome challenge for me. Whenever I see a student conquer a piece that he didn't think he could play, or I am asked a question in a lesson that challenges me to think in a different way, I remember why I love to teach. Like so many other teachers have said, teaching is not only passing on information to others, but it is a new way of learning for the teacher and helps us grow as humans like nothing else can.
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
I offer a free first lesson so I can meet the student and parents, and so they can get to know me and my teaching style. I teach out of method books which enable learning in a gradual, methodical approach. Later into lessons, I will add other pieces that are standard in piano literature and I am open to including other pieces that the student brings to me as well.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have a Bachelor Degree in Piano Performance from California Baptist University and I have been teaching piano for four years. I have also been a member of the California Music Teachers Association of California for 2 years.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
I charge $20 for a 30-minute lesson every week. Students are required to pay at the beginning of the month for the full month. Months that have 4 lessons would total $80 for the month and months with 5 lessons in the month would total $100 for the month. I also offer weekly 45 minute lessons for $27 per lesson.
How did you get started teaching?
I first started teaching piano lessons in high school as a way to make extra money, but I really learned to love teaching when I started a studio in San Diego. My family lived there for 2 and a half years, so this was the first time I was able to see growth in my students over a significant amount of time. Since then, I have loved teaching.
What types of students have you worked with?
I have worked with mostly elementary age students, but I have also taught some high school students and one adult student. All are enjoyable to teach and, if they have been diligent, all have done extremely well!
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
Last fall, I hosted my studio's first "Piano Party". My students came to my house for some pizza, some creative musical games, and a time to practice recital etiquette. Everyone had a wonderful time and it was a great way to make piano a collaborative activity and not just a solo practice activity. I look forward to hosting more of these parties in the future!
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
These are some good things to consider when finding a new teacher:
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
Looking at the questions from the previous box may help with this one.