Bennett Piano Studio

I work with the parents to make sure they have an appropriate instrument and a good practice environment in their home.  For the student I initially focus on good posture and technique, then give them a variety of materials to play and learn to read music.  New students also have access to the latest in software learning apps. 

Master of Music, Shenandoah Univ. with emphasis on chamber music, B.S. Univ. of Tenn., pedagogy workshops at state and national music teachers' conferences, numerous pedagogy seminars at GMU and the Levine School, numerous workshops and master classes through Fairfax-Loudoun Music Fellowship, Northern Virginia Music Teachers Assoc. (NVMTA) and associates.

Due at the first lesson of the month.  Tuition remains the same for each month and includes 35 lessons from Sept.  –  May.    

60 minute lessons - $240.00 per month 

45 minute lessons - $180.00 per month 

30 minute lessons  - $130.00 per month      

Tuition includes the time spent planning lessons, choosing individual repertoire, judging at festivals and other events in which your child participates, professional certification renewed annually by the Music Teachers National Association, attendance and fees for 15-20 teacher workshops per year, and membership dues in several professional organizations that provide a variety of performance opportunities for students.

I have played the piano since I was 7 and always wanted to be a teacher.  When someone asked me to teach their child, I realized that being able to play the piano was not enough.  I needed to be educated in music, so I earned a Master's Degree in Music and opened Bennett Piano Studio in Ashburn. 

I have worked with all ages, from 4 year-olds to seniors.  I have worked with students whose primary focus is piano and have gone into the music field in college.  I have worked with students who are very busy with many activities and have little time for practicing the piano.  We work together on time management to get the most out of piano lessons.  I have worked with students who are very talented and progress quickly into intermediate and advanced levels. I have worked with students who find music to be a challenge and I'm able to show them that with focus and consistent practicing, anyone can learn to play the piano.

Last year, I had 2 high school students who practiced and learned so much advanced music to "performance level" that I scheduled a full length recital with just the 2 of them.  It was very rewarding for me to see and hear how thoroughly and successfully they have learned how to practice and how to learn long, difficult pieces independently.

Make sure that you have time in your schedule to practice 6 days a week for at least 30 minutes in the beginning. Consider the teacher's education and training in music, and their participation in professional workshops and continuing education.  Request a copy of the teacher's studio policy.  Interview the teacher and visit the studio to familiarize yourself with their teaching methods.

The primary needs of piano students are related to their busy schedules.  Therefore, they should look closely at their schedules, activities, obligations before coming to their teacher.  I then help them with managing their time.