Brinkley Music Studio

I start with a Lesson Book and Theory Book (Piano Adventures by Faber) according to the student's age/ability.  Beginners need to practice about 10 minutes each day, longer if possible. I look for songs that will be especially appealing for students to supplement the regular lesson book or performance book songs.

BS in Music Education, graduate study in voice at Eastman School of Music.  I took a piano pedagogy class in college and did an internship in a large private piano studio.  I have been teaching for many years, 24 years in Williamsburg VA (plus NY and CA before that).  I coordinate the Williamsburg Area Music Teachers group and the National Federation of Music Clubs Festival.

$24 for 30-minute lesson

$36 for 45-minute lesson

$48 for 60-minute lesson

$5 performer fee for recitals

$14 event fee for Federation Festival

College music education program as piano major, voice minor.

From age 5 up through 80 something, varying levels of ability/talent, some with learning disabilities, one blind student.

I coordinate four student recitals each year for the Williamsburg Area Music Teachers and am right now working on the Federation Festival for the Virginia Peninsula.  About 400 students participate in Festival; we use two locations (College of William & Mary and Christopher Newport University).  Teachers also perform in a Benefit Concert each year to raise money for student scholarships.

Decide if you want a teacher who is strict with discipline in approaching the instrument or someone who wants to make it more fun while still maintaining good musicianship.  Some studios promote stiff competition while others (like mine) promote self-development to bring out the student's best without pressure.

Make sure teachers are well qualified and experienced.  Ask about the teacher's studio philosophy.  Many parents only ask about fees and location, which should be less important.