About
I teach privately from Shad Wenzlaff Piano Studio where I offer a personalized - private lessons - approach to learning to play piano. In the past 15+ years, I have given tens of thousands of lessons to hundreds of students. Many of my students have remained in my studio for over a decade, some go on to study piano in college. All discover and cultivate a passion for music and the piano.
I have a BA in Music from Lawrence University where I studied piano and voice (although currently I am not teaching voice lessons). I have also continued graduate studies in Art History, with a minor in Music History. I have continued to study advanced piano by participating in the Interharmony International Music Festival, having studied with Cathy Kautsky and Martha Thomas; I have participated in dozens of teacher master classes and workshops.
On facebook: Shad Wenzlaff Piano Studio. Online: www.shadspiano.net
I accept payment via ZELLE and CHECK.
The process! I love to see a student genuinely learn to love piano. It can be a discipline and sometimes we don't "want" to practice - but it's like exercising, or learning any other new skill - we find enjoyment when we put ourselves into the process. I also find immense enjoyment in seeing my students share what they've learned - whether it is in person at a recital, or an informal group class - I love to see students find ways to share their piano. After all - who doesn't have that favorite song, or that passion we can channel through a piece of music?!
If I don't have a space in my schedule that matches yours, I can place you with another teacher - I manage "Studio Share Madison", a shared teaching studio space with locations on both the near-north and near-west side of Madison. We also offer bi-lingual lessons (Spanish/English) at our N. Sherman Avenue location.
Photos and videos
Reviews
Nicole S.
Triumph A.
Hien N.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
The first three or four lessons are exploratory - depending upon your current skill. Have you learned another instrument? Do you currently read Treble / Bass clef?
Students pay in advance for 10-14 weeks of lessons.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
BA Music - specific coursework in Elementary Music Education, Piano, Voice, Conducting, over 15 credits in Educational Psychology. I completed a Music Therapy project that informs my awareness of students' developmental progress.
I have taught students with varying degrees of ability, including special needs and exceptional ears and rapid learning skills. My experience is varied, deep, and extensive.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
A lesson starts at 30 minutes for $37.50 / prorated at $75/hour - most students take a 45 minute lesson. Additional fees for materials and books may be assessed beyond $80/year - all students pay $35 materials fee. Some festivals and events will cost extra - at least 1 per year will be provided at no extra charge. Also - please inquire about group piano classes (I partner with other teachers to offer these options).
How did you get started teaching?
What types of students have you worked with?
I have taught a very squirrely four year old!
I have taught a very diligent six year old.
Elementary aged, middle school, and high school students have all found my studio to be welcoming.
I have taught transfer students who join my studio for a more advanced lesson.
Several students have gone on to study piano as a major or minor at such colleges as Brown University, University of Texas-Dallas, UW-Madison, UW-LaCrosse, University of Illinois, and elsewhere.
Several of my adult students enjoy my style, flexibility, and creative approach to learning.
My lessons are never "just from the book" - I personalize my approach for each student uniquely.