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.
Specialties
Years experience
Able to read music
Lesson length
Student's age
Student has instrument
Interested musical styles
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.