Cultivating confidence, creativity, and connection through music
Frequently Asked Questions
What ages of students do you teach?
I teach students ages six and up. Students younger than six are accepted on a case-by-case basis, and this largely depends on where they are developmentally in regard to motor skills and concentration.
Do you offer consultations?
Yes, I offer consultations (what I call interview lessons) completely free of charge to ensure that the student and I are a good fit. This is a fun and relaxed session where prospective students and parents can meet me, tour the studio, discuss policies and expectations, talk openly about why the student wants to begin piano lessons, and engage in some fun musical activities to assess rhythm, ear, motor skills, and strengths.
After the initial interview lesson, what can I expect each week?
A typical weekly lesson plan depends on the student’s age and level. For beginning young students, musical concepts, technique, ear training and theory are learned and developed through a combination of on-the-bench and off-the-bench games and activities in addition to learning pieces. For beginning adult and intermediate students, I follow a more structured plan consisting of scales, arpeggios, and chord progressions; technical exercises at the piano; theory and analysis; composition; and working on existing and new repertoire. For the advanced student, we will spend most of the lesson on reviewing existing and new repertoire. All lessons are filled with laughter and lots of positive feedback and encouragement! I find it incredibly important to foster a joyful learning experience for all students at all levels.
What equipment do I need at home?
Students need daily access to a tuned acoustic piano or a fully-weighted or hammer-action digital piano/keyboard with 88 keys. Keyboards that do not have 88 keys and do not mimic the feel of an acoustic piano are not conducive to learning keyboard geography (where notes are located on the piano) and proper technique (the ability to transfer the body’s energy to the instrument through correct posture, arm weight, hand shape, and finger strength and dexterity to produce a beautiful tone and play musically).