Lessons:
I offer piano lessons to students of any age and any level, young beginners to advanced.
My Approach:
Students learn best when they enjoy and are excited about the work they do, so I bring a lot of positive energy to my lessons.
I aim to keep the talk to a minimum. Lessons are not a lecture. My attitude is that students won't learn how to play piano by talking about it. I reinforce everything I teach by having the student try out new things on the piano while I continue offering succinct and astute feedback during pauses.
My primary goal is to unleash a student's innate musicality, often "coaching" students as they play, or having students sing along with the piano, and in other cases introducing eurythmic activities to help students internalize the music.
I promptly recognize and diagnose problems in students' playing, and readily offer solutions. I've studied piano technique extensively, and strive to start all students off with good playing habits.
I have high standards for my students. My explanations are understandable and my teaching is thorough, and therefore any student who has a positive attitude and good practice habits will have no trouble meeting my expectations.
My feedback is always productive and affirming. Piano lessons are as much about enjoying and taking pride in what you do as they are about improving and growing as a musician.
What Students Can Expect:
Beginner students will be playing simple piano tunes within the first few weeks. Beginners can expect to be proficient in reading elementary level piano music within 3 months. Lessons will be fast paced, fun, and light-hearted, and will also feature rhythm, aural skills, music theory, and improvisation/composition training.
I will help Intermediate level students choose appropriate repertoire for themselves, and guide them in the learning process. In addition to repertoire, technique will be emphasized - often through the practice of scales, arpeggios, and exercises. I will stress the importance of good practice habits and knowledge of music theory.
Advanced students can expect to fine-tune their technique in order to reach a high level of virtuosity. They will excel in their musicianship by focusing on the varied subtleties of musical expression. Consistent, frequent, and effective practice will be crucial to success at this stage.
I am a member of the Marin Branch of the Music Teachers Association of California (MTAC), the Music Teachers National Association (MTNA), and the California Association of Professional Music Teachers (CAPMT).
