All about Lessons
Here you will find some details of what I offer, how I teach and what you can expect from my lessons.
If you want to just contact me right away, that's great too! Head on over to the contact page and send me a message! I will be happy to answer any questions you have.
Lessons and Practice
Building Musical Foundations
In my piano lessons, I start by teaching students how to read music notation, beginning with the basics and gradually advancing to more complex concepts. This method ensures a solid foundation for developing their musical skills. I use sight-reading exercises and timed flashcards to help motivate students and track their progress.
Maintaining a steady beat is a crucial part of music education. I guide students in learning how to keep and organize beats across different time signatures, laying the groundwork for rhythmic proficiency.
Integrating Music Theory
I incorporate music theory into lessons as it naturally comes up in the material. For beginners, I blend basic theory concepts into piano instruction. As students advance, I dedicate extra lesson time to exploring more complex theory concepts, which are essential for deeper musical understanding and growth.
Repertoire
In selecting repertoire, I use method books such as Piano Adventures. Beginners start with a few core books, and as students progress, I introduce additional resources to match their developing skills and interests.
Practice and Progress
Establishing a regular practice routine is crucial for progress. I encourage students to practice daily, starting with manageable time commitments and gradually increasing as they advance. For younger students, you may need to provide guidance with their assignments and practice.
In addition to in-lesson music theory, I may assign occasional homework to reinforce understanding. Regular practice and completion of homework help build confidence and solidify what is learned during lessons.
Supplementary Resources
From time to time, I provide video or audio clips to support practice and develop aural skills. These resources help students with their learning and practice at home, and are accessible via a dedicated webpage located on all assignment sheets.
Learning Through Play
I believe learning should be enjoyable, so I frequently integrate games into lessons. These games make reinforcing musical concepts fun and engaging. I use them to help students remember and apply what they've learned, both for basic theory and practical piano skills.
To further motivate students, I use "Piano Bucks" as an incentive system. Students can earn rewards for their practice and achievements, making the learning process both rewarding and enjoyable. I require a parent’s signature on the practice sheet each week to validate practice to ensure students earn their "Piano Bucks."