Private Piano Instruction

Q. What advice do you have for a customer looking to hire a provider like you?

A. The quality of a piano teacher depends on one's professional training, dedication to the instrument, interest in each individual student, and willingness to stay flexible so as to accomodate the needs and musical interests of the student. Price is not always an indication of quality, and should never be the primary question one asks when searching for a first-rate teacher. Experience, training and love of teaching are all more important.

Q. If you were a customer, what do you wish you knew about your trade? Any inside secrets to share?

A. It takes many years of training and dedication, beginning in early childhood, and continuing into one's twenties and beyond to mold a quality teacher. And it requires first-rate instruction from one's teachers before one is able to pass along trade secrets: correct hand position, body posture, importance of solid technique, ways of interpreting the music. A good teacher nevers ceases practising, learning, attending conferences and seeking out enrichment activities. One's craft is never finished.

Q. What questions should a consumer ask to hire the right service professional?

A. 1--Where did you attend school?
2--How many years did you study piano?
3--What is your teaching philosophy?
4--Are there performance opportunities for my child?
5-- What type of instrument do I need?
6--How many years of teaching experience do you have?
7--What age children have you taught?
8--What method books do you use?