Introduction: Piano Lessons for Children and Adults
I am a jazz pianist, composer and classically trained singer and have been teaching piano since I was 19 years old. I studied Composition with Alan Mandel, Voice with Anastasio and Elizabeth Vrenios (American University) and Jazz piano with Jon Ozment (U. of M; A.U. George Mason...)
If you (or your child) are interested in learning piano from a supportive teacher who strives to make lessons fun, interesting and comfortable please contact me via Thumbtack and I will respond immediately.
Whether you are a child or an adult, lessons with Mr. David are fun as well as educational with activities like original (occasionally animated) music picture riddles, music-word and music-math games. I also use fun sight reading materials in both traditional and digital form which help a lot with music reading.
All of my students learn the basic piano skills of finger technique and music reading, while some enjoy creative projects as well: I feel that nurturing creativity is an important part of teaching the arts and if the student is interested, I supplement traditional piano study and repertoire with compositional projects and/or Jazz improvisation. Many of my students create their own musical pieces and learn to notate and print them using digital software. I help many of my students learn how to arrange and compose either their own songs or favorite songs by other people. I approach this by arranging a song they like and explaining to them the theory behind how I chose a particular accompaniment style, harmonized the melody with great chords and embellishments etc so that they can learn to do it on their own. Recent arrangements have included Hallelujah by Leonard Cohen and Make You Feel My Love by Bob Dylan
Teaching is not simply about the transfer of information. It's about finding a way to communicate with your student that allows them to feel comfortable, encouraged and appreciated. I try to be as sensitive as I can to the student's personality so that the lessons can be as enjoyable as they are productive.
Lessons are online using a platform designed for music lessons; hybrid or in person (for those who live in the DC/MD area). For online lessons I use programs and equipment which allow for those with electric keyboards to utilize remote playing; midi and audio recordings which can be slowed down for easier comprehension as well as old fashioned sheet music to create a learning situation that is at least as effective as in person lessons.
Please contact me about scheduling a trial lesson. I am happy to provide references and pricing upon request.
David Striar
PS I have been told I have the patience of Job which probably helps but the truth is I love my students and really enjoy teaching. I think the combination of playfulness, creativity and purpose I bring to the lessons makes them enjoyable for both the kids and the adults I work with.
