Hello! I'm an online piano teacher who is based in Michigan. My home studio is equipped with top-notch lighting, sound, and video equipment, so your lessons will always be a high quality experience.
With 20+ years of teaching experience and a PhD in my field, I bring a wealth of experience to help you achieve new levels of virtuosic technique and musical mastery.
•• My Methods ••
My work with every student begins with a conversation about goals, needs, challenges, and learning styles.
Upon joining my studio, we will develop a personalized curriculum that charts the most direct course from where you are today to where you want to be. And the best part is, that curriculum will adapt and change as you gain experience and reach new levels.
Mastering the piano is a lifelong endeavor, which is why I take pride in teaching dedicated students of all ages. My studio includes kids, teens, college students, adults with work-from-home careers, stay-at-home parents, retired folks, and more.
I also enjoy working with students of all experience levels, from the total beginner on up to professional pianists and music educators who are looking to expand and refine their skillsets.
•• Studio Community ••
My students are driven, curious, creative, and passionate about music. Alongside learning classical repertoire, I encourage students to explore their personal interests in composition, theory and analysis, and more through independent projects.
Students are invited to perform in a number of online recitals throughout the year, as well as at our annual Studio Showcase Recital at The DiMenna Center for Classical Music in New York City. These events are wonderful opportunities to showcase your hard work and growth with the instrument to family and friends around the country and beyond.
•• Lesson Plans ••
For beginner children, I use the Faber Piano Adventures series. I teach children as young as 4 years old. I create a personalized lesson plan for each student, so that we can celebrate their strengths while working on challenging areas. Some examples of individualized study include extra note reading practice with flash cards and games, improvisation and composition lessons, scales and finger exercises, and music theory/analysis.
For beginner adults, I use the Alfred Basic Adult Course. This accelerated method book helps us move quickly to learning about chords, melody and accompaniment, and enough music theory to play a variety of styles. I supplement this book with other musical interests of the student, such as pop/rock pieces, composition, music theory, etc.
For intermediate to advanced students, I generally work on several contrasting pieces at once. This could include pieces from different eras of classical music (Baroque, Classical, Romantic, 20th Century, Contemporary) as well as other genres. I have helped students prepare for ABRSM and NYSMMA exams, auditions for performing arts high schools and college programs, and solo recitals.
•• Teaching Philosophy ••
When learning a piece, it's tempting to just get the notes and say "hey, I did it!" But this is only half the battle. What so many self-taught pianists miss out on is cultivating true musicality. I work with my students of all ages and levels to cultivate artistry through informed and personal interpretations of each piece we work on.
With my students I am always patient, kind, and encouraging. Mastering an instrument like the piano is a long journey; I see myself as a mentor and guide rather than a strict taskmaster. I meet students where they are, and keep in mind that everyone comes to the instrument with different experiences.
