FAQs
- What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?
Typically, for one-on-one lessons, I charge $10-15 per 15 minutes (30-60 per hour, or 20-30 per half hour, depending on the student's level of experience and focus. I accept cash, check, paypal, venmo, and money order, and expect payment at the time of each lesson, or in advance for clients who prefer to pay for a month in advance. For events, costs vary from $200-$1,500 or more, depending on number of performers, type of PA required, length of event, etc. $100 non-refundable is due at time of booking, with balance due day of performance. I don't charge for cancellations or no-shows, and do my best to reschedule, however as much notice as possible is appreciated. If a student consistently misses lessons, I reserve the right to give his/her timeslot to another pupil, and even refuse further lessons for a time.
- What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
My typical process: I like to arrange a free introductory meeting in which we see how well matched we are as teacher and pupil or client/performer. We discuss your goals and hopes, various approaches, schedule, and payment. The first lesson is often spent assessing the student's current skill level, and going from there.
- What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I studied music (piano mostly) since early childhood. I studied first with Yvonne Stephenson, then Mme. DeSousa, and was finally accepted into the tutelage of renowned pianist Nan Zacharczyk. I was invited to attend several prestigious music schools, including the conservatories at Oberlin College and Indiana University. I chose to pursue language studies instead, but continued my study of music theory and performance as electives. Between undergraduate and graduate school, I directed music for summer camps and public school plays, and eventually moved to Nashville with my band to pursue a record deal. For years, I performed (guitar, piano, and voice) and composed. One of my songs, "Fire on Batten Lane" was cut by One Mile South, and I appeared in the music video for their song, "Mr. Robinson." My performing schedule has slowed after the birth of my son in 2008, But as he gets older, I find I have more time to return to my first love - music.