LESSONS
Early Education: age 4-7
The most important age group! Here the love for music begins and foundations of piano playing and practicing are set. Many kids begin piano before they could read or write -- amazing! I love this age as they usually begin with me and I could give them a positive first encounter with piano and set good habits.
Every student is different and unique in their learning approach. There is no "one correct way" especially at this age. The only universal rules for this age group is (1) regular practice and (2) parental support.
Parents play a crucial role for this age group. I cannot control what goes on outside my studio; I can only give the student and parent my best tools to practice well and internalize what happened in the lesson. I encourage parents to sit in the lesson and learn alongside their child (ages 4-6) then gradually encourage independence and a more hands-off approach when appropriate.
Lessons can be 30-45 minutes. Practice is daily. For students who are enthralled with piano lessons or need extra assistance, let's have lessons twice as week!
The goals: Good piano posture, a core love and fascination for music, confidence to play and share their music in front of loved ones and peers, willingness to sing and move to rhythm and melody, basics of note-reading, practice routine established.
Age 7-18: Pick your curriculum
Everyone has their own personal goals when learning an instrument. For some, it is an academic achievement, for others, it is a simple hobby. In my studio, students have the flexibility to be the type of student they want to be - it could even change from year to year. My universal rules across all my students, no matter their age or skill level is: (1) regular practice (2) good communication between parents/students/me (3) there is always an external goal to work toward (this can be a recital, a recording, even playing for family and friends)
CONSERVATORY STUDENTS
These students are the most serious about practice time. Practice is at least 2 hours or more. I require these students to practice daily on a grand piano or high quality acoustic and be available to sign up for regular festivals, masterclasses, recitals. Competitions are optional but encouraged for this type of student.
The goals: A student who values their art and will carry on the torch of music-making into the next generation. I would like to be a part in the creation of a leader, a thinker, an empathetic and kindhearted being.
ACADEMIC ACHIEVERS
These students are the ones who practice daily, but might not have the time to put in 3 hours of practice. They also do everything the "conservatory students" do, but they are not necessarily trying to win 1st place at the Cliburn. Perhaps they also do sports, or are involved with academics at their school. This does not mean they love piano less, in fact, they love piano a lot if they are including it in their busy schedule. I encourage these students to perform at least 3 times a year and to sign up for one festival/masterclass/honors recital outside my studio.
The goals: regular performance schedule, good practice routine, healthy growth and mindset, satisfaction with their achievements and willingness to learn more.
MUSIC LOVERS
These students come to music with the pure goal of making it a lifetime hobby. They might not practice every day, but they will attend to the piano regularly and work on the goals we set together. I require these students to participate in my studio recitals twice a year and attend all the group classes they can. These are not "just for fun" lessons. There are still goals to work for and accomplish.
The goals: Reach a level of piano that enables these students the freedom to play any piece they want without trouble (this still requires regular practice to get there!). A student who looks forward to their lessons and finds meaning in what they do.
***Students with learning disabilities: I am very receptive to my student's limitations and mental health. I address each of my students on a personal, case-by-case basis. What helps me the most in understanding a situation is clear communication between the parent and student so that I can provide the boundaries and respect necessary for a healthy learning environment.
Adult Lessons
Being an adult is hard. Work, family, and other life obligations can divide your attention (in good and bad ways). I treat my adult students with the same expectation as the rest of my studio. You are here to learn an art form and find your own passion and identity with music. I care a lot about your progress and will adjust my teaching to what works for you.
My adults range from beginner to advanced. I have them perform regularly in front of each other online and in person. They are encouraged to participate in my studio recitals. I like to build a community with my adults so they feel connected to music socially, philosophically, and personally.
The goals: A routine of reasonable goal setting and achieving those goals. Building a community of supportive adults who are interested in playing piano.
Online Lessons
I offer a hybrid/fully online experience using multiple camera angles and high quality mics. Students at the intermediate level and over the age of 10 are best fit for online instruction. My online students still have performance opportunities and may switch between in-person and online as it is convenient for them.
