FAQs
Who do you teach? Am I too old to start piano?
Everyone is welcome in my studio regardless of age. I have specialized training in teaching young beginners, older beginners, and intermediate-advanced students. I love teaching students of all ages and sharing my love and passion for music with eager learners. I customize the student curriculum to meet the needs of each individual.
Is your tuition above Average? What does Tuition Include?
Yes, I charge an above-average tuition rate. Tuition for weekly lessons will cover 20 lessons each semester, with opportunities to perform in student recitals 1-2 times each year.
Tuition covers not only your weekly lesson time, it also includes daily practice check-ins, 15-60 minutes of lesson planning per week, and prompt and professional communication 24/7, email or text. Tuition must also cover the cost of maintaining a quality studio and instruments for students to use, as well as my professional training and organizations and participation in local and national conferences.
what is the appropriate age for my child to begin piano lessons?
I recommend starting between ages 5-7. I welcome younger students who demonstrate a higher level of musical ability, but first recommend a group music experience for early childhood through programs such as KinderMusik or MusikGarten. I usually recommend a trial lesson for young beginners to determine if I am a good fit for your child - I believe your child's first teacher will be their most important as they introduce them to the profound experience of music making.
do you offer a consultation?
Yes, our first meeting is free of charge. The 30 minute consultation will allow me to asses the students level and ability and determine if we will be a good fit together.
How long are lessons?
I prefer that each of my students take a 45 minute or 1 hour weekly lesson. Some young students may have needs for a shorter, 30-minute lesson, although beginning lessons usually involve a lot of movement and activity away from the piano to build musicality into the body, breaking up the lesson into manageable chunks. Some adult students may also prefer a bi-monthly lesson schedule or to purchase a lesson package rather than commit to tuition enrollment.
Do you offer in-home lessons? Do you offer online remote lessons?
Yes, In-home lessons require an additional travel-fee to cover my travel time and vehicle expenses. The travel fee is variable and negotiated based on your location and number of students taking lessons. Online lessons through Zoom or FaceTime are also available at regular tuition cost. Students may wish to invest in a quality microphone and camera if choosing online lessons
What do I need to Have to take lessons?
Students must have daily access to a quality instrument, either an upright or grand piano or keyboard. Keyboards should be full 88-key models with hammer-action or weighted keys. A metronome is the another necessary item, either the physical metronome or metronome apps . All music books and supplies will be supplied by the student.
How often do I need to PractIce?
It is essential that you spend time at the instrument EVERYDAY. However, rest is also essential and occasional 1-day breaks are encouraged. Adults and teens should schedule at least 30 minutes each day for piano practice, more advanced students require more time - between 45 mins to 2 hours. Young beginners can shoot for two 15-minute practice sessions for 5 days, and one 15-minute session on lesson days (with one day off). Having a regular practice time each day (before breakfast, after dinner) is an effective way to begin a new discipline.
do you Use Yoga in your Piano Teaching?
Yes! I incorporate the principles I've learned from yoga and meditation practice to increase efficiency , to alleviate stress and anxiety, and to tap into the inner joy always present within us. We don't do anything that is religious or impractical to learning the piano. We simply use these principles to prime the brain for learning, to stay healthy in posture and movement, and to have fun!