Piano Lessons in Bay Pines, FL

Instruments: Piano

Each student is different, so I use different method books to suit how he or she learns.  One student may learn quickly in note reading while another is stronger in memorization.  I use classical repertoire to give the students a solid foundation, and then as they progress, I will introduce popular songs that they love.  I incorporate music theory in all of my lessons because knowing theory opens many doors to what one can do with music! Read More

Instruments: Piano Music Keyboard

My teaching experience started with Olivet Boys and Girls club in college. There, I started teaching a choral group, glee club, private piano lessons, and group piano lessons. I did this for roughly ~5 years. I also taught lessons prior to this to beginner students throughout high school. I took private lessons from the age of 7 years old for about 13 years, and continue to practice and play daily (it's important to keep challenging yourself). Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Cello Viola Electric Violin Fiddle Double Bass

I begin with developing sheet music literacy in my students right off the bat if they have no experience in reading music. I believe music literacy is one of the most important aspects of learning an instrument. I've always said, "not being able to read sheet music is like trying to be a writer who can't read, it makes no sense". I also begin with teaching proper form. Meaning how to hold the instrument and how to use proper technique. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Cello Viola

For beginning cello students of all ages, I normally use one of my teacher's method books: Cellocity by Helga Winold of Indiana University. As my cello students progress, I slowly introduce smaller pieces that can normally be found in Suzuki method books. After my cello students have advanced significantly, I begin to introduce more complex pieces that are found in the standard cello repertoire. Eventually, my students reach a level where they gain the ability to gauge their experience level and select their own pieces with my approval. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Ukulele

I'm not one to push a student too hard; after a certain point, it becomes counter-productive. Everyone is going to progress at their own rate and it's my job to find out what that rate is. Naturally different people will gravitate towards different things. By putting some time in and figuring out their strengths and weaknesses, I can address certain concepts accordingly. Personal preference is very important; you can't force enthusiasm. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Violin Cello Viola Synthesizer Electric Violin Music Keyboard Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

After Book 1, we can explore Book 2 or start looking at more difficult repertoire. For intermediate or advanced students, we will focus a lot of one and two octave scales and being to introduce either the Suzuki book series or standard repertoire. Advanced students will also use books 5-7 of Suzuki, standard repertoire, and two to three octave scales. Piano: New piano students will either start with the Piano Adventures series by Faber (for young beginner students) or Alfred's Adult Piano Methods (for older students or adults). Read More

Instruments: Piano Organ

It is extremely important that lessons are relaxed and fun. The student needs to work in a supportive and safe environment which encourages risk-taking and exploration. Praise and positive reinforcement are essential. I like students to explore their creative sides through composition and improvisation. I introduce chords and harmony and have students develop their own arrangements of pieces studied, This gives them a sense of empowerment and discovery. Students develop positive self-images and this makes the lesson process all that more enjoyable. Read More