Piano Lessons in Hardwick, MA

Instruments: Piano Voice

I have been teaching for 10 years, both privately and in schools. I have taught voice, piano, acting, general music education and directed choirs. I emphasize a performance based approach to music. I believe that communication is the essence and purpose of music, and good technique cannot be divorced from performance. I find that creating an warm, open, non-judgmental environment in lessons allows my students to get in touch with the meaning of the music and allows them to add their own personality to their piece to create a truly individual interpretation and performance. Read More

Instruments: Piano

Hello! I'm a passionate and motivated instructor who loves working with students and sharing my love of music. Currently I am a musicology graduate student studying at the University of Massachusetts. My undergraduate degree is from Central Michigan University where I both taught and performed regularly. As a member of Michigan Music Teachers Association and Music Teachers National Association, I have been granted the opportunities to present research on piano pedagogy both in state and national conferences and have received special training in piano pedagogy. Read More

Instruments: Piano Flute Piccolo

Students learn best in a relaxed, nurturing environment.  I believe in order to successfully teach, I need to be encouraging, and truly care about the students.  My goal is to always have the students improve.  To do this, I think students need a well-balanced diet of tone (Moyse De la Senorite can be used), technique (scales for younger students, Maquarre Daily Excercises or Taffanel and Gaubert Daily Excercises for more advanced students), etudes (Melodious and Progressive Studies), and pieces (I consult the NYSSMA manual for appropriate pieces for the students level).  Having taken Alexander Technique, I strongly emphasize posture so that students can use their bodies in the most efficient way.  Individualized instruction allows for teachers to cater to the needs of the student, challenging the students without frustrating them.  Everyone is unique and learns at different rates, so no two lessons will ever be the same.  I teach students how to practice, so that they can progress outside of the 30 min. or hour long lesson.  As for performance standards, I have used rubrics for tone, technique, articulation, phrasing, and breathing.  Once strengths and weaknesses are assed, I create a plan to help the student improve, which is what students and teachers want to hear. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Cello Bass Guitar

I always try to guide my instruction in a fun and engaging direction to keep the student interested and motivated to get better. I am able to do this by being energetic and enthusiastic about my teaching and I feel its important to make the material matter to the student. When a student has confidence in their abilities they are able to achieve much success on their specific instrument. As I also previously mentioned, getting to know what inspires a student and knowing them on a more personal level helps develop a better student/teacher relationship and thus yields a better outcome on the instrument. Read More

Instruments: Piano Synthesizer Harmonica Music Keyboard

I am a devoted and energetic teacher for all age students who is focused on results and have successes bringing the ability of the student to play effectively from the first lessons. Fundamentals are covered in early lessons for the beginning student who can then move rapidly into playing their preferred style of music. Teaching is accomplished with friendly and caring delivery of new concepts and repetition of new ideas on the keyboard right from the start of lessons. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Music

For younger children, I typically start with the fundamentals such as distinguishing between the head voice and the chest voice. Once the student has progressed to have a grasp of the fundamentals, I will begin to introduce solo repertoire appropriate for said student. For adults, I try to find out what the student is interested in both repertoire and vocal goals, and guide my instruction according to their goals. I will also put input on what I believe they could develop and use that to guide my instruction. Read More

Instruments: Piano Accordion

I have an eclectic style of teaching and may use different methods for different students. I want my students to be able to understand music and be able to play long after our lessons are over. I discuss theory and harmony as we work on different pieces. I usually end lessons by improvising along with students, or doing ear training games, which both children and adults love. Read More