Piano Lessons in Mesa, AZ

Instruments: Piano

What advice do you have about practicing effectively?
Having a detailed practice plan, covering all areas of the lesson given, and then specifically outlining what is expected to reinforce this concept, is vital for success. I have instilled the 'honor system' when a student checks off their daily accomplishments. This teaches responsibility/dedication/honesty. Five days per week of practice time is a good guideline for most students. Setting a specific time to practice helps. A student should have food and water in their tummy, prior to practicing.

When will I start to see results?
Most students that can comprehend simple directions can play after one lesson a basic tune learned by my direction. For instance, a beginner can be shown how to hold their hands properly to execute a tune on Black keys only. A familiar tune, following a sequence of patterns is easily learned by rote. Also, a young beginner that knows the alphabet A-G can learn the sequence of the musical alphabet. Practicing these basic technics is fun and rewarding. I can easily figure out one's interest level quickly., creating a rewarding experience.

Why did you choose your primary instrument?
My father's work required many miles of travel on the Navajo reservation on a daily basis. He came across a driver on a long barren stretch of highway that had a flat tire and stopped to assist. Conversation led to discovering the driver was hauling a new piano back to his store in Flagstaff, AZ. The family that ordered the piano lived in Page, AZ and was disappointed in the finish. The driver asked my father if he'd like to see it. A couple of hours later, my mother and father purchased the instrument. Yes, he drove it to our home in Tuba City. My parents

What musical accomplishments are you most proud of?
I am most proud of my successes as a much sought after piano instructor, for some students and their families, over two generations. What a pleasure it is to have student's approach me at community, school, and church events with excitement! I am honored to see many of my past students embrace music in various forms, many times by self-reports. These relationships were not cultured with the intent of expectations by me. I was simply a vessel to encourage a talent and appreciation of music. Lucky me.

Have any of your students won awards or been selected for special honors? How have they succeeded?
Seven of my students ranging from 8 - 14 were in a concert association competition. Their bright minds were filled with knowledge that they were a guest at the event to share their favorite piece with a special group of people. each of the seven placed first in every category. I taught a current popular performing artist fundamentals that now support their musical career. When dedicated, a teacher has the opportunity to encourage self esteem, self discipline, and the love of an instrument. I believe this is a cornerstone for positive progress. Eighty seven students later, I am confident stating , "Every student is capable of becoming an award winner in my book." It isn't always a physical, tangible award. Sometimes it is about self accomplishment, meeting a personal goal that has been set by the student.

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