Piano Lessons in New Derry, PA

Instruments: Piano Voice

For young beginners, I like to use the Faber and Faber series. They do a wonderful job incorporating reading, listening, and writing into the curriculum. I also think creativity is a huge part of music. I love asking students to write their own songs. When I play their compositions on the piano, their reactions are priceless! For older beginners, advanced students, and voice students I use a similar approach but with supplemental materials. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Music Keyboard

For beginning students who are children, I typically start with either the John Schaum method book series or the James Bastien method book series. Both book series are fun, colorful, and engaging for the student. Once the student has progressed to have a better grasp of the fundamentals, I will begin to introduce solo repertoire that is appropriate. For adults, I try to find out what the student is interested in, and guide my instruction accordingly to keep the lessons engaging and fun, no matter their ability level. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice

As a classically trained musician, my approach blends elements of text instruction with experiential learning, allowing for a deeper level of understanding and processing of the materials and skills necessary to become a skilled musician. Read More

Instruments: Piano Organ

I listen the music which the student has been practicing. Then, I guide him/her to make corrections and enhancements.  I use positive reinforcement to strengthen those parts of the performance, and suggest and demonstrate correct concepts.  Then, after hearing the piece again, decide whether review the assignment or move on.  Playing duets with the student is often part of the process. Doing that helps them feel the true meaning of the music; and also helps make up for a pianist's ordinarily lack of group playing because he usually practices alone. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Flute

I’m a performer as well as a teacher. I’ve been on tour with operas, and I have led choirs and instrumental ensembles. I’ve been teaching private lessons for 30 years, since I was in college. I’ve worked as a professional singer and instrumentalist since high school. My experience has focused on classical repertoire. I’ve had the pleasure of teaching students from infancy to older adults. I’ve studied solfeggio, Orff Schulwerk, and Dalcroze Eurythmics. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Cello Viola Double Bass

I believe that all students can achieve at a high musical level when they are encouraged and paired with a teacher with high expectations. The most successful students tend to be the ones that are taught by great educators that can elicit the hidden talents from their students. For this reason, it is important to find a music teacher that is passionate not only about teaching, but one who is also driven to pass-on a love of music to others. Read More

Instruments: Piano

As a music teacher, I've been able to work with many different ages and levels in a variety of settings. Some schools I've worked with in the Pittsburgh area include the Carnegie Mellon Preparatory School, Saint Vincent College, Pittsburgh C.A.P.A. 6-12, The Yeshiva School, and the Center for Theater Arts. I have also been consistently teaching private piano in people's homes since I graduated from college. My work at Carnegie Mellon Prepatory school includes teaching the group classes for the beginning piano program, as well as preparing private students for recitals and competitions. Read More