Piano Lessons in Oceana, VA

Instruments: Piano Voice Trumpet Trombone Recorder Euphonium

I fell in love with classical music while watching Leonard Bernstein conduct the NY Philharmonic as a young boy.In 1979 I graduated from Eastern Nazarene College with a BA in Psychology and a minor in Music Education. For the past 40 plus years I have taught music to children and adults in school and church settings, and at a performing arts center. I currently teach children how to play orchestra instruments through the NC Symphony Instrument Zoo Program. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice

Nothing is more rewarding than seeing one of my students develop a passion for music! Therefore, its important that each student progresses at his or her own pace. This is encouraged by setting realistic goals for my students at each lesson. And realistic practice time at home. By acknowledging their accomplishments, the students desire to progress grows immensely, making students eager to learn more. Learning what inspires the student allows me to give them a customized piano session that fits their wants and needs. Read More

Instruments: Piano

For beginning students, the Faber Faber series or the Alfred series are recommended as a core repertoire. A Dozen A Day is recommended for daily warm-ups and I also provide the students with supplementary songs and books of their choice, such as Disney, pop, jazz and popular classical pieces transcribed for beginner piano. For adult students, I use the Faber Faber method book that provides an overall comprehensive and fast pace lesson style. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Drums Bass Guitar Synthesizer Music Keyboard Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

My methods vary student to student- we all learn differently and my objective is to find what works, wether it be a quick demonstration, or a complete breakdown right to the fundamentals. No student is too slow nor incapable. One of the things I really keep my eye on is technique- nothing is more detrimental to a student's progress than poor technique and adaptation! I can quickly spot these future difficulties, and help the student develop the proper means and WHY -with encouragement and positive reinforcement! Read More

Instruments: Piano

For young learners, lessons are designed to be engaging and fun, incorporating creative exercises that spark curiosity without overwhelming them. Interactive storytelling through music helps these budding pianists connect with the instrument emotionally, setting the stage for lifelong passion rather than mere proficiency. For older students, the focus shifts towards refining technique, exploring advanced repertoire, and developing a nuanced understanding of musical theory. My dual experience as a performer and teacher enables her to offer insights that are both practical and inspirationalinsights that help her students not only master challenging pieces but also find their unique artistic voice. Read More

Instruments: Piano

I am well versed of the many piano method books out there for students today. I recommend to my younger students Alfreds Premier Piano Course or Fabers Piano Adventures. For my adult students, I recommend Alfreds All-in-One Adult Piano Course because it offers a coherent approach to a well-rounded music education at the piano. Once my students have grasped the fundamentals, I begin to introduce repertoire that fits their needs and wants. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice

For beginning students are are children, I typically start with Hal Leonard's Student Piano Library series for younger students and Hal Leonard's Essential Elements for pre-teen/teenagers. Once the student has progressed to have a grasp of the fundamentals, I will begin to introduce solo repertoire appropriate for their first recital performance. For older students, I try to find out what the student is interested in, and guide my instruction accordingly to keep the lessons engagin and fun, no matter their ability level. Read More