Piano Lessons in Olalla, WA

Instruments: Piano Trumpet Drums Conga Latin Percussion Music Keyboard

My lessons are designed to fit each student's level and area of interest. For example, if a student wants to learn how to play blues piano, I'll assign him exercises to compliment learning that idiom, i.e. scales, chords and rhythm patterns. people learn best when they are interested in at that moment. I use the same philosophy teaching drums and trumpet. Specific methods are tailored to the student's current ability and age. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Viola

For younger students who are beginning, I usually start with Hal Leonard's Essential Elements. This book has great materials for setting up the violin and bow hold, reading notes, rhythm and other musical markings, and introducing basic music theory such as time and key signatures. Also, this book incorporates the foundation of all musical learning, scales and arpeggios, into fun exercises that are enjoyable for every student.For older students who have more experience, I have a range of etudes from Sevcik to Kreutzer that can futher develop and solidify a good foundation of technique.For musical training, I use solo repertoire from Suzuki and other sources that are appropriate for each student's level so that he/she can be healthily challenged musically and technically while feeling accomplished during performances. Read More

Instruments: Piano

Key signatures, time signatures, note values, rest duration will be among several fundamental features that will be also introduced and taught for the beginning student.   Coordinated left hand and right hand finger exercises separately and in unison will be a starting point and continue with added complexity to keep the student’s fingers limber and strong. Some people actually made music from their exercises—just ask Bach. :^) Once basic scales and chords are completed, a formal exercise book of Hanon will be introduced to the lessons. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Synthesizer Music Keyboard

I began teaching piano and voice lessons in 1996 when I was a college student. I was trained to teach by the director of Studio 90 Music School in Massachusetts. I then went on to acquire my own students, and travelled around the greater Boston area teaching children and adults in their homes. I have also taught out of many local music stores. In 2009 I went back to school for Early Care and Education, which has greatly enhanced my skills and passion for teaching younger children. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Viola Mandolin Recorder Electric Violin Fiddle

I try to teach to the personality, strengths, and needs of each individual student: one size does not fit all when it comes to playing instruments! I stress correct posture and technique as a means to an end, which is the ability to progress and enjoy playing. I have taught many students over a period of years--often between 7 and 10+ years. I try to teach in a progressive way with an end goal in mind, whilekeeping them motivated and engaged andcreating opportunities to perform, succeed, and have fun along the way. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet

My methods are not unusual, although I am a bit. Based on the the students experience and ability, or lack thereof, I'll make suggestions about what music to get. Often they already have music that will work, to which I will add developemental studies of various sorts. For example, I like Bartok's Mikrocosmos which he wrote to teach is nine year old son to play piano. Many things can be learned with no book at all, but reading music is also important. Read More