Piano Lessons in Portsmouth, VA

Instruments: Piano Music Keyboard

I create a lot of my teaching material my self, and I developed at Indiana University a reading method that emphasizes the similarities between the clefs and allows the student to have a global view of the staff. My lessons are very energetic and fast paced, I normally prefer if parents are present in lesson taking notes, and when possible, I even teach the parents before I teach the students, so we have a consistent learning environment at home as well. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet Oboe English Horn

My teacing style is what I would call organized relaxed. I create specific goals for each student that are attainable. I continually work to encourage my students to work towards their goals. Seeing the light bulb of comprehension go off for my students is my indicator of a job well done. 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

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 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

Teaching begins by building rapportunderstanding each students passions and goals. In our first session we talk about what draws them to the piano and set short‐ and longterm objectives. A brief assessment of technique then guides personalized lesson plans that blend technical drills (scales, arpeggios) with engaging repertoire. I adapt lessons for visual, auditory, or kinesthetic learnersusing playful activities for younger students and deeper analysis for older ones. Constructive feedback, self-reflection, and performance opportunities are key to building confidence. Read More

Instruments: Piano

I find that the most rewarding aspect of being a teacher is watching a student develop a stronger passion for music than they had to begin with.Students are encouraged to make manageable goals for each lesson so that they can feel a sense of achievement throughout the entire learning process. The smaller goals keep the students motivated constantly enabling them to become a better musician. By focusing on the process of learning, students are learning a set of skills that will enable them to learn pieces quicker and allow for a more rewarding end product. Read More