Piano Lessons in Shadowlawn, VA

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Ukulele Music Keyboard Acoustic Guitar

I have been playing piano, guitar and singing since I was 7 years old. I have been teaching music, including music theory and improvisation, for over 20 years. I have a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Music from S.U.N.Y. Cortland and a Master of Science Degree in Instructional Technology from New York Institute of Technology. Music is my profession and my passion. I have experience in a wide variety of musical styles and I design my lessons based on my students' interests. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Trumpet Trombone Recorder Euphonium

For children, my foundational methods include Leonard, Krueger, Clarke, Arban, Reinhardt, Rizzetto, Pearson, and Rubank. Solo and ensemble repertoire is introduced at the appropriate time. Time is also spent on improvisation, writing original compositions, and learning music that the students have brought to the lesson. For adults, we focus on what students are interested in working on, regardless of their ability level. Many adults want to spend part of the lesson working with the foundational methods, and spend part of the lesson learning one or two pieces of music. 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

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

Nothing is more rewarding than seeing one of my students develop a passion for music! Therefore, it's important that each student progresses at his or her own pace. I encourage this by setting realistic goals for my students at each lesson. Acknowledging accomplishments helps fuel a students desire to progress, and makes students eager to learn more. By trying to find out what inspires the student, I can successfully tailor my instruction to their wants and needs... 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

After carefully assessing each of my students, and determining whether or not he or she are beginners, intermediate or advanced, I start them in the lesson book that is according to the level they are at. I teach from Alfred's Piano Course, but if my student has a piano book already, it is not a problem to teach from that series. Once my student has progressed and has a strong understanding of the fundamentals, I will begin to introduce solo repertoire for their recitals and personal interest. Read More