Piano Lessons in Turtle Creek, PA

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet Music Keyboard

I started playing the saxophone at the age of seven. Having an incredible middle school band teacher, I was drawn to teaching at an early age. In 2001, I completed my student teaching at the University of Wisconsin - La Crosse where I earned a Bachelor of Science degree in I K-12 Instrumental Music Education. I have taught students in various music classes, mostly band and music technology, in alternative, independent, and public schools for 15 years. Read More

Instruments: Piano Music

My main objective is to find the optimal way to help each student master the material or skills taught. I deeply value understanding student's needs in order to guide them through their challenges accordingly. In addition, I believe that learning music should be engaging and meaningful. For example, students are encouraged to set their own poetry, short stories, or paintings to music. This provides them the opportunity to apply what they have learned and internalize new skills through practice. Read More

Instruments: Piano Music Keyboard

Additions to technique, I also use part of the lesson time to teach students basic music theory such as the concepts of intervals, chords, as well as aural training. My students are encouraged to enter competitions and recitals, as well as work on composing their own original material, so they can feel good about their accomplishments and stay motivated to learn. I'm always looking to bring on new students of all ages! Read More

Instruments: Piano

My teaching style is flexible and tailored to fit each student's unique abilities to help them achieve their fullest potential. By creating a positive and supportive learning environment, students are able to freely express themselves artistically, and learn to face challenges in order to acheive their goals. Lessons are custom made to go at the student's pace, and pieces are chosen based on the particular student's personality and interests. Students are strongly encouraged to participate in studio recitals several times a year, where they are able to socialize with other pianists and show off their new skills. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Flute Clarinet Drums Ukulele Recorder French Horn Piccolo Orchestral Percussion Keyboard Electric Guitar Djembe

For piano students, I prefer Alfred's methods, whether the adult or for beginners. For band and orchestra, I use Essential Elements (or whatever their school is using), and supplement with Rubank's methods. For voice, I concentrate on whatever the student is interested in, with a foundation of good technique and understanding of the voice range and how to control it, with some solfege and sight-singing mixed in. Whatever the instrument, I follow and listen to the student to understand what they need, and change my curriculum to suit them. Read More

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 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