Michael P  

5

  5.0 (11)

Instruments: Piano, Guitar
Styles: Classical, Jazz, Pop, Rock, Blues, Musical Theater, Electronic, Avant-garde

My own musical journey began as early as I can remember spending hours experimenting with toy pianos in my room. At 5 yrs old, in kindergarten the enchanting sound of piano caught my attention in a school performance by Jose Norman, a magical performer, and composer for Desi Arnaz, composer of the song Cuban Pete. I was drawn to the expressive nature of the piano, and its ability to convey emotions without words. From that moment, I knew that I had found my calling. I embarked on a journey of musical exploration, diving into classical compositions, copying TV Themes, and contemporary melodies. This eclectic mix of genres has enriched my understanding of music and allows me to connect with students from diverse musical backgrounds. I went on to study guitar at GIT/Musician's Institute, studying guitar with Scott Henderson, and bass guitar with Jeff Berlin. After graduating from the one year course at Musician's Institute I attended CSUN and studied with concert pianists Jacob Gimple, and Charles Fierro, earning my degree in Composition/Piano. While in school friends and family asked me to teach them, and I found I had a special talent to teach. I joined the Music Teacher's Association of California and within a year had more students than I had time for. I was also writing music for short films, and commercial jobs. I wrote music at night, and taught during the day. I have been successful doing both ever since, and have been fortunate to build a wonderful home studio in my house in Encino CA.

As a devoted classical piano teacher, my teaching method revolves around nurturing a deep appreciation for the art of piano playing while guiding my students through the standard repertoire. With years of experience under my belt, I have come to understand the importance of a structured yet flexible approach that caters to each student's individuality. At the core of my teaching philosophy lies the belief that a solid foundation is essential for mastery. I start my students with the basics – proper hand positioning, finger strength exercises, and a focus on posture. These fundamentals are the building blocks that pave the way for a lifetime of musical growth. As we progress, I emphasize the importance of scales, arpeggios, and technical exercises to enhance dexterity and finger coordination. Central to classical piano training is the standard repertoire, which offers a rich tapestry of musical history and a diverse range of challenges. I carefully select pieces that are suitable for the student's skill level, ensuring a balance between familiarity and pushing their boundaries. We begin with simpler compositions from renowned composers like Bach, Mozart, and Clementi. These works not only refine technique but also introduce students to various musical styles. As we delve deeper, we explore the works of Beethoven, Chopin, Debussy, and other luminaries. Each piece presents unique technical and expressive challenges, allowing students to refine their skills and develop their musicality. I encourage them to analyze the historical context of the piece, understand the composer's intentions, and embrace the emotions embedded in the music. While adhering to the standard repertoire, I also believe in flexibility. I encourage my students to express their preferences and interests, allowing them to explore compositions beyond the classical repertoire. This not only keeps their enthusiasm alive but also nurtures creativity and a well-rounded musical perspective.