Education
M.M. Jazz Studies and Piano Performance, Indiana University, B.M. Piano Performance with Organ Minor (Magna cum laude) Syracuse University
Expertise
40+ years teaching, all ages
Years
28 years
Ages Taught
Ages 6 to Adults
Instrument(s) Taught
Piano
Availability
Both
What do students need to bring to their first lesson?
An assignment book, a good pencil and eraser, and any music they’ve worked on recently, if applicable. A willingness to try something new!
Learning Goals
For a new student: discover how to learn a new skill, while I as a teacher learn more about what their goals and interests are; for more seasoned students, evaluate where the student is and develop a plan to move forward depending on their skill level.
Supply List
I use the Snell Series for Classical piano, the Hal Leonard program for jazz improvisation, and augment these with personalized works from the repertoire for each student. Practical Theory by Sandy Feldstein, and Tonal Harmony by Kstka/Payne.
Time Commitment
It depends on the assignment and the level of the student, but I recommend in general that a student practice the same amount of time as the lesson time on days other than the lesson day.
Progress
Semester/Academic Year Private Lessons, Music Theory or Composition Private Lessons