About Lessons
Whether you're just starting out or looking to refine your skills, my one-on-one weekly online piano lessons are designed to be engaging, supportive, and tailored to fit your needs. Our lessons are not just about learning notes and technique; they're about developing a deep love for music and having fun along the way. Whether you're preparing for performances or simply playing for enjoyment, I'm here to support you on your musical journey!
Here is what you can look forward to at each lesson:
In my studio, lessons will vary greatly depending on the student, but you can always expect a "person first, student second" approach, patience and enthusiastic encouragement along the way. We start with building a strong foundation, adding tools and building a repertoire that each student loves along the way, and using music therapy approaches as needed.
Strong Foundation
When students have a strong foundation of their music, their enjoyment skyrockets because they are able to pick up anything and feel successful. We work on finger numbers, keyboard geography, note and rhythm reading, dynamics, and articulation form the very beginning of lessons. These are life long skills that they will carry throughout their entire musical journey so they can be confident in every piece they pick up and are often skills that can transfer to other areas of their life such as math and reading.
Tools and Repertoire
Once each student has a strong foundation, we start incorporating tools to understand how their music is put together and start expanding their repertoire beyond method books. We use tools such as theory, ear training, and sight reading to build on their knowledge allowing them to not only know how to play what is written in front of them, but also understand what they are hearing and how it was created. Introducing real world music such as classical, pop, gaming/film music, lead sheets, etc. allows real examples of this knowledge to be put into music they know and love!
Music Therapy
As a teacher with a music therapy background and training, my top priority is that music is not only a life long skill, but an outlet for expression and that it is accessible to every individual across all abilities and needs. Music is a universal way of communicating and it is an honor to be able to meet all my students where they are no matter what level of communication that might be. Watching my students feel successful at learning new skills and learning to loving music is such a wonderful joy to be part of.
What You Will Need Every Lesson:
To ensure a productive learning experience, please have the following ready:
Essential Items:
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A Piano:
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Specifications: An acoustic or digital piano with 88 weighted keys is ideal. If you're unsure about your instrument, please consult your teacher for guidance.
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Bench: Use a proper piano bench for optimal posture and comfort
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Placement: Position your piano in a quiet space free from amplified noise to help both you and your teacher concentrate during the lesson.
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A Device (Online lessons only):
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A fully charged phone, tablet or computer with a camera suitable for online lessons.
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Materials:
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Books and Music: Have all assigned books and music ready for each lesson.
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Writing Tools: Use a pencil and eraser for taking notes and making corrections (avoid using a pen).
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Items Upon Request:
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Metronome: Useful for practicing timing and rhythm.
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Device Stand: A stand for your phone, tablet or computer can enhance visibility during online lessons.
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Organization Tools: A binder and notebook dedicated to piano to keep your printed music and notes organized.