Piano Lessons in Afton, MN

Instruments: Piano Voice

I started teaching in 2008 and my studio at its maximum capacity was 30 students - a large portion with whom I worked consistently for 3 years until I decided pursue graduate school. While at UNL I taught applied voice and diction, and literature classes as a teaching assistant. Organizing voice classes, studio recitals, and theatrical coachings are resources I have used and will continue to use in the studio to develop a student's full performance potential. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet Organ Synthesizer Music Keyboard

Very different from each other. Et.Al. I guess the "thing" that brings me joy is experiencing the point when a student after a number of lessons scratches their heads and SUDDENLY they say " OH....I get it. Ya mean that...." YES. "So what this means is that this is...." YES. "So all I gotta do is this....." Yes. And then they will say " Gosh, That makes this so easy. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Violin Cello

Piano: I prefer Faber Piano Adventures, but I can be flexible if the student is in the middle of another series already. I have also taught the young beginner series by Faber. Strings: I use a traditional approach, but I am not tied to any particular method book. I can supplement whatever is being taught in school or the lessons can stand on their own. I have taught anywhere from Kindergarten to adult ages. Read More

Instruments: Piano

It is important that each student progress at his or her own pace. Encouragement is given by setting realistic goals for my students at each lesson. Acknowledging accomplishments helps engage a students desire to progress and make students eager to learn more. By exploring what inspires the student, I can tailor my instruction to their wants and needs. An example is using the Faber and Faber book PlayTime Piano Rock'n'Roll and learningRock Around the Clock or Rockin'Robin and PlayTime Piano Classics such as Lullaby by Brahms or Country Dance by Beethoven. Read More

Instruments: Piano Keyboard

For beginners, I like to start with getting to know the keys and their patterns. There are 7 different white keys and 5 different black keys and once you figure out the pattern, it becomes easy to identify the keys on the piano. After that, I like to touch over basic music theory i.e. identifying sharps and flats, intervals, structures of scales, etc. I also like to teach my students how to read sheet music and flashcards (which I have) have helped a numerous amount of times with that. Read More

Instruments: Piano

I like to make each student feels special, valued, and encouraged. I have coordinated student recitals, met with parents to discuss progress and future plans in both school settings and private tutoring. I strive to help my students enjoy the process of understanding and making music. Thus, my lessons often include such activities as ear training, theory, history, sight reading, technique, and repertoire. Read More

Instruments: Piano

I firmly believe in the fact that each student possesses his/her optimal way of learning, and I strive to discover that method and tailor my approach as such. I also believe in tried and true method books and use just the right one for each student, based, on his/her age, ability level, etc. I also believe in helping each student get the most out of lessons, including pure enjoyment and fun. Read More