Piano Lessons in Catharpin, VA

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Bass Guitar Synthesizer Ukulele Keyboard

My preferred piano method is Piano Adventures and I recommend using the Lesson, Theory, and Sight Reading books at each level. For guitar and voice I typically do not follow any specific method unless the student has a preference. For more advance piano students I typically will begin using Suzuki or move them to Burgmller Etudes and Schumann's Opus 68 - Album for the Young. I perform an assessment of new students in the areas of sight reading, music theory, rhythm, performance, and ear training. Read More

Instruments: Piano Clarinet

It is very important that each student is comfortable with their playing ability and progression. I like to set realistic goals when it comes to performing and practicing. No matter the level and ability I always encourage that a student is excited and determined about their progress. It makes a big difference with the teacher and student. Creating that bond with the student is very beneficial. It is my duty to have students leaving inspired, confident and excited! Read More

Instruments: Piano

My love and passion for music extends even further into my love for teaching music to kids and adults of all ages and abilities. I am a recent graduate from Shepherd University, with a Bachelor of Music degree in Piano performance, and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology. I have had the opportunity to perform in a number of different settings, including as the pianist in the Shepherd University Community Orchestra, Jazz Ensemble, Jazz Combo, and Piano Ensemble. Read More

Instruments: Piano

For beginners, I usually start with John Thompson's Easiest Piano Course. Then, I progress onto Dozen a Day, and finally Hanon and Czerny. For the advanced students, I start right from Hanon and Czerny, and go onto Burgmuller. If there is time, I will add on Rebikov for hand separation practice. Repertoire is often chosen based on the student's ability at the time. I will most likely start with repertoire from Easy Classics to Modern, and later add on repertoire that matches the student's style (such as jazz or R&B). Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice

For my vocal students, I start with vocal exercises every lesson and allow them learn to vocal techniques through different vocal exercises. Then I work with my students on the repertoire that they are interested in or repertoire that can help them practice their weak spots. For my piano students, I use many different series (Alfred's, Faber, or some classic repertoire) depending on their level and age. For all students, I will also include music theory when I teach because the students will have a stronger foundation with all of these components, which will enable them to learn better, faster and even by their own. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet

It is very important for the music instructor to learn the nature and characteristics of his/her students. It is crucial that the teacher can make adjustments to teach according to the nature of their students, some students can learn really fast and may have a desire to be pushed harder, but many students are either normal or may require a longer time to digest the material. I encourage students to practice in order to help their progress and I always model for students in the lesson. Read More