Piano Lessons in Parma, OH

Instruments: Piano

I love seeing my students' pride as they are successful in music. With the student, I work to establish short- and long-term goals and I try to provide incentive for meeting these goals. I have a prize box from which the student can pick something (Small candies, pencils, pens, stickers, bubbles, etc.) when they achieve a short-term goal (i.e. learn 5 songs in February, or something similar). When a student achieves a long-term goal (a specific festival rating, completing a level in their method, etc) I have gift cards that they choose from. Read More

Instruments: Piano

My lessons include a time to practice piano technique as well as time to learn new pieces. I usually recommend R. and N. Faber books for beginners. I also encourage performances and for those, I let students choose works (classical, romantic, contemporary, jazz, or pop) based on skill level and personal interest. Having a goal for a performance can really help to motivate learning and practicing at home.I also incorporate duets when appropriate. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Flute

I am a very kinesthetic teacher. We move around the room a lot during lessons because piano, flute, and voice should be an extension of music that is first heard in the mind (inner hearing/audiation), so note playing/singing is not merely a muscle memory. We sing, tap, or clap 90% of music we learn before we attempt to play it on an instrument or sing it resonantly. Thinking through a vocal line and anticipating the high notes and the openness needed in the body/throat and the breath support needed will help the student discover an unknown freedom and give them tools to help transfer this into other songs. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Ukulele Mandolin Keyboard Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I teach children as young as 6, and adults well into retirement. I first assess the student's musical goals, then tailor the teaching method to achieve those goals. Some students want to just have fun, some want to learn "hum and strum", while others want to prepare for competitions or perfomances or go on to become professional musicians. Beginners and novice students first learn the basics of music theory by progressing through an established music course. Read More

Instruments: Piano

For beginning students who are children, I typically start with Hannon and Byer for the basic traning, as well as John Thompson. Once the students has progressed to have a grasp of the fundamentals, I will begin to introduce solo repertoire appropriate for their first recital performance. For adults, I try to find out what the student is interested in, and guide my instruction accordingly to keep the lessons engaging and fun, no matter their ability level. Read More

Instruments: Piano

I've been teaching since 2006 at Baldwin - Wallace College, where I became an Adjunct Lecturer in Piano by the recommendation of the piano pedagogy faculty in 2007.  When in town, I've been teaching students primarily from ages 5-25, in traditional repertory and to help other older musicians hone specific skills.  I've taught students who have played in recitals, church services; including students who composed music that appeared in the Cannes International Film Festival, and students who wished to only play privately.  I pride myself in my strong technique which I credit to my background with the Cleveland Institute of Music, which is one of the biggest benefits that my students quickly take on.  I specialize in teaching classical music, and I also teach basic jazz and pop improvisation, to all ages. Read More