Piano Lessons in Sandy, OR

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Synthesizer

For beginning students, I have used Hal Leonard's Essential Elements as well as Nancy Faber's Adventures series. For piano students, I like to use Hanon exercises to develop not only necessary musculature but also disciplined use of a metronome for practicing. For students interested in exploring music theory and/or jazz, I use the Real Book combined with my own materials explaining the theory around chord symbols, chord scales, modes, and the like. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Synthesizer Keyboard

I can teach any skill level. If you are beginning with zero experience, the first thing I teach is middle C. It's the center of the universe as far as the piano is concerned. I also teach 'spider position', which is how the student wants to have their hands positioned. Intermediate students can dictate to me what they want to work on. If they just want to learn "Charlie Brown" I can teach that, or if they want a more regimented lesson plan I can do that as well.  I also have advanced students. Read More

Instruments: Piano

I began my music career in Germany when I was 8. Since then a day has rarely gone by where, if I had a piano, I did not practice it. I had the wonderful opportunity to study with amazing teachers I've the years. I studied with Katalin Staplefeldt in Westport, CT FOR 8 years and then, after moving to London, studied with Dr. Gregory Peppetone for 1 year. Following the departure from London of Dr. Read More

Instruments: Piano

Most lessons involve sight-reading, theory, and repertoire. I try to find a balance between introducing new music and reviewing older pieces. I am not a task master, but I do love to give positive reinforcement and praise for quality work and effort. I encourage my students to give me honest feedback on the material that they are working on. I will often ask them if they like the music they are playing or if they have any specific requests. Read More

Instruments: Piano

For the beginning students, I use Alfred's Basic Step by Step books. This covers the following: 1) Explains how piano produces sound   2) Teaches notes on keyboard and in a notebook   3) Focuses on ability to learn the rhythm, pitch and articulation 4) Introduces solo repertoire from different styles of music I want to teach my student to love music.   Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Drums Bass Guitar Synthesizer Keyboard Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I am a relaxed and easy-going teacher. I am good at staying focused but also fun to be around! I know that learning to play an instrument carries a unique set of challenges for each person, and these can be frustrating. Because I've experienced these challenges myself, my primary goal is to be there for my students, guiding them through the difficult moments as well as the joyful. I care about the student's progress more than sticking to a pre-determined rule book. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Flute Clarinet

My approach to all my students, children and adults alike, takes on a friendly, casual appearance while at the same time utilizing my classical and technical training. I believe music is the most joyous of all "subjects" to study and my greatest desire is for my students to learn a lot while feeling the joy that music provides. Having said that, studying with me will be fun, detailed, technical and productive. Read More