Piano Lessons in William Penn Annex East, PA

Instruments: Piano Voice

It is important for both me and my student to have long-term and short-term goals. Long-term goals may have to do with technique--for voice, examples may be releasing tension or singing with proper breath support. Short term goals are more linked to repertoire and can be technical or musical. An example on the piano may be playing through a piece with a particular metronome marking. I have each of my students use a practice log so both the student and I can keep track of short-term goals. Read More

Instruments: Piano

I have taught in private studios, students' homes, and grade school and university settings. Despite the various settings, my teaching philosophy does not change. I encourage regular, consistent practice of all my students, because I want to see them achieve their goals. As much as I enjoy teaching Classical music for technique, I love working on pieces my student's want to learn - whatever the genre! Music is an art to be shared, so I encourage my students to participate in competitions and recitals. Read More

Instruments: Piano

I encourage students to pick the music they want to play.  For those who have no prior music knowledge at all, there are numerous beginning methods that are satisfactory.  I teach harmony and ear training at a level in agreement with ability of the fingers to execute.   It is so nice to learn to play by ear, (starting with very simple tunes) going from the brain to the keyboard without the crutch of the paper score.  Of course this is the objective of preparation (study, practice) anyway, so the emotional feeling that the composer intended can be experienced and interpreted (and communicated to the audience) in a wonderful, magical way.  Read More

Instruments: Piano Drums Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Conga Latin Percussion Music Keyboard Djembe Acoustic Guitar

I've discovered over the years that every student is different and require a custom approach tailored to what method works best for them. Some students do very well working through publications of lesson books, while others seem to do better with a less structured approach driven more by listening and muscle memory. In both methods, I find it important to lead by example, not only to be able to show them correctly, but also to inspire them. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Ukulele

I have played with an extensive list of musical groups in various styles. I have been a part of the Hazleton Liberty Band (which has roots tracing back to the Civil War) and church groups since high school. In college, I was a part of smal woodwind chamber ensembles, concert band, choirs, marching band, big bands, and small jazz ensembles. I continue to stay active in many diverse musical groups. Read More

Instruments: Piano Organ Keyboard

I am a piano/music teacher with extensive experience of over 45 years.  I have been teaching many students over the years in my studio, in their homes, at Temple University – 30 years, in many Music Schools and Conservatories.  My students are children 8 years old and older and adults of every age.  I am always tailoring my teaching according to the needs and potential of my students.  I motivate my students and encourage them to practice consistently and play.  I try to convey to my students my love and passion for music and the piano so that they can be inspired and love the music that they practice and play.  I encourage my students to play in the recitals I organize and enter competitions to achieve results as well as enjoyment. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet

From there we learn simple songs -- sometimes by ear, and sometimes by reading music (both are valuable skills to have). From there we learn how those songs we learned are built. This is the theory part. Once a student has a rudimental understanding of theory they can begin to compose their own songs! When this is done spontaneously people refer to it as improvisation, but don't let the names fool you. Read More