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Bachelor Degree: Illinois State University, Master Degree: University of Oklahoma
I'm a patient and experienced teacher who wants to help every student enjoy playing piano! I make a point of listening to students and trying to match a method and music to their needs and goals. I love to teach keyboard skills, and to make reading music easier for students so they can become independent learners and musicians. I have a Bachelor of Music and a Master of Music in Piano Pedagogy & Performance, and over 25 years of teaching experience. I'm also available for online lessons using an audio platform created just for music lessons.
I began teaching in college and was a graduate assistant at the University of Oklahoma. I taught private lessons in my professor's home studio, group lessons for undergraduate courses, and private lessons in our pedagogy teaching lab at OU. I've also taught private piano lessons at North Central College, Naperville, IL, Harper Community College in IL and Meredith College in Raleigh, NC. Throughout the years I've held positions in the Cary-Apex Piano Teachers Association and the Raleigh Piano Teachers Association. I have also earned the NCMT (Nationally Certified Music Teacher) designation from MTNA (Music Teachers National Association.) I love to teach all ages and levels!!
My main goal is to keep lessons relevant for every student, and to provide an individual plan for each student. I choose a teaching method that is geared toward the student's learning style and personality - and especially age. There's nothing worse than using a method for children with a teen or adult! Right from the start I will supplement the method book with fun and engaging pieces. We will use some apps and technology for skill building along with listening and ear training to build a well-rounded foundation.
My preparation for each student helps me to be the best I can be when each student arrives for a lesson. I set short and long-term goals for students, and always give my best. I have a variety of materials, music and teaching tools ready to make each lesson meaningful and helpful. I'm always patient and try to present concepts in a variety of ways to reach different learning styles. I write out an assignment with practice steps for students each week and have lots of music to borrow and print when needed.