Steve B

4.5
4.5 (10)

Instruments: Piano
Styles: Classical, Jazz, Pop

Where I Teach:

In Your Home My Studio

Ages Taught: 5-80

Levels Taught:

EMAIL US OR CALL 877-687-4524

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ABOUT

Degrees / Training / Special Info:

Awards:

Bachelor of Arts, University of Virginia, minor in music. Studied with several different teachers, including Aspen Music Festival for three summers.

Played three one-hour solo pop/jazz/classical recitals at retirement homes in Philadelphia area.

Overview:

I've loved piano playing and performance since I attended a piano recital in college. I love to practice, and have developed methods to make practice more efficient and fun. I encourage students to attend recitals and performances whenever possible, since this can provide motivation and familiarity with the piano literature. I encourage students to choose the music they want to play, and don't impose my preferences on them, though classical literature and basic harmonic theory are important. I've performed numerous times, mostly in informal situations such as church, parties, rest homes, and hotels.

EXPERIENCE

I've had numerous students over the years, and at every lesson try to leave the student with a clear path to follow that is not too demanding, while still leading on to new levels of development. Many techniques I use are self-learned from trial and error. I've done the work for the student. This enables the student to make the most progress with limited practice time. I show my students how to practice, and also encourage them to explore the music they love. If I can inspire one to bring me even a single bar from a more advanced piece that he or she really wants to play, this is the beginning of something great.

METHODS USED

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.

LESSON STYLE

My style is encouraging, easy-going, patient and understanding. I explain things as many times as necessary in a calm friendly manner since I know students (and all the rest of us) don't remember stuff the first time it is heard—or played—or read. I encourage questions and discussions about practicing, repertoire, performing, and careers. To be sure time is well spent, I'll sometimes say, "Practice this piece just as you would if I were not here." This way I can offer suggestions for learning pieces and methods more quickly. Practice time should be a joyful time, full of a sense of accomplishment, and I am especially keen to help make this so for all students.

PHOTOS & VIDEOS

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RATING & REVIEWS

4.5

4.5 (10)

5 star

(6)

4 star

(4)

3 star

(0)

2 star

(0)

1 star

(0)

Hersjel Wehrens

Good with teenagers, very patient and very insightful. He is little by little learning my son to read music, so his love for the piano can develop more fully.

Brian Roussey

Steve has been a wonderful piano teacher for my six year old daughter over the past six months. He is a kind, patient, and encouraging teacher and did a great job of tailoring a curriculum to a student at the very bottom of the age range he teaches. My daughters busy schedule has dictated that we discontinue classes for the time being, but if she, or her sister, want to devote the necessary time to classes and practice, I won't hesitate to hire Steve again. Bonus points for coming directly to our house!

Andrew

Steve is a great piano teacher for our 11 year old son. He displays patience and constant encouragement. Thank you Steve!

Orchida Spruell

Steve B. is a great piano teacher. When I signed up for my piano lesson I told MUSIKA what I need and expect from this lesson. I am a subtitute organist for my church but I play by ear and can't read the music. During my trial lesson with Steve I explained to him that I simply wanted to learn the basic along with any tricks and ways to self-improve. I have now completed my lesson and can honestly said that Steve understood what I need and had met my expectation! I wish I could rate 5 stars but this is my first piano (or music in general) lesson I take, therefore I don't have anyone to compare with. Nevertheless, I would recommend Steve to anyone and specially if you are an adult and have a specific 'want' and 'expectations' like me.

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