Statement of Purpose:
In my studio, I teach a rounded piano education with an emphasis on creativity and healthy technique and equipping my students for life through music. Learning piano enhances life skills such as confidence, good work ethics, and diligent endurance to reach a goal. I work to to instill in my students a desire to listen, understand, and ultimately communicate through music. I value one-on-one piano lessons to get to know each student on a personal level and therefore teach them with a specific learning style approach.
Teaching Style:
I teach 30, 45, and 60 minute one-on-one lessons on a weekly basis on a Knabe baby grand piano at my home studio.
At Whitworth University I studied Piano Pedagogy with a focus on Classical music education. In order to develop a rounded education, I teach all of my students scales, chord progressions, sight reading, music theory, and how to improvise on their own. I begin most all of my students reading notes on staff through books such as Faber Adventures and Piano Pronto as well as supplemental materials from my extensive music library. The literature I teach varies from method books to Baroque, Classical, Romantic, and Contemporary music. I strongly believe that history comes alive through the eyes and ears of music! When it is relevant I teach my students the history that influenced the style of music they are studying. Motivation and independence in my students musicianship grows when goals are set each week. Through these teaching methods I equip my students to practice productively, perform confidently, explore creative expression, and develop a rounded music education!
At Whitworth University I studied Piano Pedagogy with a focus on Classical music education. In order to develop a rounded education, I teach all of my students scales, chord progressions, sight reading, music theory, and how to improvise on their own. I begin most all of my students reading notes on staff through books such as Faber Adventures and Piano Pronto as well as supplemental materials from my extensive music library. The literature I teach varies from method books to Baroque, Classical, Romantic, and Contemporary music. I strongly believe that history comes alive through the eyes and ears of music! When it is relevant I teach my students the history that influenced the style of music they are studying. Motivation and independence in my students musicianship grows when goals are set each week. Through these teaching methods I equip my students to practice productively, perform confidently, explore creative expression, and develop a rounded music education!
Performance Opportunities:
My studio, in affiliation with Snohomish County Music Teachers Association, provides several performance and competition opportunities throughout the school year. Studio recitals are held twice a year at the Hartley Mansion. There are also Master Class opportunities once a month, WSMTA Adjudications in February, and competitions in the spring. I do not require competition participation, but I highly recommend some less competitive learning opportunities such as WSMTA Adjudications, Music in Action, and studio recitals!