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Levels: Beginner to Advanced
In-Home Lessons: Yes
In-Studio Lessons: Yes
Ages: 5 & up
Subjects Taught
Piano
Education
University of Houston - Fine Art - 1998-2001
University of Houston - Psychology - 1984-1988 (Bachelor's degree received)
Union Institute - Fine Art - 2002-2004 (Master's degree received)
Specialties
I encourage anyone to learn and play any genre they desire. I was trained in classical music which I find is a wonderful springboard to any type of music. I don't teach the conventional classical way to everyone because I feel that it can be too rigid. Therefore I incorporate basics that all students will benefit from and then direct them towards their goal and them help them enjoy!,enjoy!,enjoy!!!!!! I have also trained in the "Recreational Music Making" method which makes learning a joyous
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and fun experience.
First and foremost, every student, adult or child, is different. This has to be recognized.
I usually begin with the basic piano techniques and frequently start by using the C scale as a starting place. From there, depending on the student's goals and abilities, we proceed with handouts and/or appropriate books which can have both playing and written components.
Relaxation and consistent encouragement are the most important aspects of my method and I think that even weaknesses can be
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turned in to benefits.I think a student should first be evaluated to determine their skill level and determine what their innate talents are. Everyone is better at one aspect of music than another.Initially, I find that teaching adults is very gratifying because they can be more fearful than children and they are always surprised by what they can do.
When it comes to young children whose attention is sometimes difficult to keep, I determine things that they will find fun and integrate them into the learning process.This, I have found, is very successful. I am also a firm believer in students learning to perform play any genre they desire. This makes the student want to continue to learn and enjoy themselves.
With children, I like to interact with the parent's as well so that they are aware of their child's progress and struggles.
I think basic theory is a necessary element in building a foundation. Sight reading is also a good thing to learn. Once you have learned these things, then the "world is your oyster" and you never know what amazing things you will find yourself doing in music.
As far as materials for practicing, I use a combination of my own handouts, books and sometimes interactive websites.These materials will vary based on the student's needs.
I want to pass on the gift that I was privileged enough to receive. I have written background music for a radio show, a CD and a short film for a prominent movie production co. (final production coming soon.)
I am a professional musician and was trained in the classical method. I am, however, a firm believer that a student should aspire to learn to play in the genre that they enjoy. The most important thing initially, is to lay down the foundation and use the method that is best suited to
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the student which applies to all age ranges. In addition to the Classical method I have been trained in the "Recreational Music Method". Therefore I combine conventional with more progressive and fun techniques to maintain the student's interest and make it meaningful for them.
One of the most rewarding experiences I have had, was a student who had learned some songs by ear but due to his dyslexia and ADHD, neither he nor his parents felt that he could learn how to sight-read. Well, not only did he learn to sight-read, but began writing music after 5-6 weeks following his exposure to sight-reading. This of course means that he is learning how to play notes on the written page.
When it comes to young children whose attention is sometimes difficult to keep, I determine things that they will find fun and integrate them into the learning process.This, I have found, is very successful. I am also a firm believer in students learning to perform play any genre they desire. This makes the student want to continue to learn and enjoy themselves.
Most of my students are able to learn the C scale (ascending), with proper fingering in 1-2 lessons which gives them confidence and provides then with a huge jump in their learning process. This also provides an important foundation for the student to start deciding the best way to proceed to suit their goals.
Teaching is a very gratifying and fantastic avenue to maintaining one's skills, I love the look in someones' eyes when they have surprised themselves and just performed something they didn't think they could learn.
In my experience, the most important thing about teaching music is to provide a relaxing and encouraging environment that enhances the student's natural strengths. Weaknesses are simply areas that provide a challenge for the student. We all have weaknesses.
Again, I say that music is to enjoy! enjoy! enjoy! It is intended to help you grow spiritually and cognitively. Hope to see you at your or my piano.
